Great Smoky Mountains Tennessee, USA Travel Guide
A larger city approximately 1 hour west of Gatlinburg. Knoxville is home to the University of Tennessee, a revitalized historic downtown, a diverse dining scene, and cultural attractions.
A full day (6-8 hours minimum) allows for downtown exploration, a museum visit, and a meal. Drive via I-40 West from Sevierville/Pigeon Forge. Independent travel is easy; city navigation is clear.
Beyond the national park, other natural areas offer scenic drives and outdoor recreation.
A partially completed scenic parkway with panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the Tennessee Valley. The "Missing Link" section, recently completed, features stunning engineering.
A 469-mile scenic roadway along the Appalachian Mountains, starting near the Cherokee, NC, entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Breathtaking vistas, hiking trails, and cultural sites are along its path.
Cultural fabric of the region is present in rural communities and historical sites outside the main park.
A less developed valley with a glimpse of rural life, scenic farms, and local shops. Find local produce and crafts.
Explore the Oconaluftee Indian Village, Museum of the Cherokee Indian, and traditional crafts. A deep dive into Cherokee culture.
Tennessee's second-oldest town, approximately 45 minutes from Gatlinburg. A charming downtown square and historic buildings.
Located north of Knoxville (about an hour from Gatlinburg), this living history museum preserves buildings and artifacts from early Appalachian life.
Wears Valley provides a peaceful contrast to the busier tourist towns. A quieter, more rural experience.
Additional days to your trip allow exploration of more distant regional attractions, creating a comprehensive itinerary.
Combine the urban charm and craft beer scene of Asheville with scenic drives and hiking opportunities along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway.
Explore Chattanooga's attractions (Tennessee Aquarium, Lookout Mountain) and then extend your journey into North Georgia for additional historic sites and natural beauty.
Explore Knoxville's city life and then visit Norris Dam State Park for boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities around Norris Lake.
Consider adding a city like Nashville or Atlanta, or another national park, to your trip.
Combine the Smokies with other regional highlights for an expansive journey.
Combine Great Smoky Mountains with Blue Ridge Parkway and Shenandoah National Park for a scenic mountain road trip.
Pair your visit with exploring Knoxville, Nashville, and potentially Memphis for nature and music history.
Combine the Smokies with charming Southern cities like Charleston, SC; Savannah, GA; or Asheville, NC.
