How Pizza Restaurants Captured Our Hearts And Appetites

Nov 30, 2023

Last Updated on: Jul 7, 2025

Travel Blog

Pizza is more than just a food, which resonates with the establishment of so many pizza restaurants around the world. It’s a global sensation that has captivated the hearts and appetites of people worldwide.

Its journey, from humble beginnings in Naples, Italy, to its widespread acclaim today, represents an extraordinary culinary evolution.

In this comprehensive exploration, we will trace the fascinating history of how a pizza restaurant conquered our hearts and appetites. Further, we shall also examine the transformation of this delectable dish from its origins to the modern pizzerias that have made it a beloved icon.

Pizza Restaurants In Melbourne

Melbourne, renowned for its diverse culinary scene, has a thriving pizza culture. It caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. The city’s pizza establishments reflect its multicultural population. Hence, it offers a variety of pizza styles influenced by Italian, American, and other international cuisines.

Melburnians are particularly known for their appreciation of artisanal and gourmet pizzas, often featuring unique and high-quality toppings from local producers. Additionally, Melbourne has a significant presence of pizzerias that cater to specific dietary needs, including vegan and gluten-free options, making it an inclusive and accessible choice for all residents and visitors.

The city also hosts various pizza festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating the love for pizza and showcasing the culinary creativity of local pizzaiolos. These events allow pizza enthusiasts to explore new flavors and indulge in their favorite slices.

Melbourne’s love for pizza is an example of its diverse as well as inclusive food scene. Thereby offering a wide array of pizza options that go beyond traditional styles and cater to the ever-evolving tastes of its residents and tourists

The Birth Of Pizza

The story of pizza originates in Naples, Italy, during the 18th century when it was known as “pizza Margherita.” It was a straightforward dish consisting of flatbread topped with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil.

The legend has it that it earned its name in honor of Queen Margherita of Italy, who was enchanted by this delightful amalgamation of flavors and colors.

Immigration And The Spread Of Pizza

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, waves of Italian immigrants arrived in the United States, bringing their culinary traditions, including pizza, with them.

Pizzaiolos (pizza makers) opened small, neighborhood pizzerias in cities like New York and Chicago, catering primarily to the growing Italian-American community. These early pizzerias served traditional Neapolitan-style pizza.

These are characterized by a thin, crispy crust cooked in coal-fired ovens and sold by the slice.

The Rise Of Convenience

As pizza gained popularity in Australia, it underwent a transformation to meet the demands of a fast-paced society. Pizza restaurants began offering delivery services, revolutionizing the way people enjoyed pizza.

The introduction of the pizza box made it even more convenient to order and transport this delicious dish. The ability to savor pizza in the comfort of one’s home quickly became a cherished tradition, particularly during gatherings with family and friends.

Pizza Chains And Mass Production

The 1950s witnessed the emergence of the first pizza chains, such as Domino’s and Pizza Hut. These chains revolutionized the pizza-making process, implementing assembly-line techniques and standardized recipes using pre-packaged ingredients.

The result was consistent, affordable pizza delivered quickly to homes across the nation. This shift towards mass production played a pivotal role in cementing pizza’s status as a staple of American cuisine.

Variety And Innovation

As pizza continued to evolve, so did its toppings. Pizzerias embraced experimentation with a diverse range of ingredients. Thus leading to the creation of a myriad of pizza styles and flavors.

While the classic pepperoni and cheese combination remained a favorite, gourmet options like BBQ chicken, spinach, and feta, or prosciutto and arugula, began to grace menus. Pizza had become a canvas for culinary creativity, catering to a wide range of palates.

The Advent Of The Pizzeria

The concept of the pizzeria, a sit-down restaurant specializing in pizza, gained prominence in the mid-20th century. These establishments offered a more upscale dining experience, complete with a menu featuring an array of pizza options, appetizers, and desserts.

Pizzerias became places where families, friends, and couples could gather for a casual yet enjoyable meal, often accompanied by a bottle of wine or a cold beer.

