Epic Family Adventure in Great Smoky Mountains: A 3-Day Road Trip

Day 1: Exploring Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with delicious pancakes at the famous Pancake Pantry, known for its unique flavors and dog-friendly outdoor seating.
Located on the main strip in Gatlinburg; easy walk from nearby hotels.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Entrance

Discover the park's beauty as you drive through the scenic entrance, keeping an eye out for wildlife and breathtaking views.
Easy access via US-441 North from Gatlinburg.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Hiking at Laurel Falls Trail

Take a family-friendly hike along the 2.6-mile trail leading to stunning waterfalls, perfect for kids and leashed dogs.
Located just off Little River Road; parking is available.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Enjoy a casual lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery with outdoor seating for your furry friends, featuring tasty pizzas and local brews.
Located along the main strip in Gatlinburg.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Anakeesta Theme Park

Spend the afternoon at Anakeesta, where you can explore treetop adventures, enjoy beautiful gardens, and let the kids play in the great outdoors.
Short drive or a short walk from Smoky Mountain Brewery.
USD60 family pass, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Park Grill

Indulge in a delicious dinner at The Park Grill featuring BBQ and southern dishes, with outdoor seating available for dogs.
Conveniently located in downtown Gatlinburg.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cades Cove Exploration

Cades Cove, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at McDonald's

Grab a quick breakfast at McDonald's, which is dog-friendly and offers easy access to the road leading into Cades Cove.
Located along US-321 in Gatlinburg.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Driving Tour of Cades Cove

Enjoy a scenic 11-mile loop road through Cades Cove, spotting wildlife and historic homes along the way, perfect for family photo ops.
Follow US-441 South and then to Cades Cove Loop Road.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Hike to Abrams Falls

Take the family on a moderate 5-mile round trip hike to Abrams Falls, where you can enjoy lunch surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Trailhead is accessible from Cades Cove Loop.
Free, 3 hours

2:30PM

Picnic Lunch in Cades Cove

Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the lovely picnic spots in Cades Cove while soaking in the stunning views.
Find a spot at the picnic area near the visitor center.
USD30, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church

Discover the rich history of the area with a stop at this historic church, providing insights into the lives of early settlers.
Located within the Cades Cove loop.
Free, 30 minutes

4:30PM

Explore the Cable Mill Area

Visit the Cable Mill to learn about traditional Appalachian culture and see live demonstrations during your visit.
Close to the church along the loop road.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Drive to Cherokee, NC

Head to Cherokee in preparation for dinner and a restful evening.
Follow US-441 South from Cades Cove for approximately 45 minutes.
Free, 45 minutes

6:15PM

Dinner at Pauls Family Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty dinner featuring local dishes that the whole family can enjoy with their pets in the outdoor seating area.
Conveniently located in Cherokee.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Discover Cherokee

Cherokee, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Cherokee Diner

Dig into a tasty breakfast at the Cherokee Diner, where you can find all your breakfast favorites with dog-friendly patio seating.
Easily accessible from your hotel in Cherokee.
USD25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee Nation through fascinating exhibits as the perfect introduction to the area.
Just down the road from the diner.
USD15 family pass, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Cherokee Entrance

Explore the less crowded Cherokee entrance of the park with several trail options, perfect for a family hike with Fido.
Head up to Newfound Gap Road from Cherokee.
Free, 4 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at The Filling Station Deli

Refuel with a delicious deli lunch offering sandwiches, salads, and great outdoor seating for dogs.
Located near the town center of Cherokee.
USD40, 1 hour

3:30PM

Treetop Adventure Park

In the afternoon, take the family on thrilling zip lines and obstacle courses at Treetop Adventure Park, suitable for all ages.
Located just outside the town of Cherokee.
USD100 family pass, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Granny's Kitchen

End your adventure with dinner at Granny's Kitchen, known for its hearty southern comfort food and pet-friendly atmosphere.
In the heart of Cherokee.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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