5-Day Family Adventure Itinerary in the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Explore Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with the delicious blueberry pancakes that have made Pancake Pantry a local favorite.
Located in downtown Gatlinburg, a short walk from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore this family-friendly aquarium with interactive exhibits and a stunning underwater tunnel.
Only a 5-minute walk from Pancake Pantry.
USD150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Park Grill

Have a hearty lunch at this mountain lodge-style restaurant that offers delicious smoked ribs and fresh salads.
A short 5-minute drive from the aquarium.
USD80, 1 hour

2:00PM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take a scenic chairlift ride to enjoy breathtaking views of the Smokies and walk across the SkyBridge.
20-minute walk from The Park Grill.
USD100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Relish a casual dinner with a family-friendly atmosphere while enjoying homemade pizzas and craft beer.
A short 10-minute walk from Gatlinburg SkyLift.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Cabin

Wake up with some delightful pancakes served with fresh fruit and syrup.
Drive 15 minutes to Pigeon Forge.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dollywood Theme Park

Spend an exciting day filled with rides, shows, and Dolly Parton’s own brand of fun at Dollywood.
Located adjacent to The Pancake Cabin.
USD240, 7 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Paula Deen's Family Kitchen

Enjoy a buffet-style Southern meal featuring hospitality, classic recipes, and desserts that the whole family will love.
Drive 10 minutes from Dollywood.
USD120, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Explore Cades Cove

Cades Cove, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Hungry Bear Bistro

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast while enjoying views of the cove area.
Drive 30 minutes from Pigeon Forge.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Cades Cove Loop Road

Drive the 11-mile loop road to spot wildlife, hike trails, and see historic homesteads in this beautiful area.
Starts in Cades Cove, easily accessible from the bistro.
USD0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch from The Cades Cove Trading Company

Enjoy a delicious packed lunch from their deli, perfect while enjoying the wilderness scenery.
Find the deli at the visitor center.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking the Abrams Falls Trail

Take the easy to moderate 5-mile round trip hike to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the Smokies.
The trailhead is just off the loop road.
USD0, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Old Mill

Dine on Southern classics in a historic setting beside the river, offering the perfect end to your adventurous day.
Drive back to Pigeon Forge, about 30 minutes away.
USD120, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Culture and Nature in Cherokee

Cherokee, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Granny’s Kitchen

Savor a hearty breakfast of country ham and eggs while soaking in the homey atmosphere.
Drive 25 minutes from Pigeon Forge.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Discover the rich history and culture of the Cherokee people through fascinating exhibits.
Located just a short drive from Granny’s Kitchen.
USD60, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Cherokee Adventures – White Water Rafting

Get your adrenaline pumping while navigating the thrilling rapids in the beautiful smoky river.
Located not far from the museum.
USD200, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Filling Station Diner

Refuel with American comfort food in a retro-themed diner ambiance.
A short drive from the rafting area.
USD60, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Enjoy a scenic walk in the park, taking in the captivating flora and fauna native to the region.
Enter the park from Cherokee.
USD0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant

Indulge in hearty comfort food served with homemade apple butter and a delightful dessert.
Drive 15 minutes back to Pigeon Forge.
USD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Final Day in Asheville

Asheville, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tupelo Honey

Treat yourself to a unique Southern breakfast at this local favorite known for its fresh and creative dishes.
Drive 1 hour from Pigeon Forge to Asheville.
USD50, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Biltmore Estate

Explore America’s largest home and its stunning gardens, perfect for family photos and exploring history.
Located just a short drive from Tupelo Honey.
USD100, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Corner Kitchen

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes in a charming setting located in Biltmore Village.
Drive the short distance from Biltmore.
USD80, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Blue Ridge Parkway

Drive this scenic highway, known for stunning vistas and numerous hiking opportunities, a perfect way to relax.
Head out from The Corner Kitchen.
USD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at 12 Bones Smokehouse

End your adventure with some of the best ribs and BBQ around, served in a casual atmosphere.
Located in Asheville, close to the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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