Family Fun in Gatlinburg: 3-Day Itinerary for Adventure and Relaxation

Day 1: Gatlinburg Exploration

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring some of the best pancakes in town at the iconic Pancake Pantry.
Drive to Pancake Pantry, 3-minute journey from 3919 East Parkway.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

After breakfast, take the family for a fun and educational adventure at one of the best aquariums in the country.
Walk a short 5-minute from Pancake Pantry to the aquarium.
USD100, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Smoky Mountain Brewery

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch with delicious pizza and craft brews in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
A 5-minute walk from Ripley's Aquarium.
USD70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

After lunch, hop on the SkyLift for breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains.
A 10-minute walk from the brewery.
USD80, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Village Shops

Stroll through this delightful shopping area filled with unique boutiques, sweets, and local crafts.
15-minute walk from SkyLift Park.
USD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Calhoun's Gatlinburg

End your day with a classic BBQ dinner served in a rustic cabin setting.
A 5-minute walk from the shops.
USD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Old Mill Restaurant

Savor a traditional Southern breakfast amidst the charming atmosphere of The Old Mill.
Drive 15 minutes from Gatlinburg to Pigeon Forge.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Dollywood Theme Park

Spend the day at Dollywood, where thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and festive food join for family fun.
A 5-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD300, 6 hours

3:30PM

Afternoon Snack at Dollywood

Refuel with a sweet funnel cake or homemade ice cream while enjoying the beautiful park atmosphere.
Located within Dollywood.
USD30, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to relax at your hotel before dinner.
Drive back to Gatlinburg, about 15 minutes.
USD0, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Melting Pot

Indulge in a unique fondue dining experience that the whole family will love.
5-minute drive from your hotel.
USD150, 2 hours
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Day 3: Nature in the Smokies

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cracker Barrel

Enjoy a classic down-home breakfast featuring buttermilk pancakes and omelets to energize your day.
Drive 20 minutes to Pigeon Forge for breakfast.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking at Clingmans Dome

Take a scenic drive to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies, and hike to the observation tower for breathtaking views.
Drive 30 minutes to the park.
USD0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the park’s designated areas, surrounded by nature.
Bring picnic supplies from a local store, purchased the previous day.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Wildlife Viewing

Explore the park's scenic drives and trails to spot diverse wildlife; keep your eyes peeled for deer, bears, and birds.
Drive within the park to designated viewing spots.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Drive to Gatlinburg

Head back to Gatlinburg as you reminisce about the day’s adventures.
30-minute drive back.
USD0, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Cherokee Grill

End the trip with a cozy dinner at this rustic establishment specializing in steak and mountain fare.
Drive 5 minutes from your hotel.
USD100, 1.5 hours
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