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By now you've probably heard that Ford is releasing a brand new Bronco for the 2021 model year. With each passing day, it's release is getting closer and closer. There's certainly been a lot of hype about the new model, and with good reason. Here are just a few more reasons you should be excited about the 2021 Ford Bronco. Lots of Impressive Trims If you're a fan of customization and building the car that's truly right for you, you're going to love the Bronco. It features seven awesome trims with a lot that makes each one unique. As you work your way across the trims, it's clear that the model is less about stepping up in the number of features and more about being focused on selecting the features that are right for the job. You can expect all trims to handle off-road travel admirably. Don't take our word for it, though. Ford has put the new Bronco through several rigorous tests in the Johnson-Valley Dessert. It also successfully ran the Baja 1000. True off-road junkies will want to spring for the higher trim levels such as the Wildtrack. The First-Edition trim also includes these, however, there are no more available for pre-order. more A Big Selection of Drive Modes and Engines Everything about the Bronco is about how you like to drive. All Bronco models feature 4x4 engagement. The 2021 features what Ford is calling G.O.A.T. modes, which stands for "goes over any terrain." The total number of modes varies by trim and include options such as normal, economy, sport, slippery, sand, and mud. Higher trims include more, such as rock crawl. There are a few different engine configurations available as well. You'll have a choice between a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine. The in-line four-cylinder engine has an output of 270 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. It's available with a 10-speed automatic transmission or a seven-speed manual. If you need more power, opt for a trim that offers the V-6 engine. It has an output of 310 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. The larger engine is only available with the 10-speed transmission. A Hybrid Is on its Way The performance and off-road features available on the 2021 Ford Bronco are certainly enticing. Another exciting tidbit about the Ford Bronco is that Ford has confirmed they are also working on a Hybrid version of the powertrain. This allows drivers who love the look and feel of the Bronco to also take advantage of a hybrid engine's efficiency metrics. Plenty of Visual Options There are a lot of different visual options available on the 2021 Ford Bronco. It's available with either two doors or four doors. You also have your choice of hard-top or soft-top configuration. For that true off-road warrior look, the removable doors are an exciting addition. With the release of the Ford Bronco just around the corner, we couldn't be more excited. Stay tuned for more information about the new SUV or take a look at some of the other vehicles we have at Lenoir City Ford Image via ford.com

It may be tempting to hibernate all winter, but it doesn't have to be that way. Get out and get moving with this list of activities. Make the most of the season with these places where you can enjoy a winter adventure near Lenoir City, Tennessee. Note: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, please verify hours of operations by contacting the businesses directly. Go Snowboarding Winter weather doesn't mean outdoor activities have to come to a halt. Snow transforms the state's landscape and opens up endless opportunities to hit the slopes. Discover some of the best snowboarding at Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area. Before you embark on the 90-minute drive, load up the whole family and head to Alpine Ski Center in Knoxville for all your gear. Whether you purchase or rent, they've got you covered. more Try Ice Skating Ice skating is a terrific way to celebrate the season indoors. Whether you've never skated before or you're a veteran on the ice, practicing your moves at a local rink is a wonderful way to get some exercise and enjoy the company of friends and family. Lace up your skates and hit the ice at Cool Sports Home of the Icearium on South Watt Road. Learn how to figure skate, join a hockey league, or just skate hand-in-hand with someone you love on this outstanding NHL-sized rink. Learn Cross Country Skiing If you're interested in getting a serious cardio workout this winter, go cross-country skiing near Lenoir City. From local paths to vast trail systems, connect with a white snowy wonderland on skis. Cross country, also called Nordic skiing, is easy to learn and is a lot like gliding over the snow. Novices will want to start on flat terrain and move up to hilly landscapes once they feel comfortable. Nantahala Bikeway is a quick 1.2-mile jaunt from Nantahala Center to the raft launch site at the scenic Nantahala Gorge. If you're looking to spend the day embarking on a cross-country skiing adventure, hit the trails throughout Roan Mountain State Park in Carter County. Light Up the Season Add a bright spot to a dreary winter day with a fun event or activity. Pile into the car and check out some local