Tag: Tennessee

Maryville Magic: Exploring the Charms of Tennessee

Nestled between the vibrant energy of Knoxville and the serene majesty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies the charming town of Maryville, Tennessee. Despite its small size, Maryville boasts a plethora of attractions and activities that cater to both outdoor enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike, as per this travel blog article from Southern Living. Whether you’re craving adventure in the wilderness or seeking relaxation in quaint downtown spots, Maryville has something for everyone.

Immerse Yourself in Nature

Nature lovers will find themselves in paradise in Maryville. Just a short drive from town lies the sprawling expanse of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With over 800 square miles of pristine wilderness, the park offers countless opportunities for exploration. From leisurely drives along scenic routes to exhilarating hikes through old-growth forests, there’s no shortage of ways to experience the park’s natural beauty.

For a taste of local flora and fauna without leaving town, venture onto the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway. This picturesque trail follows the meandering path of Pistol Creek and connects multiple parks throughout the area. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the trail, soaking in the sights and sounds of the lush surroundings.

Go Fishing on the Little River: Pack your fishing gear and head to the nearby Little River for a day of angling amidst stunning natural scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a novice, the tranquil waters of the Little River offer the perfect setting for a relaxing day of fishing.

Attend a Festival or Event: Throughout the year, Maryville plays host to a variety of festivals and events celebrating everything from music and food to art and culture. Check the local events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.

Explore Cultural Gems

Beyond its natural wonders, Maryville is also home to a vibrant arts and culture scene. Downtown Maryville is dotted with galleries, shops, and eateries that showcase the town’s creative spirit. Take a leisurely stroll through downtown and discover hidden gems like Dandy Lions Gifts, housed in a historic library building adorned with stone lions.

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the works of local artists showcased at galleries like Charles Finley’s downtown studio. From watercolor landscapes to handcrafted pottery, these establishments offer a glimpse into the artistic soul of Maryville.

Take a Historic Walking Tour: Embark on a self-guided walking tour of Maryville’s historic downtown district, where you can admire beautifully preserved architecture and learn about the town’s fascinating past.

Indulge in Culinary Delights

No visit to Maryville is complete without sampling its culinary offerings. From farm-to-table dining experiences to casual bites, the town boasts a diverse array of restaurants and cafes to satisfy any palate.

For a taste of local flavors, reserve a table at The Restaurant at RT Lodge, where executive chef Trevor Stockton creates mouthwatering dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers. Or, opt for a more casual dining experience at Aroma Café, where you can savor authentic Cuban cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

Savor Sweet Moments

After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a sweet indulgence at the Capitol Ice Cream Parlor. Located in the historic Capitol Theater downtown, this charming parlor offers a mouthwatering selection of frozen treats, perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

Retreat to Tranquility

When it’s time to unwind, retreat to the comfort of RT Lodge, a cozy mountain retreat nestled on the outskirts of Maryville College Woods. This historic inn offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with luxurious accommodations and scenic surroundings that invite you to relax and recharge.

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Exploring the Wilderness: Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area

Nestled between the pristine waters of Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (LBL) beckons adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts to explore its vast and captivating landscape. Spanning over 170,000 acres, this picturesque haven offers a plethora of attractions and activities that promise unforgettable experiences for all who venture into its midst.

One of the notable landmarks within the Land Between the Lakes is the Elk and Bison Prairie. This expansive wildlife preserve provides a rare opportunity to witness majestic herds of elk and bison roaming freely in their natural habitat. As you drive along the winding roads that meander through the prairie, keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures. The sight of these majestic animals against the backdrop of the rolling hills and lush meadows is a sight to behold, a reminder of the untamed beauty of the natural world.

For those seeking an immersive outdoor experience, camping at Land Between the Lakes is an excellent choice. With several campgrounds scattered throughout the area, you can choose to pitch your tent beneath a canopy of towering trees or park your RV near the tranquil shores of the lakes. As night falls, you can gather around a crackling campfire, swapping stories and gazing at the starry night sky. The campgrounds offer various amenities, including picnic areas, hiking trails, and even equestrian facilities, ensuring that every visitor can find their own slice of paradise within this enchanting wilderness.

Fishing and boating enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise as they explore the waters of Land Between the Lakes. With over 300 miles of shoreline and countless coves, this area is a haven for anglers of all skill levels. Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley are teeming with a diverse array of fish species, from bass and crappie to catfish and bluegill. Cast your line into the calm waters and feel the thrill of the chase as you reel in your prized catch. Alternatively, rent a boat or kayak and embark on a leisurely journey along the lakes, basking in the serenity of the surroundings.

