Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro has been named to OpenTable’s 2026 Top 100 Romantic Restaurants in America, earning the distinction as the only restaurant in East Tennessee to appear on the national list.

Based on more than 14 million verified diner reviews, the honor recognizes restaurants that consistently deliver exceptional food, service, and atmosphere. For Dancing Bear, the recognition reflects a long-standing commitment to creating meaningful guest experiences rather than chasing trends.

“There’s a lot of noise in the restaurant world,” said Houston Oldham, VP of Operations, “but what really matters is the table in front of us. Romance lives in the details—the way you’re welcomed, the pace of the evening, the quiet moments that happen naturally.

Whether it’s a proposal, an anniversary, or a Tuesday night dinner, those details are what keep people coming back.”

Led by Executive Chef Je\ Carter, the Bistro is known for refined Appalachian cuisine served in a warm, intimate setting that resonates with both visitors and locals alike.

Located in Townsend, Tennessee—the Peaceful Side of the Smokies—Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro continues to be a destination for memorable dining rooted in Appalachian hospitality.

Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont is pleased to announce the fourth annual Tremont Writers Conference, an intensive five-day retreat for writers of fiction, nonfiction and poetry coordinated in conjunction with Smokies Life. Applications to participate may be submitted online now through May 15 at writers.gsmit.org.

Held Wednesday, Oct. 21, through Sunday, Oct. 25, the conference on the Tremont campus invites participants to brainstorm projects and fine-tune their work alongside award-winning author workshop leaders and professional park educators in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This year’s faculty members include guest writer and “New York Times” best-selling author Ron Rash; recent Kentucky poet laureate and memoirist Crystal Wilkinson (leading the nonfiction cohort); celebrated playwright and Knoxville poet laureate Linda Parsons (poetry cohort leader), and award-winning Cherokee novelist Kelli Jo Ford (leading the fiction cohort).

“This is a rare opportunity for writers to work closely with authors they admire in a setting as immersive as it gets: the Smokies,” said Frances Figart, conference co-director and creative services director for Smokies Life. “We keep the retreat intentionally small — choosing writers who are deeply engaged with their work and excited to challenge themselves in a new setting. It’s that level of collective commitment that bolsters the creative process and makes the experience so productive for our writers.”  

Faculty members will lead daily morning group workshops and also mentor writers in optional one-on-one sessions throughout the retreat. Each afternoon, experienced Tremont naturalists will guide participants in activities meant to create a deeper connection to the region’s cultural and natural history. Evenings will conclude with group dinners, fellowship and readings by the featured authors. Meals and lodging are provided.

“Like all of Tremont’s programs, roughing it (a little!) is part of the experience,” said co-director Jeremy Lloyd, who serves as Tremont’s manager of field and college programs. “Most of the workshops take place outdoors, where we can take in and be inspired by our beautiful natural surroundings — with fewer distractions from the modern world. This format is part of what makes the Tremont Writers Conference unique, paving the way for more meaningful connections with workshop leaders and fostering a sense of community among participants.”

Acceptance to conference workshops is based on evaluation of submitted writing samples, with all writers notified of their acceptance status by mid-July. One conference participant will be selected to receive the Debbie Ellis Scholarship in the amount of $1,000. The scholarship is funded by Ron Ellis in memory of his late wife, Debbie, who channeled her love of the Tremont area into her writing, including “Elkmont Settlement: A Microcosm of Appalachian Challenges,” in “Perspectives in History” (Northern Kentucky University, Vol. XXIII, 2007-2008).

Also available to select 2026 participants is the $5,000 Laurel Rematore Tremont Writers Conference Scholarship, distributed between three or more chosen writers whose attendance is dependent on financial aid. The scholarship’s namesake, the former CEO of Smokies Life, strongly believed in the power of the arts and was integral to the retreat’s founding.

Applications for the October conference should be submitted no later than May 15. Additional information about the Tremont Writers Conference and complete 2026 application guidelines can be found at writers.gsmit.org.

Tremont Writers Conference is created, managed and produced as a joint partnership between Smokies Life and Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont. It brings writers of fiction, nonfiction and poetry to an ancient and wild setting, where they can receive feedback from established authors, connect with writing peers and find renewal and inspiration. In addition to creative workshops, writers will join experienced Tremont naturalists for guided explorations that spark curiosity and wonder.

RT Lodge announced the retirement of General Manager Gary Doyle, whose leadership has shaped the property for more than two decades. Doyle will remain on RT Lodge’s board of directors but will pass the role of general manager to seasoned hospitality executive and Blount County native Kelley Harris at the end of this month.