Pizza’s Global Appeal

Today, pizza is not confined to the United States or Italy; it has spread to every corner of the globe. In nearly every country, you can find pizzerias offering local twists on this international favorite.

In Japan, for example, you might encounter pizzas topped with unconventional ingredients like squid and mayo, while in India, a tandoori chicken pizza could tantalize your taste buds. Pizza’s adaptability to local tastes and preferences has contributed to its worldwide popularity.

The Role Of Social Media

The rise of social media has played a substantial role in perpetuating the love affair with pizza. Instagram, in particular, has emerged as a platform for food enthusiasts. They can share their adventures in multiple pizza restaurants, showcasing mouthwatering photos of cheesy slices and perfectly charred crusts.

The viral nature of these images has only served to fan the flames of pizza’s popularity, cementing its status as a beloved food on a global scale.

Beyond its culinary significance, pizza has left an indelible mark on popular culture. From iconic pizza-loving characters like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles to memorable catchphrases like “Pizza, Pizza!”

From the Little Caesars commercials, pizza has become a symbol of fun, indulgence, and togetherness. It often features prominently in movies, television shows, and even music, further solidifying its place in the hearts of people around the world.

Conclusion

Pizza restaurants have come a long way since their humble beginnings in Naples. From the streets of Italy to the bustling pizzerias of New York and the global phenomenon it is today, pizza has captured the hearts and appetites of people worldwide.

Its adaptability, convenience, and sheer deliciousness have made it a timeless favorite. Moreover, it continues to bring people together! Whether it’s for a casual weeknight dinner, a special celebration, or a cultural experience in a foreign land.

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Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.

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Maximizing Thrill: Expert Advice On Off-Road Motorcycle Rentals

