Family Fun Road Trip in the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Adventure Awaits!

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a delicious stack of pancakes at the beloved Pancake Pantry, known for its variety of toppings and family-friendly atmosphere.
Located right in Gatlinburg, this is a must-visit spot to fuel up for the day.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take a scenic ride on the Gatlinburg SkyLift to enjoy breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, perfect for a family photo op.
Head northeast on Park Way towards your next stop; it's just a short walk from the breakfast venue.
USD20 per adult; USD15 per child, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Drive to Pigeon Forge

Take a 15-minute drive to Pigeon Forge, where the fun continues with a plethora of attractions to explore.
Travel northwest on US-441 from Gatlinburg to Pigeon Forge.
USD0, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at The Local Goat

Enjoy a hearty lunch at The Local Goat, which offers a variety of kid-friendly options and delicious sandwiches.
This restaurant is located conveniently in Pigeon Forge, just a short drive from the main attractions.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore The Island in Pigeon Forge

Spend the afternoon exploring The Island, featuring shops, games, and family-friendly rides like the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
Just a five-minute drive from the restaurant to the Island.
USD15 for rides, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Wrap up your day by discovering the beautiful trails and wildlife in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, perfect for a family hike.
Drive approximately 10 minutes from The Island to reach one of the park's main entrances.
USD0 (entry to the park is free), 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Finally, enjoy a relaxed dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery, where you can taste local brews and enjoy pizza or burgers in a family-friendly setting.
There’s a convenient location back in Pigeon Forge that’s just a short drive from the park entrance.
USD60, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Stargazing in the Park

End your day with some stargazing in the open fields of the Smoky Mountains for a magical family experience.
Return to the park for a serene stargazing spot; spend some time near the visitor center.
USD0, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability