10 Best Towns in The Smoky Mountains – Things To Do, Scenic Stops & Tips

Which town to stay in Smoky Mountains? Then read this blog on the best towns in the Smoky Mountains with why they are worth visiting. The Smoky Mountains, lying along the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, are home to some of the most charming towns in the southeastern United States.

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These small towns in the Smoky Mountains offer breathtaking natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a wide array of activities for every type of traveler.

Best Towns in The Smoky Mountains – Towns Near Great Smoky Mountains

Here’s a detailed guide to the best towns in the Smoky Mountains, including why they are worth visiting, things to do, overnight hotel suggestions, how to reach them, scenic routes, scenic stopovers, and useful tips.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This town blends natural beauty and vibrant tourism, offering everything from outdoor adventures to unique attractions. Gatlinburg is also one of the best Smoky mountain towns.

Things to Do

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: The main attraction, offering over 800 miles of trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing. The park is a must-visit for hiking, photography, and experiencing the serenity of nature.
• Ober Gatlinburg: A ski resort and amusement park where you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating in winter, an alpine slide, a scenic chairlift, and wildlife encounters in summer.
• Gatlinburg SkyLift Park: Provides panoramic views of the Smokies from the SkyBridge, North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge.

Overnight Hotel Stay – The Lodge at Buckberry Creek: A luxurious retreat with mountain views and rustic charm, perfect for couples.

How to Reach From Knoxville, TN: Gatlinburg is about 45 miles southeast of Knoxville. Take US-441 South for a scenic drive through Sevierville and Pigeon Forge. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Scenic Route: The Foothills Parkway offers stunning views of the Smokies and is a significant scenic detour.

Pro Travel Tips: Gatlinburg can be crowded, especially in peak season. Arrive early to secure parking.

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Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge is a family-friendly destination known for its entertainment venues, dinner shows, and theme parks. It’s a lively town with plenty of activities for all ages.

Things to Do

• Dollywood: This famous theme park, owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, offers thrilling rides, live music, and traditional crafts.
• The Island in Pigeon Forge: A shopping and entertainment complex featuring the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, live music, and restaurants.
• Titanic Museum: A fascinating museum shaped like the Titanic, offering interactive exhibits and a glimpse into the ship’s history.

Overnight Hotel Stay – Margaritaville Island Hotel: Located within The Island, this hotel offers stylish rooms and easy access to attractions.

How to Reach – From Knoxville, TN: Pigeon Forge is approximately 40 miles southeast of Knoxville. Take US-441 South through Sevierville. The drive takes about 1 hour.

Scenic Route: The Little River Road from Townsend to Pigeon Forge offers beautiful river views and picnic opportunities.

Pro Travel Tips

• Traffic: Pigeon Forge can be busy, especially during festivals. Consider using the Pigeon Forge Trolley to get around.
• Book in Advance: Dollywood and popular dinner shows can sell out, so book your tickets early.

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Bryson City, North Carolina

Bryson City is a tranquil town on the North Carolina side of the Smokies. It offers easy access to outdoor adventures and a slower pace of life. It’s a gateway to the less-crowded side of the national park.

Things to Do

• Great Smoky Mountains Railroad: A scenic train ride through the Smokies, offering breathtaking views of the mountains and rivers.
• Nantahala Outdoor Center: Perfect for rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining adventures.
• Deep Creek Trails: A set of easy-to-moderate hiking trails featuring waterfalls, perfect for a day hike.

Overnight Hotel Stay: Lakeview at Fontana is a boutique mountain inn and spa offering serene views and a relaxing atmosphere.

How to Reach – From Asheville, NC: Bryson City is about 65 miles west of Asheville. Take I-40 West to US-74 West. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Scenic Route: The Blue Ridge Parkway offers a scenic route with numerous overlooks and picnic spots.

Pro Travel Tips

• Weather: Bryson City can be more relaxed than other parts of the Smokies, so pack layers.
• Cell Service: Cell service can be spotty in the area, so download maps and guides beforehand.

Cherokee, North Carolina

Cherokee is a town rich in Native American history and culture, offering a unique regional perspective. It’s located at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance on the North Carolina side.

Things to Do

• Museum of the Cherokee Indians: Learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee people through engaging exhibits.
• Oconaluftee Indian Village is a living history site where traditional Cherokee crafts, dwellings, and performances can be seen.
• Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort: Enjoy gaming, live entertainment, and dining in a luxurious setting.

