Family Fun Adventures in Gatlinburg, TN

Day 1: Welcome to Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Pancake Pantry, famous for its fluffy pancakes and homey atmosphere.
Drive to Pancake Pantry located at 628 Parkway, Gatlinburg.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore the incredible marine life at one of the top-rated aquariums in the U.S., featuring interactive exhibits and a tunnel walk-through.
It's just a short 5-minute drive or a 10-minute walk from Pancake Pantry.
USD100 (Family Ticket), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Park Grill

Enjoy a hearty lunch of southern delights at this charming restaurant with a rustic lodge feel.
Located a brief 5-minute drive from the aquarium.
USD60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Anakeesta Adventure Park

Spend the afternoon soaring high on zip lines or exploring the treetop canopy walk at this outdoor theme park.
Drive 10 minutes to 576 Parkway.
USD120 (Family Ticket), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at the Smoky Mountain Brewery

Wind down your first day with a cozy dinner featuring homemade pizza and their signature brewed beers (non-alcoholic options available).
Another short 5-minute drive from Anakeesta.
USD70, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Stroll along the Gatlinburg Strip

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Gatlinburg, filled with shops, games, and lights.
Walk from the brewery to the strip, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature’s Wonders

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast in Gatlinburg

Grab breakfast at the Donut Friar, famous for its freshly made donuts and coffee to fuel a day of exploration.
A 10-minute walk from your accommodation.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking in the Smokies

Hit the trails with a family-friendly hike at Laurel Falls, an easy hike leading to a stunning waterfall.
Drive 15 minutes to the trailhead at 8840 Laurel Creek Rd.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the many scenic picnic areas in the national park.
Bring your lunch from home or stop by a local deli before heading to the park.
USD30 (for supplies), 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Cades Cove

Take a scenic drive through Cades Cove, where you can spot wildlife and visit historic cabins.
Continue driving within the park, it takes around 30 minutes to reach Cades Cove Loop Road.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Sugarlands Visitor Center

Stop by to learn more about the park, with exhibits for kids and trails to explore.
Drive 30 minutes back from Cades Cove.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Calhoun's

Enjoy barbecue classics at Calhoun's before returning to your lodging.
A 20-minute drive back to Gatlinburg.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Thrills & Excitement

Pigeon Forge, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I

Start the day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast filled with fresh ingredients in Pigeon Forge.
Drive 15 minutes to 2027 Parkway, Pigeon Forge.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dollywood Theme Park

Spend an exhilarating day at Dollywood, with rides, shows, and attractions suitable for all ages.
Simply continue driving down Parkway, about 10 minutes from breakfast.
USD300 (Family Ticket), 5 hours

3:30PM

Late Lunch at Aunt Granny's Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty late lunch featuring Southern specialties in a charming country setting at Dollywood.
Grab a bite at Aunt Granny's inside Dollywood, no extra driving needed.
USD80, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

More Park Fun

Continue exploring Dollywood or catch one of the park's famous live shows.
Stay within Dollywood for more fun.
Included in park ticket, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Pottery House Cafe

Finish your exciting day with a comforting dinner at The Pottery House Cafe and Grille, known for fresh ingredients and friendly atmosphere.
Exit Dollywood and drive 5 minutes to 2700 Dolly Parton Pkwy.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Relax & Reflect

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Melting Pot

Indulge in a unique breakfast experience with melted chocolates and cheeses, perfect for sweet cravings.
10-minute drive to 1000 Parkway.
USD70, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take a beautiful scenic chairlift ride to witness breathtaking views of the Smokies and enjoy a stroll across the SkyBridge.
A quick 5-minute drive to 765 Parkway.
USD100 (Family Ticket), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Village Cafe

Enjoy a charming lunch at The Village Cafe, nestled in the picturesque Village Shops.
Just a short 5-minute drive from SkyLift Park.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

Explore a quirky collection dedicated to salt and pepper shakers, a unique experience your family will love.
Drive less than 5 minutes to 461 Brookside Village Way.
USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Souvenir Shopping

Spend the afternoon shopping for souvenirs and local crafts along the Parkway.
Stroll along the Parkway and stop in local shops.
Varies, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

End your family adventures with a delightful steak dinner at The Peddler, offering a memorable dining experience with views of the river.
A 5-minute drive from shopping.
USD100, 2 hours
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