Tucked along the Pigeon River in East Tennessee, downtown Newport, Tennessee, offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and authentic local flavor. Whether you’re exploring the Smoky Mountains, road-tripping along I-40, or planning a weekend getaway, Newport’s growing food scene is full of places worth slowing down for.
Riverwalk Park: Newport’s Scenic Escape Along the Pigeon River
If you’re looking for a relaxing place to unwind in downtown Newport, Tennessee, head to Riverwalk Park — a scenic green space that follows the gentle flow of the Pigeon River. This riverside gem is a favorite local spot for walking, fishing, picnicking, and simply taking in the beauty of the Smokies and East Tennessee.
Celebrating Cosby- 2025 Summer Programming Announced
The "Celebrating Cosby" programs offer a fun and meaningful way for families and visitors of all ages to connect with the rich history and culture of the Cosby area in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Created through a special partnership between the National Park Service and local residents, these programs highlight the unique traditions, stories, and heritage of Cosby—helping to keep them alive for future generations.
Pigeon River: Whitewater Rafting in the Southeast
The Pigeon River flows about 70 miles from Haywood County, NC, to Newport, TN. It winds through the Pisgah National Forest, the Cherokee National Forest, and drains much of the northeastern section of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its rugged beauty and thrilling whitewater rapids, the Pigeon River Gorge has long been a key natural feature in the region. Originally used for transportation by Native American tribes and later by settlers, the river’s dramatic rapids and stunning landscapes have made it one of the Southeast’s top destinations…
Camping: The Adventure Side of the Smokies
What’s your perfect camping style? Do you prefer the simplicity of primitive camping, the convenience of an RV, or the classic tent experience under the stars? Maybe you love waking up by a rushing river, perched on a mountainside, or enjoying the comforts of a resort-style retreat. Whatever your preference, the Adventure Side of the Smokies offers the perfect getaway for those seeking a true outdoor experience.
How to spend a weekend in the Adventure Side of the Smokies
Twenty miles east of Gatlinburg is a whole different scene to the Smoky Mountains, one anchored by artsy Cosby, chill Newport and the rafting utopia of Hartford. Cocke County is known as the Adventure Side of the Smokies for good reason. With three rivers, four state national forests and Douglas Lake—one of East Tennessee’s most popular lake recreation areas—this slice of mountainous countryside prides itself on providing Tennessee visitors with ample outdoor opportunities that take your breath away.
Newport: A City History Shaped by Transportation
Nestled on the north side of the Great Smoky Mountains is the quiet city of Newport Tennessee. Bordered by rivers, a train track, and divided by a state and federal highway, the city can be easily overlooked. But a glance into its past reveals a historic era from the late 1700’s forward worth exploring.
Wilma Dykeman- A Legacy of Conservation
Newport’s and Cocke County’s history is woven together with the stories of Appalachian life, mountains, rivers, and the people who lived here.