BY  Sibashree Aug 28, 2025

Choose wrong, and the trail will chew you up. Engine displacement decides your punch out of corners, suspension travel keeps you pinned to the dirt instead of bouncing like a tourist on a rental horse, and weight balance determines whether you thread through technical switchbacks or tip over like a barstool.  A novice who dives straight onto a 450cc desert racer will burn out faster than the clutch. Conversely, an expert on a 250cc trail bike will spend the day wringing its neck for speed it cannot deliver. Match your machine to terrain as much as to skill. Rocky trails reward nimble frames with predictable throttle response. Sandy dunes are the playground for torque-heavy engines and long-travel suspension.  Among reliable all-rounders are dual-sport singles with sturdy frames and enduro setups tuned for abuse.  Pure motocross models are overkill for mixed terrain. Adventure-focused variants bridge road comfort and off-road muscle for those not afraid to carry their camp with them. In this Tour and Travel Blog, we have taken a step forward, and we have discussed the tips for choosing the right rental motorcycle and the essential equipment for a perfect road trip.  Tips For Choosing The Right Rental Motorcycle Equipment And Essentials  It can be a day trip on a rental bike or a multi-day trail expedition.  Poor planning will end your trip before the first sunset. Map your route with backups in mind. Know how far you can go in a day without crawling into camp at midnight.  A fuel stop missed by thirty miles can turn into a long, dry walk. Carry the tools for self-recovery, but have the number for roadside assistance that actually answers.  Your shelter should fit in a pannier and set up faster than a rain squall rolls in. For reliable gear support and flexible booking, explore our top-rated adventure bike rental partners before finalizing your route. Nevertheless, these are the essentials you must carry when you are going on a rented bike trip.  1. Equipping Yourself: Safety And Comfort for Adventure Rides You do not skimp on armor. CE-rated impact protection in a jacket that fits properly is your first filter between skin and earth.  Dual-sport helmets with vent systems keep your brain cool when the sun tries to cook it. Boots should survive being slammed against a rock without splintering.  Comfort matters too, because misery breeds mistakes. Moisture-wicking base layers prevent the swamp inside your gear, and modular knee guards give protection without turning your legs into stovepipes.  Before you twist the throttle, run a rapid-fire check: helmet, gloves, boots, armor, hydration, tools. No excuses for forgetting the basics. 2. On-Trail Maintenance Essentials You carry your lifeline in a small pouch. Chain breaker, multi-bit driver, and a tire plug kit do not take up much space, yet can make the difference between riding out and pushing.  A flat tire gets stripped, plugged, and inflated in minutes if you know the motions. Chains stretch; tension them before they start skipping teeth.  If you still run a carb, know how to tweak it when elevation changes choke your engine. Treat maintenance like brushing your teeth: quick, daily, and preventative.  Shake out your air filter. Glance at your brake pads. The trail does not care if you forget. It just punishes you for it. Tips For Choosing The Right Rental Motorcycle  A rental motorcycle can make your life easier as a traveler, especially when you are on a budget trip and you want to explore the new place at your own pace.  Here are the top tips you need to follow to choose the right rental motorcycle.  1. Define Your Trip First  You have to first decide the type of trip you will be going on. Are you going for a ride on a highway? Are you planning a road trip through rocky and windy routes?  How much distance will you cover? Are there enough fuel stations on the route? Ask all these questions before choosing a rental motorcycle.  2. Mark The Route And Ensure Absolute Control Are you planning to explore the surroundings of a city? Or, are you going on a cross-country trip?  For the first type of trip, you can take a regular scooter. However, for the second type of trip, you will need a powerful one with better resistance and grip.  3. Know The Type Of Road And Terrain  Are you climbing mountains with a bike? Is your road trip around the plains? You will need different types of bikes for these two instances.  Furthermore, when you are going on a trip to windy or hilly areas, you must seek advice from motorcycle experts or bike trip veterans.  Share your plans with them, and they will explain the pros and cons of choosing a particular bike model, and then you can check the availability of models for rent.  Getting The Best Value With Flexible Rental Packages The smartest riders know their numbers. Daily rates look cheap until the miles pile on and you hit a cap that drops a hammer on your budget.  Weekly rates spread the cost better for actual use. Seasonal rentals reward regulars with the best per-day rates and the least paperwork.  Watch for the small gifts: free model upgrades, insurance layers included instead of tacked on, and no-deposit offers if you have a history with the shop.  Ask for what you want. GPS units, luggage racks, extra fuel canisters, or even an hour of pre-ride setup can all land on your invoice for less if you push back. Charting Your Next Off-Road Challenge If your next ride feels easy, you aimed too low. Seek elevation where the air thins and your lungs protest.  Pick lines through rock gardens that demand balance and nerve. Cross rivers that will fight you every inch. Prep with the right tech: offline trail maps that survive dead zones, navigation apps built for grit not gloss, and group ride tools to keep your spread-out crew in sync.  Then book it. Every day you wait, the trail gets a little wilder without you.

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Indian Buffet Near Me In Florida – Best Buffets For You

