The Smoky Mountain area is one of the most-visited tourist destinations, and for good reason. From the gorgeous mountain scenery to the abundance of family-friendly activities, there’s something for everyone. When you’re planning your first visit to the area, there are so many things to choose from when deciding where to stay, what to do, and where to dine. That’s why we’re here to help you narrow your choices! We’ve created a guide to visiting the Smoky Mountains for the first time and included some can’t-miss options.
Where to Stay
The first step when planning your Smoky Mountain vacation is deciding where to stay. We recommend choosing a Smoky Mountain cabin. Cabins feel just like home and provide more space and privacy than a hotel. You’ll have separate bedrooms for sleeping, spacious common areas, outdoor decks, full kitchens, and more. Most cabins come with a variety of bonus amenities to choose from as well, so you can guarantee your stay is special. Find cabins with game rooms, home theaters, mountain views, hot tubs, and even private indoor pools! They also come in the perfect locations throughout Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. You’ll feel a world away because of the peace and quiet, but you’ll only be a short drive from all the action!
Browse the top cabin rentals in the Smoky Mountains to discover the perfect one for your stay!
Smoky Mountain Attractions
It’s no secret that the Smoky Mountains are home to so many exciting things to do, from hikes to museums to roller coasters. Here are some staples that you can’t miss out on:
- Dollywood
- Gatlinburg SkyPark
- Hillbilly Golf
- The Island in Pigeon Forge
If you’re hoping to add some hidden gems to your itinerary as well, these are some of our favorites:
- Goats on the Roof
- The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
- Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo
Plus, you have to carve out time to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! It’s the most visited national park in the country for a reason. For the top scenic drives, visit Cades Cove and the Roaring Fork Nature Trail, or you can hike to a waterfall, like Grotto Falls or Rainbow Falls! You’ll be surrounded by gorgeous scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities when you visit.
Smoky Mountain Restaurants
One of the things visitors love most about visiting the Smoky Mountains is all of the delicious restaurants! Whether you’re in the mood for down-home Southern cooking or a steak dinner with a view, you’ll find it here. Here are some of the most popular restaurants in the Smoky Mountains:
- The Old Mill and Pottery House Café
- Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant
- Pancake Pantry
- The Peddler
- Local Goat
If you’re hoping to dine off the beaten path, try these restaurants:
- Junction 35 Spirits
- Smoky Mountain Trout House
- Elivra’s Café
- Cookie Dough Monster
- Split Rail Eats
Tips for Visiting
We know planning your first trip to a new place can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be! Check out these tips for visiting the Smoky Mountains:
- Plan ahead of time. Spend time researching what you want to do, and always have a backup plan in case weather or something unexpected gets in the way of your initial plan.
- Don’t get overwhelmed by the crowds. It’s the most visited tourist destination, so there are going to be crowds. Don’t let traffic or long lines prevent you from having a good time.
- Spend time in the park. Don’t let the trip pass you by without experiencing the beauty of the Smoky Mountains with your own two eyes!
- Bring your loved ones. Everything is more special when you share it with the ones you love. Bring everyone along to enjoy the experience together!
- Explore local spots as well. The locals know best. Don’t get so caught up in hitting all the popular spots and miss out on places the locals love.
- Pack for any weather. Weather can be unpredictable at times. We recommend preparing for sunshine, rain, and cool mountain evenings, no matter what time of year you visit. Keep up with the Smoky Mountain weather with our weekly forecasts!
Take a look at more tips for first-time visitors to the Smoky Mountains.
More Things to Do for First-Time Visitors
With our guide to visiting the Smoky Mountains for the first time, you’re sure to have a great visit. If you’re hoping to discover more things to do while you’re here, check out our favorite things to do for first-time visitors in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg!
