Most of the following are within reasonable proximity to Kingston, and are wonderful places to enjoy God's natural gifts - to hike, in some cases to fish or play golf, and to simply relax.

• Andrew Johnson National Historical Site

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area #1

• Big South Fork National River & Recreation Area #2

• Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

• Tennessee State Parks

• Ijams Nature Center

The Museum of Appalachia is a wonderful place to see the implements and accomodations that were commonplace to those who settled our region. It also offers a glimpse into the cultural activities and way of life that chacterized the Southern Appalachian area in years gone by.

• Museum of Appalachia

For those who like to make them, buy them, or just look at them and marvel at the skills which they embody. These two local craft communities are comprised of many of the talented craftsfolk from our region. Shows, demonstrations, and classes are regularly provided.

• Foothills Craft Guild

• Community Craft Center and Cooperative

Just a few of the many forms of physical activity available in our area.

• Smoky Mountain Wheelmen Bicycle Club

• Appalachian Mountain Bike Club

• The Ocoees  (rafting)

• Ober Gatlinburg  (sking)

For those who want to stay away from the mainstream tourist attractions, this well-traveled guide by Carson Brewer will lead to little-known and out-of-the way places in the Southern Appalachian area.

• Just Over the Next Ridge

Eat, sleep, and relax ... just what each of us needs on occasion. These local innkeepers will show you the best in East Tennessee hospitality.

• Whitestone Country Inn

• Woodland Cove Bed & Breakfast

Numerous cultural and educational organizations and activities thrive in our area. The following are but a few of these.

• American Museum of Science & Energy

• Children's Museum of Oak Ridge

• Circle Modern Dance Company

• Clarence Brown Theatre

• Cumberland County Playhouse

• East Tennessee Conservatory for the Arts

• Knoxville Museum of Art

• Knoxville Opera

• Knoxville Pipes and Drums

• Knoxville Symphony Orchestra

• Knoxville Zoo

• McClung Museum

• Oak Ridge Community Orchestra

• Oak Ridge Community Playhouse

• Pellissippi State Technical Community College

• Roane State Community College

• University of Tennessee

The following libraries offer an overwhelming collection of materials, sufficient to satisfy the needs of the most demanding bibliophile.

• Kingston Public Library

• Knox County Library System

• Oak Ridge Public Library

• Rockwood Public Library

• The University of Tennessee Libraries - Knoxville

Our area abounds in recreational opportunities for the entire family - and that includes shopping and theme attractions. Three of our near neighbors are nationally known for the quality and quantity of their offerings.

• Dollywood

• Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga

• The City of Gatlinburg

Here are a few additional sources of information relating to activities and points of interest in the East Tennessee area. Most everything that you will find in these references is within easy driving distance of Kingston.

• Must-See Places in the Smokies

• East Tennessee Tourism

• • Mark Banker recommends the view from atop Mount LeConte.