RT Lodge, an approachable luxury retreat in Maryville, Tennessee, offers cozy overnight accommodations, MICHELIN Recommended fine dining at The Restaurant at RT Lodge, creative cocktails in the Morningside Room, full-service Carriage House day spa and distinctive meeting spaces. It is located only minutes away from McGhee Tyson Airport, metropolitan Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Doyle joined RT Lodge in 2004 after an already distinguished career that included serving more than 10 years as innkeeper and manager at Blackberry Farm during its formative years in the 1980s and early 1990s. Later, Doyle opened and operated the beloved Bistro by the Tracks. Over his 20 years at RT Lodge, Doyle has guided the property through significant growth and milestones, including the recent addition of the new Carriage House spa and Meeting House gathering space and earning a coveted MICHELIN Recommendation.

“After more than two decades at RT Lodge, this place has become a part of who I am,” Doyle said. “Stepping away is bittersweet, but it brings me such comfort to know the Lodge is entering its next chapter under someone who understands the heart of hospitality. Kelley’s leadership style and passion for hospitality are exactly what this extraordinary property and its remarkable team need.”

Stepping into the role is Harris, a respected figure in regional hospitality with more than 20 years at Blackberry Farm, where she built its renowned event programming and led guest experience departments and world-class spa operations. For the past two years, Harris has served as part of the Oldham Hospitality leadership team, helping the company grow its lodging, food and beverage, and retail businesses. Harris brings a deep understanding of the RT Lodge experience, strong appreciation for its team and shared vision for its next chapter alongside Executive Chef Trevor Stockton.

“It is a true honor to follow in Gary’s footsteps,” Harris said. “His leadership and dedication have shaped RT Lodge into a place beloved by guests, staff and the community. I’m grateful for the opportunity to build on that legacy. I’m excited to invest myself fully in the continued success and growth of this extraordinary property.

“The team here is exceptional, and I look forward to everything we will accomplish together. I am also deeply grateful for the partnership of owners Beth Holman and David and Annie Colquitt – their vision and genuine passion for hospitality are inspiring, and I’m excited to work alongside them as we guide RT Lodge into its next chapter.” RT Lodge celebrates Doyle’s remarkable contributions and looks forward to welcoming Harris as she helps guide the property into its next chapter of elevated guest experiences and renewed community connection.

Amid the ongoing federal government shutdown, the nonprofit Friends of the Smokies will continue to provide funding to ensure Great Smoky Mountains National Park remains open with basic visitor services and limited staffing from Nov. 3, 2025, through Jan. 4, 2026. The latest agreement allows the popular Cades Cove Loop Road to remain open to the public along with all visitor centers and picnic areas that are normally open this time of year.

Friends of the Smokies joined a partnership of state and local entities that funded the reopening and full staffing of the national park from Oct. 4 through Nov. 2. During that time, all furloughed park employees returned to work, received paychecks, and continued their efforts to serve visitors and protect the park during the busiest tourism month of the year. Great Smoky Mountains National Park attracts an average of more than 1.6 million visitors each October.

As the national park transitions to a relatively slower visitation season, the latest agreement from Nov. 3, 2025, through Jan. 4, 2026, will reduce the funded staff positions to those directly related to basic visitor services. Many park employees will be furloughed if the shutdown continues beyond Nov. 2.

The official agreement to keep the park open is specifically between Sevier County Government and the National Park Service. Under the arrangement, Sevier County pays the federal government directly and the other partners pay their share to Sevier County. The funding effort has been supported by Sevier County, the cities of Gatlinburg, Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Blount County, the State of Tennessee’s Department of Tourism, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and Friends of the Smokies.

Under the Nov. 3 through Jan. 4 agreement, the total cost to keep the park open with basic services and reduced staffing is approximately $80,000 per week. The State of Tennessee will contribute $25,000 of that weekly total while the remaining seven partners provide $7,000 weekly. Fees collected by the national park for recreation and parking will also be used to fund essential operations.

“This is a tough time for our partners in the national park,” said Dana Soehn, President and CEO of Friends of the Smokies. “Friends of the Smokies is proud to help fund staffing through the holidays so emergency services, restrooms, and visitor centers can remain open when visitation is high. Still, we’re deeply saddened that critical work – treating hemlocks, repairing trails, and preserving historic cabins will pause due to furloughed staff. Caring for this park is year-round work, and the best news will be a fully funded park with an end to the shutdown.”

