Summer Idylls for Chilling Out- Where to Play on a Hot, Hot, Day

The 9 Lakes region is filled with interesting museums, galleries, and theaters.  One of the pleasures of summer, before every home had central air-conditioning, was the chilled air in movie theaters, galleries, and museums.  Walking into the blast of artificial cold after the sticky, sweltering heat of the outdoors was always a treat. Today, cars and homes have air-conditioning which quells the need for finding a cool place.  But when the temperature of July and August soar, take a break from the heat and treat yourself by going on an “indoor” adventure.  Here in the 9 Lakes, you do not have to pick an ordinary experience.  Dive into a different adventure this summer- idyllic places and chill time.

Chill at a Historic Movie Theaters:

Knoxville’s Historic Tennessee Theater is hosting Summer Movie Magic on Saturdays and Sundays beginning July 27 through August 26^th. Step back in time at this regal, movie house built in 1928.  Plush theater seats and acoustic theater sound provide a unique experience compared to your multiplex theater.

AMSE –Sci-Fi Cinema has scheduled a series of classic sci-fi movies that expressed public fears during the age of nuclear development.  Featured films begin with 1954’s black and white film Them! on July 27^th @ 5:30 pm.  Additional feature films are scheduled for Aug 24 and Oct 26.  The showings are free, but registration is required.

The Ritz Theater in Clinton, TN is a first run theater, with very historic roots. Built in 1945 under direction of the War Production Board, the Ritz has served as a movie theater, opry venue, and community gathering space with breaks in its use.  In 1998, the building was added to the National Historic Register of Places. Today, the theater operates seven days per week and tickets are minimally priced at $6.00 per person. To see what is playing and showtimes, click here.

Galleries and Museums:  The serene coolness of museums and art galleries is a sure bet from the heat and a break from your usual summer routine:

Take a day off from your favorite East Tennessee TVA Lake to explore the artwork of Robert Birdwell at the Oak Ridge Art Center in downtown Oak Ridge.  The centennial exhibition contains work from the time as the TVA’s staff artist.  Pieces include stunning mosaics interpreting the sentiment from several dam and power construction sites, as well as work from his personal collection.   The museum is open daily and free.  Donations are accepted.

Downtown Knoxville has a wealth of galleries and museums to experience. At the heart of town are the Knoxville Museum of Art, the Arts Emporium, and the East Tennessee History Center.  The Richard Jolley display serves to represent the creativity of the American Glass Movement in the late 1950’s to 60’s.   The East Tennessee History Center’s special exhibition draws from the roots of music in the region with a retrospective look at the work of Carl and Pearl Butler, the iconic country music duo who left a lasting legacy on country music.

The Charles B Hall Museum in Tellico Plains and the Sequoyah Birthplace Museum in Vonore are an interesting respite from modern American and a step back into life of pioneers and of the Cherokee near the waters of the Tellico and Little Tennessee River.

Happy summer adventuring!