Your insider's guide to the best eats, adventures, and hidden gems around Gatlinburg & the Smokies
The most popular waterfall hike in the Smokies — and for good reason. A paved 2.6-mile round trip leads to an 80-foot cascading waterfall. Perfect for all ages!
The highest point in Tennessee! A short but steep half-mile walk to a flying saucer-shaped observation tower with 360° views of endless mountain ridges.
The most scenic trail in the park. Hike through old-growth forest, across fallen logs, under a massive rock overhang, and up to Mt. LeConte if you're feeling ambitious.
A one-way scenic loop drive through lush forest with historic cabins, rushing streams, and easy roadside waterfalls. No hiking required!
An 11-mile valley loop famous for wildlife. Spot deer, wild turkeys, black bears, and coyotes among historic homesteads and churches.
A challenging 4-mile round trip with serious elevation gain, but the panoramic views from the rocky pinnacles are absolutely worth the burn.
Legendary Gatlinburg steakhouse since 1976. You pick your cut from the meat counter and they grill it to perfection. The salad bar is surprisingly amazing.
The OG pancake spot that started it all. 24 varieties of pancakes including sweet potato, Caribbean, and the legendary Austrian Apple. Worth every minute in line.
Elevated comfort food in a hip, modern space. Goat cheese appetizers, creative burgers, and craft cocktails. Great for foodies who want something beyond the usual tourist fare.
Rustic lodge vibes with massive breakfast portions. Think campfire skillets, stuffed French toast, and biscuits the size of your fist.
White tablecloths meet mountain views. Excellent steaks, fresh trout, and a solid wine list. Perfect for date night or celebrating a special occasion.
Blake Shelton's honky-tonk restaurant. Southern food, live country music, and a party atmosphere. It's touristy in the best way — embrace it!
Free moonshine tastings! Sample everything from traditional corn whiskey to wild flavors like Banana Pudding and Butter Pecan. You WILL leave with bottles.
Solid craft beers brewed on-site plus a huge menu of pub favorites. Pool tables, TVs for game days, and a chill vibe. Great for a casual dinner.
Dolly Parton's award-winning theme park. World-class coasters, Appalachian crafts, incredible food, and shows. If you only do ONE thing in Pigeon Forge, do this.
Take the aerial tramway for stunning views, then ski in winter or ride the alpine coaster, mountain coaster, and more in summer. Just 1 mile from the cabin!
Walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, touch stingrays, and see glowing jellyfish. One of the best aquariums in the Southeast.
North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge! Walk 680 feet across a valley 140 feet in the air. Includes a glass floor panel for the brave.
A mountaintop village with treehouse playground, zip lines, rail runner coaster, and the best views in downtown Gatlinburg.
Open-air entertainment complex with the 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, rides, restaurants, and the Margaritaville hotel.
Way cooler than it sounds. Walk through recreated ship rooms, touch a real iceberg, and learn passenger stories. Interactive and surprisingly moving.
The Parkway is loaded with options! Check out Track Family Fun Parks for multi-level go-kart tracks or Gatlin's for mini golf with a mountain view.
The main road through the park climbing to 5,046 feet at the Tennessee/North Carolina border. Jaw-dropping overlooks, tunnels, and that "top of the world" feeling.
America's favorite scenic drive! Connect to it from Newfound Gap and cruise along ridgetops. Fall foliage season is absolutely spectacular.
Less crowded alternative with equally stunning views. The "Missing Link" section has incredible overlooks of the Smokies.
A charming European-style courtyard with 27 unique shops. Find everything from handmade pottery to gourmet kitchen supplies to quirky Gatlinburg tees.
The original moonshine distillery in Gatlinburg. Free tastings of 20+ flavors in a fun barn atmosphere. Great for gifts!
An 8-mile loop of over 100 artisan studios. Watch craftspeople make pottery, leather goods, brooms, and more. Authentic Appalachian shopping.
Over 100 outlet stores if you need a retail therapy day. Nike, Coach, Kate Spade, and all the usual suspects.
The Parkway gets PACKED, especially on weekends. Use the Gatlinburg Bypass or Dollywood Lane to skip the worst of it.
Park for free at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center and take the free trolley into town. Saves money and stress!
You're in bear country! Keep food secured, don't approach wildlife, and if you see a bear, stay calm and back away slowly. Never run!
Mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, even in summer. Higher elevations can be 10-20° cooler than town.
Some smaller shops, craft vendors, and cash-only spots still exist. Keep $50-100 cash handy just in case.
Cell service is spotty in the park. Download Google Maps or the NPS app for offline use before you head out.
Book your stay at Classy Bear Cabin and start your Smoky Mountain adventure