BY  Barsha Dec 20, 2022

Are you currently in Florida craving some Indian food desperately? Are you busy asking Google ‘which is the best Indian Buffet near me?’ If you are nodding your head already, then just stop your google search and instead scroll down! Because we have managed to dig all the hidden Indian gems in Florida, the ones known for their buffets! Keep reading to find out! Indian Buffet Near Me In Florida - Best Buffets For You So you are on Google typing ‘best Indian buffet near me’ and waiting for search results - but isn’t it so confusing? There are so many results - which one is better than the other? Which ones are closest? Which one’s out of budget? So many queries and so little time. Take a pause because we are here to do the research for you! You just need to scroll down and find out all the top places in Florida serving killer Indian buffets!  1. Aashirwad Indian Food & Bar: Address7000 S Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL 32819Phone(407) 370-9830HoursMonday - Friday: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm & 5:30 - 10:30 pm | Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 - 3:00 pm & 5:30 - 10:30 pm A mixture of tastes and flavors, this restaurant brings you a mix of cultural diversity and demand for Indian food. The dishes are all delicious and fresh so there is hardly any complaint. You don’t need to type ‘Indian restaurant buffet near me’ on Google because you can just go to this great place instead! Located near Universal Studios, the Aashirwad Indian Food & Bar brings the best Indian platter to you, complete with all the right spices and flavors. Recently, there have been complaints about the prices going up! Well, can you raise your voice against it, especially when the food quality and quantity are both satisfactory? Delicious! The rice was perfect; fluffy, tender, fragrant, and fresh! The lamb coconut curry and chicken spicy curry were phenomenal. The lunch menu is seemingly different from the dinner menu. I'm not sure but what we had was fantastic. We will surely be back to try all the other food options. Review By Brandon Kline 2. Moghul Indian Cuisine: Address401 N Semoran Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32792Phone(407) 599-9001HoursTuesday - Sunday: 11:30 am - 3:00 pm & 5:00 - 10:00 pm | Monday: closed Located right at the heart of Winter Park, in Florida, if you are a sucker for Indian buffets then you must try the food here once. Instead of looking for the perfect ‘Indian food buffet near me,’ just visit Moghul Indian Cuisine, and you will be sorted. It is a renowned restaurant that makes its food from the freshest of ingredients while its dishes are authentic. The menu boasts of authentic Moghul flavors with rich aroma, established culture, and culinary perfection. Great place for Indian buffet. Worth the price. The taste is really nice. They have both veg and non-veg options. Chicken tandoori was really nice, and the samosa chat was awesome. Naan was freshly made, got the crunch, one of the best you could have. Review By Gangesh Yadav 3. Saffron Indian Cuisine: Address7724 W Sand Lake Rd, Orlando, FL 32819Phone(407) 674-8899HoursSunday - Thursday: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm & 5:00 - 10:00 pm | Friday & Saturday: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm & 5:00 - 10:30 pm Want to try some Indian dish which is sumptuous and vibrant? Visit Saffron Indian Cuisine restaurant to try the wide selection of food dishes that have been meticulously cooked and presented. Do not miss their lunch buffet that is during the weekend because you can taste some of the most diverse and cozy dishes. Finding the best Indian buffet near me was definitely difficult, but just for the distance, you cannot compromise on the quality of food. Saffron Indian Cuisine doesn’t compromise the food quality, the price, or even on the location, making this place worth the visit! Absolutely delicious, and great customer service. One of the best in Nashville, and certainly the best in downtown. Flavors and spice level perfect. We eat a vegan gluten free diet and their menu was labeled, and they were so accommodating. Will definitely go again. Review By Joy M. Salasin 4. Mynt Fine Indian Cuisine: Address7000 S Kirkman Rd, Orlando, FL 32819Phone(407) 370-9830HoursSunday - Thursday: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm & 5:00 - 10:00 pm | Friday & Saturday: 11:30 am - 2:30 pm & 5:30 - 10:30 pm The restaurant offers a fusion treat for visitors as they are offered customized food items, meticulously crafted food, and exclusive recipes. The restaurant uses fresh ingredients that are locally sourced. You will enjoy a unique and eventful experience when you visit the restaurant for dining. Each dish is artfully presented but with a classic Indian look! Florida has pretty great Asian restaurants provided you know where to find them. And finding the best Indian buffets near me was relatively easier. You will find a pretty inspiring menu that boasts an authentic Indian palette - plus, the staff here is great, and you will feel at home. I ate here on Valentine's for the first time, and it was excellent!  