If you’re looking for a summer destination that blends small-town charm with big seasonal experiences, the Peaceful Side of the Smokies delivers.
Summer in the Smokies is more than a scenic backdrop, it’s an invitation to slow down, cool off, and soak up the season’s best. In the Greater Smokies Region, the towns of Townsend and Maryville come alive with warm-weather charm, offering a blend of outdoor adventure, local flavor, and can’t-miss events for travelers looking to get off the beaten path.
Nestled at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (the most visited national park in the country), Townsend is a peaceful gateway to one of the country’s most visited natural wonders. Maryville, just down the road, offers a vibrant downtown, lively events, and a welcoming community spirit. Together, they make the perfect base for summer exploration.
Upcoming Events and Seasonal Activities:
Summer on Broadway: Celebrate the start of summer at a two-day street festivalin downtown Maryville on June 20–21. From food trucks and craft vendors to live music and kid-friendly fun, the event brings the community together to celebrate Appalachian culture.
Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival: On August 16, the skies over Townsend will glow during the Hot Air Balloon Festival, an annual favorite featuring tethered balloon rides, local food and craft vendors, family activities, and live music—all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Smokies.
Between colorful festivals and mountain-made spirits, here are just a few ways visitors can make the most of summer in this scenic pocket of East Tennessee:
- Float the Little River with River Rat Tubing or swim at the Wye, a natural fork in the river and a favorite local swimming hole.
- Hike to Abrams Falls in Cades Cove, a scenic trail ending in a dramatic waterfall.
- Explore Tuckaleechee Caverns—a cool 58°F year-round, it’s a perfect underground oasis on hot days.
- Bike or walk the Cades Cove Loop Road car-free on Wednesdays from June 18 to September 24, 2025—no cars, just wildlife, wildflowers, and mountain air.
- Ride Vee Hollow, Townsend’s new mountain biking park with over 14 miles of trail across all difficulty levels.
- Unwind after a day outdoors at a local brewery or distillery, includingCompany Distilling with its scenic patio and small-batch spirits.
From peaceful riverside adventures to colorful festivals and mountain-made spirits, Townsend and Maryville offer a summer experience that’s both laid-back and full of discovery.
