Whether you’ve visited Gatlinburg, TN, hundreds of times or are planning an inaugural trip, there is so much to do and see in this charming town. You may already be familiar with the wide variety of outdoor activities, the local shopping scene, or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but today we’re sharing a few spots that are slightly off the beaten path. Covering under-the-radar restaurants and lesser-known attractions, here are 12 of our favorite hidden gems in Gatlinburg.
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DINING
The Baht
More info: the-baht.com
As one of Gatlinburg’s newest restaurants, we’d be remiss not to include The Baht on this list. Nestled along a serene river, the eatery blends authentic Thai cuisine with modern flavors and creativity. Grab a seat and enjoy views from the floor-to-ceiling windows as you munch on chef favorites like the Khao Soi (fresh egg noodles in a golden curry topped with crispy noodles, coriander, red onions, and your choice of protein) or the Palo Moo (pork and pork belly served with a boiled egg, house sauce, and herbal broth).
The Donut Friar
More info: thevillageshops.com
Celebrating its 55th birthday this year, The Donut Friar in The Village Shops is a Gatlinburg staple. In addition to freshly made donuts, favorites include the world-famous cinnamon bread, glazed croissants, and éclairs. We recommend pairing your treat with a made-to-order cappuccino, latte, or espresso. Then, when you’re fueled up on caffeine and sugar, spend the afternoon perusing the boutiques, clothiers, galleries, and eateries in The Village Shops.
Gatlinburg Brewing Co.
More info: gatlinburgbrewing.com
Gatlinburg Brewing Co. is a locally owned and operated microbrewery specializing in pizza and, of course, craft beer. Founded by local native Steve Wilson, the brewery now has locations in both downtown Gatlinburg and Sevierville. Whether you prefer stouts, wheat ales, or pilsners, there’s something to pair with any one of the specialty pizzas — including The Leaf Looker (pepperoni, sausage, green pepper, red onion, mushroom, and black olive) and the Betty White (Alfredo sauce, chicken, broccoli, artichoke, and red onion).
Log Cabin Pancake House
More info: logcabinpancakehouse.com
A beloved local eatery since 1979, Log Cabin Pancake House serves all-day breakfast. Offering a variety of specialty pancakes like blueberry and butterscotch in addition to scratch-made biscuits, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. If you’re ordering the pancakes (which we highly recommend!), don’t skimp on the house-made syrup crafted from a secret family recipe.
Split Rail Eats
More info: splitraileats.com
Inside Covered Bridge in the Glades (a mixed use development), Split Rail Eats is a locally owned and operated restaurant serving delicious all-American fare. Offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, stop by for a cup of coffee, homemade dessert, or a hearty burger or sandwich. This spot is also home to Gatlinburg’s only self-serve beer tap wall!
The Greenbrier
More info:Â greenbrierrestaurant.com
Known for its unique chef-driven menu, The Greenbrier is located in the Smokies and offers a delicious collection of hand-cut prime steaks, fresh produce, and craft cocktails. As Gatlinburg’s premier steakhouse, the restaurant’s interior perfectly blends modern dining with Appalachian tradition.
LODGING
Camp LeConte Luxury Campground
More info: campleconte.com
Located only four miles from downtown Gatlinburg and adjacent to the Smoky Mountains, Camp LeConte Luxury Campground is an idyllic glamping destination. Offering a variety of options — including a tree house, safari tent, and a 1961 Shasta retro camper — all glamping sites include blankets, linens, and toiletries. The outdoor resort also offers free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and a swimming pool. For those wishing to experience a more traditional camping experience, the resort also offers tent and RV sites.
Treehouse Grove at Norton Creek Resort
More info: treehouse-grove.com
For a serene mountaintop getaway, book a stay in one of the 16 treehouses at Norton Creek Resort’s Treehouse Grove. Each house has been meticulously designed by Pete Nelson, the former host of Treehouse Masters on Animal Planet. Perfect for both intimate family getaways or larger family reunions, each treehouse sleeps four to 10 guests.
ATTRACTIONS
Cliff Dwellers Gallery
More info: cliffdwellersgallery.org
In addition to housing local art and fine crafts, Cliff Dwellers Gallery is full of history. In fact, the building was originally located in downtown Gatlinburg but was moved to the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community to preserve its historical aspect. Today, the gallery is owned and operated by two local artists and serves as Gatlinburg’s oldest gift shop. You can find everything from hand-woven linens to pottery, baskets, and paintings. The gallery is also known to host frequent events, demonstrations, and hands-on workshops.
Painting Around
More info: paintingaroundknox.com
What started as a mobile arts and crafts experience has now grown to include a brick-and-mortar location. Home to a blacklight paint splatter room, the DIY art studio also hosts 30-minute craft classes, sip-and-paint gatherings, and photo shoots. It’s the perfect group activity — whether you visit the store or want their experts to travel to you!
GUIDE SERVICES
Smoky Mountain Guides
More info: smokymountainguides.com
To make the most of your Great Smoky Mountain excursions, book a tour with the experts at Smoky Mountain Guides. From guided hikes to kayak tours and backpacking adventures, you can get up-close views of the local wildlife, waterfalls, and historical mills and cabins. Anglers will also love embarking on one of the guided fly fishing trips, where Great Smoky Guides will show you some of the best trout fishing in the Southeast.
A Walk in the Woods
More info: awalkinthewoods.com
Another great guided tour option is A Walk in the Woods, which hosts nature walks and hikes, guided backpacking trips, yoga retreats, and more. Since 1998, its experts have led hundreds of excursions and have been featured on the Travel Channel and in the pages of National Geographic. Tours range from day trips to group tours and overnight stays. You can also opt to stay in one of its camping or glamping sites.
No matter where you choose to soak up the magic of Gatlinburg, you’re in for quite the adventure!
This article is sponsored by the Gatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau. All photography provided unless otherwise noted.
