Local Area Guide Book
Local Area Guide Book
Please don't feed the bears! When you do, it teaches them to come around
humans in search of more food… And as you can imagine bears and humans
don't usually play well together! Dolly and her cubs have been known to
walk on the front porch and look for food, so be sure to keep any out of your
car and safe inside.
It’s my goal that you have a “FIVE STAR” stay, so if you see ANYTHING that
needs to be addressed, just reach out through the site and let me know.
The closest liquor stores are located in Gatlinburg, which is a short drive
away. Be prepared to spend a bit more than you do at home as prices are a
little higher here. If you're just looking for wine, most grocery stores will
carry a few varieties.
Unfortunately, Uber/Lyft/Favor and all those other cool apps that we use in
the city aren't really present here in the Smoky Mountains. The good news is
that all the restaurants and shops are super close to us so you can easily
swing by and pick up what you need.
Recently Grubhub and Doordash started supporting the area, so give that a
We hope you enjoy your stay and make this your home away from home too.
Please take a minute to leave a note in the guest book and let us know about
Most visitors make their way here in the summer months and towards the fall when Historic structures ranging from log cabins to churches have
they can enjoy the dry, clear weather while “leaf-peeping”. And if you don’t mind also been preserved and maintained, giving visitors unique
enduring some colder weather, the first months of the year offer a park that is much peeks into the past as they explore the wooded
less congested as well as incredible visibility from the peaks. mountainsides. And if hiking isn’t your thing (or the weather
isn’t cooperating), you can still see a lot of natural beauty by
It will come as no surprise that this has to rank among the best hiking areas in the
merely driving through the park.
country, with more than 600 miles of hiking trails for you to explore in the southern
part of the famous Appalachian Mountains. Make sure you bring your walking shoes A popular spot is Cades Cove, a valley that offers the best
with you! opportunities for viewing wildlife such as black bears, coyotes,
and turkeys, as well as many pioneer-era buildings. You can
The name Great Smoky Mountains comes from the iconic blue-gray clouds that
find bikes to rent, or for the full experience make your way
nestle at the tops of the peaks. Even the native Cherokee refer to the area as the
around on horseback. There’s even a big campsite to go visit.
“land of blue smoke”. The beauty of this area definitely rewards exploration. Visitors
love to walk and hike along its winding mountain paths amid forested mountains.
Here you can soak up the greenery and foliage as well as enjoy the sights and
sensations that the early pioneers were all too familiar with. Despite its accessibility
and plentiful walking and hiking trails, it remains almost totally unspoiled. This is
nature at its very best and untouched.
Local Area Visitor Guide
Whether you’re looking for a quiet family retreat, a romantic getaway, or
some outdoor action and adventure, the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg area has
what you’re looking for. You can immerse yourself in history, beautiful
scenery, or indulge in all of the attractions that the area has to offer. Or why
not do it all?
Before the arrival of the white settlers in the late 1600s, the Cherokee tribe
called the area home. Here they enjoyed the abundance of wildlife game,
fishing, fertile soils, and of course the breathtaking views. The ongoing
conflicts between the two lasted until the last Native Americans were Popcorn Sutton Distilling was founded by James Grosser and is named
relocated in the infamous Trail of Tears in the first half of the 19th century. after famous moonshiner Marvin “Popcorn” Sutton. Not only does it
Fast-forward and you come to the heyday of the East Tennessee moonshine bear his name, but also the original recipe is exactly the same (plus
trade. It seemed liked everyone and their brother were making moonshine at taxes now of course!).
this time (and they were!) but there were a few that stood out. Marvin
“Popcorn” Sutton was one of those names and people came to both trust and
love his brand. So, if you’ve ever wondered what moonshine tastes like and
where it originated from, this area was the genesis. And there are plenty of
samples to go around!
Speaking of celebrations and libations, Sevier County has been quietly making
a name for itself as the “Wedding Capital of the South”, claiming to have the
nation’s largest number of marriages after Las Vegas, albeit for different
reasons. The requirements here (financial or otherwise) are minimal, and this
area offers affordable accommodations, easy access, and stunning natural
scenery that really is second-to-none. Either way, it’s quickly rising to the top
as one of the most sought-after areas for couples looking to tie the knot.
