A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Gatlinburg: The Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Introduction

Gatlinburg, a charming mountain town in eastern Tennessee, is known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With a rich history, a plethora of attractions, and stunning natural beauty, Gatlinburg offers visitors an unforgettable experience.

Location and Environment

Gatlinburg is located in Sevier County, in eastern Tennessee, and is surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town is situated in a valley surrounded by mountains, offering breathtaking panoramic views and a wealth of outdoor activities.

Tourist Attractions

Gatlinburg is famous for its plethora of tourist attractions. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is undoubtedly the main attraction, with over 800 miles of trails, stunning waterfalls, and a wealth of wildlife.

In the town center, visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including the Aquarium of the Smokies, which is one of the best aquariums in the United States, and the Gatlinburg Space Needle, an observation tower that offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.

For adventure lovers, Ober Gatlinburg, an amusement park and ski resort, offers a variety of activities throughout the year, including skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and much more.

History and Culture

Gatlinburg has a rich history dating back to the early settlers in the 1800s. Visitors can learn about the region's history at the Appalachian Life Museum, which features exhibits on life in the Appalachian mountains in the 19th and 20th centuries.

The town is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The Arts and Crafts Community is a community of artists and craftsmen who live and work in Gatlinburg, and visitors can view and purchase their work in a number of shops and galleries.

Cuisine

The cuisine in Gatlinburg is as diverse as its attractions. Visitors can enjoy everything from authentic southern food to gourmet cuisine. The town is also famous for its Tennessee whiskey distilleries, and visitors can taste and purchase some of the region's finest whiskeys.

Accommodation

Gatlinburg offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and tastes. Visitors can choose from luxury hotels, rustic cabins, cozy bed and breakfasts, and campsites in the national park.

Gatlinburg Gastronomic Products

Tennessee Barbecue

Gatlinburg, as part of Tennessee, is famous for its barbecue. Local restaurants offer a variety of smoked meats, from ribs to chicken and pork, all bathed in a sweet and spicy barbecue sauce. Tennessee barbecue is known for its smoky flavor and tomato-based sauce.
Tennessee Whiskey

Tennessee is famous for its whiskey and Gatlinburg is home to several distilleries. Visitors can sample a variety of whiskeys, from the smooth and sweet Tennessee Whiskey to the potent and spicy Moonshine. Many distilleries offer tours and tastings so visitors can learn about the distillation process and try the different products.
Fried Apple Pie

A popular dessert in Gatlinburg is the fried apple pie. This sweet treat consists of a dough filled with apple and cinnamon, which is then fried until it is golden and crispy. It is often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and is a delicious way to end a meal in Gatlinburg.
Smoky Mountains Trout

Gatlinburg is located in the Smoky Mountains, a region known for its rivers and streams full of trout. Local restaurants often offer fresh trout on their menus, whether grilled, baked or fried. Fresh trout from the Smoky Mountains is a real treat for fish lovers.

Gatlinburg's Notable Gastronomic Spots

Gatlinburg, in the heart of Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, is famous for its rich Southern culinary tradition. Here are some of the highlights:

The Peddler Steakhouse

Located next to the Little Pigeon River, The Peddler Steakhouse is famous for its juicy steaks, which are cut to each customer's specifications. In addition to their excellent meat, they also offer a variety of fresh seafood and an extensive wine list. The rustic atmosphere and river views make this place a perfect choice for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.

Smoky Mountain Brewery

If you're looking for a casual and fun place, Smoky Mountain Brewery is an excellent choice. This popular pub offers a wide variety of craft beers, wood-fired pizzas, and chicken wings. Additionally, its lively atmosphere and live music make this place a favorite meeting point for both locals and visitors.

Log Cabin Pancake House

For an unforgettable breakfast or brunch, you can't miss the Log Cabin Pancake House. This cozy restaurant is famous for its delicious pancakes, waffles, and omelettes. Plus, its rustic decor and friendly service will make you feel right at home.

Greenbrier Restaurant

Located in an old log cabin, Greenbrier Restaurant is a place full of charm and tradition. Here you can enjoy typical Southern cuisine dishes, such as fried chicken, roast lamb, and pecan pie. Additionally, its extensive wine list and intimate atmosphere make this place a perfect choice for a romantic dinner.

Sporting Activities in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Hiking

Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can enjoy over 800 miles of trails. You can explore waterfalls, panoramic views, and the region's diverse wildlife.

Fishing

The mountain rivers and streams in and around Gatlinburg are ideal for trout fishing. You can fish on your own or hire a local fishing guide to help you find the best spots.

Skiing and Snowboarding

The Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area offers slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. You can also enjoy snow tubing and ice skating in the winter park.

Golf

The Gatlinburg Golf Course offers a challenging 18-hole course with spectacular mountain views. Although it's located in Pigeon Forge, it's just a few minutes drive from Gatlinburg.

Wildlife Watching

While not a sport in the traditional sense, wildlife watching in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular activity. You can see black bears, deer, wild turkeys, and many other species.

Places near Gatlinburg

If you're in Gatlinburg and wish to explore a bit more, here are some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and culinary experiences:

Sevierville

Sevierville, Tennessee, is the gateway to the majestic Smoky Mountains. With a rich history, it offers a vibrant Southern culinary scene, famous for its barbecues, and a variety of tourist attractions, including Dollywood and spectacular nature trails.

Townsend

Townsend, known as the "Gateway to the Smokies," is famous for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and delicious Southern cuisine. Enjoy fishing, hiking, and tasting local dishes in this peaceful Tennessee retreat.