lighting displays. The Boyd Family Christmas Light Show on Winter Winds Lane and the West Knoxville Light Show on Foxford Drive are both popular choices. If you're looking for a new tradition, head to TnT Christmas Tree Farm on Millertown Pike in Knoxville and chop down your own pine. It's a delightful way to spend some time bonding with the family. Take your treasure home and add the glitter and shine of your own light display. This memorable activity will brighten the season and bring the magic of Christmas together with the sounds of nature. Whether you're cozying up by your fresh-cut Christmas tree or enjoying the outdoors with a frosty afternoon on the slopes, winter is the perfect season for making memories. No matter what you decide to do, use this list of ideas, get out of the house, and beat cabin fever this year. Image via pexels.com

Diners are some of the best places to find a casual, family atmosphere and a menu filled with reasonably priced comfort foods. From egg platters to hearty casseroles just like mom used to make, there's something for everyone. Here are the four best diners near Lenoir City, Tennessee, that are worth a visit. Note: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, please verify hours of operations by contacting the businesses directly. 1. Pete's Coffee Shop Pete's is a downtown must-stop along Union Avenue. This diner lives up to its reputation of serving a scrumptious lineup of morning and midday meals. Local favorites include Pete's Breakfast featuring eggs, bacon or sausage, and home fries, plus your choice of toast. The house special Breakfast Bowl is piled high with scrambled eggs, sausage, diced ham, cheddar cheese, home fries, plus a biscuit drenched in sausage gravy. Stick around for lunch and get a burger, wrap, or a classic sandwich like the popular club, tuna melt, or a grilled Reuben. more 2. Inskip Grill Next time you've got a craving for budget-friendly diner food, discover Inskip Grill on North Broadway in Knoxville. This neighborhood gem is a small and cozy establishment, and if you're fortunate enough to land a table, you're in for a treat. For breakfast, Inskip serves up a monstrous omelet, bursting with flavors from its veggie and cheese-filled center. For lunch, pick from 50 different sandwich varieties that grace the menu, like the Dolly. This sweet and sassy barbeque burger comes with cheddar cheese and grilled onions. Get it with a side of onion rings or sweet potato fries that make the meal. Don't leave without getting an Instagram-worth Grilla shake. They look as awesome as they taste. 3.Hot Rod's 50's Diner This eatery embodies exactly what you would imagine a 1950s-themed restaurant should be, with retro staples like neon signs, black-and-white checkerboard floors, old-school pinball machines, and glittery vinyl upholstery. Its menu won't disappoint you either. It's filled with a generous selection of classics, plus vegetarian and gluten-free choices. Order one of 80 different burgers, hot dogs, hot and cold sandwiches, and for dessert, have the waitstaff spin you up a traditional malt. Try the liver and onions Blue Plate Special or the spaghetti casserole that's baked to perfection. Step inside and step back in time at Hot Rod's on Hannum Street in Alcoa. 4. Twister's Diner If you love diners, you've got to try this humble little eatery. It has two locations, one on Tazewell Pike that's open for lunch and supper and the other on Washington Pike that throws in breakfast. Try the hand-breaded catfish with homemade hushpuppies or warm up with a bowl of chili. It hits the spot with a bag of Fritos and all the fixins. Stop in for Comfort Food Sunday and get the hot turkey sandwich with cornbread dressing. It's a Thanksgiving feast anytime. Satisfy your sweet tooth with Mayfield soft serve ice cream, homestyle pies, and other scrumptious desserts. Nothing beats a diner when you're in the mood for good old fashioned eats. From omelets to pie, no matter what one you choose, you'll leave happy and full. Image via pexels.com

Whether you need a spacious cabin for road trips, a fuel-efficient option for commuting, or off-roading prowess for weekends at the lake, Ford's lineup of SUVs has what you're searching for. Here are a few of the blue oval's top choices so that you can pick the best model for you. Expedition The 2020 Ford Expedition offers the whole enchilada for large families. It touts balanced handling, a pleasant ride, and a cabin that's both spacious and elegant. Under the hood, its powerful turbocharged V-6 engine rivals most automaker's V-8s. It also features one of the most spacious cargo holds in its class for hauling the whole family's worth of luggage or gear. With three rows of roomy seating and a user-friendly infotainment system, everyone will feel comfy and connected along the way. more EcoSport Active urbanites will love the budget-friendly 2020 Ford EcoSport. It offers agile handling for navigating tight city streets, and its small stature is ideal for finding a space in that crowded parking lot. If you're looking for superb fuel economy, this SUV's base engine earns an EPA estimated 27 miles per gallon in the city and 29 mpg highway. It also delivers a surprisingly large cargo area. The