Beyond its landmarks and recreational activities, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is a haven for nature lovers. Explore the numerous hiking trails that wind through dense forests, meander along meadows dotted with wildflowers, and lead to breathtaking overlooks. As you wander through this ecological gem, you’ll encounter a vibrant tapestry of flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for elusive wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of bird species that call this area home. Immerse yourself in the symphony of nature, as the rustle of leaves and the chirping of birds become your soundtrack.

As you explore the vast expanse of this breathtaking area, you may come across the graceful white-tailed deer, their elegant forms blending seamlessly with the lush foliage. These gentle creatures are a common sight throughout LBL, and their presence adds a touch of serenity to the landscape. Majestic bald eagles can also be seen soaring through the skies, their wingspan an awe-inspiring sight. The rich biodiversity of Land Between the Lakes ensures that every nature lover will have the opportunity to witness the beauty and wonder of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Whether you’re seeking a thrilling wildlife encounter, a serene camping retreat, or a day of angling bliss, the Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area offers an array of experiences to satisfy your wanderlust. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature in this idyllic sanctuary. Allow yourself to be captivated by the unspoiled beauty that surrounds you, and let the Land Between the Lakes weave its magic, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.

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Places to Check out in Franklin, Tennessee this Season

Franklin, Tennessee is a beautiful southern city that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy, and according to this travel blog post by Southern Living, the fall season is the perfect time to visit Franklin with the cooler temperatures and the leaves changing color.

Although the city is small, you’ll still find plenty of variety when it comes to entertainment. With an incredibly eclectic 16-block historic downtown district, this town is sure to keep you entertained for hours on end this autumn. Consider taking a stroll around Main Street to learn more about the businesses along the way, experience the best of Southern hospitality with a stay at one of the city’s quaint bed and breakfasts, or attend a festival celebrating the state’s rich cultural heritage, such as the Heritage Foundation’s Fall Festival.

Simply stated, the fall season is the best time to visit Franklin, TN, because the weather is cooling down, the leaves are changing colors, and there are plenty of fun events happening around Franklin, TN. Be sure to check out events such as Franklin’s Pumpkinfest Fall Festival or the Main Street Festival if you’re looking for a great time within a great community. Additionally, fall is the perfect time of year for you to go on a hayride or to visit a pumpkin patch. There’s nothing more quintessentially fall than going on a hayride or picking out your perfect pumpkin at a local farm; luckily, Franklin has no shortage of both!

When visiting Franklin, Tennessee in the Fall, there are many great places to stay. For those looking for a luxurious experience, The Hermitage Hotel is a great option. This hotel is located in the heart of downtown and offers stunning views of the city. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, The Marriott Franklin Cool Springs is a great choice. This hotel is located just outside of downtown and offers easy access to all of the city’s attractions.

If you’re looking to see the beautiful sights of Franklin while in nature, you’re in luck because Franklin is surrounded by nature trails that are perfect for hiking. Take one of the city’s hiking trails to get some fresh air and take in the autumn scenery while getting some exercise. Specifically, Franklin, Tennessee is home to many beautiful parks that are perfect for a nature-filled day, such as Bicentennial Capitol Mall State Park. This park is perfect for those who want to learn more about the state’s history and natural beauty.

You can also check out Harpeth River State Park, which is ideal for those who love being outdoors and enjoying nature. With over 10 miles of trails, visitors can hike, bike, or paddle their way through the park while enjoying the scenic views of the Harpeth River. Lastly, you can check out Radnor Lake State Natural Area, as this park is perfect for those who want to experience wildlife up close. The park offers many opportunities to see deer, otters, beavers, and other animals in their natural habitat.

When visiting Franklin, Tennessee in the Fall, there are plenty of great places to eat such as Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant or The Bootlegger Bistro. Puckett’s Grocery & Restaurant is a local favorite that’s known for its down-home cooking, live music, and famous fried chicken. The Bootlegger Bistro, on the other hand, is an upscale restaurant that offers a menu full of delicious Southern comfort food with a modern twist; be sure to check out the shrimp and grits! Lastly, it’s simply not a successful trip to Franklin without a stop in Merridee’s Breadbasket. This cozy bakery is perfect for grabbing a quick bite or picking up some treats to take home with you. Their breads and pastries are all made from scratch using traditional baking techniques, making them a delicious addition to any trip.

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What to do the Next Time You’re in Collierville, Tennessee

Standing tall as a Memphis suburb, the town of Collierville, Tennessee is a destination that’s known for its thriving downtown scene, charming atmosphere, and friendly citizens, making it perfect for you to check out the next time you’re in Tennessee and looking for a city that’s at a slightly slower pace than Nashville or Chattanooga. Luckily, this travel guide from Southern Living is the perfect resource for you to find the best spots in Collierville to visit with your family or friends such as the charming Town Square, the many memorable restaurants and shops along Collierville’s Main Street, or the several green spaces throughout the city where you can enjoy nature while taking a break from exploring Collierville’s countless, beautiful attractions!

Collierville’s Historic Town Square

While Collierville has many places to explore, there is one that stands out as the town’s center of activity: its Town Square. Recognized as 2014’s Best Main Street by Parade Magazine, Collierville’s Historic Town Square is located right in the heart of downtown and surrounded by boutiques, museums, and restaurants, making it a great place to meet up with friends or just stroll around while enjoying some local fare.

The Town Square comprises a delightful mixture of different architectural styles with a rich history,  and it hosts many events throughout the year, including festivals such as the Fair on the Square event. The area also is home to some of the best restaurants in the Greater Memphis Metro area, including Zopita’s, Raven & Lily, Cafe Piazza, Highlander Scottish Pub, Dyer’s Cafe, Gus’ Fried Chicken.

 Located near the Collierville Town Square is the Depot on Town Square, which is also known as the Collierville Depot Visitors Center. This building is impressive, as it is a restored 1940s train depot that now serves as the Collierville Tourism Office Headquarters, complete with a gift shop and café. This quaint facility provides visitors with information about local attractions and events and it’s near where many people enjoy the extensive collection of historic trains.Lastly, if you’re looking for a place for your family to cool off, then be sure to check out the two spray parks in Collierville: W. C. Johnson Park & Suggs Park. Both are located near the Town Square and Downtown areas, as well as at the Recreation Center, and they exist as refreshing mini-water parks that are ideal for those wanting to enjoy an aquatic environment without the danger of deep water. The spray fountain features several different types of play components including water jets and waterfalls that encourage fun splashes, jumps, and drenching fun for all.

Collierville Greenbelt System

If you want to check out nature and the other great sights found throughout Collierville, then be sure to check out the Collierville Greenbelt System, as it is a network of 18 miles of walking trails that connect neighborhoods around the city. The Greenbelt System allows you to get around by foot, on bike, or by car as you can see for yourself how quaint and lovely this Tennessee town is, and it’s great for bird watching and wildlife viewing, and if you’re into photography, this is your chance to capture some awesome shots of nature! If you prefer more rigorous exercise like jogging or running, then the Greenbelt System is perfect for getting your cardio routine up and running in no time at all!

Downtown Collierville

Top off your trip to Collierville with a visit to the Downtown area of this great city, because it’s sure to leave a lasting impression. The first thing you’re sure to notice is its beautiful architecture; this is because the area has been preserved since 1819, and many of its buildings are still standing from that time period today. If you stop by at night, there will be plenty to see in terms of lights as well. If you’re visiting in the winter, know that Downtown Courville hosts an annual Christmas Lighting Ceremony every December with the ceremony beginning with Santa Claus arriving on his sleigh drawn by reindeer, followed by festive music and caroling throughout the city streets until all shops have been lit up with holiday decorations! Though, no matter when you visit Collierville, it’s sure to be a magical time, as this town is genuine in its culture, aesthetics, and experiences year-round.

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What to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Located on the eastern border of Tennessee is the delightful mountain town of Gatlinburg. Supplied with its 5,000 residents and thousands of tourists who cannot resist the Appalachian charm of this must-visit treasure of the south, Gatlinburg is the perfect summer spot for anyone seeking remarkable experiences in nature, culture, and more. So check out this handy travel guide from Southern Living before hitting the road so that you can get the most out of “the Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains,” Gatlinburg, TN.

Due to the fact that this mountain resort city is so besieged by ever-changing fall foliage, vibrantly-blossoming springtime flowers, and mythical morning fog in the summer, it’s no wonder why tourists and locals alike attribute a sort of magic quality to this destination’s ever-growing list of attributes. So, if you’re interested in experiencing Gatlinburg first-hand in order to see what wonders are in store for you, then look no further than this list of attractions, experiences, and opportunities that will showcase the best of the mountain town just for you.

Peaking at the top of nearly every visitor’s guide to Gatlinburg is arguably the best chance to see literally everything going on in the town and the surrounding area. Of course, this is in reference to the 680-foot SkyPark, otherwise known as the longest pedestrian suspension bridge on the continent of North America. Honestly, if you want to take in a survey of the mountainous areas, trails, and bodies of water to explore during your stay, there’s really no better vantage point than SkyBridge or the Gatlinburg Space Needle, which stands at a height of 400 feet in the air and accessible via a glass elevator.

If you’re allured by the miles-long legend of the feuding Hatfields and McCoys, then you might want to seek out a trip to Pigeon Forge and take in a Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show so that you can be entertained by a dramatized version of the conflict. While it’s not the most historically accurate representation of this iconic feud, the performers are enthusiastic in their retelling, the country cuisine is enticing, and the atmosphere in the rustic barn-style theater is guaranteed to add some family-fun entertainment to your trip.

