Best Things to Do in Townsend, TN

Outdoor activity organiser

The Stables at CMA

The Stables at CMA delivers an authentic horseback riding experience that goes well beyond typical trail rides. Visitors consistently praise hosts Nicole and Jeff for their personalized approach—carefully matching horses to riders' skill levels and providing genuine riding instruction rather than just leading you along. The combination of thoughtful guidance, well-trained horses, and scenic routes through wooded trails and mountain terrain makes this a standout experience, even for complete begi

Lodge

Bear Haven

Bear Haven earns high marks from guests who appreciate its picturesque setting along a golf course. The single review available highlights the cabin's beautiful positioning, suggesting a scenic and well-maintained property. While limited feedback makes it difficult to assess the full guest experience, the enthusiastic praise for the location indicates this is a visually appealing retreat.

Bed & breakfast

Habakkuk House

Habakkuk House has earned a devoted following for its exceptional hospitality and peaceful mountain setting. Hosts Ruth and Scott consistently wow guests with their warmth and attention to detail, while Ruth's gourmet breakfasts—featuring homemade biscuits and granola—are repeatedly called the best guests have experienced at any B&B. The location strikes an ideal balance: tucked away in a quiet wooded area with stunning mountain views, yet perfectly positioned for exploring Great Smoky Mountains

Tourist attraction

Townsend Events Center

The Townsend Events Center earns consistent praise as a versatile venue that hosts everything from Bigfoot festivals to Jeep gatherings and homestead events. Visitors appreciate the well-maintained facilities, including clean bathrooms and a comfortable indoor space that supports a variety of activities. The scenic mountain backdrop and ample parking add to the appeal, making it a reliable spot for community events and specialty festivals throughout the year.

Vee Hollow parking lot

This trailhead serves as the proper access point for what riders consistently describe as awesome mountain biking terrain. The parking lot itself has become somewhat legendary among cyclists for being tricky to locate—previous visitors emphatically stress using the correct directions to find it. The trails departing from here are clearly geared toward riders with solid technical skills and experience.

Historical place

John Oliver Place

The John Oliver Cabin consistently charms visitors as a well-preserved piece of early 1800s settler history and the first stop on the Cades Cove loop. People appreciate the authentic craftsmanship of the hand-hewn log structure and its scenic meadow setting, especially in morning light. The short walk from the parking lot is manageable for most visitors, with both a paved accessible route and a wooded trail option. While the experience is simple and self-guided, guests wish there were more inter