Epic Nature Retreat: Family Friendly Itinerary from April 19, 2025, and Beyond

Day 1: Arrival in Asheville

Asheville, NC on April 19, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Early Girl Eatery

Enjoy a hearty Southern breakfast at the beloved Early Girl Eatery, famous for farm-to-table ingredients and delicious biscuits.
Take I-240 to reach the restaurant.
USD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Biltmore Estate

Explore America’s largest home, the Biltmore Estate, and roam its beautiful gardens perfect for the family.
Drive 10 minutes from the restaurant.
USD80, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Corner Kitchen

Head to The Corner Kitchen for lunch and enjoy organic and locally sourced dishes in a family-friendly setting.
5-minute drive or 15-minute walk from Biltmore.
USD60, 1 hour

3:30PM

Hiking at Blue Ridge Parkway

Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and hike the Craggy Gardens Trail, which offers stunning views.
30-minute drive to parking area.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Plant

Indulge in a vegan dinner at Plant, known for its creative and delicious plant-based meals that the whole family will enjoy.
35-minute drive back to Asheville.
USD75, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Smoky Mountain Adventure

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN on April 20, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Pantry

Fuel up with delicious pancakes at this popular breakfast spot before heading into the park.
Drive 1 hour from Asheville to Gatlinburg.
USD40, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Spend the day exploring the park, with options for family-friendly hikes like Laurel Falls.
An easy drive into the park entrance.
Free, 5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch Picnic in the Park

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, listening to the sounds of the forest.
Bring sandwiches from a local deli.
USD30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Wildlife Viewing

Look out for local wildlife, such as deer and maybe even a black bear, during your nature trek.
Stay within the park area.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner with pizza, pasta, and local brews at Smoky Mountain Brewery.
Drive 30 minutes back to Gatlinburg.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Gatlinburg Fun

Gatlinburg, TN on April 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with some delectable pancakes at this Gatlinburg favorite.
Located in downtown Gatlinburg.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

SkyLift Park Experience

Ride the scenic chair lift for breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains; perfect for family photos.
Short walk from the breakfast spot.
USD50, 2 hours

11:30AM

Ober Gatlinburg

Enjoy family-friendly activities such as wildlife encounters and alpine slides at this amusement park.
Take the free shuttle from downtown.
USD100, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Ober Gatlinburg

Grab lunch within Ober Gatlinburg, with kid-friendly options available.
On-site dining.
USD60, 1 hour

4:30PM

Mini Golf at Gatlin's

Unwind with some fun family mini-golf in a jungle-themed setting.
Short drive from Ober Gatlinburg.
USD50, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

Enjoy a cozy dinner at The Peddler with a great view of the river.
5-minute drive from mini-golf.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Exploration

Knoxville, TN on April 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at First Watch

Delight in fresh breakfast options at this well-loved eatery before heading out.
Drive 1 hour from Gatlinburg to Knoxville.
USD45, 1 hour

9:30AM

Tennessee Aquarium

Visit the Tennessee Aquarium, where kids can delight in seeing a variety of marine life and hands-on exhibits.
Drive 2 hours from Knoxville.
USD70, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Diner

Enjoy a classic American lunch at The Diner, a favorite spot among locals.
Short drive from the aquarium.
USD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Museum of East Tennessee History

Learn about the history of the region with engaging exhibits for all ages.
A short drive from the diner.
USD30, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Olive Garden

Wrap up the day with an Italian dinner at Olive Garden, offering familiar options for the family.
Drive 15 minutes from the museum.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Adventure Awaits

Chattanooga, TN on April 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blueberry Pancake House

Enjoy a delightful breakfast filled with pancakes and fresh fruit to energize for the day ahead.
Drive 1 hour from Knoxville to Chattanooga.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ruby Falls

Visit Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall that is a highlight for families exploring its caverns.
Short drive from breakfast.
USD80, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Tony's Pasta Shop & Trattoria

Savor delicious Italian dishes in an inviting, family-friendly atmosphere.
Close to Ruby Falls.
USD60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Tennessee Aquarium

After lunch, head to the Tennessee Aquarium for another chance to explore marine life.
A 10-minute drive away.
USD70, 3 hours

4:30PM

Chattanooga Choo Choo

Explore the famous Chattanooga Choo Choo and its surrounding gardens, a great spot for family photos.
10-minute drive from the aquarium.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Big River Grille & Brewing Works

Enjoy a lively dinner with American fare and craft beer brewed on-site in a family-friendly setting.
Drive slightly further along the river.
USD75, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: End of Trip

Nashville, TN on April 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Pantry

Delight in Nashville’s iconic pancakes before beginning your day's adventures.
Drive 2 hours from Chattanooga to Nashville.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame

Discover the history of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame, which engages visitors of all ages.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD60, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant

Enjoy a casual but hearty lunch at this local favorite known for its Southern comfort food.
Short drive from the Hall of Fame.
USD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Parthenon

Visit the full-scale replica of the Parthenon, a fascinating educational experience.
10-minute drive from lunch.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Centennial Park

Let the kids play and unwind in Centennial Park, which surrounds the Parthenon.
Walking distance from the Parthenon.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden

Finish your trip with a delicious and unique burger at this popular Nashville joint with a fun atmosphere.
Short drive from the park.
USD75, 1.5 hours
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