Towns
Plan your vacation by location – select a starting point for your journey from the list below to get started
Select a town to start planning your vacation
Select a town to learn about area attractions, dining and things to do on your next Smoky Mountain vacation.
Gatlinburg, TN
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s also known for its bustling downtown vibe and walkability to local attractions like the Anakeesta, Gatlinburg SkyPark (home of the famous SkyBridge) and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. We often refer to downtown Gatlinburg as, with great affection, “hillbilly Vegas”. There’s a plethora of late-night entertainment along the strip (and by late in the Smokies we mean 11 p.m.). And the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community (just a short drive from downtown), showcases local artisans, and local restaurants serve traditional Southern comfort cuisine. TBook a cabin in the mountains of Gatlinburg for the best views in Sevier County.
Benefits: Walkability, Proximity to GSMNP, Mountain Views
Drawbacks: Traffic, Crowds, Expensive Parking
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Pigeon Forge, TN
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, located in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, is famous for its family-friendly entertainment. Dollywood, the area’s flagship amusement park offers rides and entertainment that rival the likes of Disney. Dinner theaters like Pirates Voyage and Comedy Barn are abundant as are museums (like Titanic and WonderWorks) and shopping malls. The Island, a popular shopping and entertainment complex, features rides and attractions like a giant Ferris wheel and a variety of local shops. And the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just a 20-40 minute drive away (depending on traffic).
Benefits: Proximity to Dollywood
Drawbacks: Traffic, Crowds, Further from GSMNP
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Sevierville, TN
Sevierville, Tennessee serves as a gateway to the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s less crowded than Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg which can be nice for those looking for a way to be close to the action without being in the action every day. We also love Sevierville’s serene non-touristy downtown scene. As the hometown of Dolly Parton and next door to one of the largest Buc-ee’s in the United States, Sevierville boasts diverse attractions, from the adventure park at Foxfire Mountain to the serene Douglas Lake. Bargain hunters can explore Tanger Outlets, the largest shopping center in town. And foodies can partake in the bustling dining scene.
Benefits: Less Traffic, Affordable Lodging, Proximity to Interstate, Peaceful Downtown Area
Drawbacks: Further from GSMNP & Dollywood
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