Conference Center offers the peace, quiet, and solitude for your next retreat, seminar, group meeting, class reunion, or banquet. Its unusual octagonal design will accommodate large or small groups. Reap the highest level of achievement having the benefits of the quiet and privacy, with the majesty of the mountains surrounding you every minute. The spacious rotunda meeting room features special lighting in the dome ceiling, which along with a panoramic view of the mountains, creates an unusual, open-air type working environment.
Wedding Ceremonies Nestled in the Foothills of the Smoky Mountains the Highland Manor Inn is surrounded by elegant scenery perfect for your Wedding Day. The Smoky Mountains offer a backdrop like no other and will make your special day one to remember. The Highland Manor Conference Center is perfect for ceremonies or receptions and after the party you can walk to the comforts of your newly redecorated room. Our venue is perfect for wedding parties large and small. The spacious structure is great for any sound system, DJ or band. Plan your romantic wedding with us today and don’t forget to book a room with a fireplace or a Jacuzzi.

Conference Center & Event Venue

Long before welcoming guests from around the world, Highland Manor Inn began with a simple but ambitious idea, and a family willing to build something lasting.

In the early 1970s, after working for a large company in Alcoa, Don Headrick knew he wanted to work for himself. In 1971, Don and his wife Sandy purchased a historic lumber company–era home located along what was then State Highway 73, now known as US Highway 321 (East Lamar Alexander Parkway), in the heart of Townsend. While they would have loved to preserve the old house as a home, their growing family needed a business that could provide long-term stability.

In 1972, Townsend Grocery opened its doors, offering a full line of groceries to local residents. That business, now known as Parkway Grocery, is still operating today and is proudly run by their son, Stephen. During those early years, Don focused on growing the business while Sandy worked in the store, and family life revolved around the rhythms of small-town entrepreneurship. While most children played with blocks, their two children, Stephen and Emily, stacked grocery items and helped around the store. It was a busy, happy time.

Not long after opening the grocery, Don discovered a passion for building. He formed Don Headrick Construction Company and began working in residential and light commercial construction while Sandy continued managing the store. The work was fulfilling—but eventually, Don and Sandy began thinking about what they wanted the next chapter of their lives to look like.

After much thought, Don suggested, and Sandy agreed, that building a motel near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park felt like the perfect next step. In 1981, they purchased a scenic hilltop property known locally as the “Company Farm,” a former lumber company site overlooking the Little River area. The land offered sweeping mountain views and a peaceful setting that immediately felt special.

They drew the plans, arranged financing, and got to work.

Ground broke in December of 1981, and in just six months, a feat that still surprises many. The first room was rented in June of 1982, coinciding with the year of the Knoxville World’s Fair. While the inn didn’t see many World’s Fair travelers, it marked the beginning of a journey that would shape the rest of their lives.

Over the past 43 years, Don and Sandy have continually upgraded, renovated, and carefully maintained the inn, ensuring it remains just as welcoming today as it was when it first opened, if not better. With decades of experience, they’ve refined what truly matters: comfort, cleanliness, personal service, and thoughtful details that make guests feel at home. One of those details? The famous homemade muffins that have become a guest favorite at breakfast.

What began as a bold construction project has grown into a lifelong passion, one built on hard work, family, and genuine hospitality.

Conference Center Overview

A Peaceful Setting for Meaningful Gatherings

The Conference Center at Highland Manor Inn offers a rare combination of privacy, comfort, and scenic beauty—making it an ideal setting for retreats, seminars, group meetings, reunions, and banquets. Surrounded by the quiet foothills of the Smoky Mountains, the setting encourages focus, connection, and productivity without outside distractions.

Designed to accommodate both large and small groups, the center’s distinctive octagonal structure creates an open, welcoming environment that feels spacious without being overwhelming. Guests benefit from the peace and solitude of the location while remaining close to lodging, dining, and outdoor experiences.

Rotunda Meeting Space

An Inspiring Space with Mountain Views

At the heart of the Conference Center is the spacious rotunda meeting room, featuring a striking dome ceiling with custom lighting that enhances the open, airy feel of the space. The thoughtful design allows natural light to fill the room while maintaining a comfortable and professional atmosphere.

Panoramic views of the surrounding Smoky Mountains provide a constant sense of calm and inspiration, creating a unique working environment unlike traditional meeting venues. Whether used for presentations, discussions, or group activities, the rotunda offers a memorable and productive setting.

Wedding Ceremonies & Receptions

A Scenic Smoky Mountains Wedding Venue

Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, Highland Manor Inn provides a beautiful and intimate backdrop for weddings and receptions. The surrounding natural scenery adds elegance and romance, making each ceremony feel personal and unforgettable.

The Conference Center is well suited for both wedding ceremonies and receptions, and after the celebration, guests can walk directly to their accommodations for comfort and convenience. With flexible space for DJs, bands, and sound systems, the venue easily adapts to wedding parties of all sizes.

Business Meetings & Corporate Events

Focused Meetings in a Tranquil Setting

The Highland Manor Conference Center offers an ideal environment for business meetings, corporate retreats, and professional gatherings. Located just minutes from Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the venue combines accessibility with the benefit of a quiet, distraction-free setting.

Flexible layouts allow the space to accommodate a variety of meeting formats, from small strategy sessions to larger presentations. After meetings conclude, attendees can relax just steps from their rooms or enjoy nearby outdoor activities—creating a balanced and productive event experience.

Reunions & Group Gatherings

Celebrate Together in Comfort and Style

Reunions are about reconnecting, sharing stories, and creating new memories, and the Conference Center provides the perfect setting to do just that. Whether gathering family, friends, or classmates, the space offers comfort, flexibility, and a welcoming atmosphere.

With lodging conveniently close by, guests can enjoy events without worrying about travel or logistics. The peaceful Smoky Mountains setting adds a special touch, allowing groups to celebrate meaningful moments while enjoying the beauty of the area.

Booking & Event Planning

Plan Your Event with Confidence

Our reservation specialists are available to help you plan and schedule your event with ease. From weddings and reunions to corporate retreats and meetings, we’re happy to answer questions and discuss availability, space options, and seasonal specials.

To begin planning your event, contact our team at 1-800-213-9462 and ask about current offers. We look forward to helping you host a successful and memorable gathering at Highland Manor Inn.

Business Meetings and Corporate Events The Highland Manor Conference Center in Townsend is just minutes away from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and a great place for your next meeting, business retreat or corporate event. Our Conference center is very accommodating and offers the flexibility for any corporate business meeting large or small. After the meetings you are just steps away from your room and minutes from the Smokies. Our guests get to enjoy the best recreational activities and scenery of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Reunions What better way to reconnect with family, friends or classmates than to have a reunion to celebrate the bonds that are special to you. The Highland Manor Conference Center is the perfect venue to celebrate and share good times while making new memories that will last a lifetime. Our Reunion center is perfect for groups of all sizes and steps away from the comfort of your private hotel room. Throw your next reunion with us and enjoy the beautiful setting of the Great Smoky Mountains

Make the Most of Your Stay

Local Dining & Area Attractions
Townsend is home to a variety of locally owned restaurants and attractions. Visit our Things To Do section to explore dining, outdoor adventures, and area highlights.
Seasonal Specials
Enjoy special rates and limited-time offers throughout the year. Visit our hotel specials page to find seasonal pricing and promotions designed to help you make the most of your stay.
Questions or Planning Help?
Our guest services team is happy to assist before, during, and after your stay. Call us anytime at (865) 448-2211. We’re here to help make your Smoky Mountains visit unforgettable.