The Great Smoky Mountains are surrounded by charming towns that offer their own unique experiences. From bustling tourist hubs filled with attractions to quiet, peaceful valleys steeped in Appalachian tradition, each town around the Smokies has something different to offer.
Whether you’re into hiking, shopping, culture, or just soaking in mountain views, this guide covers the best Smoky Mountain towns and what makes each one worth a visit.
1. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Vibe: Lively mountain gateway packed with attractions
Why It’s Special: Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and one of the most popular destinations in the region. It offers a mix of nature, nightlife, and family-friendly fun.
Top Attractions:
- Ober Mountain (tram, skiing, snow tubing)
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
- Gatlinburg SkyBridge
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park entrance
Best For: First-time visitors, families, couples
Don’t Miss: A stroll through The Village Shops for local art, coffee, and souvenirs
2. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Vibe: Action-packed with theme parks, dinner shows, and shopping
Why It’s Special: Just a short drive from Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge is home to the famous Dollywood amusement park and countless entertainment options. It’s ideal for travelers looking for excitement and variety.
Top Attractions:
- Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country
- The Island in Pigeon Forge
- Titanic Museum Attraction
- Dinner shows like Hatfield & McCoy or Pirates Voyage
Best For: Families, thrill-seekers, music lovers
Don’t Miss: A ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at sunset
3. Townsend, Tennessee
Vibe: Quiet, scenic, and nature-focused
Why It’s Special: Known as “The Peaceful Side of the Smokies,” Townsend offers a slower pace and a deeper connection with nature. It’s perfect for those looking to avoid crowds and immerse themselves in the outdoors.
Top Attractions:
- Entrance to Cades Cove
- Tuckaleechee Caverns
- Little River tubing
- Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
Best For: Couples, nature lovers, photographers
Don’t Miss: Stargazing or a picnic along the river
4. Cherokee, North Carolina
Vibe: Cultural, historic, and natural
Why It’s Special: Located on the North Carolina side of the park, Cherokee is the heart of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation. It offers a blend of cultural experiences and mountain beauty.
Top Attractions:
- Museum of the Cherokee People
- Oconaluftee Indian Village
- Harrah’s Cherokee Casino
- Mingus Mill and Mountain Farm Museum
Best For: History buffs, cultural travelers, scenic drivers
Don’t Miss: Elk viewing at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center at dawn or dusk
5. Bryson City, North Carolina
Vibe: Small-town charm with outdoor adventure
Why It’s Special: A laid-back town perfect for escaping the crowds, Bryson City is home to the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad and offers access to Deep Creek’s waterfalls and tubing spots.
Top Attractions:
- Great Smoky Mountains Railroad scenic train rides
- Deep Creek hiking and tubing
- Fly fishing on the Tuckasegee River
- Local galleries and breweries
Best For: Families, outdoor enthusiasts, couples
Don’t Miss: A scenic train ride through the mountains, especially in fall
6. Sevierville, Tennessee
Vibe: A mix of local life and tourism with big-name shopping and attractions
Why It’s Special: Birthplace of Dolly Parton and filled with hidden gems, Sevierville offers a convenient base close to the action but without the heavy crowds.
Top Attractions:
- Forbidden Caverns
- Tanger Outlets Sevierville
- Smoky Mountain Deer Farm & Exotic Petting Zoo
- Floyd Garrett’s Muscle Car Museum
Best For: Budget travelers, shoppers, families
Don’t Miss: The Dolly Parton statue in the town square
7. Wears Valley, Tennessee
Vibe: Scenic and secluded
Why It’s Special: Often overlooked, Wears Valley offers breathtaking views and a peaceful setting for cabin stays and quiet reflection. It’s ideal for escaping the tourist buzz.
Top Attractions:
- Scenic drives along Wears Valley Road
- Metcalf Bottoms picnic area access
- Antique shops and local cafés
Best For: Cabin rentals, romantic retreats, slow travel
Don’t Miss: Watching the fog roll over the mountains at sunrise
Choosing the Right Town for You
| Town | Best For | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Gatlinburg | First-timers, attractions | National Park access, SkyBridge, aquarium |
| Pigeon Forge | Families, entertainment | Dollywood, shows, shopping |
| Townsend | Nature lovers, peace | Cades Cove, river activities |
| Cherokee | Cultural travelers | Native heritage, elk, museums |
| Bryson City | Outdoor fans | Waterfalls, train rides, tubing |
| Sevierville | Budget trips | Shopping, family attractions |
| Wears Valley | Romance, seclusion | Quiet cabins, scenic views |
Final Thoughts
Every town around the Smokies has its own story to tell. Whether you want the excitement of Pigeon Forge, the culture of Cherokee, or the quiet charm of Wears Valley, there’s a perfect match waiting for your travel style.
Why not explore a few during your visit? The real magic of the Smokies lies not just in the park—but in the people and places that surround it.
