5-Day Adventure and Relaxation Itinerary for Open-Minded Foodies with Dogs

Day 1: Explore Asheville

Asheville, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Early Girl Eatery

Start your day with delicious, farm-to-table Southern cuisine at this cozy restaurant, famous for its grits and locally sourced ingredients.
Head southeast on College St towards the River Arts District.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the River Arts District

Stroll along the riverfront and explore the vibrant arts scene, where you can meet local artists and check out their workshops.
Walk along Riverside Drive for approximately 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at White Duck Taco Shop

Delight in unique taco flavors like Bangkok Shrimp and Lamb Gyro, all in a pet-friendly outdoor setting.
Drive to the taco shop located east on Haywood Rd.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hike at Pisgah National Forest

Embark on a scenic hike to see towering trees and maybe even a waterfall, perfect for you and your furry friend.
Drive approximately 30 minutes south to the forest trailhead.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Bull and Beggar

Indulge in locally sourced, upscale comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere -- perfect for closing out your day.
Head back to downtown Asheville, about a 15-minute drive.
USD25, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Nature Adventures

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

7:30AM

Breakfast Picnic

Pack some breakfast goodies from a local bakery to enjoy while surrounded by the beauty of nature at the park.
Travel 1 hour west to the park.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Cades Cove

Take a scenic drive through Cades Cove, spotting wildlife and enjoying breathtaking landscapes along the way.
Follow the Loop Road within the park.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Country Store

Grab a hearty sandwich or salad at this charming onsite store, which also welcomes dogs on the patio.
Short drive to the store within Cades Cove.
USD10, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking up to Laurel Falls

Engage in a moderate hike to the stunning 80-foot waterfall, offering great photo opportunities for you and your furry companion.
Drive to the Laurel Falls trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Enjoy tasty brews and pizza at this popular spot that welcomes dogs in their outdoor seating area.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to Gatlinburg.
USD20, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Explore Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Dig into some of the best pancakes around at this local favorite known for its flavors and dog-friendly environment.
Walk to the Pancake Pantry, just a short distance from your accommodation.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Gatlinburg SkyLift

Get breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains from their SkyLift, where pets are allowed in specific gondolas.
Head to the entrance on Parkway.
USD25, 2 hours

11:30AM

Walk the Gatlinburg Trail

Take a leisurely stroll along this flat, dog-friendly trail offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Begin hiking from the Gatlinburg trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Peddler Steakhouse

Feast on grilled steaks and a vast salad bar right next to the river, with dog-friendly outdoor seating.
Walk or drive to The Peddler.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Discover fascinating marine life in this well-known aquarium, offering pet-friendly outdoor spaces.
Short drive from the steakhouse to the aquarium.
USD35, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty meal featuring traditional Southern dishes, where pets are welcome in the outdoor seating area.
Drive to Pigeon Forge, around 30 minutes away.
USD25, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Discover Boone

Boone, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dan'l Boone Inn

Savor a homestyle Southern breakfast served family-style in this cozy, dog-friendly restaurant.
Take a 1.5-hour drive from Gatlinburg to Boone.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike to Howard's Knob

Breathe in the fresh mountain air while hiking this dog-friendly trail that leads to stunning views of Boone.
Drive about 15 minutes to the trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Local

Enjoy farm-fresh seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, all while your dog relaxes beside you.
Drive to the restaurant near downtown Boone.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Boone Farmers Market

Wander the local farmers market where you can find fresh produce, crafts, and treats for your dog, too!
Walk or drive to the market, depending on its location.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at Watauga Lake

Spend a relaxing afternoon at Watauga Lake, enjoying the scenic views and letting your dog play along the shores.
Drive to Watauga Lake, about 30 minutes from Boone.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Black Cat Burrito

Savor unique burritos made with organic, locally-sourced ingredients, in a casual environment that welcomes dogs.
Return to Boone, about 30 minutes away.
USD15, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Breathtaking Views

Blue Ridge Parkway, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Stick Boy Kitchen

Fill up on artisanal breakfast sandwiches and fresh pastries before heading out for a day full of adventure.
Drive from Boone to Stick Boy, about 10 minutes.
USD12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway

Spend the day driving and exploring the numerous overlooks and hiking trails along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway.
Begin from Boone heading south on the Parkway.
Free, All day

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Craggy Gardens

Pack a picnic from Boone to enjoy at one of the stunning overlooks surrounded by nature.
Stop at a grocery store in Boone for supplies before heading to Craggy Gardens.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking to Craggy Pinnacle

Take a short hike to Craggy Pinnacle for panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, a rewarding experience for both you and your pup.
Hike the designated trail from the parking area.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Linville Falls

Discover the spectacular cascading waterfalls offering great scenic photography opportunities and spaces for your dog.
Drive south to Linville Falls from Craggy Gardens, approximately 45 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Table at Crestwood

End your journey with a fine dining experience featuring locally-inspired dishes, overlooking the beautiful landscape.
Drive about 30 minutes to Crestwood from Linville Falls.
USD35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability