Discover Blount County, Tennessee
Blount County is a hidden gem in Tennessee, filled with beautiful scenery, rich history, and unique experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Blount County is home to some of the state’s most scenic attractions, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers hiking trails, camping, and stunning views. Other popular attractions include the Townsend Wye, Cades Cove, and the Foothills Parkway.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, be sure to visit the Tuckaleechee Caverns, a stunning underground cave system filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground waterfalls. The Townsend Artisan Guild Gallery is also worth a visit, showcasing the work of local artists and craftsmen.
Food Scene
Blount County is a foodie’s paradise, with a variety of dining options ranging from Southern comfort food to international cuisine. Some must-try restaurants include Blackberry Farm, a world-renowned farm-to-table restaurant, and the Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro, which serves up delicious Southern fare with a modern twist.
Budget-Friendly Tips
If you’re traveling on a budget, consider staying at one of the many campgrounds or budget-friendly hotels in the area. You can also save money by visiting some of the free attractions, such as the Townsend Wye or the Foothills Parkway.
Outdoor Adventures
Blount County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with an abundance of hiking trails, biking routes, and water activities. Some popular outdoor activities include rafting on the Little River, hiking to Abrams Falls, and exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Historical Landmarks
The county is steeped in history, with many historical landmarks and sites to explore. Some must-visit locations include the Sam Houston Schoolhouse, the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum, and the Tuckaleechee Caverns.
Family-Friendly Activities
There are plenty of family-friendly activities in Blount County, including visiting the Townsend Visitors Center, exploring the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, and taking a scenic drive along the Foothills Parkway.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique, consider visiting the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, which showcases the history and culture of the area. You can also take a ride on the Three Rivers Rambler, a historic steam train that takes you through the countryside.
Natural Wonders
Blount County is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the state, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Townsend Wye, and the Tuckaleechee Caverns.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out, head to Downtown Maryville, which has a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from. You can also catch a show at the Clayton Center for the Arts or the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts.
Local Markets
Blount County is home to a variety of local markets, including the Maryville Farmers Market, which offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music. The Townsend Spring Festival and Old Timers Day is also worth a visit, with a variety of local vendors and artisans.
Beaches and Mountains
Blount County is home to both beautiful beaches and stunning mountain vistas. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers both, with beautiful waterfalls and scenic mountain views. You can also visit Chilhowee Lake, which has a sandy beach and picnic areas.
Cultural Immersion
Blount County has a rich cultural heritage, with many opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture. Some must-see attractions include the Townsend Artisan Guild Gallery, the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, and the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum.
Art and Music Scene
Blount County is home to a thriving art and music scene, with many local artists and musicians showcasing their work. Some must-visit locations include the Townsend Artisan Guild Gallery, the Clayton Center for the Arts, and the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts.
Walking Tours
If you want to explore the area on foot, consider taking a walking tour of Downtown Maryville, which showcases the history and architecture of the area. You can also take a guided hike through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Architectural Marvels
Blount County has many beautiful buildings and architectural marvels to explore, including the Sam Houston Schoolhouse, the Blount County Courthouse, and the Thompson-Brown House.
Historical Sites
Blount County has a rich history, with many historical sites and landmarks to explore. Some must-visit locations include the Sam Houston Schoolhouse, the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum, and the Cades Cove Historic District.
Biking Routes
If you’re a biking enthusiast, Blount County has many scenic routes to explore, including the Townsend Bike Trail, the Foothills Parkway, and the Little River Road.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, Blount County has many options to choose from, including the Blackberry Farm Wellness Center, the Dancing Bear Lodge, and the Butterfly Gap Retreat.
Adventure Sports
Blount County is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts, with many opportunities for hiking, biking, rafting, and more. Some must-try activities include whitewater rafting on the Little River, hiking to Abrams Falls, and exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
No matter what your interests are, Blount County has something for everyone to enjoy. So why wait? Start planning your trip today and discover all that this beautiful county has to offer!