10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Maryville, Tennessee (Blount County)
Looking for a laid-back getaway at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains? Maryville, Tennessee is a friendly small city in Blount County that puts you close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Knoxville, and some of the prettiest country roads in East Tennessee.
Whether you love outdoor adventures, local food, or just strolling through a historic downtown, there are plenty of things to do in and around Maryville. Here are
10 fun ideas to help you plan your trip.
1. Stroll Through Charming Downtown Maryville
If you want to get a feel for Maryville, start downtown. The heart of the city is compact, walkable, and full of local flavor.
Take a slow walk along Broadway Avenue and its side streets. You’ll find:
- Locally owned restaurants and coffee shops
- Antique and vintage stores
- Murals and public art
- Historic buildings with small-town charm
Grab a coffee, wander past the courthouse, and see what catches your eye. On a nice day, you’ll see folks sitting outside chatting with neighbors. It feels more like a porch than a city center, and that’s part of what makes downtown Maryville so inviting.
If you like photography, the brick storefronts and old signs make a great backdrop for easy, relaxed photos.
2. Walk or Bike the Maryville-Alcoa Greenway
One of the best free things to do in Maryville is the
Maryville-Alcoa Greenway, a paved trail system that links Maryville and the neighboring city of Alcoa.
The greenway offers:
- Over 15 miles of paved paths
- Sections that follow Pistol Creek
- Easy access from city parks and neighborhoods
- Room for walking, jogging, biking, and strollers
It’s mostly flat, which makes it great for families and casual riders. If you’re visiting from out of town, this is a simple way to stretch your legs after a long drive.
Consider packing a picnic and stopping at one of the small parks along the trail. On a warm evening, you’ll pass people walking dogs, kids on scooters, and couples out for a quiet stroll. It’s where Maryville gets outside.
3. Hike the Foothills Parkway for Big Smoky Mountain Views
You don’t have to drive deep into the national park to see the mountains. The
Foothills Parkway, which runs through Blount County, gives you stunning overlooks just a short drive from Maryville.
From town, it usually takes around 30–40 minutes to reach popular sections of the parkway. Once you’re on the road, you’ll find:
- Scenic overlooks with wide mountain views
- Pull-offs perfect for photos, sunrise, or sunset
- Short walks from the parking areas for better viewpoints
If you don’t want to tackle a long hike but still want those classic Smoky Mountain views, this drive is a great option. Think of it as a “greatest hits” album of the Smokies—just shorter and easier.
Tip: Try to go on a clear day for the best views. Early morning and late afternoon light really make the hills pop.
4. Spend a Day in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
One of the biggest perks of staying in Maryville is how close you are to
Great Smoky Mountains National Park—America’s most visited national park.
From Maryville, you can reach popular park entrances in under an hour, depending on where you’re headed. Some nearby activities include:
- Scenic drives through the park’s winding mountain roads
- Easy hikes to waterfalls and quiet streams
- Wildlife watching (especially around dawn and dusk)
- Picnic spots by the water
If you’re new to hiking, start with short, well-marked trails and work your way up. Always bring water, snacks, and good shoes. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so keeping a light jacket in the car isn’t a bad idea.
Maryville makes a great base camp: you can enjoy the park during the day, then head back to town for dinner and a comfortable night’s sleep.
5. Relax Along the Little River in Townsend
Just a short drive from Maryville is the small town of
Townsend, often called the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies.” It sits along the Little River and has a slower, calmer vibe than some of the busier tourist areas.
Popular things to do near Townsend and the Little River include:
- Floating or tubing down the river in summer
- Stopping at riverside pull-offs for a picnic or a quick wade
- Visiting small local shops and ice cream stands
- Exploring scenic back roads into the national park
On a warm day, you’ll see people spread out on lawn chairs in the shallow parts of the river, just relaxing in the cool water. If you’ve ever wanted a simple, classic mountain summer day, this is it.
6. Visit Maryville College and the Beautiful Clayton Center
Maryville is a college town, home to
Maryville College, one of the oldest colleges in Tennessee. The campus is peaceful and pretty, with big shade trees and historic brick buildings.
