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Three Centuries. Three Days. One Region. East Tennessee Communities Offer Experiential Travel for Boomers and Families What's old is new again. According to The National Tour Association, this popular notion is contributing to a dramatic increase in experiential travel, a tourism trend defined by rapidly retiring baby boomers and families who prefer an active role in their vacation experience. Vacation destinations in East Tennessee illustrate the popularity of experiential travel that involves "reliving" three centuries in three days. In Rugby, Norris and Oak Ridge, all within a day's drive of the entire Eastern United States, visitors experience first-hand the region's rich cultural heritage. Historic Rugby, atop the Cumberland Plateau, was founded in the 1800s by famed British writer Thomas Hughes, who envisioned a class-free community where British and American residents could work together for the common good. The small town has withstood the test of time, providing guests with a glimpse into 1800s life. In addition to exploring the town's 13 original buildings, visitors can learn to play the mountain dulcimer and witness traditional trades such as pottery, woodcarving, quilting, and weaving. Visit http://www.historicrugby.org/ A short drive away in Norris, The Museum of Appalachia details mountain life in Southern Appalachia more than 100 years ago. Guests will experience pioneer-type craftspeople engaged in frontier, mountain and rural activities. In addition, dozens of original and authentic cabins, such as Mark Twain's family home, help visitors learn about the everyday articles that Appalachian mountain folk created, used and cherished in order to survive in their primitive surroundings. Visit http://www.museumofappalachia.com/ Called the most significant story of the 20th Century, there are many WWII Manhattan Project sites in and around Oak Ridge on the national register of historic places as well as on the Tennessee State Heritage Trail. The self-guided auto tour map of World War II's Secret City gives you the opportunity to experience the rich history of our area at your own pace. Also in Oak Ridge, East Tennessee visitors can explore the excitement of 20th and 21st century progress at the American Museum of Science and Energy. This museum offers a hands-on look at scientific discoveries that have played an important role in our modern culture. In addition to learning how this "Secret City" played an integral role in ending World War II, guests will enjoy a "hair-raising" opportunity to experience for themselves how atoms are affected by static electricity. For more information about these and other experiential tourism destinations in Oak Ridge and surrounding communities, call the Oak Ridge Convention and Visitors Bureau (865) 482-7821 or visit www.oakridgevisitor.com. IF YOU GO: These three communities are within easy reach of several timeshare resorts in the area, including those around Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville, which are about 65 miles (or less) away. This provides a fun and different day-drive opportunity, should you choose to explore venues in addition to Dollywood and the more traditional pursuits within the Gatlinburg area. Source: New Century News Bureau

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