great smoky mountain heritage center

YoYo118

An unexpected surprise! The reception was manned by a friendly and knowledgeable volunteer. There is a little museum. Outside you can walk from one historic building to another. Inside the houses, barns and a church you'll find artifacts from the late 1800's.

599graceg

We found this place just travelling through, and what a delight! The cabins and church were fascinating, as well as the museum. The kids loved it too !

yaflincoln

You enter a little store where you also purchase your tickets. Two galleries display Native American and early settler artifacts dating from 3,000 BC to the 1930's. A massive archeological dig took place which uncovered some amazing artifacts. After investigating this small museum head outside to visit the re-created pioneer village with many historic buildings. We were fortunate on the day of our visit as there were interpreters giving special presentations on basic life skills of the period in many of the buildings. Check their web site because they offer programs of storytelling and music as well as special presentations in their 500 seat amphitheater and occasionally movie presentations in their theater ( sadly closed on the day of our visit). Pack a lunch and some water as there are no options at this location. However the entire center is clean and well maintained. We found our visit educational and a nice introduction to the area and its history...

MREA5

This was our first time visiting. We were there for a little over an hour. I believe my kids would have liked to stay longer. They really enjoyed the pottery simulation activity and the "Chunky" game on another computer. We used this as a homeschool field trip on our way to Gatlinburg. It was laid out very well...orderly, concise and visually appealing. We didn't have time to see the video, but we toured the museum and the many buildings surrounding. There was nobody else there with us, so we were able to get through easily and revisit some of the kids' favorites. They have already asked if we can go back, so I would say that is a good enough review!

233emilyc

Probably the best part was the little town set up they had. Stuff for all ages to enjoy- we had 60 down to 21 looking around. Also, you're very close to the park and places to eat for a full day event!

SandAngel13_12

Walking through the Heritage Center gives us a feel for life in the mountains long ago. We enjoy the exhibits and information about local families and history. The wonderful staff and volunteers make the experience even more special. We recommend joining the Association.

Billibong64

I stopped in here on a Monday, after I had taken the Cades Cove Loop in the National Park. I'm glad I timed it as I did. The video presentation (about 20 minutes) at the beginning of the tour takes you through the local history of Cades Cove, and the surrounding area. In the video you will see a lot of the structures and locations that you see when you drive through the Park. I felt it was beneficial to me to have seen the locations prior to visiting the Heritage center as it gave me better reference. The museum itself is very interesting and loaded with history, and the outside buildings are interesting and filled with a lot of information. I'm a bit of a history nerd, so I really enjoyed the whole museum, and there are some interactive activities for kids as well. Additionally, the staff that were working the day I was there were AWESOME! They took time out to talk to my friend and I, and got us rolling with some of the stories we were told! I would recommend this visit to anyone who is going to the Park and wants some background, as well as anyone who is passing through Townsend and would like a little history.

myraleb

Just down the parkway toward Townsend, a welcome stop for even those who have been to these mountains before.

Lynne975

This is the second time I have visited the Center (or I should say we tried to visit). The Center is such a good place to get an overview of the history of the area and watch a movie about the origin of Townsend as a town. However, this time, we arrived too late to tour all of it. And, I will add that the staff person at the desk was very unfriendly, making it clear that it was too late to see all of it! Just be sure and get there during regular hours, and you will not be disappointed in the tour.

hornbender

They have extra events almost every weekend, and the recent woodcarvers show was outstanding. We had trouble finding enough time to visit, but are very glad we did. If you are new to the mountains, this is a must-see.

barbara270

If you're anywhere close by, don't miss the chance to see this wonderful place. It's so well done and nicely kept. After your visit, you'll have a much better understanding of the area and it's people. The staff is very helpful and informative, and will be happy to answer any questions that you might have. Don't just drive through the Smoky Mts. take the time and effort to learn a little about this truly spectacular area, and the Heritage Center is the perfect place to do that.

376geneh

As their name suggests, Heritage Center, this is a one stop in the GSMP area to learn about the history of the area. The American Indian Museum is a self guided tour thru time and how this valley location was an important place for our native people. If you are in the Townsend area on the east side of GSMP, do stop in. Also, they host local musical artist for Friday Night concerts. What an indescribable combination of Scottish, Irish, Jazz, Blues and Gospel backgrounds. Not all at once mind you but many of the musicians do combine several genres for a unique combination you will only experience in this area.Enjoy!

LoWhitecloud

Lots of materials about the park and I've attended two of their special programs. It's fun to walk around and visit the locals. I was really surprised how many locals were participating in the craft sessions. Every one was so friendly and helpful - staff is primarily volunteers.

pattio_12

We all enjoyed the exhibits in the museum and narratives of early life. The buildings brought to the Heritage center from the surround areas, added to the whole experience. This is part of Cades Cove which is a lovely loop to drive nearby.

158bobh

The Heritage Center is well worth the stop and the few dollars it takes to walk through. Inside there is a museum with many fine exhibits, photographs and other items depicting life in the early years of Cades Cove and other mountain areas. Outside there are buildings form the era. One housed moonshine still, another was a typical home and a church. In most of the building you can touch the items on display. In addition there was an early steam powered machine shop. There are items for sale in the store where you enter and a very nice man in charge there.