Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center located in Townsend, Tennessee is dedicated to the preservation of the history and culture of early residents of the Great Smoky Mountains, including Native Americans and pioneers. The museum offers engaging and informative displays and features authentic artifacts and information on the region's history. The museum offers entertainment for visitors of all ages.

Best and worst times to go to the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
While the museum is open year-round, it is best visited between late March and early October when it is warm enough to spend ample time in the outdoor exhibits comfortably.

Must see/do at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
The Historic Village features real pioneer buildings visitors can enter and some artifacts you can touch. The Native Americans of East Tennessee exhibit displays artifacts from local historic settlements. The East Tennessee Mountain Culture exhibit teaches visitors about daily life for early pioneers.

Admission to the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
Children under six are admitted free, while older children, adults, and seniors pay around $5. Discounted rates and guided tours are available for groups.

Parking and public transportation to the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Museum
Free parking is available on site in the museum's lot. Public transportation is not available as Townsend is very rural. It is recommended that visitors travel by car.

Food at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Museum
Food is not available at the museum, so try to eat before you visit.

Insider tips for visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Museum
You'll notice furniture in the Historic Village seems very small. Ask the museum guides about this for an interesting story about how humans used to be smaller on average.

Author's bio: Peggy Carouthers has lived in the Knoxville area for more than 20 years. She is a freelance writer and has been published in "The Daily Times" and on the "Brazen Careerist" blog.