As you walk the grounds, look for:
- Open green spaces perfect for a quiet stroll
- Historic buildings with interesting architecture
- The Clayton Center for the Arts, a hub for local performances
The Clayton Center often hosts concerts, plays, and cultural events that draw both locals and visitors. If you enjoy live music or theater, check their schedule before your trip—you might be able to catch a show during your stay.
Even if there aren’t events while you’re in town, the college grounds offer a peaceful place for a walk, especially in the spring and fall.
7. Explore Local Parks: Sandy Springs & Pearson Springs
If you’re traveling with kids or just want a simple, low-key day outdoors, Maryville’s parks are a solid choice.
Two popular spots are:
- Sandy Springs Park – A large park with walking paths, playgrounds, sports fields, and access to the greenway.
- Pearson Springs Park – A quieter park along Pistol Creek with open fields, a playground, and picnic areas.
You can:
- Let the kids burn off energy on the playgrounds
- Have a picnic lunch under the trees
- Go for an easy walk along the creek
These parks are the kind of places locals use all the time, so visiting them gives you a taste of everyday life in Maryville. They’re also a nice break if you’ve been driving or hiking a lot.
8. Drive the Tail of the Dragon (For the Adventurous)
If you’re a fan of driving or motorcycling, you may have heard of the
Tail of the Dragon. It’s a famous, twisty mountain road that starts not too far from Maryville.
The Tail of the Dragon (US 129) is known for:
- 318 curves in just 11 miles
- Scenic forest surroundings
- Lots of sports car and motorcycle traffic
This drive is
not for everyone. It’s tight, winding, and can be busy. But if you’re into this kind of thing and you’re careful, it can be a fun challenge and a real bucket-list item.
If you prefer a calmer ride, you can still enjoy parts of the drive leading up to it, which are pretty and far less intense. Just remember to drive safely, follow the rules of the road, and be patient with other drivers.
9. Sample Local Flavors: Southern Food, Coffee, and Sweets
One of the best parts of visiting a Tennessee town like Maryville is the food. Around downtown and across Blount County, you’ll find a mix of classic Southern comfort food and modern spots with creative menus.
Some ideas:
- Try hot biscuits, fried chicken, or pulled pork at a local restaurant
- Grab brunch or a burger after a hike in the Smokies
- Stop by a local bakery for cookies, pie, or cupcakes
- Visit a coffee shop to relax and people-watch
If you like discovering local favorites, don’t be shy—ask your server where they eat on their day off. You’ll often uncover a hidden gem that doesn’t show up on the big travel websites.
10. Explore More of Blount County: Heritage, Back Roads, and Festivals
Maryville is your starting point, but
Blount County as a whole has plenty to offer. If you have extra time, consider:
- Taking a scenic drive on the back roads through rolling hills and farms
- Visiting historic sites and small communities around the county
- Checking the calendar for local festivals, farmers markets, or seasonal events
In the fall, the drive alone is worth it. The changing leaves, old barns, and mountain views make it feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.
Throughout the year, you’ll often find events featuring live music, crafts, and local food. These small gatherings are a great way to meet locals and learn more about the area’s culture and history.
Planning Your Maryville Trip
Maryville, Tennessee isn’t a flashy, over-the-top tourist town. And that’s exactly the point. It’s a relaxed place where you can:
- Enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains without the crowds
- Walk a friendly downtown with real local character
- Use it as a base to explore Blount County and beyond
If you’re planning a Tennessee road trip, consider adding Maryville to your list. It works well as a long weekend stop or a home base for exploring the Smokies and nearby towns.
Share Your Maryville Experience
Have you been to
Maryville, TN or anywhere else in Blount County?
- Which places did you enjoy the most?
- Do you have a favorite hiking spot, local restaurant, or photo viewpoint?
I’d love to hear your tips and stories.
Leave a comment with your favorite things to do in and around Maryville, and feel free to
share this post with friends and family who are planning a trip to East Tennessee. The more local recommendations we collect, the better we can all explore this beautiful corner of the state.
Comments
Post a Comment