I got the lamb korma with medium spice, and everything about it was amazing. I really love Indian food am I’m glad that there’s a great Indian restaurant close by now. I’m a middle age white male who has been to India. Review By Christopher Gray 5. Kohinoor Indian Restaurant: Address249 W State Rd 436 #1093, Altamonte Springs, FL 32714Phone(407) 788-6004HoursTuesday - Sunday: 11:15 am - 2:30 pm & 5:00 - 10:00 pm | Monday: Closed There’s no way you have never heard about the Kohinoor Indian Restaurant in Florida! In fact, every time we typed ‘Indian buffet near me’ on Google, we stumbled upon this restaurant - so we ended up visiting this place, and whoaaaa - the food was simply delectable. The food is spicy but delicate when it comes to introducing foreigners to the taste of India. There is a beautiful and sublime approach to the way the food is prepared. There is a wide variety of food that you can choose from the homestyle Indian bistro food joint! Went for the buffet, and the food was so delicious! So many options for vegetarians. The service was great too! Our kids finished eating before us, so our waiter named, Willie came over and entertained them with some brain teasers! If I could give this place more than 5 stars, I would. Review By Magally Putt 6. Gateway To India Longwood: Address790 E State Rd 434, Longwood, FL 32750Phone(407) 339-9996HoursMonday - Sunday: 11:30 am - 9:30 pm The best part about visiting Gateway To India Longwood is you get to eat an Indian buffet that’s literally approved by experts. There are a variety of options that you cannot miss, such as Vindaloo, tandoori, and vegetarian dishes. The town of Longwood in Florida is a historic town where the mystique restaurant offering northern Indian delicacies is based. The restaurant presents a wide variety of Indian haute cuisine made by the freshest and finest ingredients. The food is delicious and a welcome change, especially if you are bored with your regular food. The sumptuous food is pleasing on the palate and gives you a great sense of adventure. The best part about visiting Gateway To India Longwood is you can eat an Indian buffet that even experts approve of. You don’t need to waste your time on ‘Indian dinner buffet near me’ searches; instead, you can just check out this award-winning restaurant for delectable food! MJ and the staff put together a wonderful experience for date night with my wife. The food is amazing. I couldn’t recommend this restaurant any more. Best meal we’ve had in a very long time. Review By Dr. Brandon Mondesir 7. Ahmed Indian Restaurant OBT: Address11301 S Orange Blossom Trl #104, Orlando, FL 32837Phone(407) 856-5970HoursSunday - Thursday: 11:30 am - 10:00 pm | Friday & Saturday: 11:30 am - 10:30 pm There are a variety of Indian dishes that you can order from Ahmed Indian Restaurant! They have the option of dining in and ordering delivery or pickup. They also offer a lunch buffet on a regular basis which is organized in an intricately decorated dining room. The restaurant is quite distinguished with regards to the quality of Indian cuisine that is available. They also serve regional dishes from India, such as selective Bengali cuisine. Apart from that, some Pakistani dishes are also available. You will also get appetizing desserts that are unique and will tease your tastebuds. The restaurant has been around for 10 years, and trust me when I say you will enjoy the food. Not everyone can understand the pull of Indian Mughlai - but if you are a fan of Indian cuisines, there’s no way you can forget about Ahmed Indian Restaurant OBT! India is a diverse country with diverse food options. So you can’t miss out on anyone - try all and trust us, you won’t regret it.  I wanna say thank you! It was such a BEAUTIFUL GASTRONOMIC TRIP. Indian spices makes everything taste super rich and awesome.  I had "Chicken Korma", "House salad", "Lentils soup" and "Milk Tea" everything was delicious! Friendly staff, chilled indian music and great food. Highly recommend this place! Review By Igor Biteev Read Also: Best Group Friendly Restaurants In Las Vegas 8. Tamarind Indian Cuisine: Address501 Orlando Ave Suite #149, Winter Park, FL 32789Phone(321) 207-0760HoursMonday - Thursday: 11:30 am - 3:00 pm & 5:00 - 9:30 pm | Friday & Saturday: 11:30 am - 3:00 pm & 5:30 - 10:00 pm | Sunday: 11:30 am - 3:00 pm & 5:00 - 9:00 pm India is diverse, and so is her food - if Mughlai doesn’t float your boat, how about some South Indian? If you are in the whole ‘Indian buffet near me’ phase, step out of it right now. Just opt for all kinds of Indian restaurants serving all kinds of Indian food, including Tamarind Indian Cuisine. The food is delicious, and so is the interior of the place. Unfortunately, according to a report on Yelper, the place has shut down. Instead, you can visit the Tabla Indian Restaurant Lake Nona, which serves Thai, Indo-Chinese, and authentic Indian cuisine. The vibe of the restaurant is very similar to that of the Tamarind, as the atmosphere is quite tasteful and refined, giving the restaurant a classy feel. There is also an option for outdoor seating and also allows private events. Portion sizes are large, the food is fantastic. I live the level of flavor and spice in the vindaloo sauce. The garlic naan is fantastic as well. I definitely wouldn’t skip out on trying the trio of sauces they bring out to start the meal. Service was quick and efficient. Review By Atrenique Deamus And It’s A Wrap! And that’s a wrap on restaurants serving Indian buffets in Florida! The next time you are craving some great Indian food, you can simply come back here and check out which place best suits you. You need not type ‘Indian lunch buffet near me’ or even ‘Indian buffet near me’ on Google for best results.  Meanwhile, tell us what you think about Indian food. Share your experiences with Indian food in the comments below. Read Also: Top 15 Restaurants In Colombia You Must Visit While Traveling Best Pet-Friendly Hotels Near Me In Florida City – Reviewed Top 13+ Vegetarian Restaurants In Austin Top 12+ Block Island Restaurants For You

