The Great Smoky Mountains National Park's visitation in 2023 generated $2.2 billion for the local economy, supporting over 33,000 jobs, according to the National Park Service.

Kingsport Parks and Recreation offers skateboarding lessons for kids at Scott Adams Memorial Skatepark, emphasizing safety and basics, with sessions on Mondays in September.

Kingsport unveils new playground equipment at Riverview Park and Riverfront Park, enhancing local recreational spaces for children.

Crockett Days at David Crockett Birthplace State Park celebrates the frontiersman's 238th birthday with 18th-century activities and demonstrations from August 16-18.

Bays Mountain Park, sponsored by NETAR, offers free admission on August 25, allowing the public to enjoy nature activities, with additional fees for planetarium shows and barge rides.

ABR cares for bear cubs after their mother was euthanized for human safety concerns in Tennessee, underscoring the issue of bears becoming too comfortable around people.

Soaky Mountain Waterpark announced "Rafter's Rage," a new 825-foot six-person raft ride slated for 2025, promising speeds up to 19 mph and a unique experience with four zero-G arcs.

Soaky Mountain Waterpark is set to unveil a new 825-foot waterslide named "Rafter's Rage" for the 2025 season, offering a unique rafting experience with lateral accelerations.

Knoxville is developing a $4.6 million pavilion at the Urban Wilderness Gateway Park, expected to be completed by late 2025, enhancing outdoor recreation and community gatherings.

Dollywood in Tennessee closed due to a water main break with maintenance underway. The incident only affected the theme park, not the adjacent water park or resort.

Zoo Knoxville introduces "Early Bird Hours" from July 15-31, opening at 8 a.m. to offer cooler visits and unique experiences like behind-the-scenes animal care.

The splashpad at Knox County's Carl Cowan Park is closed for repairs due to water leaks and pump issues, with maintenance underway to reopen by July 4th. Residents are directed to alternative parks.

Dollywood is named the top theme park in the US by Tripadvisor for 2024, and also ranks tenth globally in the Travelers' Choice Best of the Best Awards.