14-Day Ultimate Blue Ridge and Great Smoky Mountains Nature & Culture Tour

Day 1: Welcome to Blue Ridge

Blue Ridge, Georgia, USA on May 8, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Harvest on Main

Start your day with fresh Southern classics made from local produce in an inviting small-town setting.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway

Embark on a 4-hour roundtrip train journey along the Toccoa River, showcasing stunning mountain views and historical sites.
USD50, 4h

2:30pm

Lunch at The Black Sheep

Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine with seasonal local ingredients in an artsy atmosphere perfect for relaxing after the railway trip.
USD25, 1.5h

4:00pm

Mercier Orchards Visit

Explore the orchard with apple picking, bakery treats, and a market. Great for tasting fresh fruit and local goodies. Open until 6pm.
Free entry; purchases vary, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Chester Brunnemeyer's Bar and Grill

Experience authentic Southern fare with locally sourced ingredients in a friendly setting.
USD30, 1.5h
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Day 2: Exploring Downtown Blue Ridge & Nature

Blue Ridge, Georgia, USA on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Blue Ridge Coffee Roastery

Sip on small-batch roasted coffee and pair it with fresh pastries to energize your day.
USD12, 1h

9:15am

Hiking Fall Branch Falls Trail

Enjoy an easy 1.5-mile hike to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for nature lovers. Trail open dawn to dusk.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Harvest on Main

Return for a fresh lunch menu featuring local produce.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Blue Ridge Mountains Arts Association

Discover local art exhibits, galleries, and craft shops showcasing regional talent. Open 10am to 5pm.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Lake Blue Ridge

Spend the afternoon lakeside relaxing or renting a kayak to explore the lake. Rental shops open until 6pm.
USD25, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Jalisco Mexican Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Mexican dishes with generous portions in a warm, casual atmosphere.
USD20, 1.5h
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Day 3: Helton Creek Falls & Hiking

Blue Ridge, Georgia, USA on May 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Blue Ridge Bakery & Cafe

Grab fresh pastries or breakfast sandwiches with coffee before heading out for outdoor activities.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Helton Creek Falls Hiking Trail

Enjoy a moderate 2.3-mile hike leading to twin waterfalls, a serene natural retreat open dawn to dusk.
Free, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Sweet Porch

Light lunch with homemade baked goods and sandwiches in a charming setting.
USD15, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Blue Ridge Scenic Railway Depot and Downtown

Explore shops, antiques, and local boutiques for souvenirs and crafts.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Tubing on Toccoa River

Relax or gently float down the river in tubes, with rental locations closing by 6pm.
USD30, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Toccoa Riverside Restaurant

Dine riverside on fresh seafood and steaks with beautiful mountain views.
USD30, 1.5h
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Day 4: Day Trip to Vogel State Park

Vogel State Park, Georgia, USA on May 11, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at a local bakery in Blue Ridge

Pick up coffee and breakfast sandwiches to enjoy on the road.
USD10, 0.5h

8:00am

Drive to Vogel State Park

Short 30-minute drive to one of Georgia’s oldest and most scenic state parks.
USD5 parking fee, 0.5h

8:30am

Explore Vogel State Park

Spend the morning hiking trails such as Bear Hair Gap Trail or enjoying lake views with plentiful wildlife. Trails open dawn to dusk.
Free, 4h

12:30pm

Picnic Lunch at Vogel State Park

Enjoy a pre-packed picnic at the designated picnic areas surrounded by scenic nature.
USD15 (picnic supplies), 1h

1:30pm

Relax at Lake Trahlyta Beach

Swim, relax or rent paddle boats on the mountain lake in the afternoon.
USD20 for rentals, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Blue Ridge

Drive back for an evening in town.
Included in rental/gas, 0.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Southern Charm Restaurant

Finish the day with homestyle Southern comfort food at this cozy restaurant.
USD25, 1.5h
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Day 5: Journey to Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA on May 12, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Blue Ridge Coffee Roastery

