The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum
Place, The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum
7 min walk
Townsend Visitor Center
Place, Townsend Visitor Center
9 min walk
Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson)
Airport, Knoxville, TN (TYS-McGhee Tyson)
31 min drive
Room options
About the neighborhood
Townsend
This lodge places you next to Dark Island Swinging Bridge and within a 10-minute walk of The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum. The guestroom includes a fireplace, a microwave, and a TV.
Dark Island Swinging Bridge - 1 min walk - 0.0 miles
The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
Townsend Visitor Center - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
Shadows of the Past Hiking/Biking Trail - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
River Rage Go-Kart Track - 2 min drive - 1.7 miles
Getting around
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) - 34 min drive
Restaurants
Peaceful Side Social - 10 min walk
The Townsend Abbey - 1 min walk
The Artistic Bean - 17 min walk
Apple Valley Cafe Express - 4 min drive
Elvira's Cafe - 11 min drive
About this property
Gorgeous 5-bedroom Riverside Estate Lodge in downtown Townsend
Come discover the historic River Aire 5-bedroom lodge in Townsend. Your family will be close to everything when you stay at this historic cabin in the heart of Townsend! With 3 master bedrooms on the main level and a game room with 2 extra bedrooms and bathroom upstairs, there is room for the whole family to play inside or enjoy the great outdoors!
The space Welcome to your Smoky Mountain escape! This spacious 5-bedroom, 4-bathroom rustic cabin is located in beautiful Townsend, Tennessee, known as the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies.” Perfect for families, large groups, and friends traveling together, this cabin offers comfort, entertainment, and room to spread out—just minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, tubing on the Little River, hiking trails, and scenic drives like Cades Cove.
This historic piece of Townsend history is known as the River Aire Estate. It was originally built to house the manager of the Little River Lumber Company. The Little River Lumber Company Museum is right down the street if you would like to learn more about the history of this area and home!
Inside, you’ll find warm wood interiors, vaulted ceilings, and a cozy lodge-style feel that instantly sets the tone for a relaxing mountain getaway. The open living area is ideal for gathering after a day of exploring.
With five comfortable bedrooms and four full bathrooms, the cabin easily accommodates larger groups while still offering privacy. Whether you’re hosting a multi-family vacation or a group retreat, everyone will have space to unwind.
One of the guest-favorite features is the game room with a pool table, perfect for rainy days, evenings in, or friendly competition after a day in the mountains. It’s a fun, welcoming space for both kids and adults.
Step outside to enjoy the huge private yard, ideal for outdoor games, relaxing in nature, or simply soaking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere. Enjoy quiet mornings with coffee, fresh air throughout the day, and calm evenings under the stars.
Located close to Townsend’s local shops and restaurants, this cabin offers a quieter alternative to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge—while still being an easy drive away when you want more attractions.
Due to its central location, its easy to walk, bike, or push a stroller to many local area attractions, shops, and restaurants. Bring your bikes!
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, group getaway, or Smoky Mountain adventure, this Townsend cabin offers the space, charm, and location to make lasting memories.
Here are some of our favorite local businesses to check out within a short walk or quick drive!
Peaceful Side Social Restaurant & Brewery Approx. Distance: ~0.8 miles
Smokey Mountain National Park Entrance Approx. Distance: ~ 2.5 miles
The Abbey at the Heartland Little River Chapel (Restaurant) Approx. Distance: ~ .1 mile
Smokey Mountain River Rat Tubing Approx. Distance: ~ 1.3 miles
Townsend IGA Supermarket Approx. Distance: ~0.7 miles
Townsend Mercantile Company Boutique Gift Shop Approx. Distance: ~1.0 miles
Jake’s on the River Clothing and Retail Approx. Distance: ~1.0 miles
Townsend Shopping Center Approx. Distance: ~1.1 miles
Little River Outfitters Fishing & Outdoor Gear Approx. Distance: ~1.0 miles
Blount Partnership Townsend Visitors Center Approx. Distance: ~1.2 miles
Apple Valley Mountain Village & Cafe Approx. Distance: ~1.8 miles
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro Fine Dining Approx. Distance: ~1.9 miles
Little River Pub and Deli Approx. Distance: ~1.7 miles
Little River Lumber Company Museum Approx. Distance: ~ .3 miles
Cades Cove Visitor's Center - Smokey Mountain National Park Approx. Distance: ~ 17 miles
Dollywood Theme Park Approx. Distance: ~ 20 miles
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee Approx. Distance: ~ 17 miles
Gatlinburg, Tennessee Approx. Distance: ~ 25 miles
Townsend River Walk and Arboretum Approx. Distance: ~ 1.2 miles
Other things to note I don't live on site but I do live nearby in Knoxville. If there are any issues, I'm just a quick call or text away. :)
For entertainment, guests can enjoy TVs. Washing machines, 4 bathrooms, and fireplaces are also available.
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You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Pets
This property welcomes pets
Dogs only
1 total pets
Service animals exempt from fees
Children and extra beds
Children allowed: ages 0-17
Events
Events allowed: family gatherings, birthday parties, weddings
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site; maximum attendees: 29
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 18
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Parties and events (including family gatherings, birthday parties and weddings) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 29.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector.
Frequently asked questions
What can I see near this lodge?
Located steps from Dark Island Swinging Bridge, this lodge is in Townsend, and within a 10-minute walk of The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum and Shadows of the Past Hiking/Biking Trail. You'll also find Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center within a short drive.
Is there parking available at Gorgeous 5-bedroom Riverside Estate Lodge in downtown Townsend?
No, this lodge doesn't offer parking.
Is this lodge adjacent to a casino?
No, this lodge is not connected to a casino.
Is there an indoor pool at this lodge?
No, there is no indoor pool at this lodge.
What amenities will couples enjoy at Gorgeous 5-bedroom Riverside Estate Lodge in downtown Townsend?
Amenities that appeal to couples at this lodge include a fireplace in each guestroom with a fireplace in some.
Does Gorgeous 5-bedroom Riverside Estate Lodge in downtown Townsend have a hot tub?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this lodge.
Does this lodge include breakfast service?
No, this lodge doesn't offer breakfast.
Will this lodge allow pets to stay free of charge?
Although dogs can't stay for free, they are welcome at this lodge.
Does Gorgeous 5-bedroom Riverside Estate Lodge in downtown Townsend have connecting rooms available?
No, this lodge doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.
How far is the airport from this lodge?
The closest major airport to this lodge is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), which is 21.4 mi away (34 minutes by car).
Are there rooms with balconies at Gorgeous 5-bedroom Riverside Estate Lodge in downtown Townsend?
No, you won't find guestrooms with balconies at Gorgeous 5-bedroom Riverside Estate Lodge in downtown Townsend.
Gorgeous 5-bedroom Riverside Estate Lodge in downtown Townsend Reviews