4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Day 1: Welcome to Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a delicious stack of pancakes at this local favorite that offers a variety of flavors to please everyone in the family.
Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, just 2 miles from your accommodation.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Experience breathtaking views of the Smokies on the SkyLift with a scenic chairlift ride to the top of Crockett Mountain.
It's a short 0.5 mile drive from Pancake Pantry.
USD40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Explore the SkyBridge

Walk across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, offering stunning panoramas of the Smoky Mountain landscape.
Stay within SkyLift Park area.
Included in SkyLift Park ticket, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Park Grill

Enjoy a hearty lunch at this cabin-like restaurant that serves steak, barbecue, and local favorites suitable for all tastes.
A short 1.2 miles from the SkyLift.
USD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Discover fascinating marine life through interactive exhibits, including a walk-through underwater tunnel showcasing sharks and rays.
Located 1 mile away from The Park Grill.
USD100, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Unwind with a family-friendly atmosphere and a selection of homemade pizzas and craft beers (non-alcoholic options available for kids).
Only a 0.5 mile drive from the aquarium.
USD70, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Gatlinburg Strip Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the vibrant Gatlinburg Strip, full of fun shops and attractions to explore.
Walkable from the brewery.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Adventure in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Mill Restaurant

Savor a family-style breakfast featuring traditional Southern fare right by the historic old mill.
A short 8-mile drive from Gatlinburg.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dollywood Theme Park

Spend the day at Dollywood, enjoying thrilling rides, live entertainment, and delicious treats amid a beautiful mountain setting.
Located just 5 miles from The Old Mill.
USD250, 6 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Big Daddy's Pizzeria

Cap off your day with delicious New York-style pizza and a casual atmosphere that suits families perfectly.
Just 3 miles from Dollywood.
USD50, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Visit The Island in Pigeon Forge

Enjoy a time of exploration at The Island, filled with shops, games, and the famous Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
Only a 5-minute drive from the pizzeria.
Varies by activity, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature Exploration

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

7:30AM

Breakfast at Cracker Barrel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of biscuits and gravy in a rustic setting, perfect for fueling up before a day of adventures.
About a 15-minute drive from Gatlinburg.
USD50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hiking at Laurel Falls Trail

Embark on a family-friendly hike to the stunning Laurel Falls, featuring a round trip of 2.6 miles through scenic woods.
Only a 10-minute drive from Cracker Barrel.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Cades Cove Picnic Area

Gather picnic supplies and take a scenic drive to the picnic area in Cades Cove where you can enjoy lunch surrounded by nature.
Roughly 30 minutes from Laurel Falls.
USD30 (groceries), 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Wildlife Viewing & Scenic Drive

Explore Cades Cove Loop Road and look out for deer, bears, and other wildlife on this 11-mile scenic drive.
Stay within Cades Cove.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Return to Gatlinburg

Drive back to Gatlinburg to unwind after a fun-filled day in nature.
About 30 minutes back to Gatlinburg.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at The Smoky Mountain Steakhouse

Enjoy a delectable steak dinner that caters to the entire family after a day of exploration.
A 5-minute drive from your accommodation.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Fun and Relaxation

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

8:00AM

Breakfast at Log Cabin Pancake House

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at this cozy restaurant known for its traditional pancakes and cabin ambiance.
Just 1 mile from your accommodation.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gatlinburg Space Needle

Take in spectacular views from 407 feet high, with observation deck access and a fun arcade for the kids to enjoy.
Only a 0.5 mile drive from the pancake house.
USD40, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Melting Pot

Indulge in a unique fondue lunch experience perfect for families eager to share and bond over delicious melted cheese and chocolate.
A short 1 mile from the Space Needle.
USD100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Anakeesta Theme Park

Delight in the enchanting atmosphere of Anakeesta, where you can explore treetop canopy walks and engage in mountain-themed activities.
About a 1-mile drive from The Melting Pot.
USD100, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Hush Puppy’s

Finish your vacation with a casual seafood dining experience that is guaranteed to satisfy every family member's appetite.
Return to Gatlinburg, only a 10-minute drive from Anakeesta.
USD60, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Evening Stroll Along the Riverwalk

Cap off your trip with a peaceful evening stroll along the picturesque Riverwalk, enjoying the calm ambiance of Gatlinburg.
Walkable from Hush Puppy’s.
Free, 1 hour
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