Directions From Knoxville To Gatlinburg

Introduction

If you’re planning a trip from Knoxville to Gatlinburg, get ready for an adventure. This route takes you through the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, offering numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and cultural immersion. In this travel guide, we’ll cover everything from top attractions and hidden gems to food, budget-friendly tips, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

There are many top attractions to visit on your journey from Knoxville to Gatlinburg. Start with a visit to Dollywood, the popular theme park owned by country singer Dolly Parton. For a more natural experience, head to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the stunning mountain scenery. Other must-see attractions include the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and the Gatlinburg Space Needle.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, check out some of the hidden gems in the area. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is a great place to learn about the famous trail and its history. You can also visit the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum to learn about the history of logging in the region. The Sugarlands Distilling Company and the Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine are also worth a visit for some local flavor.

Food Scene

The food scene in Gatlinburg is diverse and delicious. For some classic Southern cooking, head to The Old Mill Restaurant or The Peddler Steakhouse. For a taste of Mexican cuisine, try No Way Jose’s Cantina or Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina. And for a sweet treat, don’t miss the Pancake Pantry or Kilwin’s Chocolates & Ice Cream.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling on a budget? No problem. There are plenty of ways to save money on your trip. Start by looking for affordable hotels or camping sites in the area. Take advantage of the free attractions, such as hiking trails and scenic drives. And for meals, look for local diners and cafes that offer affordable prices.

Outdoor Adventures

The Great Smoky Mountains offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Some popular activities include hiking, biking, fishing, and horseback riding. You can also go zip-lining, white-water rafting, or take a scenic helicopter tour. And during the winter months, you can hit the slopes at Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? There are plenty of family-friendly activities to enjoy in the area. Take a ride on the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster or the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. Visit the Gatlinburg Space Needle for stunning views of the area. And for some hands-on fun, check out the interactive exhibits at WonderWorks or the Hollywood Star Cars Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, consider some of the off-the-beaten-path experiences in the area. Take a scenic drive through the Cades Cove Loop Road, a beautiful 11-mile loop that offers stunning views of the mountains and wildlife. Visit the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum to see over 20,000 salt and pepper shakers from around the world. And for a spooky experience, take a ghost tour of Gatlinburg.

Natural Wonders

The Great Smoky Mountains are home to some truly breathtaking natural wonders. Clingmans Dome offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains from its observation tower. Laurel Falls is a beautiful waterfall that can be reached by a moderate hike. And for a unique natural wonder, head to the Synchronous Fireflies in the Elkmont area, where thousands of fireflies light up the night sky in a synchronized display.

Vibrant Nightlife

After a day of outdoor activities and sightseeing, head to the Gatlinburg Strip for some vibrant nightlife. Check out the live music at Ole Red or the Smoky Mountain Brewery. For a more laid-back atmosphere, head to the Wine-a-Little Wine Bar or the Sugarland Cellars Winery. And for a night out on the town, hit up the nightclubs at Blaine’s Grill & Bar or the Hard Rock Cafe.

Local Markets

For a taste of local culture, check out some of the markets in the area. The Gatlinburg Farmers Market offers fresh produce and handmade crafts from local vendors. The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community is a great place to browse unique handmade items, such as pottery, jewelry, and paintings. And for some local flavor, head to the Gatlinburg Farmers Market for some homemade jams, jellies, and sauces.

Beaches and Mountains

Although Gatlinburg isn’t located near the ocean, there are still plenty of opportunities for beach and mountain activities. Head to Douglas Lake for some swimming, boating, or fishing. You can also visit the Gatlinburg Beach for a relaxing day in the sun. And for some winter fun, hit the slopes at Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort.

Cultural Immersion

If you’re interested in learning about the local culture, there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in the community. Visit the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community to learn about traditional Appalachian crafts, such as pottery and weaving. You can also attend a performance at the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre or the Smoky Mountain Opry. And for a taste of local history, visit the Gatlinburg Historic Ogle Log Cabin or the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum.

Art and Music Scene

Gatlinburg has a vibrant art and music scene, with numerous galleries and live music venues throughout the area. Check out the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts to see the work of local artists, or visit the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community for a taste of traditional Appalachian crafts. And for live music, head to Ole Red or the Smoky Mountain Brewery.

Walking Tours

If you prefer to explore the area on foot, consider taking a walking tour. The Gatlinburg Historic Walking Tour takes you through the history of the city, from the early settlers to the present day. You can also take a self-guided tour of the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Architectural Marvels

For some architectural marvels, head to the Gatlinburg Strip. The Gatlinburg Space Needle offers stunning views of the area from its observation deck. The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, offering stunning views of the mountains. And for some unique architecture, visit the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum or the Hollywood Star Cars Museum.

Historical Sites

If you’re interested in history, there are plenty of historical sites to visit in the area. The Gatlinburg Historic Ogle Log Cabin is one of the oldest buildings in the city, dating back to the early 1800s. The Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum offers a look into the history of logging in the region. And for a taste of local history, visit the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center.

Biking Routes

If you’re a biking enthusiast, there are plenty of biking routes to explore in the area. The Cades Cove Loop Road is a popular biking route that offers stunning views of the mountains and wildlife. The Gatlinburg Trail is a scenic biking route that takes you through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. And for a more challenging ride, head to the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

Wellness Retreats

If you’re looking for a wellness retreat, Gatlinburg has plenty of options. The Smoky Mountain Retreat offers yoga classes, meditation sessions, and spa treatments. The Mountain View Wellness Center offers massage therapy, acupuncture, and nutritional counseling. And for a more immersive experience, check out the wellness retreats offered by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Adventure Sports

If you’re seeking adventure, Gatlinburg has plenty of options for you. Go white-water rafting on the Pigeon River, or try your hand at zip-lining at Adventure Park Zip Lines. You can also go bungee jumping at the Gatlinburg Bungee Jump or take a scenic helicopter tour of the area. And for a truly unique experience, try the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster.