The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the top choice for family vacations in the United States, boasting 800 miles of picturesque trails, dense forests, stunning waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery. This area offers something for everyone, from energetic toddlers to thrill-seeking teenagers, and even your discerning mother-in-law. After numerous visits, our fondness for this region only deepens with each trip. Below are some of our favorite attractions, dining spots, and accommodations in the Smokies.
Gatlinburg, TN
Be prepared: a trip to Gatlinburg might leave your kids begging to stay forever. The bustling streets are filled with pancake houses, souvenir shops, arcades, 4-D cinemas, and a variety of attractions designed to keep your family entertained and spending.
For lodging, we enjoyed our stay at the Greystone Lodge on the River, where family suites come with a kitchenette, a dining area, a living room, and a cozy bunk bed nook for the kids. The Courtyard Gatlinburg is another excellent option, featuring stylish decor and a welcoming staff.
When it comes to dining, we highly recommend Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, known for its enormous portions served in massive skillets. You can’t go wrong with their biscuits, fluffy pancakes, and delectable cinnamon rolls. For a quicker bite, the New Orleans Sandwich Company offers delicious Po Boys and generous servings of seafood gumbo.
Don’t miss The Donut Friar, an eclectic donut shop known for its freshly-made treats, especially the Bavarian Cream. Just remember to bring cash, as they don’t accept credit cards.
Gatlinburg is packed with attractions. If you have older kids, the Mysterious Mansion haunted house is a must-see. Ripley’s Aquarium is another highlight, rivaling the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga, but aim for a visit on a less crowded day. The newly revamped Guinness World Records Adventure is filled with interactive exhibits that will engage the entire family.
For a fun day out, take the Aerial Tram to Ober Gatlinburg, where you can ice skate, visit a small zoo, or enjoy thrilling rides.
Pigeon Forge, TN
Just a short drive from the national park, Pigeon Forge is a fantastic base for your Smoky Mountain vacation, largely thanks to Dollywood. This theme park offers a little something for everyone, even if you’re not a Dolly Parton fan. Think of it as an Appalachian version of Disney World, with rides for all ages, spectacular performances, and excellent dining options.
Dollywood has consistently been recognized for its top-notch food, and you can’t miss the gooey cinnamon bread from the Grist Mill. Be sure to also try Frannie’s Food Truck for their famous fried chicken sandwiches and Aunt Granny’s Restaurant for a hearty all-you-can-eat buffet.
For accommodations, the DreamMore Resort at Dollywood offers family-friendly perks like complimentary shuttle service to the park and a TimeSaver Pass for quicker access to rides. The resort features family suites, movie nights, and live music.
Sevierville, TN
While Sevierville may not be as well-known as Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, it has plenty of family fun to offer. The Wilderness at the Smokies Waterpark Resort is a hit with my kids, boasting Tennessee’s largest indoor waterpark and a Family Fun Center.
For a unique indoor experience, check out the Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo, home to over 600 animals. It’s a delightful surprise and one of the best small zoos we’ve encountered. Don’t forget to visit the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant, where the chicken and dumplings are incredible, accompanied by their signature apple fritters.
For a more unforgettable dining experience, consider the English Mountain Trout Farm, where you can catch your own fish to be cooked on-site.
Experience the Smoky Mountains from horseback with a guided trail ride at Five Oaks Riding Stables. Children can ride with parents, making it a great family activity. For an exhilarating experience, a Scenic Helicopter Tour is a must—seeing the Smokies from above is unforgettable!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
With so much to see and do in the surrounding towns, don’t overlook the national park itself. Take a scenic drive to Cades Cove, an 11-mile loop where wildlife sightings are common. Pick up a guide at the entrance for insights along the way. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is another popular drive, particularly for bear spotting; it’s best to go early or late in the day.
If you’re up for a family hike, the Laurel Falls Trail is a paved 2.6-mile roundtrip trek leading to a stunning waterfall. Stop by the Sugarlands Visitor Center beforehand to catch a brief film on the park’s history.
For an adventure, consider a whitewater rafting trip with a local outfitter like Rafting in the Smokies, which offers family-friendly floats and exciting rapids for older kids. Alternatively, guided nature walks with A Walk in the Woods provide educational insights and safety as you explore the park.
To avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May, September, or early November. Regardless of when you go, the Smoky Mountains have plenty to offer.
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In summary, the Great Smoky Mountains and its surrounding towns offer a wealth of family-friendly activities, stunning scenery, and delicious dining options, making it an ideal vacation spot for everyone.