A Mini-Guide to Visiting Townsend Tennessee – The Peaceful Side of the Smokies
Known as the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, I’m giving you a Mini Guide to Visiting Townsend Tennessee. Townsend is a small town, with literally one road which drives through it. But it’s worth taking the time to explore on your next trip to the Smokies.
Townsend is full of fun, great food, and history about the area and the Smoky Mountains National Park.
Driving Through Cades Cove
Most people associate Townsend with Cades Cove – the one way, 11-mile loop to see some of the best scenes in the Smoky Mountains while keeping your eyes out for wildlife as well.
It’s not a drive you can swiftly go through with the 20 MPH speed limit. Through September, it is closed to cars on Wednesdays, open for just bicycles.
Pick up a guide before you enter.
Traffic can back up especially when a wildlife sighting is made or when the colors of fall start peaking through.
Take your time and enjoy God’s Beauty.
Townsend Tennesee
Known as the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, it is away from what most consider the touristry spots, especially in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. But you are close enough if you want to make a drive into these areas. The roads can be a bit curvy, and you might see wildlife.
I almost hit a bear who jumped out of the trees, but he ran, and I braked. I’m not sure which one of us was more scared.
You will find almost all of these suggestions along E Lamar Alexander Parkway, named for a former Senator in Tennessee.
Things to do in Townsend Tennessee
After driving through Cades Cove there’s plenty to keep you busy with these suggestions from water to caves.
Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing
Enjoy Shopping
You won’t find a WalMart but lots of hometown feeling in the shops which are there.
For One Stop Fun, Food, and Shopping
Apple Valley Village has a Little for Everyone
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro
Explore Some History of the Area
You will learn so much about how the Smoky Mountain National Park was formed to how railroad and lumber were such a vital part of Townsend.
Little River Railroad and Lumber Company and Museum
Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
Enjoying Food and Drink
From award winning hamburgers to homemade ice cream, to eating inside an old church – find a little of everything in this small town.
Where to Stay
You won’t find many chain hotels in the area, but more cozy cabins and lodges for the perfect feel of the mountains.
Laurel Valley Mountain Retreat
Mini Guide to Visiting Townsend Tennessee
Now don’t you want to make a trip to The Peaceful Side of the Smokies and this Mini Guide to Visiting Townsend Tennessee should help..
Now if you need more ideas when in the Smoky Mountain areas, here you go.
Go see Dinosaur Adventures at Island at Pigeon Forge
Explore the History of Bush’s Baked Beans and Museum
I’ve included affiliate links to Amazon for you to find some products easier. I may receive a small commission, but the price is the same for you. It just helps my blog out.
Happy Travels,
Rosemary
