4-Day Family Friendly Nature Retreat in the Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Gatlinburg Arrival

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the iconic Pancake Pantry, famous for its wide array of delicious pancakes that the whole family will enjoy.
Located conveniently in Gatlinburg.
USD30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take a scenic chairlift ride up to the SkyLift Park, where you can stroll across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
Short drive or 15-minute walk from Pancake Pantry.
USD100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery, where hearty sandwiches and local brews cater to all tastes, surrounded by mountain views.
A short 5-minute drive from Gatlinburg SkyLift.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Spend the afternoon marveling at the underwater wonders at Ripley's Aquarium, which features interactive exhibits that are a hit with both kids and adults.
Only a 10-minute walk from Smoky Mountain Brewery.
USD90, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Park Grill

Savor a delightful dinner at The Park Grill, where you can find a menu filled with Southern specialties and kid-approved dishes.
5-minute drive or 12-minute walk from Ripley's Aquarium.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Pigeon Forge Adventure

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Mill Restaurant

Start your day with a classic southern breakfast at The Old Mill Restaurant, known for its biscuits and country-style cooking that the entire family will love.
20-minute drive from Gatlinburg.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dollywood

Experience the fun at Dollywood, an amusement park with rides, shows, and a water park that cater to all ages, ensuring a day full of family memories.
Quick 15-minute drive from The Old Mill Restaurant.
USD300, 6 hours

4:30PM

Late Lunch at Pigeon Forge Deli

After a thrilling day at Dollywood, grab a light meal at Pigeon Forge Deli to refuel before more adventures, featuring delicious sandwiches and soups.
5-minute drive from Dollywood.
USD40, 1 hour

6:00PM

Evening Stroll at The Island in Pigeon Forge

As the sun sets, take a relaxing stroll through The Island in Pigeon Forge, enjoying the fountains and perhaps indulging in some ice cream.
A short 10-minute drive from the deli.
USD20, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Margaritaville

Finish off the day with a family-friendly dining experience at Margaritaville, where you can enjoy tropical-inspired dishes and drinks.
Located at The Island.
USD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Nature Day in Smokies

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cabin

Enjoy a light breakfast at your cabin to fuel up for a day full of adventures in the great outdoors with the family.
Back at the cabin in Pigeon Forge.
USD40, 1 hour

8:30AM

Hiking to Laurel Falls

Set out early to hike to Laurel Falls, an easy-to-moderate trail that leads to a stunning waterfall perfect for family photos.
A scenic 30-minute drive to the trailhead inside the national park.
USD0, 3 hours

11:30AM

Picnic Lunch at the Park

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the resting spots in the park, surrounded by nature’s beauty.
Bring your own picnic or stop at a local deli to grab to-go.
USD40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Wildlife Viewing

After lunch, take a leisurely drive through the park, looking for native wildlife and appreciating the lush landscapes.
Drive around Cades Cove Loop Road for optimal wildlife spotting.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Streamside Relaxation

Find a beautiful spot by a stream to relax, letting the kids splash about while you soak in the peaceful surroundings.
Find a streamside area within the park.
USD0, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Calhoun's

Wrap up a day of nature with a delicious barbecue dinner at Calhoun's in Pigeon Forge, where the whole family can enjoy smoky meats and tasty sides.
30-minute drive back to Pigeon Forge.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Townsend

Townsend, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Peaceful Side

Begin your final day with breakfast at The Peaceful Side, enjoying a calming atmosphere with delicious options for everyone in the family.
Short 30-minute drive from Pigeon Forge.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

Learn about the history of the Smoky Mountains while enjoying exhibits that engage the whole family in learning about their heritage.
Just a few minutes drive from breakfast.
USD30, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Hungry Bear BBQ

Satisfy your appetite with hearty barbecue sandwiches and sides at The Hungry Bear BBQ, a local favorite spot for lunch.
A short 10-minute drive from the Heritage Center.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Bike the Townsend River Walk

Enjoy a fun family bike ride along the Townsend River Walk, a scenic and leisurely route alongside the river that’s perfect for all ages.
Bike rentals are available in Townsend.
USD60, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Last Adventure at Tuckaleechee Caverns

Spend your afternoon exploring the stunning Tuckaleechee Caverns, where you can learn about the history and geology of these beautiful underground formations.
A 15-minute drive from the river walk.
USD80, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Smokin' Joe's BBQ

Conclude your trip with a delightful dinner at Smokin' Joe's BBQ, where everyone can enjoy hearty portions of home-cooked barbecue.
Less than 10 minutes from Tuckaleechee Caverns.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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