14 of the Most Remarkable Things To Do Near Townsend, TN

Our favorite place to stay while exploring the Smoky Mountains is the city of Townsend. It is one of three gateways into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is a hidden gem. It is known as the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies” and is a great alternative for travelers seeking a less touristy feel. Let’s check out a few fun things to do near Townsend, TN!

This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn compensation when you click on the links at no additional cost to you. This compensation is used to support our website so we can continue to bring you great content. Thank you!

Things to Do Near Townsend, TN

Townsend, Tennessee, The Peaceful Side of the Smokies

Tuckaleechee Caverns, Townsend, TN

They weren’t kidding when they called it “The Greatest Sight Under the Smokies!”

When most people think of the Smoky Mountains they usually picture the beauty they can see above ground. But there is a whole other wondrous world under the mountains! Tuckaleechee Caverns is filled with stalagmites and stalactites, ice cold, crystal clear spring water streams, and a waterfall that stretches 210 feet tall from top to bottom, making it the tallest subterranean waterfall in the Eastern US!

Tuckaleechee Caverns history is carved deep inside the earth’s oldest mountain chain and estimated to be 20-30 million years old! If you are looking for things to do near Townsend, TN, make sure you book a tour. Oh, and bring an empty refillable water bottle so you can fill it up in the spring water streams.

Here are 12 Interesting Facts You Need To Know Before Your Visit To Tuckaleechee Caverns.

Davy Crockett Horseback Riding Townsend, TN

Davy Crockett Riding Stables is located just off Highway 321 which is the main road through Townsend. It’s also just so happens to be down the road from Tuckaleechee Caverns.

Don’t worry if this is your first time riding a horse! Their tours are for all ages and experiences, and the horses were very tame, and great with children. The staff was extremely friendly and went our of their way to match everyone with the right horse. Our guide, Lee, was very knowledgeable about the area and made sure to check in with everyone throughout the ride to make sure they were doing alright.

Horseback riding is a great way to be out in nature while taking in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. You can even have your family/group photo at the end of your ride, so don’t forget to smile!

Click here to read all about our memorable experience with Davy Crockett Riding Stables.

River Rat Tubing

After a couple days of exploring caves, hiking trails and horseback riding, we’ve got to admit, we’re pretty exhausted and need to slow down a bit. Thankfully, there is still a way to enjoy the outdoors… and it only requires we sit back and enjoy the ride.

River Rat tubing offers the chance to float through Townsend, TN on a family (and dog) friendly journey down the river. You’ll experience Smoky Mountain views, occasional rapids, plenty of spots to swim and (if you choose) a leap off a private rock jump into the cool river below.

Changing rooms and lockers are available on-site and lifejackets and tubes (with or without bottoms) are provided. Our journey took about 2 1/2 hours and our kids loved it! (Both were first time tubers).

Here are some wonderful children’s books all about Tennessee and the Smoky Mountains!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Cades Cove Loop (Located Near Townsend Entrance)

If you are visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, be sure to explore Cades Cove. It is an 11 mile, go-at- your-own pace, loop that offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history, natural beauty, and wildlife that can be found there. We were lucky to have seen white-tailed deer, coyotes, and, of course, black bears.

Townsend is known as the “Gateway to Cades Cove” and is only 15 miles away from the start of the loop, making it an ideal place to stay when exploring this area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

FYI: In Cades Cove there is barely any cell phone coverage, so before your visit check out their new wi-fi free app that includes a detailed map of Cades Cove. Believe me, it’s a game-changer!

Cades Cove Riding Stables

Are you headed to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and want to check out Cades Cove horseback riding? If so, you are in for a real adventure! A guided horseback ride is a great opportunity to learn about the area from a knowledgeable, experienced trail guide while being immersed in its natural beauty. You’ll enjoy a guided trail ride through the thick, mountain forest. Horse drawn carriage rides are also available.

Cades Cove Riding Stables is the only National Park authorized stables within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is located near the entrance to the Cades Cove Loop. This activity is quite popular due to its location, scenery, well-trained horses, friendly trail guides and wildlife that frequent the area. *Reservations aren’t taken and are first come, first served.

To find out the *one thing you need to know before booking your ride, check out CADES COVE RIDING STABLES ~ Everything You Need to Know!

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (Gatlinburg Entrance)

If there is one suggestion I can give you for when you are in the Smoky Mountains National Park, it would be to visit the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail located near the Gatlinburg Park entrance.

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a 5.5 mile-long, one way loop, similar to Cades Cove. It is filled with rushing mountain streams, breathtaking waterfalls, and historical buildings. It almost feels as if it was frozen in time. The beauty of the nature that surrounds you is unlike anything else inside the park.

Trillium Gap Trail – Grotto Falls (A stop along Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail)

Are you looking for family friendly hikes in the Smoky Mountains? Would you give bonus points if there is a waterfall at the end… AND a grotto so you can walk behind the waterfall?!

Then make sure you check out the stunning, 25 feet tall, Grotto Falls, located inside the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. The hike is located on the Trillium Gap Trail, and I would say it was a moderate 2.6 mile round trip hike. Most of it is an up hill climb, but there are some areas that are flat to give you a break. You will also cross a few streams with rock bridges, so make sure you’re wearing the right shoes!

