Gatlinburg is often referred to as the Gateway of the Smokies. This mountain town in East Tennessee serves as an excellent point of access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park from the Tennessee side; it is noteworthy that there is also access from the North Carolina side. Furthermore, it is essential to recognize that the broader area encompassing Tennessee’s Smokies is comprised of various small towns, each contributing its unique character and connection to the mountain culture.
Whether one seeks family-oriented amusement parks, diverse dining options, and simple hiking trails, or desires a tranquil retreat for romance, there exists a Smoky Mountain town to cater to all preferences. This guide aims to assist in selecting the most suitable destination for your memorable Smoky Mountains excursion.
1. Gatlinburg
As the most recognized of the Smokies’ approach towns, Gatlinburg epitomizes a classic mountain resort locale. From this vantage point, visitors can access the chair lift at Anakeesta and take in sweeping views of the verdant, winding roads, embellished with charming cabins and hotels that boast their own admirable vistas. This town has a rich heritage characterized by artists dedicated to mountain crafts. Visitors have the opportunity to partake in courses, ranging from ceramics to watercolor painting, and purchase their creations along the secluded 8-mile Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Loop. In winter, skiing can be learned at Ober Gatlinburg, the sole ski resort in Tennessee. Meanwhile, during the summer months, guided hikes on the ski hill provide an alternative adventure. After a day of physical activity, relish dining and refreshments along Parkway, Gatlinburg’s principal thoroughfare. Establishments such as Ole Red offer a Southern-inspired menu, adult beverages, and live country music performances.
Gatlinburg remains a year-round destination, featuring a temperate climate that welcomes sunny hiking excursions during summer and skiing opportunities in winter. An enjoyable local tradition involves indulging in as many pancakes as possible, with numerous dedicated pancake houses available, including Little House of Pancakes, which captures a classic diner ambiance at reasonable prices. Whole Earth Grocery also provides ready-to-eat sandwiches for those preferring a picnic amidst nature.
2. Pigeon Forge
The streets of Pigeon Forge are characterized by vibrant neon signs. Scattered throughout the area are captivating sights, including an imposing King Kong scaling a replica of the Empire State Building at the Hollywood Wax Museum, and a replica of the Titanic. This town boasts Ferris wheels that illuminate the night and go-kart tracks that allow families to enjoy thrilling races. It even features an indoor snow-sledding slope.
However, Pigeon Forge’s most cherished attraction is Dollywood, a resort developed by the esteemed Dolly Parton, who has her roots in these mountains. Dollywood comprises a water park, an amusement park featuring live music, along with a resort hotel and spa, all integrating elements that define the uniqueness of this region: the exquisite Smoky Mountain landscape, traditional mountain crafts, and country music. After experiencing the thrill of numerous amusement rides, visitors can savor eclectic dining options in Pigeon Forge. At Frizzle Chicken Farmhouse Café, animatronic chickens with whimsical names entertain guests while they dine. Meanwhile, The Listening Room Café provides an intimate dining experience accompanied by live performances from accomplished singer-songwriters.
3. Sevierville
Recognized as the hometown of Dolly Parton, Sevierville is a quaint town situated 20 miles north of Gatlinburg and the national park, directly adjacent to the lively Pigeon Forge. The charming downtown area features a variety of shops and cafes, along with a bronze statue of Dolly, depicted with a guitar on her lap alongside one of her signature butterflies. One notable establishment is Seasons 101, located within the Central Hotel; this upscale restaurant offers a refreshing change when one wishes to enjoy dining beyond pancake houses and fudge shops.
Opting for a stay at the Central Hotel—historically, the site where President Roosevelt lodged during his visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park—provides a more refined lodging experience compared to many family-oriented options in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. This hotel offers an excellent alternative for visitors seeking restful surroundings, away from the vibrant lights and sounds of the Parkway, while still enjoying comprehensive service. Sevierville also boasts several budget-friendly hotels and secluded cabins in wooded areas, providing additional privacy for guests.
4. Townsend
Townsend promotes itself as “the peaceful side of the Smokies.” While the entire area surrounding the Great Smoky Mountains showcases tranquility, Townsend particularly lacks the neon allure and unexpected attractions such as King Kong scaling buildings. In the summer, outdoor enthusiasts frequent this town for its adventure offerings. Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing and Whitewater Rafting provide guided experiences down the Little River, allowing visitors to embrace the refreshing waters along with breathtaking mountain scenery.
A leisurely walk along the Townsend Riverwalk Trail offers five miles of paved pathways for walking and biking flanking Highway 321. This bike- and dog-friendly route bursts with wildflowers in the spring. Moreover, the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center narrates the stories of the communities inhabiting these mountains, including the Native Americans who helped protect the wilderness.
5. Cosby
Historically acclaimed as the “moonshine capital of the world” and a traditional Cherokee hunting ground, the isolated environment of Cosby, encircled by mountains and streams, renders it an ideal location for camping beneath the stars. The Cosby Campground, one of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park’s eight campgrounds, is located in this area. Reservations are recommended for managed campsites equipped with tent and RV spaces, including ADA-accessible options. Each site comes with parking, a fire ring, a picnic table, and numerous trees providing seclusion from neighboring campers.
Overall, Cosby is regarded as a quieter campground compared to Elkmont, which benefits from proximity to Gatlinburg. Outside the park, private glamping facilities and a cozy Airstream village offer camping experiences with essential comforts. The trailhead for the Maddron Bald and Albright Grove Loop hike, a challenging 6.7-mile trek, is conveniently located just off Highway 321 in Cosby. The lush old-growth forest provides ample shade during the summer months, making it feasible to navigate a short section of the trail if one does not wish to complete the entire loop.
6. Maryville
Maryville, housing Maryville College, serves as a suburban extension of Knoxville; however, its tranquil, pastoral environment renders it a natural pause along the journey to the Smokies. A pleasant stay of a night or two at RT Lodge provides the chance to wander amidst its splendid four-season gardens, relax by the fire, or utilize one of the lodge’s complimentary bicycles to explore the town and campus. Dining options are provided by Chef Trevor Stockton, who incorporates local ingredients into his culinary creations at RT Lodge. For casual bites and beverages, patrons may visit the family- and pet-friendly Tri-Hop Brewery or enjoy a spicy sandwich or empanada from Aroma Cafe Cuban Food, before returning to the lodge to unwind for the evening. Additionally, Maryville is home to the Sam Houston Historic Schoolhouse.
