Adventure Awaits: 4-Day Family-Friendly Nature Road Trip

Day 1: Explore Asheville

Asheville, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tupelo Honey Cafe

Start your day with their famous sweet potato pancakes and a side of homemade biscuits, perfect for energizing your family for the adventures ahead.
Located in downtown Asheville, easy walking distance.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Biltmore Estate

Take a family tour of America’s largest home and stroll through its stunning gardens, igniting curiosity for history and nature.
Drive 10 minutes north from the café.
USD75, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Corner Kitchen

Indulge in locally sourced dishes at this family-friendly eatery located in Biltmore Village, ensuring that everyone finds something delicious.
A quick 5-minute drive from the Biltmore Estate.
USD60, 1 hour

2:30PM

Hike at Pisgah National Forest

Enjoy an easy family hike along the Cradle of Forestry trail, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and the sounds of nature.
30 minute drive from The Corner Kitchen.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at White Duck Taco Shop

Wrap up your day with a fun taco dinner featuring creative fillings that kids and adults alike will rave about.
Drive back to downtown Asheville, approx. 30 minutes.
USD50, 1 hour
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Day 2: Into Nature

Great Smoky Mountains, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Early Girl Eatery

Fuel up with a hearty Southern breakfast including their signature farmers breakfast to sustain your family for the day's adventures.
Drive 30 minutes from Asheville to the café.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Scenic Drive through Cades Cove

Enjoy stunning mountain views and wildlife spotting on this leisurely drive, with potential stops at various historical cabins and churches.
45-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Picnic Lunch at Cades Cove

Pack a picnic to enjoy surrounded by the beauty of nature and perhaps a lovely deer sighting.
Bring your packed meal to enjoy at various picnic areas in Cades Cove.
USD30 (groceries), 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking to Abrams Falls

Take a moderate hike to Abrams Falls, where the kids can splash in the water while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
The trailhead is a short drive from the picnic area.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Drive to Gatlinburg

Head towards Gatlinburg, where you can check into your accommodation and unwind after a day of exploration.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to Gatlinburg.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Smoky Mountain Brewery

Relax and enjoy a casual dinner with pizzas and local brews while the kids have fun with the game room.
Located within Gatlinburg, easy walk or short drive.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Fun in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start with a Gatlinburg favorite, the Pancake Pantry, known for its plethora of pancake options that cater to all ages.
A short walk from your hotel.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore the impressive exhibits at one of the top aquariums in the country, engaging your kids with hands-on activities.
Just a few minutes walk from the café.
USD100, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Savor a light lunch with a variety of mountain salads and sandwiches to recharge for an afternoon of adventure.
Return to the Brewery near the aquarium.
USD60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Climb the Gatlinburg SkyLift

Take the SkyLift to experience breathtaking views of the Smokies and capture family photos to remember this standout adventure.
Just nearby the brewery entrance.
USD80, 2 hours

3:30PM

Stroll through the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Explore the unique, local art and crafts while picking up something special for your home.
Drive or take a shuttle to the arts & crafts area, approximately 15 minutes.
Free to explore, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

Complete your day with a family feast featuring a variety of steak options and delicious sides with a view of the river.
Close to the Arts & Crafts area, approximately 10 minutes drive.
USD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Connection

Cherokee, NC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Start your day with a simple and hearty breakfast at this convenient location before exploring the surrounding area.
A scenic drive of about 30 minutes from Gatlinburg.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Oconaluftee Indian Village

Discover the rich history and culture of the Cherokee people through interactive experiences that everyone in the family can engage with.
A short walking distance from the visitor center.
USD60, 2 hours

11:30AM

Hike the Oconaluftee River Trail

Enjoy an easy family-friendly hike along the river, where kids can look for wildlife and splash in the cool waters.
Trail starts near the visitor center.
Free, 2.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Cherokee Grill

Dine at a local favorite where you can try hearty American dishes with a Southern twist in a friendly atmosphere.
Located in downtown Cherokee, a short drive.
USD70, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Learn more about the local culture and history, giving your family a deeper understanding of the area you’re adventuring in.
A quick drive from the restaurant.
USD40, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Paul’s Family Diner

End your trip on a cozy note with comfort food favorites that cater to families, ensuring a satisfying finish to your adventure.
Close to the museum, just a short drive.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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