If you plan your visit accordingly, you may even get to see the “llama train” that brings supplies up the trail to the LeConte Lodges.

Clingman’s Dome

With its sweeping views and “Highest Point in the Smoky Mountains” title, Clingman’s Dome is actually a sight to see itself. Sitting at over 6,600 feet elevation, a winding walkway leads you to the top of the observation tower, where on a clear day the panoramic views are breathtaking.

While there are no stairs to climb, the paved trail to get to Clingman’s Dome is on an incline. The path is surrounded by thick, dense forest and plenty of wildflowers. There are restrooms located near the parking lot and an information center just prior to the start of the path. Bring plenty of water, especially in the warmer months.

Sadly, when we visited, the clouds were overcast so we were unable to soak in the views. We’re still glad we went though as the walk to get there and structure itself are quite remarkable. And the smell of pine trees in the air is incredible!

Lunch Along a River

As much as our family loves to take part in things like coaster rides, or visiting an aquarium, there is nothing better than to slow down and take in the wonders of nature that surround you.

While exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we found many spots throughout where you can pull off on the side of the road and enjoy the beauty of the Little River. They make the perfect pit stop for lunch, taking photos, or searching for salamanders.

Pigeon Forge

Dollywood Theme Park

Looking for some thrills in the Tennessee hills? Dollywood is the perfect place to enjoy high speed roller coasters, as well as family-friendly rides and attractions. Owned by Tennessee native, Dolly Parton, Dollywood offers everything from classic fair rides, to top notch roller coasters like the Wild Eagle, Lightening Rod and the Mystery Mine, just to name a few. (Click here to check out Dollywood’s rides)

We absolutely loved the Tennessee charm, hospitality and friendly feeling we got throughout our entire visit at Dollywood. Be sure to stop and admire all of the butterflies too.

Don’t forget, Dollywood’s Splash Country outdoor water park is nearby should you need to cool down!

Gatlinburg

Anakeetsa

When you visit Anakeesta, you are whisked away to a world on top of a mountain where you can “get away from it all.” It is filled with lush botanical gardens, a soaring tower encircled by the clouds, breathtaking mountain views, enchanting treehouses, and bridges that connect the treetops.

Enjoy the 600 foot scenic chondola ride up to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain. Located on 70 acres of forested land, right in the middle of downtown Gatlinburg, Anakeesta does an incredible job of maintaining the heritage, and natural beauty of the land all while being a top family attraction.

Click here to find out what experiences are offered at Anakeesta!

Hillbilly Golf

For five decades, Hillbilly Golf has provided wholesome, family fun at its finest. What could be more exciting than riding a rail car to the top of a mini-golf course, then putting your way down the side of a mountain?!

Hillbilly Golf doesn’t claim to be the “world’s most unusual” mini-golf course without good reason. One of the unusual things you’ll encounter during your visit, is a ride on an incline rail car to get to the courses.

The rail car takes guests on a ride up the mountainside, to a height of 300 ft above Gatlinburg! Once at the top, you’ll find two 18 hole mini-golf courses to choose from to test your putting skills. We’ve mini-golfed before, but nothing quite like this… so much fun!

To read more about our visit, check out: Hillbilly Golf Gatlinburg, TN ~ Top 3 Reasons You Don’t Want to Miss This Unique Experience!

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Did you know there is a hidden aquarium in Gatlinburg, Tennessee?! Well, it’s not exactly hidden, but I realize the foothills of the Smoky Mountains is the last place you would go to look for ocean creatures. Trust me, you don’t want to miss it!

Here you will be surrounded by colorful fish, sea turtles, jellyfish, sharks, and penguins. There is so much to see and do, including mermaid shows, a glass bottom boat, an underwater tunnel, and every kid’s favorite… touch tanks! It was no surprise to us why the Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg was voted “Best #1 US Aquarium” by 10best.com.

Click here for a complete guide to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies!

Gatlinburg Sky Bridge at Gatlinburg Skylift Park

Think you have what it takes to walk across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America? Not only does the Gatlinburg Sky Bridge span almost 700 feet… it also has a 30 foot stretch of flooring in the middle that is glass. Yup, you read that right!

Your visit will start with a ride on the Gatlinburg Sky Lift, a chairlift (think skiing) that will take you to the top of Crockett Mountain. There you can explore the Sky Deck to soak in the view, the Sky Trail to get a view from behind the bridge and the Sky Center where you’ll find a cafe and giftshop.

The Sky Bridge is certainly a memorable experience with is gently swaying walkway and birds-eye view. It will make you appreciate not only the gorgeous mountains and scenery, but also the unique structure you’ll stroll across.

Here are some of our Tennessee adventures you’ll also enjoy:

• Tuckaleechee Caverns: 12 Interesting Facts You Need To Know (Townsend)
• Why Our Ride At Davy Crockett Riding Stables Is Easily One We Will Never Forget (Townsend)
• Smoky Mountain Farm Stay: Pioneer Cabins and Guest Farm (Townsend)
• Soar High Through the Treetop World of Anakeesta (Gatlinburg)
• Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies (Gatlinburg)
• What To Expect At DollyWood (Pigeon Forge)