Gatlinburg
For a tiny town in east Tennessee, Gatlinburg has a lot more to offer than you
might expect beyond the beautiful scenery and untouched woodlands of the
park.
It was historically a plentiful Native American hunting ground, with the Cherokee
and their predecessors enjoying the abundant game in the area. The Ogle,
Huskey, and McCarter families first settled the area in the early 1800s. The first
log cabin in what is now Gatlinburg is still there, known simply as the Ogle Cabin
and is a “must see”.
The area soon became a bustling logging center, but in the early 20th century
conservationists became concerned after seeing the extent of logging in other
parts of the southeastern United States. Wanting to protect the area led
conservationists to consider the idea of creating a new national park like
Yellowstone or Yosemite. Shortly after, the Smoky Mountain National Park was
born and it remains as a major factor in drawing visitors to Gatlinburg.
Like all of Sevier County, Gatlinburg is an ideal spot for family getaways. For
starters, Ober Gatlinburg is Tennessee’s only combined ski resort and
amusement park. Want an aquarium, waterpark, zipline, and a museum? You’ll
find all of this and more in Gatlinburg. And just to make things easier, here is a
list of some of the most popular places to visit:
For the history buffs out there, you can take you a tour of the
distillery where you’ll be given a first-hand look at how these
authentic Sugarlands spirits are made. And to top it all off, their
Back Porch hosts free shows for guests of all ages. If you’re looking
for something for the adults to enjoy without leaving the kiddos
out, then this is a great attraction to visit.
Insider tip: The second and third parking areas come especially highly
recommended in terms of the view. If you’re looking to make the most
of your visit, beeline for these parking zones.
If you’ve done an escape room before, this will feel familiar. Your group is locked in a
room that can only be escaped by searching for clues and solving puzzles. Every bit of
your wits will be needed, along with some good old-fashioned teamwork if you want
to avoid being permanently captured! Well, not really. If you haven’t solved
everything in an hour, they’ll let you out.
You can also choose between two different experiences: Chapter 1: The Cellar and
Chapter 2: Scarlett’s Room. You can see previews and read more about the rooms
here: https://thecaptured.com/
The Gatlinburg Sky Lift
Recently, Gatlinburg’s very own sky lift just received an entirely new chairlift,
making the already great experience that much better.
The Gatlinburg Sky Lift stands a staggering 1,800 feet high and is nestled at
the top of the nearby Crockett Mountain. The lift is guaranteed to give you
one of the best views in the area. The verdant woods and majestic mountain
peaks will great you in all their natural splendor. You’ll have uninterrupted
panoramic views of Gatlinburg and its picturesque mountain-scape. Make
sure that you pack your camera before stepping onto the lift!
Their other ride is the Gravity Coaster, which takes you on a winding journey
through the woods at speeds of 35 mph. Better yet, you get to control the
speed, while the Intelligent Distance Control System ensures that you and
the other guests have a safe, enjoyable time. Whether you have a need for
speed or want to take it slower and enjoy the views, the Gravity Coaster can
accommodate any rider’s desire.
Insider tip: A Go-Pro provides some really memorable video captures on the
Gravity Coaster!
Historic Ogle Log Cabin
Back in 1807, this was the only cabin in Gatlinburg. It was also the first
ever log home built in the town. The name originates from William Ogle
who travelled from South Carolina to the Smokies and began building the
cabin there to host his family.
Sadly, William Ogle passed away before he could finish the cabin.
However, the story doesn’t end there. His wife, Martha Jane Huskey
Ogle, moved to the area in 1807 with her seven children and completed
the cabin without him.
The cabin remained here for over 200 years before it was moved to the
Gatlinburg Welcome Center. This was done in an effort to preserve the
cabin and also give tourists a chance to see what life was like back in
1807.
Gatlinburg Trail
This trail through the Great Smoky Mountains is one of only two where you can
take your pets and bicycles. There is pathing available for bikes and the wildlife is
pretty tame so Rover can tag along without too many worries. This isn’t to say that
your pet (or you for that matter) are free to wander off by yourselves, you’ll want
to stick to the trails.
