Nature Adventure Day in the Great Smoky Mountains

Day 1: Nature Immersion

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at Pancake Pantry, where you can indulge in a variety of pancake options including the famous fluffy buttermilk pancakes that your family will love.
Head to Pancake Pantry located in downtown Gatlinburg, just a short drive from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Sugarlands Visitor Center

Visit the Sugarlands Visitor Center to learn about the natural and cultural history of the park and get insight into family-friendly trails.
Drive to the Sugarlands Visitor Center, located just a few minutes from downtown Gatlinburg.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Hike the Laurel Falls Trail

Take an easy 2.6-mile round trip hike to the beautiful Laurel Falls, one of the most popular and family-friendly trails in the park.
The Laurel Falls Trailhead is a short drive from the Visitor Center and is well-marked.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Wild Plum Tea Room

Enjoy lunch at The Wild Plum Tea Room, where the family can savor delicious homemade soups and sandwiches amidst a charming, rustic setting.
Head back to Gatlinburg, approximately 15 minutes from the trail.
USD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Wildlife Viewing at Cades Cove

Drive to Cades Cove, a beautiful valley known for its abundant wildlife, and take a scenic loop drive to spot deer, black bears, and turkey.
Cades Cove is about a 30-minute drive from Gatlinburg and is accessible via a paved loop road.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Exploring the Cades Cove Historic Area

Explore the historic buildings at Cades Cove, including cabins and churches, which are fascinating to both kids and adults alike.
Walk around the area at your own pace after completing the loop drive.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Park Grill

Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at The Park Grill, offering delicious steaks, ribs, and seafood in a cozy atmosphere perfect for families.
Return to Gatlinburg for a quick drive to The Park Grill, which is centrally located.
USD70, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Stroll on the Gatlinburg Strip

After dinner, take an evening stroll along the Gatlinburg Strip, enjoying the sights and sounds of this charming mountain town.
The strip is pedestrian-friendly and easily accessible from The Park Grill.
Free, 1 hour
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