Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is the town at the mouth of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Parkway is taffy and traffic. The reason to be here is the park entrance five minutes up the road, and Anakeesta if you want a view without the hike.
Things that are always there
Sugarlands Visitor Center, 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Start at Sugarlands. Cades Cove is the family drive; it closes to cars on Wednesday mornings in season. Parking permit required.
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576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Chandelier lift to a ridge of bridges and views.
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234 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Fall and spring craft fairs. Indoor backup when the ridge is in cloud.
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Hotels
705 Cherokee Orchard Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
A tower off the main strip, with a pool and a closer shot at the park entrance.
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559 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
On the river in town. Walk to supper.
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Restaurants
628 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
The original of the Nashville shop. Expect a line in October.
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1103 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
A big breakfast room. Easier than the Pantry line with restless children.