EcoSport can haul more than rivals thanks to its fold-flat, 60/40 split rear seats. You'll get access to 50 cubic feet of storage room, and the innovative rear gate swings to the side instead of lifting up like most subcompacts. Explorer The fully redesigned Explorer offers some impressive improvements for 2020. This three-row SUV has even better handling, a lineup of robust engines, and a long list of standard safety features. Ford placed it atop a new platform that boosts its agility, gives the cabin an airier feel, and increases its towing capacity. Even its base engine, a turbocharged four-cylinder, is among the most powerful options in the class. Most Explorers feature seating for six passengers with its second-row captain's chairs. There's plenty of legroom, and they slide forward so the kids can jump into the third row. On the base trim, you'll enjoy an impressive amount of standard features, including Ford's praiseworthy infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Bronco The legendary Bronco returns to Ford showrooms for the 2021 model year. Decked out with cool retro styling and plenty of innovative features, it's a must-see for enthusiasts of old. Its straightforward interior is loaded with tech, including an available 12.0-inch touch screen and a state-of-the-art off-roading performance app. Where this pony really shines is off-road. Its highly capable chassis and drivetrain put the Bronco in league with legendary, trail-rated competitors. Its convertible nature, soft or hardtop roofs, and two- or four-door body styles make it easy to enjoy the great outdoors. The cabin also contains durable, waterproof surfaces that protect it from sun, dirt, and water. Ford offers a wide array of SUV models. Each one is dramatically different when it comes to power, performance, and interior space. Which one works best for your family? Test drive them all at Lenoir City Ford. Image via ford.com

Completely redesigned for the 2020 model year, the Ford Escape is a crossover SUV that has a roomy interior and plenty of cargo space. The vehicle is now Ford's only small passenger vehicle other than the EcoSport after Ford discontinued sedans and hatchbacks in the United States. The Escape's optional user-friendly infotainment system and numerous standard safety features make this a vehicle you should consider. Trim Levels There are four trims available with the 2020 Ford Escape: S, SE, SEL, and Titanium. The SEL trim includes a hands-free power liftgate, and you can upgrade to receive a panoramic moonroof. One of the changes for the 2020 models is a lighter body, as it now weighs 200 pounds less than the previous year's model. Ford was able to do this even after adding a stiffer suspension and rear subframe by using lighter and stronger aluminum and steel. It's also 2 inches longer than the outgoing version. more Engine In addition to a complete overhaul, the 2020 Ford Escape has a brand-new powertrain lineup. It comes standard with a 180 horsepower EcoBoost 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. This base engine, which has an output of 190 pound-feet of torque, is new for 2020 as it replaces the turbo four-cylinder engine that had a six-speed automatic transmission. You can opt for all-wheel drive. The other engine is a 250 horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost that produces 280 pound-feet of torque. Performance The 2020 Escape has five driving modes: normal, eco, sport, slippery, and snow/sand. The different modes change the vehicle's throttle response, cylinder timing, transmission shift points, and steering. For fuel economy, the Escape gets 27 miles per gallon in the city and 33 mpg on the highway with the base engine. The turbo-4 lowers those numbers to 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. When properly equipped, the base turbo-3 engine can tow up to 2,000 pounds, while the turbo-4 engine can tow a maximum of 3,500 pounds. Interior The S trim comes with cloth upholstery, a six-speaker audio system, a USB port, and the SYNC 3 infotainment system with a 4.2-inch display. With the SE trim, you gain a power-adjustable driver's seat, automatic climate control, heated front seats, satellite radio, as well as the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touch screen display along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The SEL trim comes standard with synthetic leather upholstery and a heated steering wheel, while the top-of-the-line Titanium trim features genuine leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a 10-speaker audio system. When it comes to cargo space, the Escape has 33.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 65.4 cubic feet when you fold them down. Safety Features With the 2020 Ford Escape, standard safety features include a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and forward collision warning. The vehicle also comes standard with Ford's MyKey, which allows you to set speed and audio limits for secondary drivers. Available options found in the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite include pre-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beams, and a backup camera. Image via ford.com

