Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Townsend

"When you visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, why not start off by hiking up to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies at 6,643 feet. From the car park, it’s a relatively steep half-mile walk to the observation tower on the summit, but our kids handled it no problem and on a clear day you get spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond – a great spot for sunrise and sunset."

"The highest point in the Smoky Mountains provides some of the best views you will ever see…period. Once you travel the 7 miles up Clingman’s Dome Road, the views become amazing. There’s a steep walkway up to the observation tower about half a mile from the parking lot."

"At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. That’s why it’s no secret that the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower offers the best views of the mountains!. On clear days, views can expand over 100 miles."

"If you’d prefer to see a waterfall without even getting out of your car, Meigs Falls is a great choice. You can stay in the comfort of your vehicle and pull off the road to enjoy the falls, which are located roughly 500 feet away and can be seen through the trees. During the late fall and winter, when all the leaves are gone, the falls become even more visible, making the view even more dramatic."

"A primitive cabin sits hidden among the woodlands just outside the majestic park is known as Chapel in the Glen, the perfect venue for couples who like a rustic feel with its simple wood benches and rock-wall alter. In addition to the chapel, couples also have the choice of holding their ceremony in the garden gazebo area. Both venues are included in the wedding package choices which range from the very simple to the quite elaborate."

"The Chapel in the Glen is the sister chapel to Chapel in the Glades. It’s a bit smaller and a bit older than Chapel in the Glades, but some would argue offers better views due to its elevation. The Chapel in the Glen at the time of this writing has over 75 reviews on Google with an overall rating of 4.2 stars."

"In a gazebo at a secluded garden retreat, with a canopy of trees over a shimmering pond and waterfall. Book a wedding at the Chapel in the Glen to avail this stunning setting for an outdoor wedding. They have dressing rooms for the bride and groom."

"All are familiar with the simple joy of riding a Ferris Wheel: watching the peaceful revolution of the wheel, exchanging cheerful smiles with the conductor as you board your own personal gondola, feeling the breeze against your face as you gaze at the landscape below. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel allows you to tap into that inner child once more. This is not your ordinary Fairground Ferris wheel, however."

"After a day of exploring, I started comparing Pigeon Forge to Niagara Falls, Canada, but a super hyped-up version. And just like Clifton Hill, it has a giant, climate-controlled ferris wheel. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is at the Island at Pigeon Forge and you can’t miss it."

"A favorite for both breakfast and lunch, guests rave about the pancakes, which are thankfully served all day!. Head on over to their Facebook page to read all of the numerous reviews citing them as, “the best pancakes I’ve ever had.” Now that’s a good pancake!. If you hate pancakes (what?!), the cafe also serves a variety of other American breakfast foods, as well as soups, salads, and yummy baked goods."

"This small, family-owned restaurant has built a loyal following for its super friendly service, mouthwatering food, and extremely reasonable prices. Guests will find a great selection of omelets, salads, soups, sandwiches, and more all-American fare. Standout menu items include the biscuits and gravy, fried bologna sandwich, and the patty melt."

"When you walk in this place you feel like you just joined the family. It is very small on the inside so plan accordingly. The food is fantastic and the prices..."

"As the oldest craft brewery in East Tennessee, we are suggesting you dine here as more of a supplement to your beer tasting. Though the food is delicious, the beer obviously steals the stage. With craft beers of all types, you will love sipping on a cold one after a day in the park."

"A large selection of handcrafter brews and delicious food is available at Smoky Mountain Brewery. Try the Mountain Light and Appalachian Pale Ale – they’re two favorite mainstay microbrews."

"Ben & Jerry’s is another great place to get ice cream in Gatlinburg. They have all kinds of flavors, such as Cherry Garcia and Phish Food, people love. You can also get them in a handmade waffle cone, cup, or milkshake."

"At Rita’s we take pride in making all treats fresh in house, nothing frozen off a truck. We offer a wide variety of delicious treats: Homemade Hand Scooped Fr..."

"Sweet Shoppe​ is located within the confines of the Dollywood theme park, and it’s a must for families with a hankering for ice cream. Located in the Showstreet area near the entrance, it’s a great way to kick off your visit, or the perfect ending to your thrilling day at one of the country’s most popular amusement parks. You’ll be delighted with 10 different flavors that you can enjoy as a shake, sundae, or in a homemade waffle bowl."

"The Sweet Shoppe is located in Dollywood and is one of the most well known candy stores in Pigeon Forge. With taffy and candy apples that have been described as heavenly you won’t want to miss out on making a stop the next time you’re at Tennessee’s top theme park. Chocolate lovers will find plenty of treats to satisfy their taste buds."

"Visit the Crave Sweet Shop to mix and match your favorite treats from a cache of candy goodness. Walk into this candy ..."