Visiting Townsend, TN, and looking to spend a fun day with your kids? Well, before you start planning, we’ve made it easy with this fantastic one-day itinerary, perfect for you and your Little Trekkers. So, get ready to create unforgettable memories with all the adventures Townsend, TN, has to offer! From biking trails to exploring local spots, there’s something for everyone. Basically, this day will be one your family will always remember!
Townsend is a must-visit for a fun-filled day with your Little Trekkers, whether you’re vacationing in the Smoky Mountains or live nearby. Known as the quieter side of the Smokies it’s the perfect spot to carve out some quality family time. So, get ready to explore and enjoy all the exciting activities this town has to offer!
Getting to Townsend: Your Adventure Starts Here
Townsend, TN, is conveniently located at the foot of the Smokies in East Tennessee, just 30 miles from Knoxville and a short drive from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Situated close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, it’s an ideal spot for family fun.
Your Perfect Day in Townsend: Family Fun
I’ve had a lot of fun creating this itinerary for your fun day in Townsend! Townsend is definitely one of my all-time favorite towns to visit, and you’ll find plenty of great options for filling your day and making fun family memories. So, this itinerary is geared toward kids aged 5-10 but can easily be adapted for younger kids—maybe just pick one activity for 2-5 year olds. Let’s get started and plan your family’s fun day, and I’ll be with you every step of the way as you plan!
Morning: Fuel Up with Breakfast and Coffee
Let’s get this day started and fuel up with breakfast and coffee. Choose one or grab both! Get ready for a day of fun in Townsend!
Breakfast at Apple Valley Cafe
- Location: Apple Valley Mountain Village
- 7138 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN
- Details: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the Apple Valley Cafe, featuring a variety of delicious options, including pancakes, eggs, and biscuits, with gravy too! Personally, I highly recommend the breakfast bowl—it’s my go-to order and perfect for fueling up for the day’s adventures. For more info, check HERE!
Coffee at Dancing Bean Coffee House
- Details: Just next door, grab a great cup of coffee and pastries at Dancing Bean Coffee House. Perfect for those who want to skip breakfast at the cafe or just need an extra caffeine boost for the day’s adventures. More info HERE!
Morning: Explore the Past
Let’s move on to museums! Take your pick: Little River Railroad Museum or Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center—either one lets you dive into history.
Option 1: Little River Railroad Museum
- Location: 7747 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882
- Details: So, first of all, this museum is FREE, which is a huge perk. If you’re visiting between Monday and Saturday, head to the Little River Railroad Museum, which opens at 10 AM. On Sundays, it opens at 1 PM. Explore the history of railroads in the Smokies with interactive exhibits that are perfect for young kids. Since the hours of operation change throughout the year, be sure to check their website HERE to plan accordingly depending on the month you are visiting. Trust me, your family will have a blast and leave with plenty of fun stories to tell!
Option 2: Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
- Location: 123 Cromwell Dr, Townsend, TN 37882
- Details: Another option is to visit the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, which is open seven days a week from 9 AM to 5 PM. During your visit, you will see fascinating exhibits on the cultural heritage of the Smoky Mountains, making it a great place for kids to learn and have fun. Additionally, you can enjoy hands-on activities and demonstrations that bring history to life. Afterwards, take a walk through the outdoor exhibits to see historic buildings and artifacts. This visit will surely be an educational adventure your family will love! Check their website HERE!
Picnic Time: Lunch by the Water
So, you’ve got two options for lunch, both perfect for enjoying outdoors. Make your pick—bring a lunch or grab one at Little River Pub and Deli, which also has indoor seating!
Option 1: Bring Your Own Picnic
- First of all, pack your favorite picnic foods and either grab a picnic table by the river or tailgate it with your car. Bringing camping chairs will come in handy if you are tailgating.
Option 2: Little River Pub and Deli
- Location: 7503 W Old Hwy 73, Townsend, TN 37882
- Secondly, your option is to head to Little River Pub and Deli for some delicious sandwiches. Enjoy eating outside by the water in their outdoor area. Check their menu HERE to see all the options they offer!