The trail starts at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and stretches on for 1.9 miles into
Gatlinburg itself. You’ll travel along a path that snakes beside the Little Pigeon
River and will take you across a footbridge as well as passed several old home site
chimneys and foundations.
Smoky Mountain Jeep Rental
Rent a Jeep Wrangler Unlimited for two days, which comes with a self-
guided itinerary, so that you and up to four more adventurers can
explore the best places to see in Pigeon Forge. The tour goes through
the Great Smoky Mountain National Park to see several sights there.
Jeeps have soft tops and can have open doors if you like. The route is
on and off paved roads, so you’ll have all kinds of driving fun.
- Follow along the self-guided route and see the best of the Great
Smoky Mountain National Park
- Pick up some jeep merchandise that the shop to remember the trip
- Go at your own pace, as you’ll have the vehicle for 2 days
- Take up to 4 other friends in your soft top jeep
Mountaintop Zipline
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its incredible
wildlife diversity, rich cultural history, and beautiful views. Experience
the park for yourself while learning about the local ecosystem and
culture on this moderate 4-hour guided hike with a professional
naturalist. All guides are certified Wilderness First Responders to ensure
not only your safety, but also your peace of mind.
Relive the tragic sinking of the Titanic at the Titanic Museum Attraction in
Pigeon Forge, a half-scale model of the original ship. Follow the fate of a
real passenger as you explore the Titanic’s cabins, suites, and exhibits
that include a real iceberg and artifacts from the ship. Multilingual audio
tours are available in English, Spanish, German & Mandarin.
Experience the legendary music of the Motown era with the Soul of
Motown performance at the Grand Majestic Theater in Pigeon Forge.
Live performers take the stage to celebrate the music of artists like Sam
Cooke, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Gladys
Knight, and more.
With your knowledgeable guide in control, you are free to zero in on the
view ahead! Lower regions Parkway, often described as "the prettiest
drive in America," brings breathtaking scenes of the Smoky Mountains'
most elevated points! This is one jeep tour you don’t want to miss!
What's Included
- Professional Guide/Driver
- All Fees and Taxes
Control your cart with hand brakes Feel the wind in your hair while you
ride Enjoy several drops and hairpin turns Experience the mountains in
a different way.
Test your analytical skills while having lots of fun with your friends with an
escape game. You'll follow a set of clues to help you complete your
mission, with only an hour to 'escape'--or not. You'll get to choose from
five different immersive games, ranging from a gold-hunting experience to
a mars mission.
Have you ever dreamed of playing golf in a real life Candy Land? Make that
dream come true and visit Crave Golf Club! Here we offer a unique
miniature golf experience for our guests, including a candy themed golf
course that takes you all the way up on the roof, and a candy store to
fulfill all your sugary cravings!
Go beyond just watching the Lumberjack Feud Show in Pigeon Forge and
enjoy the adventure park as well. This ticket grants you access to the
high-energy show that features competing lumberjacks chopping wood,
log rolling, and more. After the show, head to the adventure park to have
your own competition on a lumberjack-themed course and ride the Flying
Ox zipline coaster.
Another fantastic entry into the great brewing tradition of East Tennessee is
the Sevier Distilling Company. Pass by for a look at how authentic spirits and
moonshine are made. You can also see how they taste as the company offers
plenty of tastings and varieties ready to be sampled.
The Sevier Distilling Company stays true to its roots, using the same
techniques that the original non-native settlers did back in 1790. If you’re
looking for an authentic moonshine and Tennessee spirit experience, then
look no further.
The company also offers tours of its distillery and you’ll be accompanied by a
guide that knows the ins and outs of the process. If you’re interested in both
the history and the taste of moonshine, then this is one place you’ll want to
check out!
Insider tip: The distillery tours can book quickly. Check online to make
sure one’s available when you’re visiting!
Forbidden Caverns
Contrary to the name, the Forbidden Caverns are very much open to
the public! And as long as you and yours are not claustrophobic,
Forbidden Caverns in Sevierville will give you another dose of that
East Tennessee combination of stunning natural beauty and
fascinating history. The caverns contain shimmering rock
formations, a crystal-clear underground stream, and numerous
grottos. And for the history buffs, the guides will tell you all about
how this was a moonshining haven, with an old still that remains
within the caverns to this day.