Overnight Hotel Stay—Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort offers upscale accommodations and amenities, including a spa, pool, and dining options. Baymont by Wyndham Cherokee Smoky Mountains is a more budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and mountain views.

How to Reach – From Asheville, NC: Cherokee is about 50 miles west of Asheville. Take I-40 West to US-74 West and then US-441 North. The drive takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Scenic Route: The Newfound Gap Road (US-441) through the national park offers stunning views and is especially beautiful in the fall.

Pro Travel Tips

• Cultural Etiquette: Respect the local Cherokee culture and traditions when visiting.
• Hiking: The nearby Oconaluftee River Trail is an easy, scenic, pet-friendly hike.

Townsend, Tennessee

Known as the “Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” Townsend offers a quieter alternative to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. It’s one of the best small towns in the Smoky Mountains for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Smokies without the crowds.

Things to Do

• Cades Cove: A scenic valley offering an 11-mile loop road for biking or driving, with opportunities to see wildlife and historic buildings.
• Tuckaleechee Caverns: Explore the underground wonders of these caverns, including a stunning waterfall.
• Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center: Learn about the cultural history of the Smokies through exhibits and artifacts.

Overnight Hotel Stay: Dancing Bear Lodge is a rustic yet luxurious lodge offering cabins and suites with beautiful views.

How to Reach – From Knoxville, TN: Townsend is about 30 miles southeast of Knoxville. Take US-321 South. The drive takes around 45 minutes.

Scenic Route: The Foothills Parkway offers an incredibly scenic drive with multiple overlooks.

Pro Travel Tips

• Wildlife Viewing: Cades Cove is best visited early in the morning or late in the evening to spot wildlife.
• Crowds: Townsend is less crowded, but Cades Cove can be busy. Plan to visit early to avoid traffic.

Sevierville, Tennessee

Sevierville, the birthplace of Dolly Parton, is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. However, it offers a blend of history, entertainment, and outdoor activities that make it worth a visit.

Things to Do

• Dolly Parton Statue: This statue in front of the Sevier County Courthouse pays tribute to the town’s most famous resident.
• Forbidden Caverns: Explore these fascinating underground caverns with guided tours that showcase stalactites, stalagmites, and an underground river.
• Smoky Mountain Deer Farm and Exotic Petting Zoo: A family-friendly attraction where you can feed and interact with deer, zebras, and other animals.

Overnight Hotel Stay – The Resort at Governor’s Crossing: A family-friendly resort with an indoor water park, making it perfect for kids. Or Clarion Inn Willow River: A budget-friendly hotel with Southern charm, offering river views and cozy accommodations.

How to Reach – From Knoxville, TN: Sevierville is about 30 miles southeast of Knoxville via I-40 East and US-441 South. The drive takes around 45 minutes.

Scenic Route: The drive through the Great Smoky Mountains Parkway offers glimpses of the surrounding mountains and easy access to nearby attractions.

Pro Travel Tips

• Shopping: Sevierville is home to the Tanger Outlets, offering great deals on popular brands.
• Local Eats: Visit Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant for a taste of Southern cooking, especially their famous apple fritters.

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Waynesville, North Carolina

Waynesville is a picturesque town between the Great Smoky Mountains and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Known for its vibrant arts scene, charming downtown, and proximity to outdoor adventures, it’s a perfect stop for travelers seeking a mix of culture and nature.

Things to Do

• Downtown Waynesville: Stroll through the historic downtown area, which is filled with art galleries, boutique shops, and locally-owned restaurants.
• Blue Ridge Parkway: Just a short drive from Waynesville, this scenic route offers breathtaking views, hiking trails, and picnic spots.
• Mast General Store: A historic general store where you can find everything from old-fashioned candies to outdoor gear.

Overnight Hotel Stay – The Swag: A luxurious mountaintop inn offering incredible views, gourmet dining, and private hiking trails.

How to Reach – From Asheville, NC: Waynesville is about 30 miles west of Asheville. Take I-40 West and then US-276 South. The drive takes around 40 minutes.

Scenic Route: The Blue Ridge Parkway, accessible near Asheville, offers one of the most scenic drives in the country and leads directly to Waynesville.