Afternoon Adventures: Bike, Hike, or Explore Caverns
Next, bike the Townsend Historical Bike Trail and explore the Nature Trail and Arboretum, or tour Tuckaleechee Caverns—they all sound fun!
Option 1: Bike Ride on the Townsend Historical Trail
- Details: Grab a bike or bring your own and enjoy a ride on the Townsend Bike Trail. The trail is paved and features underpass crossings at each end, making it a safe and fun ride for all ages. The Bike Trail is a 10-mile path that runs along the highway and connects on each end. Also, there is public parking on both ends, making access easy. If you’re feeling up to it and everyone is in, bike the whole trail. Otherwise, you can pick and choose where to bike or maybe just do one side of the trail. More info HERE!
Bike Rentals:
- Smoky Mountain Outdoor Center (SMOC)
- Location: 209 Wears Valley Rd, Townsend, TN
- Website: SMOC
- Cycology Bicycles
- Location: 2628 W Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Maryville, TN
- Website: Cycology Bicycles
Townsend River Walk and Arboretum
- Details: During your bike ride, stop at the Townsend River Walk and Arboretum. This nature trail runs along the river and has labeled trees with fun informational signs. While on the Nature Trail, your family will discover all kinds of cool facts about the local nature. For more details and a map, visit HERE.
Option 2: Tuckaleechee Caverns
- Location: 825 Cavern Rd, Townsend, TN 37882
- Details: Another option for your afternoon is to visit Tuckaleechee Caverns.Well, first of all, the caverns will fill your kids with wonder. While exploring the “Greatest Site Under the Smokies,” as it’s often referred to, you’ll discover stunning formations and underground waterfalls. Indeed, this cavern is a must-see attraction.
- More Information HERE!
Day’s End: Family, Food, and Fun
It’s been a great day, so let’s finish with two of our favorite things: food and family. Also, both places have ice cream 😊, so either spot is a win-win!
Option 1: The Peaceful Side Social
- Location: 7967 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882
- Details: Relax and wind down at The Peaceful Side Social, which has both indoor and outdoor seating, an outdoor play area, and cornhole. It’s a great place to hang out for a while. They offer pizzas and a taco truck on select days. While the kids are playing and waiting on food, enjoy one of their local beers or ciders—my favorite is the cherry Vaudillion cider from Gypsy Circus. Plus, your kiddos will love the truffle fries! Check out their menu HERE!
Option 2: Burger Master Drive-In
- Location: 7839 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882
- Details: End your day at Burger Master Drive-In with amazing burgers and ice cream. They have outdoor seating, so it’s a perfect spot to enjoy eating outside. We’ve always loved grabbing ice cream here, and I think your kiddos will enjoy it too! Afterwards, take a stroll nearby to soak up the end of your day. Check out their menu HERE!
A Day of Fun in Townsend
There you have it—a full-to-the-brim day in Townsend with your kiddos! First of all, pick and choose what you’d like to do from all the fun options. If you want to slow it down, stretch the adventure over two days and enjoy every moment. So, go have fun Trekkn in Townsend, TN, and make unforgettable memories with your family!
Perfect Family Stays for Your Adventure
Need a place to stay in Townsend? If you’re planning to stay here, which I highly recommend, there are some great spots for families to unwind. Enjoy your day’s adventures in Townsend and, afterwards, kick back at one of the cozy cabins or family-friendly hotels. You’ll find perfect places to refuel and relax during your stay. Plus, some even have hot tubs, so mom and dad can relax after a day of fun and adventuring. So, after exploring all day, you’ll have the perfect spot to recharge for more adventures tomorrow!
Share Your Townsend Adventures
Also, share your adventures and your day in Townsend with your Little Trekkers! We can’t wait to see your amazing photos—use #tennesseetrekkn and check out our Facebook page to join in and see what’s going on in Tennessee. Also, be sure to reach out if you have questions at [email protected]. Happy Trekkn, friends!
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