Scouted Fall Getaways: Maryville & Townsend
As summer fades into fall, we’re embracing autumn with open arms, cozy knits, and plans to explore East Tennessee. Foliage and local charm await – often only a short, scenic drive away. And whether you’re in search of a delicious destination to culminate a scenic Sunday drive or a weekend respite from the bustle of city life, we’ve scouted the best of Knoxville’s neighboring towns.
For those who have earmarked a few hours – perhaps a Sunday afternoon – we’ve scouted can’t-miss eateries and family-friendly activities that will introduce you to the delights of our region. And for those with a few days for a getaway, we’ve scouted the best lodgings, prioritizing design, hospitality, and scenery in our selection process.
This week, we’ve scouted the towns to our South, emphasizing offerings in Maryville and Townsend. In addition to world-class lodgings and award-winning cuisine, you’ll find sweeping vistas and delightful hikes.
WHERE TO STAY
RT LODGE
VOLUME 6 MEMBER | 1406 Wilkinson Pike, Maryville, TN | Concealed in a forest on a historic college campus – but just minutes from a regional airport, Knoxville, and the Great Smoky Mountains – RT Lodge is an ideal destination. Enjoy cozy accommodations, fireside evenings, fabulous cocktails from The Morning Room, and delicious fare at The Restaurant at RT Lodge.
BLACKBERRY FARM
1471 West Millers Cove Rd, Walland, TN 37886 | Fall is the perfect time to experience one of America’s most celebrated intimate luxury hotels. A destination for discerning guests, Blackberry Farm offers James Beard Award-winning cuisine, delightful seasonal activities, and wellness for a truly incredible experience.
BLACKBERRY MOUNTAIN
507 East Millers Cove Rd, Walland, TN 37886 | Spanning 5,200 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, Blackberry Mountain continues a legacy of world-renowned hospitality and unwavering dedication and appreciation for the land. Rising above Miller’s Cove in Walland, TN, Blackberry Mountain has dedicated 2,800 acres of land to conservation. This effort to preserve the natural wonder of the mountains offers breathtaking views and a serene escape from the stresses of modern life in a private national park setting. A commitment to land conservation and a passion for sharing the wonders of life in the Smokies shapes the unprecedented experience that awaits on Blackberry Mountain. Outfitted for adventure and designed for comfort, this estate takes the Blackberry State of Mind to new heights.
DANCING BEAR LODGE
7140 E. Lamar Alexander Pwky, Townsend, TN | Located minutes from Cades Cove, Dancing Bear Lodge boasts 38 acres featuring 26 charming accommodations and award-winning Appalachian cuisine. It’s the perfect basecamp for exploring the region’s activities and fall foliage.
LITTLE ARROW
18 Stables Drive, Townsend, TN | Tucked into the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Little Arrow Resort is a luxury campground surrounded by miles of majestic wilderness and packed with exciting activities. During the day, enjoy local hiking, biking, and wine tasting. Come evening, retire to a luxury tent, airstream, vacation home, or cabin – your choice. Pro Tip: Little Arrow is pet-friendly, so bring the whole family!
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK
BELLA
121 W Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801 | Sister property to Knoxville’s Vida, Kefi, The Vault and The Press Room, Bella is a Maryville offering from the Klonaris Family. Expect uncomplicated, delicious food with a dash of Italian flavor.
BLACKBERRY FARM BREWERY
106 Everett Ave, Maryville, TN 37804 | Experience one of the region’s favorite brews where it’s crafted. The Blackberry Farm Brewery invites guests – including children and dogs (on the patio) – to its Taproom to enjoy tastings, tours, and camaraderie.
DIAMOND JACKS
211 W Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN | As of September 2022, you can enjoy Diamond Jack’s fan-favorite hospitality and pours at their new location on W Broadway. The new location comes with an expanded menu and an increased focus on their beloved beverage program.
COMPANY DISTILLING
8351 TN-73, Townsend, TN | The second location and first newly-constructed distillery for Company Distilling is set along the Little River in Townsend, TN with a greenway running along the front of the 13.5-acre property. The tasting room offers tastings, a full cocktail menu, and distillery tours. Maryville-based restaurant, Amici, has a permanent menu at the distillery, allowing visitors to gather with friends and enjoy delicious food and fine spirits.
THE MORNINGSIDE ROOM
1406 Wilkinson Pike, Maryville, TN | The Morningside Room is RT Lodge’s newly (and beautifully) renovated bar that features a rotating selection of local beers, liquors, and a curated selection of exceptional wines, perfect for enjoying alongside Chef Trevor Stockton’s lineup of bar snacks. We recommend ordering a Lodge Pimento Cheese to enjoy as you take in the fall foliage.
PEACEFUL SIDE SOCIAL | BREWERY + KITCHEN
7967 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882 | Welcoming locals & travelers alike, Peaceful Side Social offers respite from the crowds with flavorful plates, own craft beer, uncluttered mountain views, and fresh air. Sip on Peaceful Side Social brews while playing a game of cornhole and enjoying delicious farm-to-counter fare.
TRI- HOP BREWERY
205 Court Street, Maryville, TN 37804 | This small, craft brewery is a family and pet-friendly hangout serving up brewed beers on site, occasional guest taps, and loose beers to enjoy on-site.
WHAT TO DO
CADES COVE LOOP
Near Townsend, TN | Cades Cove is a broad, verdant valley surrounded by mountains and is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smokies. An 11-mile, one-way loop road circles the cove, offering motorists the opportunity to sightsee at a leisurely pace. Allow at least two to four hours to tour Cades Cove, longer if you walk some of the area’s trails. Traffic is heavy during the tourist season in summer and fall and on weekends year-round.
FRONTIER ANGLERS
Maryville, TN | Frontier Anglers is a family-owned, Orvis-endorsed fly-fishing guide service perfect for novices and experienced anglers alike. With options including a Smokey Mountain Guided Wade Trip, Trout Float Trip, and a Smallmouth Float Trip for year-round fishing in the region’s well-managed rivers.
MARYVILLE COLLEGE HOMECOMING
Maryville, TN | October 21st – October 23rd, 2022 | Go Scots! Celebrate Maryville College Homecoming weekend with a Proper Southern BBQ in the RT Lodge Sperry Tent. Learn more…
Did we miss you or your favorite business? Let us know via email ([email protected]) so we can scout them for Volume 7!
