Townsend vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Townsend vacation rentals

Stay near Townsend's top sights

Townsend Visitors Center17 locals recommend
Smoky Mountain River Rat Main Tubing Outpost167 locals recommend
Trailhead Steakhouse55 locals recommend
Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center37 locals recommend
Burger Master Drive In29 locals recommend
Riverstone Family Restaurant9 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Townsend

  • Total rentals

    80 properties

  • Rentals with a pool

    30 properties have a pool

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    10 properties allow pets

  • Family-friendly rentals

    30 properties are a good fit for families

  • Total number of reviews

    3.2K reviews

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $80 before taxes and fees

Your guide to Townsend

All About Townsend

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Townsend, Tennessee is synonymous with natural beauty. It’s one of three gateway cities into the mountain range, and with a population of just about 350 people, it’s an ideal destination for those seeking to explore the area from a small-town base.

The area around Townsend is steeped in history, with archaeological finds dating as far back as 2,000 B.C. — the Tuckaleechee caverns here are estimated to be 30 million years old. There are a number of museums dedicated to the preservation and appreciation of Townsend’s past, including the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center and the Little River Railroad and Lumber Museum, which speaks to the community’s ties to the construction of the railway.

In spite of its tranquil setting, Townsend is by no means a sleepy town; the community offers a packed schedule of festivals and events year-round. Immerse yourself in local lore at the annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot festival, celebrate autumn’s colors at the Fall Heritage Festival, and add a little whimsy to your holiday during the enchanting Hot Air Balloon Festival.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Townsend

Each season in Townsend brings a different reason to spend time outdoors. Visit in the winter and be rewarded with cozy days at your cabin rental in Townsend between taking scenic drives in the snow or fishing in one of many nearby rivers. When things warm up a bit, festivals and seasonal events dot the calendar. May sees the annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival roll into town. Early summer means the arrival of the annual firefly viewing, where you can witness millions of these glowing bugs light up the night sky as they search for the perfect mate. If you visit towards the end of summer, you can experience the Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival. In autumn, the leaves turn fiery shades of red and gold, and the Fall Heritage Festival in September celebrates Appalachian cooking alongside bluegrass music, arts, and crafts.


Top things to do in Townsend

Tuckaleechee Caverns

Once you’ve explored the unmatched beauty of the Smoky Mountains above, it’s time to take a peek below the surface and marvel at the ancient Tuckaleechee Caverns. Estimated to be between 20 and 30 million years old, these underground chambers are home to 24-foot stalagmites and a breathtaking 210-feet, two-tier waterfall. Access to the caves is only available from March to November, so bear that in mind when planning a trip here.

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is one of the star attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains, and you can explore this picturesque valley by taking an 11-mile loop road that snakes through one of the oldest mountain ranges in the United States. This lush landscape is home to all manner of wildlife, including white-tailed deer, black bears, and turkeys, as well as historic cabins and mills and hiking trails.

Little River

The enchantingly named Little River runs the length of Townsend and creates the perfect backdrop for a day of outdoor fun. One of the most popular activities in the area is tubing down the river. The slow-moving water creates the perfect atmosphere to unwind and cool down on a hot summer day.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Townsend?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 50 vacation rentals in Townsend featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Townsend?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Townsend. Choose from more than 10 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

  • Are there Townsend vacation rentals on Airbnb with pools?

    Yes! Dive into the perfect getaway at one of over 30 vacation homes with pools in Townsend, available on Airbnb. Make a splash and soak up the sun in style!

  • How much does it cost to stay in cabin rentals in Townsend?

    Experience the best of Townsend with our cabin rentals, starting at about $90 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.

  • Do cabin rentals in Townsend have self check-in?

    Absolutely! We offer over 10 cabin rentals with self check-in in Townsend. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Do house rentals in Townsend have wifi?

    Absolutely! We offer over 10 house rentals with wifi in Townsend. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Do house rentals in Townsend have a bbq area?

    Absolutely! We offer over 20 house rentals with a bbq area in Townsend. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Are there family-friendly cabin rentals in Townsend?

    Townsend has more than 10 family-friendly cabin rentals. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.

Destinations to explore

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  2. United States
  3. Tennessee
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