Nature Escape: Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Gatlinburg Adventures

Gatlinburg, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at the iconic Pancake Pantry, known for its fluffy and diverse pancake options.
Located in downtown Gatlinburg, just a short walk from many hotels.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Ride the scenic SkyLift and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains from the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
Located just a few blocks from the Pancake Pantry.
USD 60, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Park Grill

Relax and recharge at The Park Grill, offering hearty Appalachian cuisine with a lovely view.
Located a short drive from the SkyLift Park.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Center

Visit the park’s visitor center to learn about the park's history and pick up maps for your hiking adventures.
About a 10-minute drive from The Park Grill.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Hike the Laurel Falls Trail

Embark on the family-friendly Laurel Falls Trail, a 2.6-mile round trip that leads to a stunning waterfall.
A short drive from the visitor center to the trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

End your day with a casual dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery, where you can enjoy a local craft beer while the kids savor tasty pizzas and burgers.
A short drive back to Gatlinburg.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Cades Cove Exploration

Cades Cove, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Cracker Barrel

Fuel up with a classic Southern breakfast at Cracker Barrel before heading out for your day of exploration.
Located on the way to Cades Cove.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Cades Cove Loop Road

Drive the 11-mile scenic loop, giving you the chance to spot wildlife including deer, black bears, and wild turkeys.
Follow the signs from the main road to Cades Cove.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Cades Cove's Historic Buildings

Take some time to explore the historic cabins and churches in Cades Cove, immersing your family in the area's rich pioneer history.
Stop along the loop as you drive through the area.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Picnic Lunch at Cades Cove

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of Cades Cove's designated picnic areas surrounded by nature.
Bring your cooler with you from the car.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Hiking the Abram Falls Trail

After lunch, take the family-friendly 5-mile round-trip hike to Abram Falls, a beautiful destination that makes the trek worthwhile.
The trailhead is just off of the Cades Cove Loop Road.
Free, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Cades Cove Pack Station

After a day of exploring, enjoy a hearty meal at the Cades Cove Pack Station, which offers a variety of tasty options.
Located within Cades Cove.
USD 60, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Pigeon Forge Fun

Pigeon Forge, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Buttered Biscuit

Savor an inviting home-cooked breakfast at The Buttered Biscuit, famous for its flaky biscuits and country-style breakfast options.
A short drive from Cades Cove to Pigeon Forge.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Visit the Dollywood Theme Park

Spend the day at Dollywood, the famous theme park offering thrilling rides and entertaining shows perfect for the entire family.
Located in Pigeon Forge on Dollywood Lane.
USD 250, 6 hours

3:30 PM

Snack at Dollywood’s Sweet Shop

Take a break from rides with a sweet treat from Dollywood’s Sweet Shop, offering a variety of desserts and snacks.
Available throughout the park.
USD 30, 30 minutes

4:00 PM

Return to Normal Activities in the Park

Keep enjoying the fun rides and attractions until park closing.
Continue exploring the park.
Included in Dollywood ticket, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Conclude your adventure with a family dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant, known for capturing the taste of the Smoky Mountains in their classic dishes.
A short drive from Dollywood.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
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