Independence day in Tennessee is predicted to be a hot one – over 90 degrees during the day! If you’re looking for fun ways to celebrate July 4th with your favorite friends and family without getting stuck in crowds or long lines of traffic, consider celebrating in these unique areas this year:
- Tube through the Smokies, Rent a Cabana, and Relax in Nature
- TUBE: Most downtown areas (both Knoxville and Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge) always host an influx of visitors on holiday weekends. If you’re looking for a fun way to enjoy nature for the day and stay cool, tubing with River Rat Tubing in Townsend is an awesome way to do just that. It’s family and dog-friendly. One Tubing Day Pass provides you access all day long to Outpost A & B. Once you check in, we recommend floating along the relaxing Outpost A route, taking a brief break for Ice Cream or re-fuel with some lunch at our on-site food/dessert trucks, and then float again if time allows! If you book a Riverside Cabana Rental as well, this is the perfect place to retreat back to between or after your trips for a relaxing spot in the shade.
- CABANA RENTALS: Nestled just feet from the riverside, River Rat’s Cabana Rentals are perfect to be rented on their own, or as the ultimate addition to your tubing day adventures. Don’t want to pack a cooler or towels? Each cabana has an “Stock” upgrade option that comes with a stocked cooler with ice, sodas, and water, as well as towel service. Note that each cabana has a capacity limit. View more details here.
- DRINKS & DINNER: As you change or pack up from your cabana rental, you may want a relaxing way to transition into evening. Grabbing a delicious dinner with a view at Burger Master is a great start, located less than a mile up the road. Not the menu for you? Stop by Company Distilling for amazing whiskey-tasting options and cocktails, as well as other delicious food options.
- FIREWORKS: If you are looking for fireworks on the holiday itself, the City of Townsend is hosting its annual Fireworks Show at 6:30pm near Manor Inn here in Townsend.
- Whitewater Raft, Grab Dinner, and Watch the Sunset
- RAFT: Whitewater Rafting is a bucket list item or a family vacation favorite for many. Did you know, River Rat Whitewater Rafting in Hartford (near Gatlinburg) is the #1-Rated Premium Outpost in the Smoky Mountains, and one of the most popular rafting adventures in the United States? No experience is necessary for this adventure. It’s perfect for families and adventure-seekers alike, with adventures ranging from serene to extreme. Raft with top-tier guides using premium equipment and make memories with this unparalleled Rafting Outfitter.
- DINNER: After you raft, shower and change, you’ll want to grab a delicious bite for dinner! Our on-site food truck, Grab-It-N-Growl has a full menu of irresistible options. We even offer cold craft beer on-site for after your adventure. Want to explore another option in town? The Bean Trees Cafe is another casual establishment closeby in Hartford with a reputation for always providing amazing food and beer for after your adventures.
- SUNSET: Lastly, as the day cools off and the evening arrives, if you’re looking for a beautiful place to explore nature with a view, Max Patch provides an accessible hike to a beautiful 360 view. Be sure to leave to trace and care for the environment you enjoy if you stop by. This can be a busier viewpoint, especially on the holiday itself, but this could vary on the dates surrounding.
There’s no better way to celebrate Independence Day than surrounded by the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Come enjoy it with all of your favorite people at River Rat’s Tubing and Whitewater Rafting Outposts.
