Once a forgotten part of Sevier County, Sevierville is now a key piece of the larger Smoky Mountain pie
Back in the old days of the early 1990s, Sevierville was not really the destination that sprang to mind if you thought of fun in the Smokies.
To put it in the Achy-Breaky vernacular of the day, if the Great Smoky Mountains were a mullet, Sevierville was the business in the front while Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg were the party in the back. But things have changed pretty dramatically. Well, except for the China Town Restaurant which has been in that same location next to the gas station since Methuselah was a child.
Sevierville is no longer the town you have to drive through on the way to have fun. Today’s Sevierville is home to a growing foodie culture, the best outlet shopping in town and a strange combination of new and attractive businesses. There are also legacy places that have survived the passage of time.
Still, if you haven’t grown up around the peculiarities of Sevierville you might not notice just how much its changed. You may not know what’s there that should be explored. But you also might not know what’s there that should be skipped. We’re here to help you out.
Top five things not to do in Sevierville
1. Don’t skip the dining scene
I’m still mulling my opinion on this. But there’s a strong argument to be made that Sevierville is now home to the best culinary scene in the County. From the cluster of interesting and excellent downtown food-centric establishments to the frankly bizarre number of excellent restaurants located within gas stations, the food scene in Sevierville is strong.
It’s a hot take, I suppose. At one time, Sevierville was a distant third. But it has – in my opinion – passed Pigeon Forge and is vying with Gatlinburg for the top spot. I mean, you could spend an entire vacation eating only in Sevierville and have an excellent meal every time.
The Appalachian with its combination of mastery and artistry and excellence is not to be missed. On the other end of the spectrum, but somehow also very good, is the Frank Allen Grill located in a Kenjo gas station. It is home to Dolly Parton’s favorite slaw dog. Also, if you’re an aficionado of the gas station culinary experiences, don’t forget Chubby’s Deli which does a great breakfast and more.
2. Don’t go to the Wal-Mart
Look, I’m an East Tennessee boy through and through. I love a good Wal-mart. Love being able to get sporting goods, bait and tackle and groceries all at the same place while they rotate my tires. Heckuva an operation they’ve got going. But if Dante had been born in the modern-day Smoky Mountains instead of Italy in the 1300s, the Sevier County Wal-Mart would have been the 10th level of hell.
I don’t mean to cast aspersions. But I ain’t going back into that place without a Rosary and a Super-Soaker filled with Holy Water. Something just ain’t right there. It was – at one point – among the busiest Wal-Marts in the world. Parking was a nightmare, navigating the store was difficult and the crew was continuously overwhelmed, especially during busy times of the year. There was even something weird about the lighting. I just don’t like that place, not one bit.
3. Don’t just drive on through
There was a time when the only reason you went to Sevierville was because it was between you and the fun stuff. It was nothing but traffic and stores that you could have shopped at back home. Looking at you, K-Mart. Today, that remains somewhat the case. For instance, if you’re coming from Exit 407 – you have to go through Sevierville to get to Pigeon Forge, Dollywood and beyond.
However, it’s important to know that Sevierville exists off the beaten path. You can get off the main roads and still find stuff to do. For example? We’re returning to foodie stuff here. But there’s a great Italian restaurant called Ristorante DellaSantina out on Pittman Center Road that isn’t really in the vision of tourists who stay on the parkway or Veteran’s Boulevard.
4. Don’t forget to see Dolly Parton
Dolly may not be from Sevierville proper, but the Sevier County girl who grew up to be a global superstar is honored near the Sevier County Courthouse. There is a statue there that honors her momentous achievements. That said, you’re not likely to bump into the real thing on your visit – unless you’re in Dollywood during one of her annual or bi-annual visits. But you can swing by pose for a picture and pay your respects.
5. Don’t forget to try something new
Sevierville is booming. You can come often and there will always be something new to do and explore. Want a suggestion? Skyland Ranch is Sevierville’s entry into the mountain top “amusement park” business in the vein of SkyPark, Anakeesta or Ober Mountain. Skyland Ranch is somewhat new and adding attractions. But if you haven’t tried it out – and ridden its excellent mountain coaster – it’s worth a visit.
Do you agree with our don’t dos in Sevierville? Let us know in the comments!