Itinerary

Gatlinburg, nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, is a charming little town with a ton of outdoor activities, great food, and unique attractions. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary to make the most of your time there!

## Day 1: Explore the Town and Scenic Views

Morning:

• Breakfast at Pancake Pantry: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this local favorite. Their pancakes are legendary, and you can’t go wrong with the classic buttermilk or the banana pancakes!

Mid-Morning:

• Gatlinburg SkyLift Park: After breakfast, head to the SkyLift Park. Take a scenic chairlift ride up to the top of Crockett Mountain. The views are breathtaking, and you can stroll across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America!

Lunch:

• Lunch at The Park Grill: Enjoy a hearty lunch at this rustic lodge-style restaurant. Their wood-grilled steaks and fresh salads are perfect after a morning of exploring.

Afternoon:

• Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Spend your afternoon at this fantastic aquarium. It’s fun for all ages, and you can see everything from sharks to penguins. Don’t miss the underwater tunnel!

Evening:

• Dinner at The Smoky Mountain Brewery: Wind down your day with some local craft beer and a delicious pizza or burger. The atmosphere is lively, and it’s a great place to relax after a busy day.

Night:

• Stroll the Parkway: After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Parkway. Enjoy the lights, shops, and maybe grab some fudge or ice cream for dessert!

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## Day 2: Outdoor Adventures

Morning:

• Breakfast at Donut Friar: Treat yourself to some of the best donuts in town! Grab a coffee and a few donuts to fuel your day of adventure.

Mid-Morning:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Head into the park for some hiking! The Laurel Falls Trail is a great choice for a moderate hike with stunning waterfall views. It’s about 2.6 miles round trip.

Lunch:

• Picnic in the Park: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park’s scenic spots. There are plenty of picnic areas with beautiful views.

Afternoon:

• Cades Cove Loop Road: After lunch, drive the Cades Cove Loop Road. It’s a beautiful 11-mile loop where you can see wildlife, historic buildings, and stunning mountain views. Don’t forget your camera!

Evening:

• Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant: Head to nearby Pigeon Forge for dinner. This restaurant is known for its Southern comfort food, and the atmosphere is charming.

Night:

• Catch a Show: If you’re up for it, check out a local show! The Smoky Mountain Opry or the Comedy Barn are both great options for some evening entertainment.

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## Day 3: Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Pancake Pantry (again!): You can’t get enough of those pancakes! Or try another local spot like the Log Cabin Pancake House for a change.

Mid-Morning:

• Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community: Spend your morning exploring this 8-mile loop filled with local artisans. You can find everything from handmade pottery to beautiful paintings. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs!

Lunch:

• Lunch at The Wild Plum Tea Room: This quaint spot offers a delightful lunch menu with a variety of sandwiches and salads, plus a lovely tea selection.

Afternoon:

• Ober Gatlinburg: Head to Ober Gatlinburg for some fun! Depending on the season, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or even just the scenic chairlift ride. In warmer months, there’s an alpine slide and wildlife encounter.

Evening:

• Dinner at Cherokee Grill: For your last night, enjoy a cozy dinner at Cherokee Grill. Their steaks and seafood are fantastic, and the ambiance is perfect for a special evening.

Night:

• Relax at a Local Spa: Treat yourself to a spa treatment to unwind after your adventurous trip. Many local spas offer massages and relaxation treatments.

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And there you have it! A fun-filled 3-day itinerary in Gatlinburg that balances adventure, relaxation, and delicious food. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌄🍂