What’s New for 2019

Our mailbag has been full of questions about “what’s new for 2019” in the 9 Lakes.   We are excited about the upcoming travel season so here are some of the events, places, and attractions you will want to include in your vacation planning:

New Lodging:

Stay in a new Sunstar Houseboat at Beach Island Resort Marina on Norris Lake: The new fleet of boats feature 6 queen staterooms, 1 set of twin bunk beds, 2 full bathrooms, fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances, six (6) person hot tub, waterslide and much more!! Reservations open up on January 2, 2019.

Lenoir City, conveniently located on the I75 corridor and nearby Loudoun Lake, has a new Fairfield Inn and Suites opening.   This hotel will be a welcome addition for I75 travelers and for families planning vacations in the “Lakeway to the Smokies.”

New Attractions:

Wildwood Grove at Dollywood is slated to open with six new rides.  The natured themed expansion is the largest project in the 33 year history of the park.  Book your stay at one of the many cabins located nearby.

Down on the farm, Sweetwater Valley “UdderStory” tours will resume in 2019.  The farm tours will include an opportunity to view their new Robotics Milking House.  Sweetwater Valley Farm produces milk for local producers as well as producing high end cheeses.  At the end of your tour, visit the onsite farm store to taste their fresh cheese curds and other nibbles.

Other tasty offerings not to be missed in the 9 Lakes are the emerging micro craft breweries and distilleries that can be found throughout the region.  New in 2019 are Bussell Island Distillery and Brewery in Lenoir City, and a second location for Bootleggers Whiskey in Dandridge, TN.   These are locally owned businesses producing small batch barrels.  If you enjoy discovering out of the way places and supporting local trade, these are must stops when visiting the 9 Lakes.

New Event:

If your preferred sip is wine, be sure to plan to attend the 1^st Annual Lakeside of the Smokies Balloon and Wine Festival  to be held October  25-27 in White Pine, TN.  The dramatic backdrop of the lakes and the height of fall foliage in the Smokies will be on display.

The 9 Lakes is always offering new events and attractions, so check back often to see what’s new in the region.