In today's busy world, staying fit and active can seem like a real challenge. Making a commitment to live a healthier lifestyle is one of the most common new year's resolutions. Whether you made a promise to yourself to get active at the beginning of the year or just want to mix up the ways in which you stay active, Lenoir City, Tennessee, features several places where you can go. Note: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, please verify hours of operations by contacting the businesses directly. Join a Local Gym There are several bigger gyms around the area that provide a perfect way to stay active and healthy regardless of the weather. One benefit of joining one of the larger gyms is that they tend to offer friendly rates and have tons of equipment available. Two of your best options for joining a larger gym to stay active near Lenoir City are Gold's Gym and Anytime Fitness. In addition to all the amazing strength building and cardio equipment at Gold's, you'll also have access to both Zumba and BODYCOMBAT classes. If you have kids that need a babysitter while you go to the gym, the Kid's Club at Gold's Gym is a perfect solution. You can work out while they enjoy fun activities in a supervised environment. Anytime Fitness is another large chain that has multiple locations in the Lenoir City area. They have the benefit of being open all day every day, so you can work out when there aren't a lot of people around or when it's convenient for you. more Join a Yoga Studio Whether you're an expert or a total beginner, a yoga class can elevate your heart rate and stretch out tense muscles. Studios such as Blue Ridge Yoga are a great way to stay active. They offer a mix of both in-person and online live classes if you can't come in for a session. The flexibility they offer is what helps make it such a great way to stay fit and active heading into the winter season. Blue Ridge Yoga offers several different types of classes for beginners and advanced yoga enthusiasts alike. They also offer multiple targeted classes to focus on specific things, such as recovery or relaxation. Take a Hike There's another way to stay active that doesn't require a membership and allows you to enjoy some much-needed fresh air. Lenoir City is close to many great trails and parks, which are perfect for a weekend hike. The Lenoir City Greenway offers a nice range of scenery and landscape views. It's also a great choice if you want to take your bike on the trail instead of walking. The shorter distance of 3.3 miles makes it ideal for walks and runs as well. For more of a challenge, check out the East Lakeshore Trail. It features multiple long branches all over 5 miles. If you're looking to stay active through the rest of 2020, there is no shortage of opportunities in the Lenoir City area. Try one of the amazing local fitness centers or try out one of the trails the next chance you get! Image via pexels.com

Just because it's fall doesn't mean you can't treat yourself to a delicious cold treat such as ice cream. Lenoir City, Tennessee, includes several amazing ice cream shops that are worth checking out. The next time you or your family demands ice cream, try one of these three spots. Note: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, please verify hours of operations by contacting the businesses directly. 1. Di'lishi Frozen Yogurt Bar If you haven't yet experienced the magic that is frozen yogurt, Di'lishi is a great place to get your feet wet. This delicious creamy dessert is just as delectable as ice cream, but with a twist. One of the best things about Di'lishi is how you order your frozen treat. The entire experience is self-serve. You grab a cup, determine which flavor or flavors you want, and then fill the cup to your desired serving size. Then you make your way to the toppings bar, where you can choose from a wide variety of fun and flavorful toppings. You pay based on weight, so you can add as many toppings as you wish. more The frozen yogurt bar rotates flavors frequently, so it's always fun to stop in now and then and see what new flavors they have. Frozen yogurt isn't just about fruity flavors, either. You'll find more ice-cream-inspired flavors such as cheesecake, cake batter, or even pumpkin pie. The possibilities are endless, especially when you start to mix-and-match flavor combinations in your bowl. Those with dietary restrictions can try on of their dairy-free or no-sugar-added flavors. 2. Tic-Toc Ice Cream Parlor If frozen yogurt just won't do and you need the real deal as far as ice cream goes, Tic-Toc Ice Cream Parlor is the place to go. The theme at Tic-Toc Ice Cream Parlor is designed to match the old classic ice cream shops from the 50s and 60s. They're open through the end of October, so you'll need to hurry in if you plan on grabbing some delicious ice cream before the holiday season kicks into high gear. If you've got picky eaters in your party, or you like a bit of variety in your life, Tic-Toc has nearly 30 flavors that are sure to please everyone. They are happy to offer you samples of flavors if you aren't exactly sure which flavor you'd like to order. 3. Flamingo's Snoballs In the world of frozen treats, it's hard to compete with Flamingo's Snoballs. They truly have something for everyone. Their extensive menu features shaved-ice snowballs and claims there are thousands of possible flavor combinations. Their offerings go beyond just snowballs, though. You'll find plenty of icy treats such as homemade ice cream and a line of specialty iced coffees. To top it all off, Flamingo's also offers out-of-this-world milkshakes made from their delicious ice cream. Ice cream tastes just as good in the fall as it does in the summer — and the rest of the year as well! If you're in the mood for some frozen treats, the three locations listed above are sure to satisfy your most intense cravings for something sweet and cold. Image via pexels.com