READ MORE closest international airport to Gatlinburg TN

What Is The Closest International Airport To Gatlinburg, TN | An Airport Travel Guide

BY  Sibashree Jan 22, 2025

McGhee-Tyson Airport in Knoxville is the closest international airport to Gatlinburg, TN. It offers general, commercial, and military aviation services. Further, six airlines operate here, and they have flight services to as many as 25 destinations.  The airport is equipped with the following modern-day amenities. Free Wi-Fi Power Plug-In Sports SmartCart Service Animal Relief Area Lactation Station ATMs Food & Retail Information Booth Free Phone & Wait Parking Classic Shoe Shine Customer Service Furthermore, the airport promotes the artwork of regional artists in its Art in the Airport Exhibit section on the right of the TSA Security checkpoint. Moreover, the airport is compliant with ADA or the American Disability Act.  So you will get wheelchair assistance at the airport, and for the same, you must contact customer service at (865) 342-3180. Where Is The Closest International Airport To Gatlinburg, TN? The Closest International Airport To Gatlinburg, TN, McGhee-Tyson Airport is located at a 12 miles distance from downtown Knoxville. The airport is south of downtown. Further, the distance between the McGhee-Tyson Airport and Gatlinburg is 40 miles.  It is a premium air service connecting East Tennessee to other parts of the world. Its complete address is 2055 Alcoa Highway, Alcoa, TN 37701.  Need A Ride At The Closest International Airport To Gatlinburg, TN? McGhee-Tyson Airport has dedicated car rental counters. These counters are near the baggage claim of the airport terminal building’s lower level.  You will get taxis, hotel shuttles, charters, car rentals, and ride shares from these counters. Uber and Lyft offer ride-share services here.  Further, the car rental companies include: Alamo (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Avis (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Budget (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Enterprise (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Dollar Car Rental (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Car Rental Payless (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) National (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Hertz (Reservation: 1 (800) 342-3210) Moreover, the taxi services here are Sunday Taxi ((865) 518-1223), Tennessee Transportation ((865) 242-9719), and Discount Taxi ((865) 317-0554).  In addition, Fairfield Inn & Suites ((865) 409-5950), Hilton Knoxville Airport ((865) 970-4300), etc., are some hotel shuttle services available at the airport.  Economic Importance Of The Closest International Airport To Gatlinburg, TN McGhee-Tyson Airport, the closest international airport to Gatlinburg, TN, is crucial for local tourism and the entire tourism scenario of East Tennessee. It keeps Gatlinburg and East Tennessee connected to other states of the USA and the rest of the world.  Further, this airport has a significant economic impact on East Tennessee. At least 2,700 people work here, and the annual benefit of the airport is around $1 billion. Moreover, it indirectly supports the local economy through commercial aviation services.  In addition, there are several tourist attractions near McGhee-Tyson Airport. You can visit them to learn more about East Tennessee. Places To Visit Near McGhee-Tyson Airport Along with being the closest international airport to Gatlinburg, TN, McGhee-Tyson Airport is also near a lot of tourist places.  