7-Day Scenic Road Trip from Wisconsin to the Smoky Mountains with a Stop in Kentucky

Day 1: Departure Day

Wisconsin, USA on June 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Milwaukee Public Market

Enjoy fresh, local breakfast offerings at this vibrant indoor market, from bagels to artisanal coffee.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Depart for Kentucky

Hit the road early to begin your scenic drive towards Kentucky. The journey will take approximately 6 hours.
USD0, 6 hours

4:30PM

Check-in at Hotel - Louisville

Arrive and relax at your hotel before heading out for dinner. Recommended hotel: The Brown Hotel.
USD150, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Dinner at The Brown Hotel's English Grill

Indulge in a famous Hot Brown sandwich, a traditional dish from Louisville that's sure to delight.
USD40, 2 hours
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Day 2: Explore Louisville

Louisville, KY on June 19, 2025

9:00AM

Breakfast at Toast on Market

Start your day with hearty Southern fare, where breakfast favorites are served with a twist.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Kentucky Derby Museum

Dive into the history of the Kentucky Derby with interactive exhibits and a guided tour of Churchill Downs.
USD18, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Silver Dollar

Savor lunch featuring classic American cuisine with a twist, specializing in Southern favorites.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Walk along the Big Four Bridge

Enjoy a leisurely walk on this scenic bridge connecting Kentucky and Indiana, offering beautiful views of the Ohio River.
USD0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Muhammad Ali Center

Visit the cultural and educational center focused on Muhammad Ali’s life and legacy, featuring interactive exhibits.
USD10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Jack Fry's

Enjoy this upscale dining spot known for its modern Southern dishes and extensive wine list.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Smoky Mountains

Pigeon Forge, TN on June 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a fulfilling breakfast at The Brown Hotel before checking out.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart for Pigeon Forge

Head towards the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, approximately a 3-hour drive.
USD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Old Mill Restaurant

Experience farm-to-table Southern cuisine with a variety of hearty dishes and beautiful views.
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit The Island in Pigeon Forge

Enjoy shopping, attractions, and the beautiful dancing fountain, perfect for an afternoon stroll.
USD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel - Pigeon Forge

Arrive and relax at your hotel. Recommended: Margaritaville Island Hotel.
USD180, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Try local craft beer and delicious pizza in a cozy, mountain lodge-like setting.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains, TN on June 21, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at Margaritaville before you commence your adventure.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

8:30AM

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Spend the day hiking scenic trails like Alum Cave Trail, which offers stunning views and beautiful wildflowers.
USD0, 5 hours

1:00PM

Pack a Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch in the park, perfect for recharging amid nature.
USD10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Continue Exploring the Park

Visit the picturesque Cades Cove for wildlife viewing and historic homesteads.
USD0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Pigeon Forge

Head back to your hotel to refresh after a day of exploration.
USD0, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at The Chop House

Savor a fine dining steakhouse experience with a focus on steak and seafood dishes.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 5: Adventure Day

Pigeon Forge, TN on June 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Pantry

Indulge in tasty pancakes served in many delicious varieties, a must-stop for breakfast lovers.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dollywood

Enjoy a day of fun at this famous theme park featuring thrilling rides, live shows, and crafts.
USD85, 6 hours

4:00PM

Return to Hotel

Recharge and relax after a fun-filled day at Dollywood.
USD0, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Paula Deen's Family Kitchen

Experience Southern comfort food served family-style with plenty of delicious options.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Relaxing Day

Gatlinburg, TN on June 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy breakfast offered at your hotel before exploring Gatlinburg.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Discover the wonders of marine life at this interactive aquarium featuring a wide variety of sea creatures.
USD35, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Park Grill

Dine on hearty mountain fare at this cozy lodge-style restaurant in Gatlinburg.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Stroll along the Gatlinburg Strip

Explore shops, cafes, and beautiful views along Gatlinburg's famous strip.
USD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the SkyLift Park

Take a scenic chairlift ride for breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains.
USD20, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Crystelle Creek

Enjoy an amazing mountain setting with live music while you dine on fresh American cuisine.
USD45, 2 hours
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Day 7: Return to Wisconsin

Pigeon Forge, TN on June 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Savor a final breakfast at Margaritaville before heading back home.
Included in hotel stay, 1 hour

9:00AM

Check-out and Depart for Wisconsin

Set off for your journey back to Wisconsin, reflecting on a wonderful trip.
USD0, 6 hours

4:00PM

Lunch Break at a Rest Stop

Take a break during your drive back at a rest stop for a quick bite.
USD10, 1 hour

10:00PM

Arrive in Wisconsin

Conclude your trip as you arrive back home full of wonderful memories.
USD0, 0 hours
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