Family-Friendly Nature Road Trip in Gatlinburg, TN

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Gatlinburg, TN

9:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the iconic Pancake Pantry, serving fluffy pancakes with a variety of delicious toppings.
Located in downtown Gatlinburg, drive to the Pancake Pantry.
USD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Hop on the SkyLift for stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and walk across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
Short walking distance from the breakfast spot, follow street signs.
USD40, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Refuel with a family-friendly lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery, where you can enjoy a variety of beers and a menu tailored for all ages.
Just a 5-minute drive or a pleasant walk from the SkyLift.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Dive into an interactive experience with fascinating marine life, including touch exhibits for kids.
Located within walking distance from lunch.
USD100, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll Through the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Discover local artisans and unique handmade crafts along this scenic loop, great for family souvenirs.
A short drive east of downtown Gatlinburg.
USD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Wild Plum Tea Room

Enjoy a cozy dinner with a menu featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients in a charming atmosphere.
Drive back towards downtown Gatlinburg.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature Adventure Day

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cracker Barrel

Start early with a classic Southern breakfast at Cracker Barrel, known for its home-style cooking.
A quick drive from downtown Gatlinburg.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking to Laurel Falls

Take a family-friendly 2.6-mile hike to the stunning Laurel Falls, perfect for all ages.
Drive to the Laurel Falls trailhead, approximately 20 minutes from downtown.
USD0, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch at Cades Cove

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch surrounded by nature in the picturesque Cades Cove, known for wildlife sightings.
Drive to Cades Cove, around 30 minutes from Laurel Falls.
USD20 (for picnic supplies), 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Cades Cove Nature Loop

Take a scenic drive through Cades Cove, with opportunities to spot deer, black bears, and wild turkeys.
Follow the loop road through Cades Cove after lunch.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Gatlinburg

Head back to Gatlinburg to relax after a day full of adventure.
Drive back, approximately 30 minutes.
USD0, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Savor a delicious dinner at The Old Mill, featuring Southern comfort food in a rustic setting.
Drive to Pigeon Forge, nearby Gatlinburg.
USD75, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Leisure and Local Culture

Gatlinburg, TN

8:30AM

Breakfast at Donut Friar

Indulge in delicious freshly-made donuts at this charming little shop in The Village.
Located in The Village shopping area, a short drive or walk from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Gatlinburg Space Needle

Get a bird’s eye view of Gatlinburg from the observation deck of the Gatlinburg Space Needle.
Just a few minutes' walk from breakfast.
USD30, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Local Shops

Spend some time exploring the unique shops and boutiques in downtown Gatlinburg, perfect for finding local crafts.
Stroll around Downtown Gatlinburg.
USD0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Beatty Cafe

Enjoy a hearty lunch at this local favorite, offering a mix of traditional and modern dishes.
Walk to the Beatty Cafe from downtown shops.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Smoky Mountain Moonshine Distillery

Experience a family-friendly distillery tour to learn about the history of moonshine in the region.
A short drive from The Beatty Cafe.
USD0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Family Fun at Anakeesta

Wrap up your trip with a visit to Anakeesta, an outdoor adventure park offering zip lines, tree walks, and playgrounds.
A short drive or tram ride from the distillery.
USD120, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que

Enjoy a delicious barbecue feast with options for everyone in the family, all in a relaxed environment.
Close driving distance from Anakeesta.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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