Pro Travel Tips

• Seasonal Events: Waynesville hosts several festivals throughout the year, including Folkmoot USA, an international dance and music festival.
• Outdoor Activities: Nearby Pisgah National Forest offers excellent opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and waterfall chasing.

Maggie Valley, North Carolina

Maggie Valley is a small town with big appeal, especially for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking to experience a laid-back mountain vibe. It’s known for its scenic beauty, winter sports, and vintage Americana charm.

Things to Do

• Cataloochee Ski Area: A popular spot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, with slopes suitable for all levels.
• Wheels Through Time Museum: A unique museum featuring a vast collection of vintage motorcycles and automobiles showcasing America’s motorcycling history.
• Ghost Town in the Sky: An old Wild West-themed amusement park that, while no longer fully operational, still offers nostalgic appeal and stunning views.

Overnight Hotel Stay – Jonathan Creek Inn and Villas: A peaceful mid-budget option with creekside rooms and easy access to the town’s attractions.

How to Reach – From Asheville, NC: Maggie Valley is about 35 miles west of Asheville via I-40 West and US-19 South. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes.

Scenic Route: The Soco Gap route via US-19 offers panoramic mountain views and leads you right into Maggie Valley.

Pro Travel Tips

• Winter Sports: Cataloochee Ski Area is popular, so book your accommodations and lift tickets in advance during the winter season.
• Mountain Weather: The weather can change quickly, so bring layers and check conditions before heading out.

Franklin, North Carolina

Franklin is a hidden gem in the Smoky Mountains. It is known for its rich, gem-mining history and beautiful mountain scenery. It’s a small town with a friendly atmosphere, perfect for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat.

Things to Do

• Gem Mining: Franklin is known as the “Gem Capital of the World,” so try gem mining at one of the local mines like Rose Creek Mine or Mason’s Ruby & Sapphire Mine.
• Little Tennessee River Greenway: A beautiful walking and biking trail that winds along the river, offering scenic views and wildlife spotting.
• Scottish Tartans Museum: Explore the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to Scottish tartans, celebrating Franklin’s Scottish heritage.

Overnight Hotel Stay – The Franklin Terrace Bed & Breakfast: A historic B&B offering charming accommodations and Southern hospitality.

How to Reach – From Asheville, NC: Franklin is about 65 miles southwest of Asheville via I-40 West and US-23 South. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours.

Scenic Route: The drive along US-64 from Highlands to Franklin is one of the most picturesque in the region, with plenty of waterfalls and overlooks.

Pro Travel Tips

• Best Time for Gem Mining: Summer is the best time for gem mining, as the mines are fully operational, and the weather is ideal.
• Local Festivals: Franklin hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Scottish Heritage Festival and the Franklin Folk Festival.

Cosby, Tennessee

Cosby is a small, off-the-beaten-path town that offers easy access to some of the Smoky Mountains’ most beautiful and less crowded hiking trails. It’s perfect for visitors who want to experience the natural beauty of the Smokies without the hustle and bustle of the more touristy towns.

Things to Do

• Cosby Campground: A peaceful, less crowded campground in the national park with access to several excellent hiking trails.
• Hen Wallow Falls: A beautiful, moderately challenging waterfall hike that rewards you with stunning views.
• Carver’s Orchard & Applehouse Restaurant: Enjoy fresh, local produce and a meal at this charming orchard and restaurant.

Overnight Hotel Stay – Creekwalk Inn Bed and Breakfast with Cabins: A cozy B&B offering private cabins in the woods, perfect for a quiet retreat.

How to Reach – From Knoxville, TN: Cosby is about 55 miles east of Knoxville via I-40 East. The drive takes approximately 1 hour.

Scenic Route: The Foothills Parkway is a beautiful scenic drive near Cosby, offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

Tips – Best Smoky Mountain Towns

• Best Time to Visit: The Smokies are beautiful year-round, but fall offers spectacular foliage, while spring brings blooming wildflowers.
• Pack Essentials: Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a camera for the stunning vistas, and layered clothing, as the weather can change quickly.
• Respect Nature: To preserve the area’s natural beauty, follow Leave No Trace principles, especially in national parks.

Now you know which town to stay in Smoky mountains. These towns near Great Smoky Mountains offer diverse experiences, each with its unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, these small towns in the Smoky Mountains are the best weekend gateways in the USA.

I hope you will soon play your trip to these cute small towns in the Smoky Mountains which are also the best towns in the Smoky Mountains.

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