The upcoming nine-week agreement ensures previously planned events will continue even if the shutdown persists. That includes the Cades Cove Loop Lope 10-mile and 5K race scheduled Nov. 9, 2025. The race is one of the major annual fundraisers for Friends of the Smokies and is the only official footrace held inside the national park. The event sold out within 24 hours when registration opened in June and attracted participants from 28 different states.

There are also several school activities scheduled in the national park in November. The agreement provides funding for the park’s education staff to work part-time during those student events to allow them to continue as planned. Special use permits for weddings and other previously scheduled events will also be allowed to proceed.

Restrooms, campgrounds, picnic areas, and visitor centers will remain open and accessible to the public on the park’s normal seasonal schedule. Parking tags will still be available for purchase and are required for anyone parking in the Smokies for more than 15 minutes.

Please note there are many seasonal closings that naturally occur in Great Smoky Mountains National Park regardless of the shutdown. That includes several campgrounds, picnic areas, and roads that close during the colder months. See the park’s seasonal facility schedule for more details. Roads can also close in the park due to weather conditions, as is often the case at higher elevations such as Newfound Gap Road and Kuwohi Road. Check the park’s Current Conditions page for the latest closure information.

Blount County and the Townsend community remain open and welcoming to visitors while federal agencies operate with reduced staffing. We are closely coordinating with Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) officials and local emergency services to prioritize visitor safety and protect our natural and cultural resources.

What visitors should know now:

• GSMNP will remain open during the federal shutdown.
• The federal government shutdown may affect services inside national parks nationwide; many park visitor centers and staffed facilities may operate on reduced hours or be closed, and some routine services (trash removal, staffed restrooms, ranger programs) could be limited or suspended.
• GSMNP will post official updates and alerts on its website; visitors should check the park’s official “Plan Your Visit / Alerts” page before arriving. National Park Service
• Many airport personnel will remain on the job; however, travelers should allow additional time when traveling through McGhee Tyson Airport.
  

Townsend & Blount County alternatives — safe, local options
We encourage visitors to enjoy Townsend and Blount County’s many outdoor and cultural experiences that do not rely on federal staffing, including local trails, state parks, museums, guided outfitters, restaurants and festivals.

Some options include:

• Shadows of the Past Trail (Townsend): A 10-mile self-guided walking tour through 13 historic sites with interpretive signs.
  
  
• Maryville-Alcoa Greenbelt Trail: Eighteen miles of connected parkway paths linking scenic parks, the Blount County Library, and Maryville College.
  
  
• Foothills Parkway: Catch sweeping fall-color views from one of the region’s most iconic scenic drives with frequent pull-offs for jaw-dropping views.
  
  
• Fly Fishing in Townsend: The Little River runs right through Townsend, offering pristine, accessible waters for trout fishing. Local outfitters provide guided fly-fishing lessons and gear rentals.
  
  
• Horseback Riding in Townsend: Explore gentle forest trails and riverside routes on guided horseback rides with local stables and outfitters.
  
  
• Mountain Biking at Vee Hollow: Ride over 14 miles of purpose-built singletrack and flow trails for all skill levels – located right in Townsend.
  
  
• Tuckaleechee Caverns: Discover one of the area’s natural wonders featuring underground waterfalls, towering caverns, and fascinating geology, open and guided by local experts year-round.
  
  
• Jeep or UTV Rentals: Feel the wind in your hair while taking in the views from the Missing Link or Foothills Parkway in an open-air jeep or UTV.
  
  

See our “Things to Do” list in the media kit for more ideas.

Safety first – our guidance for visitors

• Expect fewer park rangers and limited on-site emergency staffing inside GSMNP; choose short, well-marked trails and avoid remote backcountry travel. Experts and park advocates warn that under-staffed parks can pose safety and resource risks. National Parks Conservation Association
  
• Pack out trash and leave no trace — some trailheads may not have trash services during a shutdown.
  
  
• Choose managed, staffed alternatives — state parks, museums and private outfitters with their own staff and safety protocols.
  
• Travel prepared — water, maps (paper), first-aid kit, charged phone, and a plan for no restroom or trash facilities.
  
  
• Avoid gated/posted-closed areas — respect closures; do not move or bypass gates or barricades.
  
  
• Check official sources before travel — GSMNP alerts, NPS active alerts page, and local visitor center updates. National Park Service
  
  

Economic importance
Tourism is vital to our community. Visitor spending in 2024 reached $610.9 million, supporting thousands of local jobs and hundreds of businesses across Blount County. We’re encouraging responsible visitation to support local economies while prioritizing safety.