So, if you are planning a day out, you can visit the following places.  1. Bicentennial Greenbelt Park Address: 122 McCammon Ave, Maryville Distance from McGhee-Tyson Airport: 6.3 Kms The Bicentennial Greenbelt Park will be your go-to place if you want to explore Maryville-Alcoa Greenway. In the heart of downtown Maryville, this park is an oasis of tranquility. This park has wide-open areas and benches to sit and talk with your friends. Further, this park houses the Greenbelt Lake Loop and Maryville-Alcoa Greenway. 2. Louisville Mercantile Address: 2940 Topside Road, Louisville Contact Number: 8657243195 Hours Open: 10 AM to 5 PM (Monday-Friday). 10 AM to 4 PM (Saturday), Sunday Closed Distance from McGhee-Tyson Airport: Around 3.3 Kms If shopping is the therapy you need and you are near the closest international airport to Gatlinburg, TN, you must visit Louisville Mercantile.  Here, you can buy the best jams, jellies, gift items, and recycled paper. 3. Lakeshore Park Address: 5930 Lyons View Pike, Knoxville Contact Number: +1 865-215-1722 Hours Open: 6 AM to 10 PM Distance from McGhee-Tyson Airport: Around 12 Kms Lakeshore Park, with the tagline “It’s Your Park,” is a go-to spot for a family day out. Here, you can enjoy the tranquility of a marshland with more than 1000 trees and birds chirping around.  Further, it has many sports and fitness facilities like baseball, practice lawns, soccer grounds and fitness centers. Very soon, the park is going to have pickleball and basketball amenities.  However, the best activity here is taking a walk down the miles of trails here. You can get the best view of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee River from here.  Moreover, you can take your furry friends on a walk at Lakeshore Park. Having said that, you have to ensure that your pet is on the leash and you are leaving no trace behind after their walk.  4. Maryville Farmers Market Address: 306 E Broadway Avenue, Maryville Contact Number: +1 865-268-9614 Hours Open: 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM Distance from McGhee-Tyson Airport: Around 7 Kms With the concept of farm-to-table cuisine becoming more popular, places like the Maryville Farmers Market are growing in importance. Here, the producers, or the farmers, grow crops, vegetables, and other produce, bringing those straight to you.  It is a great initiative to boost sales and improve the livelihood of local farmers. Further, it helps to throw light on the agricultural traditions of Tennessee through a direct farmer and consumer relationship.  Moreover, when you get fresh produce from the farmers, the essentials have better nutritional value, flavors, and taste. 5. Capitol Theatre Address: 127 W Broadway Avenue, Maryville Contact Number: +1 865-980-1966 Hours Open: 1-9 PM (Monday to Thursday), 1-10 PM (Friday-Saturday), Sunday Closed Distance from McGhee-Tyson Airport: 6.6 Kms Capitol Theatre, near the closest international airport to Gatlinburg, TN, is a premium entertainment spot in Maryville. The history of this place goes back to 1934. Further, it was completely renovated in 2008. The ambiance here exudes the quintessential old Hollywood vibe. Moreover, it is used as a venue for corporate events, weddings, and other celebrations today.  Are you looking for more attractions near the McGhee-Tyson Airport? Visit the Blount County Historical Museum, Brackins Blues Club, Resurrected Relics, etc.  Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit. Top Tips For Motorbike Rental In Phuket – A Guide To Exploring The Island On Two Wheels.