Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Day 1: Mountain Adventure

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a delicious stack of pancakes at the iconic Pancake Pantry, a local favorite since 1960.
Pancake Pantry is located in the heart of Gatlinburg, just a short walk from most accommodations.
10, 1 hour

10:00AM

Hike the Alum Cave Trail

Embark on a scenic hike along the Alum Cave Trail, known for its stunning views and unique geological features.
Drive 30 minutes to the trailhead from Gatlinburg. The hike takes approximately 4-5 hours round trip.
Free, 4-5 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Peddler Steakhouse

Enjoy a hearty lunch at The Peddler Steakhouse, known for its delicious steaks and rustic atmosphere.
Drive back to Gatlinburg for a 1-hour lunch break.
30, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Gatlinburg SkyBridge

Walk across the iconic Gatlinburg SkyBridge for panoramic views of the mountains and the city below.
Take a short drive to the SkyBridge from the restaurant.
20, 1-2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Greenbrier Restaurant

Indulge in Southern cuisine at The Greenbrier Restaurant, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious dishes.
Head back to Gatlinburg for dinner at The Greenbrier Restaurant.
40, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: Family Fun in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

9:00AM

Visit Dollywood Theme Park

Spend the day at Dollywood, an exciting theme park with thrilling rides, live entertainment, and delicious food.
Drive 20 minutes from Gatlinburg to Pigeon Forge.
70, Full day

1:00PM

Lunch at Aunt Granny's Restaurant

Enjoy a Southern buffet at Aunt Granny's Restaurant inside Dollywood for a taste of local flavors.
Have lunch within Dollywood.
20, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Savor homestyle cooking at The Old Mill Restaurant, known for its historic charm and comfort food.
Head to The Old Mill Restaurant in Pigeon Forge for dinner.
35, 1-2 hours
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Day 3: Scenic Drive in Townsend

Townsend, Tennessee

10:00AM

Drive through Cades Cove Loop Road

Experience the beauty of Cades Cove Loop Road, a scenic drive with opportunities to spot wildlife and explore historic sites.
Drive from Pigeon Forge to Townsend, approximately 30 minutes.
Free, 2-4 hours

1:00PM

Picnic at Metcalf Bottoms

Enjoy a picnic lunch at Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area, a peaceful spot along the Little River perfect for relaxation.
Short drive from Cades Cove to Metcalf Bottoms.
10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

Learn about the history and culture of the Great Smoky Mountains region at the Heritage Center through exhibits and artifacts.
Visit the Heritage Center in Townsend, just a short drive from Metcalf Bottoms.
15, 1-2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Trailhead Steakhouse

Enjoy a delicious steak dinner at Trailhead Steakhouse, a cozy restaurant with a mountain lodge vibe.
Head to Trailhead Steakhouse in Townsend for dinner.
45, 1-2 hours
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Day 4: Relaxation in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

9:00AM

Visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore a variety of marine life at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, featuring interactive exhibits and underwater tunnels.
Drive back to Gatlinburg for a visit to the aquarium.
35, 2-3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cherokee Grill

Enjoy a flavorful lunch at Cherokee Grill, known for its diverse menu and inviting atmosphere.
Head to Cherokee Grill in Gatlinburg for lunch.
25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Shop at The Village

Stroll through The Village in Gatlinburg, a charming shopping area with unique boutiques and local crafts.
Explore The Village shops on foot from Cherokee Grill.
50, 1-2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Ober Gatlinburg

Take a scenic ride up the mountain to Ober Gatlinburg, where you can enjoy activities like ice skating and wildlife encounters.
Drive or take the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway from downtown Gatlinburg.
70, 2-3 hours

8:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Park Grill

End your trip with a memorable dinner at The Park Grill, offering delicious dishes in a cozy setting.
Head to The Park Grill for a final dinner in Gatlinburg.
50, 1-2 hours
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