Gatlinburg
Best for: Family vacations and outdoor adventures
Top attraction: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Nearest park entrance: Gatlinburg (2 miles)
Known as the “gateway to the Smokies,” Gatlinburg is perfect for families and nature lovers. With three entrances to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park just minutes from downtown, this town offers easy access to scenic trails and stunning views. Popular activities include riding the Ober Gatlinburg aerial tram, visiting Ripley’s Aquarium, and exploring charming local shops and restaurants.
Things to do near Gatlinburg:
- Take a scenic hike to Laurel Falls or Alum Cave.
- Experience the thrilling Gatlinburg SkyBridge with panoramic mountain views.
- Enjoy a family-friendly day at Anakeesta adventure park.
Reasons to visit:
- Hike to Clingmans Dome for panoramic views.
- Stroll through unique shops downtown.
- Enjoy year-round family fun at Ober Gatlinburg.
Pigeon Forge
Best for: Family vacations and entertainment
Top attraction: Dollywood
Nearest park entrance: Gatlinburg (8 miles)
Pigeon Forge is famous for its lively attractions, including Dollywood and The Island. Families will love the variety of entertainment options, from dinner shows to mini-golf. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, rafting, and more just a short drive away.
Things to do near Pigeon Forge:
- Visit Dollywood’s Splash Country for water park fun.
- Explore WonderWorks, an interactive science museum.
- Catch a dinner show at Dolly Parton’s Stampede.
Reasons to visit:
- Spend the day at Dollywood, a world-famous theme park.
- Explore the Titanic Museum and WonderWorks.
- Shop, dine, and enjoy the Ferris wheel at The Island.
Sevierville
Best for: Shopping trips and family fun
Top attraction: Tanger Outlets
Nearest park entrance: Gatlinburg (13 miles)
Sevierville combines outdoor activities with fantastic shopping. It’s home to Tanger Outlets and the Dolly Parton Statue. Families can also enjoy attractions like ziplining, wildlife tours, and historic sites.
Things to do near Sevierville:
- Tour the Forbidden Caverns for an underground adventure.
- Visit the Smoky Mountain Deer Farm & Exotic Petting Zoo.
- Take a helicopter ride to see the Smokies from above.
Reasons to visit:
- Shop for deals at Tanger Outlets.
- Visit Forbidden Caverns for an underground adventure.
- Snap a photo with the Dolly Parton Statue.
Townsend
Best for: Peaceful nature retreats
Top attraction: Cades Cove
Nearest park entrance: Townsend (2 miles)
Known as the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” Townsend offers serene mountain views and outdoor activities. The town is the gateway to Cades Cove, a scenic valley with historic sites and abundant wildlife. Don’t miss a tour of Tuckaleechee Caverns.
Things to do near Townsend:
- Bike or drive the Cades Cove Loop Road.
- Tube along the Little River on a warm day.
- Explore hiking trails like the Rich Mountain Loop.
Reasons to visit:
- Drive or bike the Cades Cove Loop Road.
- Explore Tuckaleechee Caverns, home to the tallest underground waterfall in the U.S.
- Relax with tubing on the Little River.
Cherokee
Best for: Cultural experiences and outdoor activities
Top attraction: Museum of the Cherokee Indian
Nearest park entrance: Cherokee (2 miles)
Cherokee, North Carolina, offers a rich blend of history and nature. Learn about Native American culture at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and the Oconaluftee Indian Village. The town is also an entry point to the Blue Ridge Parkway and several park trails.
Things to do near Cherokee:
- Visit Mingo Falls, a stunning 120-foot waterfall.
- Take a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
- Enjoy cultural performances at the Oconaluftee Indian Village.
Reasons to visit:
- Discover Native American history and traditions.
- Hike to nearby Mingo Falls.
- Access scenic drives like Newfound Gap Road.
Plan Your Smoky Mountain Adventure
Whether you’re seeking family fun, peaceful nature retreats, or cultural experiences, the towns around the Smoky Mountains offer something for everyone. Start planning your trip today and make unforgettable memories in these beautiful mountain towns!
