Naomi Hillmer

SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE) — Millions of people travel through Sevier County every year, many choosing the area as a destination stay, but others call it home. While the number of people visiting typically far outweighs those who live there, 6 News caught up with some locals and learned what life looks like in a tourism-driven area. Born and raised in Sevier County, […]

OAK RIDGE, Tenn. (WATE) — Domestic violence may not be as uncommon as you think, according to YWCA Knoxville & the Tennessee Valley. Director of Victim Services Latoya Shephard said that while agencie...

Tourism has become the primary economic driver for Sweetwater, Tennessee, following strategic revitalization efforts and increased visitor numbers since the 2017 solar eclipse.

TOWNSEND, Tenn. (WATE) — Appalachian Bear Rescue has brought in its first bear in a year and a half, marking a major milestone for the organization since 13 bears had to be euthanized in 2024 due to i...

SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. (WATE) — The state of Tennessee once again broke the record for visitor dollars spent in our state last year, according to a recent economic impact report. State and local leaders gathered in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tuesday to celebrate the accomplishment, where they also shared the unique role the park played in this year’s report. “Nobody’s doing it better than this town, you’re way over 50%. It’s not just […]

PIGEON FORGE, Tenn. (WATE) — Nearly a year after its announcement, Dollywood has opened the long-awaited NightFlight Expedition, a first-of-its-kind roller coaster and whitewater hybrid ride.

TOWNSEND, Tenn. (WATE) — Townsend will be filled with hot air balloons as the sun begins to set over the Smokies this weekend. The Great Smoky Mountains Hot Air Balloon Festival is back for the eighth...

Visitors to Sevier County can enjoy various free activities, including the Jurassic Adventure at The Island, the Old Mill District, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, to offset rising tra…

MARYVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) -- Tuesday will mark 10 years since Maryville Police Officer Kenny Moats was killed while on duty.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — University of Tennessee students and staff woke up to an alarming message Friday morning, warning people of a threat near campus. That threat turned out to be a stabbing…