Smokey Mountains Itinerary

Smoky Mountains 3-Day Itinerary 🍂

DAY 1: GATLINBURG + ANAKEESTA

Breakfast: Crockett’s, Over Easy Al’s, Pancake Pantry or The Log Cabin. TIP: Get to Crockett’s or Pancake Pantry by 7–7:30am or expect a 45–60 min wait this season!

Explore downtown Gatlinburg (The Parkway) for craft stores, attractions, candy shops and the beautiful, festive Village Shops.

Anakeesta: We arrived at 10am with no crowds! Ride the gondola, walk the Treetop Skywalk, explore Vista Gardens and enjoy the views from AnaVista Tower.

Lunch: Cliff Top at Anakeesta (first come, first served).

Aquarium: We love wildlife, so this was a favorite!

Evening: Don’t miss Astra Lumina! A magical forest walk filled with lights, music and installations. Separate ticket required. Beautiful for videos!

Dinner: The Peddler Steakhouse or The Greenbrier.

DAY 2: DOLLYWOOD

Breakfast: Famous cinnamon bread and coffee at The Grist Mill. A MUST!

Ride the Dollywood Express train for a tour of the park, enjoy the rides and download the app to check wait times.

Explore Craftsman’s Valley for local artisans, shops and live music.

Lunch: Aunt Granny’s for Southern family-style dining, Front Porch Café for a sit-down meal or Hickory House BBQ for something casual.

Evening: Great Pumpkin LumiNights! My BIGGEST tip is to stay after dark! During Harvest Festival (Sept. 14–Oct. 31), the park lights up with over 12,000 pumpkins, a 40-foot pumpkin tree and gorgeous fall displays!

DAY 3: PIGEON FORGE + WEARS VALLEY

Breakfast: At the cabin or The Old Mill Restaurant for Southern comfort food.

Explore Old Mill Square! Don’t miss Pigeon River Pottery, the Old Mill General Store, Farmhouse Kitchen for home finds and the Candy Kitchen to watch old-fashioned taffy being made.

Lunch: The Old Mill Pottery House Café.

Afternoon: Take a scenic drive through Wears Valley for beautiful countryside and mountain views.

Dinner: We headed back to Gatlinburg, where there are plenty of great options!

WHERE WE STAYED: An Airbnb chalet in the mountains, just 5 minutes from downtown Gatlinburg with the most gorgeous views. HIGHLY recommend! Here is the link:

Cabin in Gatlinburg · ★4.9 · 3 bedrooms · 7 beds · 2.5 private baths