It would be anyone's guess whether Ford knew how popular the new Ford Bronco was going to be when they initially announced its re-release back in 2017. It's been a long waiting game, and the slow drip of information has certainly kept the excitement up about the popular Ford model. The 2021 Ford Bronco is finally arriving this fall with a Sport edition and a larger version to arrive in the spring of 2021. Here's everything that's coming to the new Bronco models. Tons of Off-Road-Ready Trim Levels There's a good reason for off-road enthusiasts to get excited about the 2021 Ford Bronco. Just about every trim they offer is built for tackling trails and tough terrain. Of course, it also looks great driving around town. There are six amazing trim levels to choose from if you don't count the First Edition trim, which is already sold out. Don't let that get you down though — the Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, Badlands, and Wildtrak trims will serve you well. If you had your heart set on the First Edition, the Wildtrak has the same performance features. Even the base trim level offers off-road features that are sure to impress, such as removable doors and available off-road tires. As you work your way up the trim levels, you start to see even more off-road features such as multiple terrain modes and an advanced suspension. more G.O.A.T. Drive Modes Another exciting feature on the new Bronco is what Ford has labeled G.O.A.T. drive modes, which stands for "Goes Over Any Terrain." In total, there are eight different drive modes that you can select as you see fit. These consist of normal, eco, sport, slippery, sand, Baja, mud/ruts, and rock-crawl mode. Each mode adjusts how the suspension and drivetrain tackle the type of terrain you're on. Bronco and Bronco Sport There are actually two different models of the 2021 Ford Bronco being released. The 2021 Ford Bronco is expected to hit the market in the spring of 2021 and includes the trim levels listed above. The Bronco Sport features roughly half of the trim levels featured on the standard Bronco but does include the G.O.A.T. drive modes and the other exciting off-road features. Multiple Powerful Engine and Transmission Configurations The 2021 Bronco features a lot of customizable parts. Some of the options are standard or add-ons based on which trim level you select. The two available transmissions are a 10-speed automatic or a seven-speed manual. There are also two different engine configurations. The first is an in-line four-cylinder engine with an output of 270 horsepower, and a V-6 with an output of 310 horsepower. If you want to take advantage of the more powerful engine, you'll have to sacrifice the manual transmission, as it's not available on the V-6. The time has finally come for the new Bronco to hit the streets. Be sure to schedule your test drive as soon as it's available, or check out our inventory to compare more features. Image via ford.com

Do you have a big hunger, but not a lot of money? From classic Mexican food to tasty Asian favorites, you're in luck. Here are a few places where you can enjoy a scrumptious budget-friendly meal in Lenoir City, Tennessee. Note: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, please verify hours of operations by contacting the businesses directly. Casa Fiesta When you've got a craving for quality, authentic Mexican food, head to Casa Fiesta. Don't worry, its menu offers loads of inexpensive options, and it touts a delightful, family-friendly setting. Everyone will feel right at home with menu options such as the taco salad. It's a crispy flour tortilla topped with melted cheese, crema salad, and your choice of shredded chicken or ground beef. If you're looking for something a little heartier, try the Arroz con Pollo. You'll love a delicious marinated chicken breast, served with a side of sauteed vegetables and Mexican rice. This hearty meal will set you back less than 12 bucks. Where can you get surf and turf for under twenty dollars? At Casa Fiesta! Its 12-ounce T-bone comes with a helping of jumbo shrimp, plus rice and a side salad. more Country Kinfolk Cafe Located at 270 Hickman St., Country Kinfolk Cafe is a unique lunchtime spot that offers delicious, home-cooked meals at terrific prices. You'll get dishes made from fresh, high-quality ingredients and fast, friendly service from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Order a bowl of soup, a salad, or a sandwich like a turkey croissant. Take something yummy to go. Its marketplace is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. After