Insider tip: The caverns are pretty spacious with very few truly tight
fits. As long as you’re okay with being underground and in a
relatively confined space, you’ll be fine.
Insider tip: One thing that you definitely want to stick around for is
the live animal show!
This is one of the newer additions to Sevierville, and certainly worth Regardless of what you decide to add to your list of “must-visits” we
a trip if you’re with the family. The spacious facility contains both guarantee that you’ll love it! This area is full of natural beauty and
advanced and junior ninja warrior courses, trampolines, and a three- things that are fun for all ages.
story net system for 2-10-year-olds. The ninja courses include every
kind of climbing and obstacle course imaginable so if you or the little
ones need to burn off some energy, then this is the place to visit!
There’s also a “refueling station” where you can get everything from
pizzas to ice cream. Sweet!
More Things to Do and Notes
-There are just three runs at the Ober ski resort in Gatlinburg.
For better skiing/snowboarding, take a 45-minute drive over to
Cataloochee Ski Area instead. The snow is better and they have
better runs. Be sure to call ahead to make sure the snow is ok!
-If gambling is more your speed, Cherokee, North Carolina is the
home of a full-service Harrah’s Casino, which is open 24 hours.
It’s only about an hour drive and worth checking out if you want
to take your chances on winning a bit of money.
-Taking a drive around the scenic Cades Cove valley is a favorite
way to spend an afternoon. While many set out for a quick look
at the valley, during peak season it can take several hours so
prepare accordingly.
-Just a short distance from Newfound Gap on the state lines of
Tennessee and North Carolina, you’ll find Clingmans Dome at a
Clingman’s Dome (featured above) is the highest point in Tennessee at
height of 6643 feet tall. If you’re going up in the mountains, you
6593 feet tall. It is also the 3rd highest point in the eastern United States.
can face a 20 or 30° temperature change from Gatlinburg, so
make sure to bring a jacket along.
-If shopping is more your speed, Tanger Outlets is located by the
Walmart in Sevierville. You’ll find some pretty good deals on
popular brands, but prepare for crowds, especially around the
holidays. We recommend going early to avoid the rush!
-Fall foliage and leaf peeping peaks in October, which is
coincidentally (NOT!) the busiest time of the year. However, you
should be prepared for traffic getting around and some waits at
area restaurants.
- Fly fishing/fishing is a very popular thing in the National Park,
but you do have to buy a permit to do it legally. It’s not that hard
The Fun Time Trolley will take you all around the city for less than $1 a ride
to obtain, and you will pay a steep fine if you get caught without
so if you’re looking to tour the city without walking everywhere this is the
one.
way to go.
Tennessee: Home of Pancakes
Sevier County, and perhaps Pigeon Forge especially, benefit from
arguably one of the highest concentrations of pancake houses in
America.
Nobody seems to really know why, although it has been
suggested that it started because loggers needed a filling
breakfast that provided lots of energy for getting through a full
day of logging. Others have said that it’s because pancakes are
the “breakfast of the south” and that no morning meal is
complete without a stack of them.
Regardless of the reason, we’re happy that there’s so many!
Especially since the areas also have arguably some of the best
pancake houses and breakfast places you’ll find anywhere. You
better come hungry!
Pancake Notes
Pancake Pantry in Gatlinburg These are (obviously) just a few pancake houses
is Tennessee’s first ever located within driving distance of your lodging.
pancake house, and has more These are also 3 of the most popular ones!
variety than you can imagine! However, there are a ton of other pancake (and
This combined with breakfast) joints available for your eating pleasure.
traditional and all-natural Here are a few others that are fan favorites:
ingredients keeps the place
busy day after day.