Grab coffee and quick bites before departing for Tennessee.
USD12, 0.5h

7:30am

Drive to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Travel about 2.5 hours north to the Gatlinburg entrance of the park, enjoying beautiful mountain views en route.
Free, 2.5h

10:30am

Check in at hotel in Gatlinburg

Settle into your lodging to prepare for your mountain adventures ahead.
USD150/night average, 1h

11:30am

Lunch at Crockett's Breakfast Camp

Enjoy hearty Appalachian-style meals with a rustic mountain lodge ambiance.
USD20, 1h

12:30pm

Sugarlands Visitor Center

Browse interpretive exhibits to get acquainted with park’s wildlife, plants, and history. Open 8am-5pm.
Free, 1h

2:00pm

Hiking Alum Cave Trail

Take a moderately challenging 5-mile hike that offers stunning vistas and unique geological formations. Trail open dawn to dusk.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

Treat yourself to prime steaks and local fare in a cozy Gatlinburg setting after your hike.
USD40, 1.5h
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Day 6: Cades Cove Wildlife & History

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA on May 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Log Cabin Pancake House

Classic breakfast favorites with generous portions start your adventure early.
USD15, 1h

8:00am

Cades Cove Loop Drive & Exploration

Explore the scenic 11-mile one-way loop early to spot deer, bears, and historic churches and cabins. Park opens at 7am.
Free, 4h

12:00pm

Lunch at Cades Cove Picnic Area

Enjoy a packed lunch or purchase from local stands if available; relax surrounded by nature.
USD15 (picnic supplies), 1h

1:30pm

Hiking Abrams Falls Trail

Moderate 5-mile hike to a spectacular 20-foot waterfall; trail is open dawn to dusk.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Gatlinburg

Relax back in town after a full day of outdoor exploration.
Included in gas/rental, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Casual dinner spot with craft beers and comfort food in downtown Gatlinburg.
USD25, 1.5h
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Day 7: Waterfalls & Scenic Drives

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Greenbrier Restaurant

Hearty breakfast fare located just outside the park entrance.
USD18, 1h

9:00am

Hiking Laurel Falls Trail

A popular 2.6-mile roundtrip hike leads to a picturesque 80-foot waterfall; trail open dawn to dusk.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Scenic drive along Newfound Gap Road

Stop at overlooks with breathtaking views, including Clingmans Dome. The road is open year-round during the day.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Cherokee Grill, Gatlinburg

Enjoy upscale Southern cuisine and prime steaks in an elegant mountain lodge.
USD30, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Clingmans Dome Tower

Climb or take a short trail to the highest point in the park for 360-degree panoramic mountain views. Open dawn to dusk.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Relax in Gatlinburg

Free time to shop or walk along downtown streets.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria

Enjoy delicious Italian specialties with a local twist.
USD25, 1.5h
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Day 8: Ober Gatlinburg & Local Fun

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, USA on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Start with their famed variety of pancakes; arrive early to avoid crowds.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Ride Aerial Tramway to Ober Gatlinburg

Take the scenic tramway ride offering panoramic views up the mountain to Ober Gatlinburg amusement park and ski area. Open 10am-6pm.
USD30, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Ober Gatlinburg Food Court

Casual dining options inside the amusement park.
USD15, 1h

1:30pm

Enjoy Wildlife Encounter and Amusement Rides

Visit the animals, try alpine slides, or mini-golf among other fun attractions.
Included in tram fare; some rides extra, 3h

5:00pm

Return to Gatlinburg

Ride back down for evening activities.
Included, 0.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Park Grill

Enjoy classic American fare with mountain-inspired accents in a warm lodge ambiance.
USD35, 1.5h
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Day 9: Pigeon Forge Attractions

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, USA on May 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant

Large Southern breakfast classics in a charming farmhouse setting.
USD20, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Pigeon Forge and Visit The Island

Family-oriented entertainment complex with shops, rides, and shows. Opens at 10am.
Free admission, 3h

11:30am

Ride The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

Get sweeping views from the 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel at The Island. Open daily 10am to 10pm.
USD15, 0.5h