your meal, browse this restaurant's delightful antique shop featuring primitives made by local crafters. If you're planning an overnight in the area, skip the hotel room and stay in one of its cozy cabins. Ugly Mug Coffee Fill up on breakfast for less at Ugly Mug Coffee. Located right downtown at 108 S. B St., this coffee shop is serving up inexpensive cups of Joe, Danishes, scones, and hearty breakfast sandwiches. Try the sweet and satisfying raspberry white mocha or a cold brew with that hard-to-find full body flavor. This hidden little gem is staffed with friendly baristas who add a touch of hospitality to every order. There's even a convenient drive-through when you don't feel like getting out of the car. Buddy's Bar B Q Where can you get classic Southern barbeque for less? At Buddy's, of course. Located at 1104 Hwy 321, the only thing that's cheap at this smokehouse is the prices. Get your plate with heaps of mouthwatering ribs, and sides like potato salad, slaw, and hush puppies for less than 10 bucks. The dry rub wings come highly recommended as does the lemon pie. Don't let Buddy's location fool you. It's next to a gas station, but it's oh so good. Go ahead and fill up on fuel before you hit the road. We all love to eat, although sometimes a fancy restaurant just isn't in the budget. When you've got a hunger that needs satisfying, save some dough and try one of these low-cost restaurants in Lenoir City. Image via pexels.com

Tennessee offers a wide variety of opportunities for both trekking and biking. From long treks to tranquil pathways, cyclists and hikers of all abilities and interests have the chance to head outdoors and explore. Here are our three favorite trails near Lenoir City. 1. East Lakeshore Trail This inviting trail system surrounding the Tellico Lake reservoir is one of the most scenic and accessible trails near Lenoir City. The 31-mile system provides walkers and cyclists with an outstanding recreational experience that is available year-round. It was also deemed a National Recreation Trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior, and it consists of ten public segments, eight trailheads, and a modest amount of vehicle parking. There are even two landings for boaters who want to enjoy the northern portions of the trail. The Canal is a quick 1.5-mile jaunt that's ideal for new hikers and families. Kiosks line it with maps and general educational information about the area's wildlife and flora. The Jackson Bend segment is the longest path and makes for a challenging jog at 5.1 miles. There's also Wildcat Ridge Spur trail (1 mile), Coyote Loop (2.4 miles), Glendale (2.8 miles), Morganton (3.1 miles), Baker Hollow (3.2 miles), Davis Ferry (3.3 miles), Lotterdale (3.8 miles), and Sinking Creek (4.5 miles). For the most demanding bike ride, go ahead and do the entire loop. more 2. Bearden Village Greenway The Bearden Village Greenway in nearby Knoxville offers a 2.7-mile paved pathway that extends west along Sutherland Avenue and ends just past Westward Avenue. It offers several connections to larger trail systems and is a safe route for kids to explore on their own. To get there, take the Papermill Road exit number 383 off I-40. Head east, then make a right onto Hollywood Drive. Sutherland Avenue is a right turn, then go left at the first light into the Forest Hills Boulevard shopping center. Park there and walk north to the greenway. 3. Eureka Trail The highly-rated Eureka Trail is a popular 4.6-mile gravel biking and hiking path that begins in the city of Athens, about a 45-minute drive north on I-75. Park your car by the western end of the trailhead at 1300 E. Madison Ave. Don't forget to explore Prof Powers Park. It's located just off the trail and features a pond, landscaped gardens with springtime blooming violets, benches for resting, swings for the kids, and other amenities. This rail-trail follows the former train track and winds southeast through woodlands, rural landscapes, and around Mashburn to end close to the town of Englewood. Pick up the trail a short ways away and follow it another mile into downtown. Why not have lunch at Tellico Junction Cafe at 17 Main Street? Park your bike and head in for quick bites of your favorite comfort foods such as grilled chicken breast with homestyle mashed potatoes. No matter which season it is, you can find outdoor recreational opportunities in every part of the state. Use this nifty guide to explore the area near Lenoir City on two wheels or your feet today. Image via pixabay.com

