Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Gatlinburg Getaway

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pancake Pantry, known for its wide variety of pancakes and southern hospitality.
Pancake Pantry is located in downtown Gatlinburg, a short walk from most hotels.
$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore the amazing underwater world at Ripley's Aquarium, featuring interactive exhibits and a tunnel surrounded by marine life.
Ripley's Aquarium is a 5-minute drive from Pancake Pantry.
$$, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Peddler Steakhouse

Enjoy a delicious steak lunch with a view of the Little Pigeon River at The Peddler Steakhouse, known for its aged steaks and salad bar.
The Peddler Steakhouse is a short drive from Ripley's Aquarium.
$$$, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Take a leisurely stroll through the historic 8-mile loop of the Arts & Crafts Community, where you can watch local artisans at work and shop for unique handcrafted souvenirs.
The Arts & Crafts Community is a 10-minute drive from The Peddler Steakhouse.
$$, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cherokee Grill

Indulge in a dinner of Southern comfort food at Cherokee Grill, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Cherokee Grill is located in downtown Gatlinburg, a short drive from the Arts & Crafts Community.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Pigeon Forge Adventure

Pigeon Forge, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Reagan's House of Pancakes

Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at Reagan's House of Pancakes, known for its generous portions and delicious pancakes.
Reagan's House of Pancakes is located in Pigeon Forge, a short drive from Gatlinburg.
$, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Dollywood

Spend the day at Dollywood, a theme park owned by Dolly Parton with thrilling rides, live entertainment, and delicious Southern food.
Dollywood is a 15-minute drive from Reagan's House of Pancakes.
$$$, 6 hours

4:00PM

Lunch at The Old Mill Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Southern meal at The Old Mill Restaurant, located in a historic grist mill overlooking the Little Pigeon River.
The Old Mill Restaurant is a short drive from Dollywood.
$$, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Explore The Island in Pigeon Forge

Visit The Island, an entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and attractions like the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel and the Island Show Fountain.
The Island is a 5-minute drive from The Old Mill Restaurant.
$$, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Timberwood Grill

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Timberwood Grill, known for its wood-fired dishes and laid-back atmosphere.
Timberwood Grill is located at The Island in Pigeon Forge.
$$, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Great Smoky Mountains Exploration

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

8:00AM

Hike the Alum Cave Trail

Embark on a scenic hike along the Alum Cave Trail, known for its stunning views and unique geological features like Arch Rock and Alum Cave Bluffs.
The Alum Cave Trailhead is located off Newfound Gap Road in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, approximately a 30-minute drive from Pigeon Forge.
Free, 4 hours

12:00PM

Picnic at Chimney Tops Picnic Area

Enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch surrounded by nature at the Chimney Tops Picnic Area, with tables and grills available for use.
Chimney Tops Picnic Area is a short drive from the Alum Cave Trail.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Scenic Drive on Newfound Gap Road

Take a leisurely drive along Newfound Gap Road, a scenic route through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Access Newfound Gap Road from the Chimney Tops Picnic Area for a relaxing drive through the park.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Cades Cove

Explore the historic buildings and abundant wildlife at Cades Cove, a lush valley surrounded by mountains that offers a glimpse into the region's past.
Cades Cove is accessible via a scenic drive within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Free, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Park Grill

Enjoy a hearty dinner at The Park Grill, known for its rustic ambiance and delicious steaks and seafood.
The Park Grill is located near the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
$$$, 2 hours
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