Get a taste of proper classic Southern dining at the Old Mill This restaurant’s motto is “we feed people like they are family”, and
Restaurant in Pigeon Forge, overlooking the Little Pigeon River. Their they really do mean it. This family-run business has made it onto
service has a reputation for being very quick so if you’re in a rush, Yelp’s top 100 list of places to eat in America.
stop in! The fried chicken, corn chowder, pecan pie, and country-fried
You might want to try and get there as early as you can because it’s
steak are just a few of the menu offerings that have visitors coming
often completely full. Some of their most popular plates include the
back again and again.
brisket, mac and cheese bites, the “sneaky pig”, and their famous
And you don’t have to wait until lunch or dinner as they also serve a pulled pork.
hearty Southern breakfast including warm biscuits, muffins, pancakes,
Local Goat (Pigeon Forge)
bacon, sausages, and much more. Yum!
The Local Goat is one of Pigeon Forge’s newer restaurants, but one
Cancun Mexican Restaurant (Sevierville)
that has very quickly made a name for itself. The restaurant
This place is arguably the best Mexican restaurant in the area. specializes in local produce and almost all of their menu items, down
Reviewers are constantly raving about the margaritas, and you will to the buns and ketchup, are homemade.
find all the great menu offerings you would expect from a good
This is casual dining at its best with jumbo wings, steaks, chops,
Mexican restaurant. There are quesadillas, tacos, nachos, fajitas and
burgers, tender ribs, a wide array of desserts, an amazing cheese
anything else you might want. The staff also has a reputation for being
fondue, and a considerable selection of local beers and spirits.
awesome with short wait times.
Bellacino’s (Sevierville)
Big Daddy's Pizzeria (Gatlinburg)
If you’re in Sevierville and craving Italian food, Bellacino’s is one of the
At Big Daddy’s Pizzeria everything is homemade. The dough, the
best in the area. They have grinders, steaks, sandwiches, pasta, and of
toppings, and the sauces are all made in the restaurant. The pizza is
course excellent pizzas. Bellacino’s has developed a reputation for
cooked over a wood-fired flame inside a brick oven giving it a truly
having very friendly staff as well, and they will happily prepare your
delicious taste. Big Daddy’s is popular with both visitors and
order for take-out or delivery.
Gatlinburg locals alike. If any of your family members have trouble
eating dairy, they have non-dairy cheese options as well.
Best “Hole In The Wall”
Timbers Log Cabin (Gatlinburg)
Timbers Log Cabin in Gatlinburg is a place without frills. It’s a log cabin
mom-and-pop restaurant that serves made-to-order food. It may not
be fast food, but there is outdoor seating, music, and a massive TV
with sports on to make you feel right at home. The food is Southern,
but some variety and they also offer an all-day breakfast menu for the
late risers.
There are two places that go by this name but the one we’re referring
to here is in Elk’s Plaza. New York-style Italian dining in Gatlinburg
Best Pancakes/Breakfast
doesn’t get much better than this place. Pizza, pasta, calzones, garlic Crockett's 1875 Breakfast Camp (Gatlinburg)
knots, and their very own homemade strawberry cheesecake as well
as a bunch of other items are on offer here in their cozy This place is named after David “Crockett” Maples, an early Tennessee
restaurant/café. But be warned, their calzones are massive! frontiersman who was well known for serving excellent breakfast food
to hungry travelers in the 19th century. They proudly continue this
Pigeon Forge Deli (Pigeon Forge) tradition and serve arguably the best pancakes in Gatlinburg, as well
This little place is nestled in the corner of a shopping center and is as omelets, bacon waffles, and a myriad of other breakfast favorites.
worth a visit if you are looking for a change from Southern food. They Smoky's Pancake Cabin (Pigeon Forge)
have friendly staff, outdoor as well as indoor seating, and evening
delivery. The parmesan pretzels, BLT, pot roast, and (especially) the Smoky’s Pancake Cabin boasts what they call the “most unique array
“chub” all come highly recommended. of pancakes to choose from”. Aside from their myriad of pancake
options, including the very popular pineapple upside down pancake,
Hickory Cabin Seasoning Company (Sevierville) they also serve all sorts of other breakfast favorites, including biscuits
Proud providers of Southern barbeque, the Hickory Cabin has won the and gravy, crepes, omelets, and waffles.