Alternatively, if you want more of a nature-fueled adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, then consider embarking on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a 5.4 round trip hike leading you to winding pathways, each to their own waterfall. Make an effort to embark on a hike that’s practically mythical: the Rainbow Falls hike, which leads you to a massive 80-foot tall waterfall that is the highest single drop of cascading water to be found in the entire park. If one waterfall isn’t enough for you, then you can venture out to the Place of A Thousand Drips to see dozens upon dozens of tiny cascading waterfalls. Otherwise, if you’re seeing more of an experience, you can take another pathway, the Trillium Gap Trail, that takes you to the impressive, 25-foot high Grotto Falls, a breathtakingly beautiful spot that lets you walk in the quiet secrecy that is the backside of a waterfall. This is the only spot in the entire National Park where you can experience the behind-the-waterfall perspective.

On the more commercial side of things, Gatlinburg is flush with opportunities to be entertained in all things spectacular, curious, and imaginative. Namely, Gatlinburg is home to several event centers that are an essential part of the “Ripley’s Believe it or Not!” franchise. For instance, if you need a high-quality, family-fun arcade to pass the time in, there’s Ripley’s Super Fun Zone, Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Ripley’s Penguin Playhouse, and (perhaps most-notably) Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Odditorium.

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Chattanooga’s Rock City Celebrates 90-year Anniversary

Located atop the Lookout Mountain ridge of Georgia, just six miles from downtown Chattanooga Tennessee is Rock City, a cavalcade of natural wonder and historic stability, and thanks to this praising tribute in honor of Rock City celebrating its 90th anniversary from Southern Living, there’s never been a better time to discover this marvel of Southern majesty.

Initially founded by Garnet and Frieda Carter in 1932 as a German folklore-inspired neighborhood called “Fairyland” that would attract visitors with its mini-golf course, award-winning gardens, and incredible views have only gained rampant popularity across the decades to become one of the most-visited destinations in the Southern United States, with an average of 500,000 annual visitors.

Rock City officially celebrates its 90–year anniversary in May 2022, but the city has (expectedly) been hosting various festivities since the beginning of the year and even before that. For instance, in preparation of the nonagintennial (90th) anniversary, Rock City had partnered with the Tennessee Titans to paint the infamous Rock City barns to promote both the celebration and the team’s approaching season, and the Nashville-based visual artist “doughjoe”painted three additional barn billboards outside of the city to help promote. With such high-profile promotions, the 90thanniversary is filled with activities to ring in a new era for Rock City, and they promise a lot of fun, community engagement, and unforgettable experiences.

That being said, there’s literally never been a better time to make your way out to Tennessee, if you’ve never come face-to-face with the many features that Rock City has to offer. One such experience that you should seek out is the chance to see seven states in magnificent panoramic view while you’re 1700 feet above sea level in full display of breath-taking sweeping views of the Tennessee Valley from the restaurant patio of Cliff Terrace, or the See Seven States Flag Court. The Flag Court is a monumental tribute to the separate diary entries of a Union officer and Confederate nurse, who each noted that the human eye can visibly see Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia from the vantage point above High Falls.

If you’re a thrill-seeker, then you should consider crossing the Swing-A-Long Bridge, an impressive 180-foot expanse that takes you from Point A to Point B like never before. Additionally, this exhilarating bridge walk offers you a vantage point of the Chattanooga Valley like no other, making it the perfect spot to capture a photo that you’ll surely never forget. Though, if you’re less interested in dazzling heights and find yourself to be more interested in the German folklore-inspired origins of Rock City’s founding, then you should plan to visit the Fairyland Caverns.

As previously noted, Frieda Utermoehien Carter had a particular affinity for European folklore and fairytales from her homeland, so her husband and Rock City co-founder Garnet Carter, hired Atlanta-based sculptor Jeddee Sanders to create real-life scenes from some of the most famous fairy tales in the world. Take a magical trek through the Fairyland Caverns, where these scenes were preserved in 1947 and you’ll also be able to meet some of Rock City’s infamous gnomes who are spread throughout the cave.

Another Rock City destination indebted to its founder’s love of fairy tales is Mother Goose Village, another sculpture collection that was completed by Sanders in 1964 within Fairyland Caverns. This location serves as an impeccably impressive, storybook-inspired landscape filled with scenes from classic nursery rhymes like Humpty Dumpty, the Three Little Pigs, and Little Boy Blue. You’re sure to be in awe of and impressed by the hand-made dioramas of childhood come alive.

Rock City’s 90th anniversary isn’t only a time to celebrate its history but also its future. This is because Doug Chapin, a past employee of Rock City, will be taking over as the attraction’s fifth-generation CEO, after E.Y. Cfapin III, Garnet Carter’s nephew, took over in the 1950’s. Chapin commented on his vision for Rock City in saying, “we have always had a focus on hospitality, as well as on conservation. In the last 90 years, we have protected the geological wonders of Rock City Gardens for everyone’s enjoyment, and for future generations of the next 90 years.”

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