12:00pm

Lunch at Mellow Mushroom

Have creative stone-baked pizzas and craft beers in a lively, casual environment.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Titanic Museum Attraction

Interactive museum with authentic artifacts telling the Titanic story. Open 9am–7pm.
USD30, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Patriot Park

Enjoy walking trails and riverside views in peaceful surroundings.
Free, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Bullfish Grill

Upscale casual dining with fresh seafood and steaks to end your day.
USD35, 1.5h
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Day 10: Dollywood & Outdoor Fun

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, USA on May 17, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Flapjack's Pancake Cabin

Enjoy a classic pancake breakfast to fuel an exciting day ahead.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Full Day at Dollywood Theme Park

Experience rides, shows, crafts, and local culture at this famous theme park. Opens at 10am, close varies by season (typically 8pm).
USD89, 8h

6:30pm

Dinner at Aunt Granny’s Restaurant (inside Dollywood)

Enjoy a homestyle buffet dinner offering classic Southern dishes to replenish after a busy day.
USD25, 1.5h
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Day 11: Outdoor Adventure & Museums

Knoxville, Tennessee, USA on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Remedy Coffee

Start with one of Knoxville’s best coffee shops and light breakfast fare.
USD12, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Knoxville

Short 45-minute drive for city exploration and cultural sites.
Free, 0.75h

9:00am

Visit Knoxville Museum of Art

Explore regional and contemporary art exhibits in a modern museum, open 10am–5pm.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Calhoun's on the River

Enjoy barbecue specialties on the scenic Tennessee River waterfront.
USD25, 1h

12:30pm

Ijams Nature Center

Spend the afternoon hiking, paddling, or exploring wildlife at this urban outdoor preserve. Open 8am–7pm.
Free, 3h

5:30pm

Dinner at The Plaid Apron

Upscale casual dining blending Southern flavors with modern techniques.
USD35, 1.5h
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Day 12: Cherokee Heritage & Outdoor

Cherokee, North Carolina, USA on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at a local cafe in Knoxville

Quick breakfast before heading to Cherokee.
USD12, 0.5h

7:30am

Drive to Cherokee, NC

Approximately 1.5-hour drive across scenic mountain roads.
Free, 1.5h

9:00am

Visit Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Learn about the history and culture of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Open 9am-5pm.
USD10, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Cherokee Smokehouse

Try traditional smoked meats and Native American influenced dishes.
USD20, 1h

12:30pm

Explore Oconaluftee Indian Village

Experience a living-history museum showcasing Cherokee life as it was in the 18th century. Open 9am-6pm.
USD15, 2h

3:00pm

Hike to Mingo Falls

Scenic short hike (0.4 miles roundtrip) to one of the tallest waterfalls in the area.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Return to Gatlinburg

Drive back for overnight stay.
Included in rental/gas, 1.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que

End the day with classic slow-smoked barbecue favorites in Gatlinburg.
USD25, 1.5h
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Day 13: Relax & Shopping

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, USA on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Coffee & Chocolate Lounge

Indulge in specialty coffees paired with rich chocolates or pastries.
USD15, 1h

9:00am

Stroll and Shop along the Gatlinburg Strip

Browse specialty shops, art galleries, and souvenir stores at a relaxed pace.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Crockett’s Breakfast Camp (lunch menu)

Enjoy lunch with Appalachian flair in rustic mountain style.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Anakeesta Outdoor Theme Park

Take a scenic chairlift ride, walk through treetop canopy, and enjoy outdoor gardens. Open 10am-9pm.
USD30, 3h

5:00pm

Relax at hotel

Unwind and prepare for your last evening.
Included, 1.5h

6:30pm

Farewell Dinner at Cherokee Grill

Celebrate the conclusion of your journey with fine dining featuring regional specialties in an elegant setting.
USD40, 2h
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Day 14: Departure Day

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, USA on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Log Cabin Pancake House

Enjoy one last hearty breakfast before departure.
USD15, 1h

8:30am

Check out and travel to nearest airport

Head to McGhee Tyson Airport or other departure points for your trip home.
Varies, Varies depending on flight
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