Shopping for your first car is often both exciting and nerve-wracking. From financing to performance, how will you know if you make the right choice? Use this handy guide filled with tips for first-time car buyers. Set a Budget You're ready to buy your first car, but before you race over to the nearest auto mall, set a realistic budget. Purchasing a new set of wheels is a big financial commitment. Having a number in mind will help narrow down your choices and may prevent you from getting in over your head. On top of your down payment and monthly loan charges, remember to include gas, insurance, and maintenance costs. Sure, that Ford GT supercar is fantastic, but can you afford it? more Decide on New or Used Now that you have a price in mind, decide if you want a used, certified pre-owned, or a brand new car. Used cars are less expensive than new ones. However, new vehicles come equipped with the latest technology. Consider factors like safety features, gas mileage, comfort amenities, and how it handles in bad weather. Do you need car seat connectors for the kids, or do you plan to tow a camper up to the Smokey Mountains? Just because you find a car that fits your wallet doesn't mean it fits into your lifestyle. Do Your Research Now that you've got a budget in mind, and an idea of whether you're shopping new or used, take time to do your research. Start with some general automotive sites like Edmunds to steer you in the right direction, check out the manufacturer's website, then head over to your local dealership's inventory page to check availability and pricing. Visit Your Local Dealership You've done your research, and you know what you're looking for — congratulations! It's time to head to the dealership for a test drive. Make sure you drive several options before you pick your new-to-you car. Hit the highway too, so you get a good feel for how it handles at high speeds. Once you get behind the wheel, it's easy to fall in love, but don't rush things. Take a few days to mull over your options so you buy the right car for you. Negotiate You did it. You've found the perfect first car. Now it's time to negotiate the deal. Hopefully, you've saved up a good down payment — roughly 20% of the purchase price — and you've kept an eye on your credit score. Having these two situations on your side will only help your position when you come to the table for financing. Take your time reviewing the sales contract, and be sure to ask questions if there's something you don't understand. Once you've reached this stage, you may just want the staff to hand over your keys. However, avoid the urge to sign the contract without a thorough examination. These are a few things first-time car buyers need to know. Remember to review this article before you head to the dealership, and you'll feel confident you made the right choice. Image via pexels.com

Anyone who enjoys history and learning about the past will find some interesting locations in and around Lenoir City, Tennessee, that help visitors take a step back in time. In fact, these places are so fun that even those who don't love history will enjoy themselves. Take a look at the unique history-related activities you can do in the Lenoir City area. Note: Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, please verify hours of operations by contacting the businesses directly. Lenoir City Museum If you really want to find out what it was like for the early residents who first called Lenoir City home, head to the Lenoir City Museum. This museum was housed in the early city hall building when it first opened its doors back in 1997. It has since expanded and is now located in Lenoir City's original downtown business district. The Lenoir City Company building itself that now houses the historical artifacts is on the National Register of Historic Places. You can peruse exhibits from the earliest settlers of the 1800s and the Civil War to highlights from the city's industrial and commercial growth. You're sure to learn something new about the area when you visit this museum. more Historical Lenoir City Walking Tour To explore some of the historical places around Lenoir City, take a historical walking tour. On the tour, you'll encounter many places that were important to the forming of the city. The tour begins on the corner of "C" Street and First Avenue at the Lenoir Family Cemetery. Feel free to walk the cemetery grounds and explore the markers of those who were so important to Lenoir's establishment. Also on the tour are the city's oldest church, the original Lenoir family home, and the post office. Farragut Museum Not far from Lenoir City, in Farragut, you'll find another interesting place that will take you back in time, the Farragut Museum. Similar to the Lenoir City Museum, this location has artifacts that portray life in the area from the early 1800s. One of the more popular exhibits here is the Admiral David Glasgow Farragut collection. He was the first commissioned admiral for the U.S. Navy, and this collection contains many of his personal items such as his uniform ornamentation, family photographs, and china. These are things you can't see anywhere else. Cades Cove Museum Cades Cove Museum is the site of a historic home that was once occupied by the Cades family. A visit here will give you glimpse into the life they led at this location. You can tour the home and see how the family slept, prepared meals, and completed other daily chores that were necessary at that time. You'll see tools, photographs, books, furniture, and many other artifacts that were used and owned by the family that lived here. As you explore this museum, take a step back in time and imagine what it would have been like back then. If you're looking for fun, interesting things to do around Lenoir City, these places are sure to pique your interest. Whether you go alone or you take the family, you're sure to learn something new. Image via pixabay.com