Family Adventure in the Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Gatlinburg Fun

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the iconic Pancake Pantry, where the menu features a variety of pancakes that are sure to please the whole family.
Located centrally in Gatlinburg, easily accessible.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take a scenic chairlift ride to the top of Crockett Mountain, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Smokies and a family-friendly treetop sky bridge to explore.
A short drive or 10-minute walk from Pancake Pantry.
USD50 for a family of four, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Enjoy a casual lunch with a mountain view at Smoky Mountain Brewery, featuring hearty sandwiches and homemade pizzas.
Located just a 5-minute drive from the SkyLift Park.
USD40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Spend the afternoon exploring one of the top aquariums in the country, featuring interactive exhibits and a wide variety of marine life that will fascinate the kids.
Just a short walk from lunch location.
USD120 for a family of four, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Stroll along the Gatlinburg Strip

Enjoy walking through downtown Gatlinburg, taking in various shops, attractions, and the beautiful surroundings.
Easily walkable from the aquarium.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Park Grill

Savor a delicious dinner at The Park Grill, known for its rustic decor and hearty American fare, perfect for hungry families.
Located near the start of the Gatlinburg Strip.
USD70, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening at Anakeesta

End your day at Anakeesta, where you can take a magical nighttime stroll through the treetops decorated with lights and finish with a fun ride on the chairlift back down.
Walk back to the entrance of Anakeesta, roughly 10 minutes.
USD80 for a family of four, 2 hours
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Day 2: Pigeon Forge Adventures

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Homemade Pancake House

Indulge in a hearty breakfast at The Homemade Pancake House, where the kids will enjoy pancakes with fun toppings.
About a 15-minute drive from Gatlinburg.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dollywood

Spend the day at Dollywood, a world-renowned theme park featuring rides, live music, and attractions for all ages.
Located just a short drive from breakfast spot.
USD180 for a family of four, 6 hours

3:30PM

Snack Break at Dollywood

Grab a snack at Dollywood's in-park eateries, offering delicious funnel cakes or ice cream to recharge your energy.
Within Dollywood premises.
USD30, 1 hour

4:30PM

Continue Enjoying Dollywood

Keep enjoying rides or catch a live show before heading out for the evening.
Easily navigable within Dollywood.
Free after entry, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Dine at The Old Mill Restaurant, famous for its Southern cooking and friendly atmosphere, a perfect end to your fun-filled day.
A short drive from Dollywood.
USD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Exploring the Smokies

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cracker Barrel

Start your final day with a hearty breakfast at Cracker Barrel, known for its country-style dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
In Pigeon Forge, a short drive from your accommodations.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Sugarlands Visitor Center

Kick off your day at the Sugarlands Visitor Center, where you can gather park information and take part in fun kid-friendly exhibits.
About a 15-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Hiking to Laurel Falls

Enjoy an easy hike to Laurel Falls, a family favorite with a picturesque waterfall at the end—ideal for photos and exploring nature.
Head to the trailhead, located a short drive from the visitor center.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch at the Park

Pack a picnic from Pigeon Forge or grab sandwiches from a nearby grocery store, and enjoy a scenic lunch surrounded by the beauty of the Smokies.
Find a designated picnic area in the park.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Wildlife Viewing

Take some time to spot wildlife such as deer and black bears in Cades Cove, where you can drive through a beautiful loop road.
Drive to Cades Cove, approximately 30 minutes from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Historic Buildings

Explore some of the historic buildings within Cades Cove that showcase life during the early 1800s.
Continue driving through Cades Cove.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Lodge

Conclude your adventure with a delightful dinner at Smoky Mountain Lodge, offering home-style meals focusing on local ingredients.
Head back toward Pigeon Forge for dinner.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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