For assistance planning a Townsend visit and recommendations outside of the national park, contact the Greater Smokies Region/Townsend Visitor Center at 800-525-6834.

A media kit with local photos and the “Things to Do” alternative list is available here.

The Downtown Maryville Alliance in partnership with the City of Maryville, the Blount Partnership and the Clayton Center for the Arts is proud to announce its advancement to the public voting phase for the prestigious Levitt AMP Music Series Grant, a multi-year funding opportunity that could bring a free, outdoor concert series to Maryville beginning in 2026.

This initiative is made possible through a strategic partnership between the Levitt Foundation, a national leader in creative placemaking and community-building through music, and the Tennessee Entertainment Commission, with additional support from the Tennessee Department of Economic & Community Development and the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.

The Levitt AMP Music Series Grant provides up to $120,000 over three years to selected Tennessee-based nonprofits to produce a vibrant, inclusive concert series featuring professional musicians across diverse genres. The program is designed to activate underutilized public spaces and foster community engagement through the power of live music. If selected, Maryville would join a network of cities across the country hosting up to 180 free concerts statewide during the 2026–2028 grant cycle.

The Downtown Maryville Alliance has submitted a proposal to host the concert series in the Charles West Amphitheater at Jack Greene Park, transforming it into a dynamic cultural destination for residents and visitors alike. The proposal is now live on the Levitt Foundation website, where the public can cast their vote to help bring this opportunity to Maryville.

How to Vote

• Online: Visit levitt.org/vote
• Text: Send the keyword MARYVILLE to 877-409-5525
• Voting Period: September 5 at 1 p.m. ET through September 15 at 8 p.m. ET
• Voters may select up to five proposals

Public voting is a critical component of the selection process, reflecting the Levitt Foundation’s commitment to community-driven programming. The number of votes received will be a key factor in determining the six Tennessee-based finalists, to be announced on November 18, 2025.

“We’re thrilled to be in the running for the Levitt AMP Music Series Grant and excited about the opportunity to bring a free, outdoor concert series to the heart of Maryville,” said Amanda Gillooly, Executive Director of the Downtown Maryville Alliance. “This initiative would not only celebrate the power of live music but also transform an underused public space into a vibrant gathering place for our community. We encourage everyone to vote and help us make this vision a reality—let’s show Tennessee how strong Maryville’s spirit truly is!”

The Downtown Maryville Alliance encourages residents to spread the word and rally support by sharing voting information with family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors.

For more information and to cast your vote, visit levitt.org/vote.

As a gateway to the Smoky Mountains, Blount County ranked eighth among Tennessee’s 95 counties in 2024 visitor expenditures at $610.9 million, a six-percent increase from $576.1 million in 2023, according to the Economic Impact of Travel on Tennessee Counties report issued by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development and Gov. Bill Lee.

On an average day, visitor spending generated $1.7 million in daily expenditures, $600,000 in daily labor income and $67,353 in daily local tax collections. In total, visitor spending in Blount County generated $24.6 million in local tax revenue meaning that each household in the county saw a $1,063 annual tax savings.

Davidson County, which includes the city of Nashville, topped all county indices with $11.2 billion in tourism economic impact. Shelby County was second at $4.2 billion, Sevier third at $3.9 billion, Knox was fourth at $2.1 billion and Hamilton fifth at $1.8 billion. Williamson County entered in sixth with $1.4 billion and Rutherford County was seventh at $787.6 million. Montgomery and Wilson counties at $419.5 and $370.7 million, respectively, round out the top 10.

“It’s wonderful to witness the ongoing growth of the tourism industry throughout the state, especially here in Blount County, where we’ve experienced record-high visitor spending,” said Kim Mitchell, Director of the Smoky Mountain Tourism Development Authority. “As the leisure and hospitality industry stands as the state’s third-largest employer, it’s crucial that we keep promoting our region, which offers abundant outdoor activities and a wide range of dining and lodging choices.”

Tourism employment in the county was at an all-time high of 4,952 which also led to an all-time high payroll of $218.8 million.

State tax receipts for the county totaled $33.3 million, marking the ninth consecutive year of reaching at least $20 million.

Statewide, Tennessee’s tourism industry broke records for the fourth consecutive year in 2024, generating $31.66 billion in direct visitor spending and welcoming 147 million visitors. Tennessee saw a 12% year-over-year increase in international travel spending. This is notable because the report does not consider impacts from new direct flights from Iceland and Ireland added in Spring 2025. Those impacts will not appear until next year’s report.

Tennessee direct visitor spending has grown 36.6% over 2018 compared to the US AVG growth of 17.4% per data from Tourism Economics.

