Plan Your Trip to Townsend, TN
Townsend is a wonderful vacation destination for families, couples, or even solo travelers. There’s so much to do here, and you’re surrounded by natural beauty and small-town charm. Townsend is part of the eastern region of Tennessee, just outside of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Because of the proximity to the park, it has quickly become one of the most sought-after destinations for outdoor enthusiasts.
If you are flying from another city or state, the closest airport is located in nearby Knoxville, Mcghee Tyson Airport. This airport is about 20 miles away, and you can get to Townsend by renting a car or by using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft. Keep in mind that there is no public transportation available in Townsend, so you will need to account for that when putting together an itinerary for your trip.
Once you are in town, there are plenty of places for you to stay. There are lots of options for cabin and condo rentals, which provide you with the comforts of home in beautiful surrounds. There are also a few bed and breakfasts, hotels, and motels located nearby. If you prefer to be closer to the great outdoors, there are also many local campsites, many of which are completely RV-friendly and provide several unique amenities.
There are also many dining options in charming Townsend that will be sure to please your taste buds. Many of the restaurants offer traditional southern cuisine, barbecue, and other American favorites, which are sure to satisfy after a long day outside. There are also a few fine dining options and even some Italian and Mexican if you are looking for something more formal. When you’re ready for dessert, there are also a few local sweet shops.
There’s so much to do year-round in Townsend. In the springtime, you can take in the vibrant wildflowers, and as the weather gets warmer, you can take advantage of the area’s outdoor activities and water sports. When fall comes around, the leaves turn beautiful colors. There’s plenty of snow in the wintertime, and although many attractions are closed during this season, you will still find that the mountains are stunningly peaceful.
How to Get Here
Townsend, Tennessee is part of Blount County and is located in the Eastern part of Tennessee. Nicknamed “The Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” our small mountain town is about 16 miles east of Maryville and about 23 miles west of Gatlinburg. Wears Valley is located about 7 miles north. If you’re visiting by plane, Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is about 20 miles from Townsend. This airport offers ground transportation services such as car rentals, Uber & Lyft pickup, and taxis.
Things To Do
Townsend, Tennessee is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise, but there are plenty of activities to enjoy indoors, as well when planning your trip! With so many places to explore and things to do, you won’t be able to fit it all into one trip!
Where to Stay
When planning your trip in Townsend, there are numerous options for where you rest your head at night. Whether you’re looking for a quiet cabin in the woods or the perfect campground to sleep under the stars, our handy directory is here to help.
Getting Around
Townsend does not have a regular public transportation system, so be sure to keep that in mind before your visit. Depending on your preferred mode of transportation (car, motorcycle, bicycle, horse), there are quite a few options to make your way around town.
Where to Eat
A range of delicious fares from local restaurants will have your taste buds watering and hunger repelled. Dive into authentic cooking where southern charm comes standard. Whether it’s coffee, snacks, dining or dashing, our directory listing has what you need.
Resources
We’ve compiled a list of resources to help make your travel planning and visit with us a little bit easier.
Seasonal Views
Townsend is full of exciting events and beautiful views, but some are only available at certain times of the year. What are you waiting for? Come join us in the peaceful side of the Smokies!
Spring
March through May is usually the best time of year to view spring wildflowers. During this time of year, our beautiful natural scenery is shaking off the winter cold and bursting with life. We start seeing warmer weather this time of year, but will still have some cold and rainy days now and then.
Average low: low 30s–50s
Average high: low 60s–high 70s
Summer
June through August is the best time for exploring nature with early-morning hikes, lazy days floating down the river, or enjoying the air conditioning while you shop.
Average low: high 50s–low 60s
Average high: mid 80s–low 90s
Synchronous Fireflies
Hot Air Balloon Festival
H.O.G. Rally
Fall
We love the beauty of our wildflower season, but there’s something to be said about autumn in the mountains. September through November is the best time to come view the fall leaves changing colors. During this time of year, the days are starting to cool down and it’s a great time to enjoy outdoor events around town.
Average low: mid 30s–50s
Average high: low 60s–mid 80s
Grains & Grits Festival
Bicycle Bash
Woodcarving Festival
Winter
December through February is our winter season, perfect for those looking to enjoy the serene, quiet beauty of the mountains. Some attractions and roads close seasonally, so don’t forget to research before your trip. We do get snow in the mountains, which can also affect road conditions.
Average low: mid 20s
Average high: low to mid 50s
Don’t forget to view our event calendar for festivals and other events happening during your stay!