A Fun-Filled Escape to Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Let’s take a walk together down the Parkway, starting at the Smokies, and see what adventures are in store.

Hiking/Nature Walks: Just a short drive away from the center of town, you can find yourself wandering among the lush trees and meandering streams of the Great Smokies. While admission to the park is free, you will need to pay for a pass to park in any of the lots. If you’re planning a longer stay, you can get a discounted parking pass covering an entire week. On a clear day, drive into the park to walk up to Clingmans Dome – the highest point in the park!

Crockett’s Breakfast Camp: One of the first breakfast restaurants you see coming out of the park is one of the best. There are many breakfast restaurants in the Gatlinburg area, but in my opinion, none quite has the atmosphere of Crockett’s. Set in a cozy log cabin, this popular breakfast restaurant showcases artifacts and memorabilia relating to its namesake, Davy Crockett. Try (or share!) one of their popular large breakfast skillets. Carbaholics must try the thick pancakes or the monster cinnamon rolls. I love the food as well as the overall vibe! Pro tip: sign up for their online waiting list while you’re still at your hotel.

The Park Grill: This gorgeous restaurant sits at the south end of the Parkway just before the national park entrance. It is decorated beautifully in the style of a contemporary log cabin. The menu includes American classics such as steak and burgers. I really enjoy their banana pudding – one of the best in the region!

Smoky Mountain Brewery: This is a lively place to enjoy a variety of beers brewed in house. They also have an extensive food menu, offering many appetizers as well as pizzas and burgers. There is something on the menu here for the whole family! Don’t miss their "cheezy" garlic bread!

Shopping on the Parkway: Once you have stuffed yourself with breakfast, walk it off by stopping in and out of the stores along the main street. Shops range from traditional tourist, with T-shirts and mugs, to quirky stores like the Pepper Palace, where you can set your mouth on fire. I really like browsing through the Paula Deen store, which sells everything from T-shirts to seasoning mixes with a touch of Southern humor. If you need a snack, there are lots of opportunities along the way. Explore The Village, a cluster of whimsical shops selling quirky and fun souvenirs such as wood carvings.

Moonshine Tasting: There are several moonshine distilleries in town that offer tastings for $5 per person, each with their own character. In between tasting interesting moonshine flavors such as apple pie and fruit punch, your entertaining bartender will interject jokes and trivia. I particularly like the style and humor of the bartenders at Sugarlands. And, of course, if you enjoy one of the samples, you can buy a full container to take home with you.

Mellow Mushroom: Are you a pizza enthusiast? Don’t overlook the Gatlinburg location of this Atlanta-based chain. It’s located right next to one of the Ole Smoky moonshine locations, which makes the two places a great combination. Pizza purists can order the basics, or perhaps you want to experiment with fun combinations such as the Kosmic Karma.

Gatlin’s Fun Center: My family particularly loves the mini golf best here out of the many other options in town! The holes are doable but challenging. Learn about the history of Gatlinburg as you walk up and down along the course. And if it’s hot, play nine holes in their air-conditioned black light course! Other attractions at this site include an escape room and laser tag.

Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina: You can’t beat the colorful and lively atmosphere at Loco Burro. Decorated with Mexican tiles and sombreros, this is a great place for a taste of Mexico in the Smokies. I really enjoy their sizzling fresh fajitas. If you can find room, the balcony gives great views of the Parkway. And, if you’re up for it, don’t miss the mechanical bull.

Arts & Crafts District: Take a detour off of the Parkway to visit the eight-mile loop through Gatlinburg’s Arts & Crafts Community. Along this wooded drive, you can find art studios and galleries that showcase and sell a variety of items, from woodwork to candles and textiles. I enjoy watching the artists’ creative process – you can also find some great local souvenirs and gifts. Spend an afternoon visiting and chatting with local artists doing what they love!

Anakeesta: One of the newer attractions in the area, Anakeesta is an outdoor adventure and entertainment center perched upon a mountain summit. Your entire family will have a great time here, with activities ranging from shopping to zip-lining. Relax with great views of the Smokies at Anakeesta, or at the Anavista viewing tower.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: The excitement starts when you enter the building and walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by all sorts of sea creatures! Visit their hands-on exhibits where you can touch rays and jellyfish – something the whole family will love. Hop on a glass-bottomed boat for an unforgettable experience with hundreds of exotic creatures.

Ole Red: What a great place to end a fun-filled walk through town! A solid combination of performance venue and casual restaurant. Check their website for the list of upcoming events – you may catch the next big country star! Or, just stop by to check out their Southern-influenced menu.