International visitors should check U.S. visa requirements based on their country of origin.

What is the local currency?

U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for small shops.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, English is the primary language. Spanish is also spoken by a small minority.

Are there any local festivals?

Yes, Friendsville Days in June features parades, live music, and food vendors.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe and meets U.S. standards.

What is the tipping etiquette?

Tip 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink for bartenders, and $2-5 per night for housekeeping.

Is Friendsville pet-friendly?

Many outdoor areas and some accommodations welcome pets; check in advance.

What is the time zone?

Eastern Time (ET), UTC-5 (UTC-4 during daylight saving time).

Friendsville

CityTennessee, United States

Friendsville is a CITY in Tennessee, United States.

Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Friendsville, Tennessee, offers a serene escape with a small-town charm that feels like a step back in time. This quiet community is perfect for travelers seeking outdoor adventures, from hiking the nearby trails to fishing in the Little Tennessee River. The town's historic district features well-preserved 19th-century architecture, and the annual Friendsville Days festival celebrates local culture with music, crafts, and Southern cuisine. With its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere, Friendsville is an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of East Tennessee, including the Cherokee National Forest and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, just a short drive away.

Best time to visit Friendsville

Spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures (60-75°F), perfect for hiking. Fall offers stunning foliage and comfortable weather. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter is cold but less crowded.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 45-70°F

Travel notes

Crowds: High
Prices: Moderate

Peak foliage; popular for scenic drives.

Know before you go

Getting there

TYS

McGhee Tyson Airport

International

40 km away

CHA

Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport

Domestic

160 km away

ATL

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

International

290 km away

Getting around

"A car is essential for exploring Friendsville and the surrounding area. Rental cars are available at McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, about 25 miles away. Local taxi services are limited; ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft operate but may have longer wait times. Biking is possible on rural roads, but dedicated bike lanes are scarce."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available at most hotels and cafes; free Wi-Fi at library

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Knoxville airport from $10

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe town; minimal scams. Use common sense.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe town; minimal scams. Use common sense.

Transport

7/10

Scam risk

9/10

"Friendsville is a very safe, low-crime community. Violent crime is rare, but petty theft can occur in tourist areas. Always lock your car and secure valuables. At night, stick to well-lit areas. The town is walkable, but be cautious on rural roads with limited lighting. Wildlife encounters (deer, bears) are possible on hiking trails; keep a safe distance."

Police

911

Ambulance

911

Fire

911

Entry and health

Health information

"No specific health risks are prevalent in Friendsville. Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are up to date. The nearest hospital is Blount Memorial Hospital in Maryville (about 15 miles away). For minor issues, local clinics are available. Carry any prescription medications with you, as pharmacies are limited. Tap water is safe to drink."

Culture

Local customs

"Southern hospitality is key: greet people with a smile and a 'hello.' Dress is casual and practical, especially for outdoor activities. When visiting churches or historic sites, modest attire is appreciated. Tipping is customary: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars. Avoid loud or confrontational behavior in public."

English (official)SpanishChineseTagalogVietnameseFrenchArabicKoreanGermanItalianEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$10-15 | a cheap local meal costs ~$10-15

Hotels

$60-100 | budget hotels range $60-100/night

Local transport

$2 | local bus ride ~$2 (limited service)

Cost notes

Prices are lower than national average; dining and lodging are affordable.

Timezone

America/New_York
Local time 00:06

More facts

Population

920

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Frendsvil, Frendsvill, Friendsville, fryndsfyl, fryndswyl tnsy, Френдсвил, Френдсвилл, Френдсвілл, فريندسفيل, فریندسویل، تنسی

CityHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingSmall Town