“I’m so grateful to our amazing tourism and hospitality industry for these remarkable results,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “The Tennessee Tourism team has been able to leverage bigger tourism budgets to help grow visitor spending over 36% in these last six years. We are leading the nation as one of just a few states that are aggressively growing tax revenue from non-Tennessee residents to benefit all seven million Tennesseans.”

RT Lodge, an approachable luxury retreat nestled in nature on the historic Maryville College campus, has unveiled plans for two new spaces – The Carriage House spa and the Meeting House, to offer an immersive experience for locals, travelers and corporate guests.

The lodge, renowned for its welcoming hospitality, inviting accommodations and gourmet dining, is expanding to feature a serene day spa and modern meeting space set among old growth trees.

Named after the updated 1930s Carriage House it occupies, the spa will offer facials, massages, an infrared sauna and comprehensive body treatments to accommodate individuals, couples and groups.

“The Carriage House spa will offer peaceful views and personalized hospitality for respite and rejuvenation,” said Beth McCabe Holman, president of RT Lodge. “Guests are invited to experience a massage, enjoy champagne, and take in natural surroundings under the arbor outside or from lounges thoughtfully positioned with tree views.”

The Carriage House will feature seven treatment rooms, including one designed with couples in mind. A wet bar will serve champagne, rosé and white wine. Guests may also order cuisine from a distinct spa menu and explore curated retail offerings, including HydroPeptide facial lines, comfort essentials like robes and pajamas, and eventually even signature RT Lodge products.

The boutique retreat also will unveil The Meeting House this fall, offering an escape from the routine for overnight events, weddings, corporate retreats and gatherings.

“We invite guests to leave the grind behind and collaborate among the trees,” Holman said. “The Meeting House at RT Lodge comprises reclaimed wood beams, peacock paver floors and glass walls that immerse you in the surrounding woods, offering distraction-free comfort that allows your group to be fully present together.”

Available for overnight guests, the space can accommodate up to 75 people and offers modern audiovisual amenities.

Local firms Johnson Architecture and Joseph Construction are overseeing the design and construction of both new facilities.

The boutique lodge already offers cozy overnight accommodations, gourmet cuisine and complimentary bike rentals. The new Meeting House and Carriage House spa will enhance and complement these offerings to create an immersive retreat experience in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.

Guests can enjoy fine dining at The Restaurant at RT Lodge and creative cocktails in the Morningside Room. Overnight guests will enjoy the nourishment of a hot breakfast including eggs, bacon and homemade breads and pastries.

RT Lodge is located in charming Maryville, Tennessee, only minutes away from McGhee Tyson Airport, metropolitan Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Michelin and Travel South USA today announced the MICHELIN Guide American South is coming to Blount County in 2025. The visit will be part of a new regional approach, including visits to six American South states. The geographic scope includes six states -Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee—and the pre-existing Atlanta Guide. Blount County is a supporting partner of the state of Tennessee.

Kim Mitchell, Director of Tourism for the Greater Smokies Region shared, “Restaurants across Tennessee, including Blount County, are under consideration for this prized recognition. While there is no guarantee any restaurants will receive the coveted recognition in the MICHELIN Guide, we believe Blount County’s culinary scene is worthy of consideration and are proud to partner with our state and Travel South USA on this initiative.  We look forward to aligning with one of the most well-respected travel brands in the world.”

Blount County is quickly emerging as a hidden gem for food lovers, blending Southern traditions with modern culinary creativity. From charming farm-to-table eateries and cozy cafés to upscale dining experiences, the county offers a diverse array of flavors that celebrate local ingredients and Appalachian heritage. Maryville and Townsend are home to talented chefs who craft everything from classic barbecue and homemade biscuits to globally inspired dishes. With a growing emphasis on craft breweries, artisanal bakeries, and sustainable dining, Blount County’s food scene is thriving, making it a must-visit destination for culinary enthusiasts.

By launching this regional approach, the MICHELIN Guide is going beyond the urban areas to better uncover the region’s authentic food culture. Travel South USA, participating state tourism offices, and DMOs will collaborate on marketing efforts to promote authentic Southern cuisine to domestic and international travelers, including food enthusiasts. The American South is a culturally diverse region with a vibrant culinary scene. It boasts everything from fine dining experiences to creative takes on Southern staples to international favorites.

 The MICHELIN Guide’s anonymous Inspectors are already in the field, making dining reservations and scouting for regional culinary gems.

The full 2025 restaurant selection will be revealed later this year during the annual MICHELIN Guide Ceremony for the American South.