Things to do in Townsend

Activities, attractions and tours

Townsend showing a house, tranquil scenes and forest scenes
Cades Cove showing forest scenes and mountains as well as a small group of people
Cades Cove which includes forest scenes
Townsend
Cades Cove showing mountains and tranquil scenes

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Most popular experiences in Townsend

Tours & day trips

See all 46 activities
Pigeon Forge: French Broad River Helicopter Tour

Pigeon Forge: French Broad River Helicopter Tour

Activity duration is 4 minutes
9.4 out of 10 with 19 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €35 per adult
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Shows & concerts

See all 14 activities
Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show- All You Can Eat!

Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show- All You Can Eat!

Activity duration is 1 hour and 30 minutes
8.0 out of 10 with 19 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €53 per adult
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Private & custom tours

See all 9 activities
Smoky Mountain Tour: Self-Guided Drive

Smoky Mountain Tour: Self-Guided Drive

Activity duration is 365 days
7.4 out of 10 with 16 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €15 per traveller
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Attractions

See all 7 activities
Moonshine Mountain Coaster Ride

Moonshine Mountain Coaster Ride

Activity duration is 1 hour
9.8 out of 10 with 7 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €15 per adult
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Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 4 activities
Pigeon Forge: French Broad River Helicopter Tour

Pigeon Forge: French Broad River Helicopter Tour

Activity duration is 4 minutes
9.4 out of 10 with 19 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is €35 per adult
Pigeon Forge: French Broad River Helicopter TourOpens in new tab

What to do in Townsend

Popular places to visit

Cades Cove showing forest scenes and mountains as well as a small group of people

Cades Cove

5/5(7 reviews)

Spot colorful wildlife and enjoy the delightful natural landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park via scenic drives and hikes.

Cades Cove
Spruce Flats Falls

Spruce Flats Falls

Explore the great outdoors at Spruce Flats Falls and enjoy the mountain views during your trip to Townsend. Amble around this family-friendly area's riverfront or seek out the hiking trails.

Spruce Flats Falls
Meigs Falls

Meigs Falls

Explore the great outdoors at Meigs Falls and enjoy the beautiful waterfalls during your trip to Townsend. Amble around this family-friendly area's riverfront or seek out the hiking trails.

Meigs Falls

Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

You can browse the exhibits at Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, a museum with a story of its own, during your trip to Townsend. Discover the beautiful waterfalls and mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

Laurel Valley Golf Course

Enjoy a round of golf in Townsend at Laurel Valley Golf Course. Discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Laurel Valley Golf Course

Cades Cove Visitor Center

Enjoy the mountain views and explore Cades Cove Visitor Center, a lovely green space in Townsend. Wander the riverfront and forests in this relaxing area.

Cades Cove Visitor Center

Townsend Visitor Center

Townsend Visitor Center is just one of the places to see in Townsend, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the mountain views in this relaxing area or enjoy its hiking trails.

Townsend Visitor Center

Tuckaleechee Caverns

You can find out about the history of Townsend when you stop by Tuckaleechee Caverns. Discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area.

Tuckaleechee Caverns

Dark Island Swinging Bridge

You can find out about the history of Townsend when you stop by Dark Island Swinging Bridge. Discover the mountain views in this family-friendly area or enjoy its hiking trails.

Dark Island Swinging Bridge
Sevierville

Sevierville

Gatlinburg showing a small town or village and forest scenes

Gatlinburg

Maryville

Maryville

Great Smoky Mountains National Park showing signage, forests and a river or creek

Tallassee

Frequently asked questions

Is Townsend worth visiting?
With a blend of history and nature, there's no shortage of things to do in Townsend. While you're here, visit Cades Cove, a leading attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Townsend?
Laurel Falls and Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Centre are two awesome places to start your getaway adventures. Remember to explore the shopping and dining options in Townsend while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Townsend?
You can't go home without checking out Cades Cove, ranked the top tourist attraction in Townsend.
Is three days enough to stay in Townsend?
Three days will be enough time to tick off popular city sights, like Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Centre, Tuckaleechee Caverns and The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum. The average stay in Townsend is three days. If you have the urge to extend your adventure, Pigeon Forge isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Townsend with kids?
If you're searching for sights and tours for all ages, here are some awesome ideas for what to do in Townsend with kids.

What to do in Townsend for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor explorer, there are loads of things to do in Townsend for adults.
Are there free things to do in Townsend?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Townsend is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without getting your cash out. Metcalf Bottoms is one spot that doesn't have an entrance fee.