Best BBQ in East Tennessee award, as well as a Certificate of Mama’s Farmhouse (Pigeon Forge)
Excellence from website TripAdvisor. They use a “secret” seasoning
and rub that dates back to when the owner was just a teenager (and This is definitely my favorite place to eat breakfast and you BETTER
you can buy the dry rub as well). BBQ sauces, pulled pork, and their come hungry. And endless stream of favorites gets delivered to your
famous banana pudding are all reasons to give this place a try. Make table – waffles, eggs, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, hash browns,
sure that you save room for dessert! grits and so much more. It is definitely worth taking the crew when
you want a great breakfast value.
Best Desserts
Heavenly Delights Cafe & Bakery (Gatlinburg)
This is among the top spots in Gatlinburg to head to for a tasty after-dinner
sweetener, or throughout the day whenever the cravings call. They offer
free samples so you can pick what hits the spot. You can also enjoy their
mini cheesecakes, cupcakes, and French macarons. If you want to stop by
for lunch they also have sandwiches, wraps, and fresh salads.
If you’re looking for a unique place for dessert, look no further. They have
a ton of edible cookie dough options to choose from delivered in scoops,
just like ice cream. And, if raw dough isn’t your thing, they also have
regular cookies and brownies and such. This is the hands-down favorite of Best Bars
all the kids in my family.
Tennessee Homemade Wines (Gatlinburg)
Apple Valley Creamery (Sevierville)
Local fruit, local production, and sold locally is how Tennessee Homemade
If you’ve got a big group and can’t agree on how to crush the cravings, this Wines works. Open seven days a week, they also have free wine tasting
place can definitely rescue you. They have scoops of various flavors, and you can buy their homemade wine to take home (or even order it for
milkshakes, smoothies, frappes, and two of my personal favorites – delivery). The flavors are sweet and fruity but they do offer some
brownies and fresh cobblers. dryer/bitter flavors as well. Their best sellers include the “Blueberry
Bammer” and “White Knuckle Grape”.
The Roaming Gnome Pub & Eatery is an Irish-type bar in Sevierville with
dozens and dozens of beers to choose from including Guinness of course.
They have a number of large TVs as well as a screen in every booth if you
want to catch any sporting event while you’re over. Make sure to you bring
an appetite with you as they serve excellent food! Make sure t to try one of
their “Irish boxes”, which are a local and tourist favorite.
“A fun spot with an upscale, yet casual atmosphere”. That’s how the casual
pint describe their bar, and they hit the nail on the head. They focus on
craft beer, which is served by the pint from the tap, by can, or in bottles.
You can enjoy a drink in their gorgeous bar while enjoying one of the board
games they have, or take a pack to go.
Slightly More Upscale
Cherokee Grill (Gatlinburg)
Should you be in Gatlinburg and got your mind set on a thick
juicy steak, then head on over to the Cherokee Grill. Whether
you’re looking for prime grade New York strip steak, filet
mignon, or prime rib you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for
here. And if steak isn’t what you’re after, they serve burgers,
entrees, and salads as well.
J.T. Hannah's (Pigeon Forge)
J.T. Hannah’s Kitchen is a locally owned restaurant with a
casual feel. They have an all-American menu that is largely
Tennessee but doesn’t skimp on the options either. So whether
you’re feeling like having burgers, chicken, seafood, pasta, or
one of J.T. Hannah’s specialties such as their hand-cut ribeye,
fajitas, or ribs & chicken, you’re sure to find a great meal here.
They also have gluten-free options so those with allergens can
fill their bellies without worry. And don’t forget to try out their
“Mama Laura’s Famous Strawberry Short Cake”! Talk to any
local or tourist who’s been there and they’ll tell you that it’s
not to be missed.
Bullfish Grill (Sevierville)
If you’re in the mood for steak, seafood and chicken, you then
you’ve come to the right place. Bullfish Grill specializes in
these options but you’ll find a number of other eats on their
menu that are sure to satiate any appetite or craving.
Aside from their delicious menu, the restaurant is also known
for its top-notch service and as an added bonus, you can find a
bit of local Tennessee flair thrown in to make sure you don’t
forget that you’re nestled deep in the Smoky Mountain