Content Produced in Partnership with Visit Sevierville
Located at the base of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a laidback Tennessee mountain town called Sevierville. Home to country music queen Dolly Parton, Sevierville is brimming with history and culture. Once a popular moonshiners' hideaway, Sevierville is now a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts wishing to explore the nearby national park — without giving up too many modern amenities. Though it may be your first time visiting Sevierville, we have a feeling it certainly won't be your last; Sevierville's dining, activities, and lodging are sure to impress. Here's a quick lowdown on what all first time visitors should add to their itineraries:
Activities
Sevierville is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, and while it has plenty of attractions in the nearby park, you’ll also find lots to see and do in its city center. Sevierville boasts one of Tennessee’s largest outlet malls at Tanger Outlets. In addition to top brand names, you’ll also score goods unique to the area. Just a few miles from Tanger Outlets you'll find a range of handcrafted cutlery from Smoky Mountain Knife Works. Farther away from the city limits are adventure parks galore. These unique parks are located in the foothills of the Smokies, allowing visitors to enjoy multiple activities in one day. Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park has the longest has the longest and highest zipline course in the Smokies, while Adventure Park at Five Oaks features guided horseback excursions through the heart of some of America’s prettiest countryside. Don’t forget — no trip to Sevierville is complete without a selfie at Dolly’s bronze statue in the downtown square.
Restaurants
One of the best ways to get to know a destination is through its local dining scene, and Sevierville does not disappoint in that arena. Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant is a Sevierville staple and probably one of the most popular establishments in the area. Located right off the main drag as you head into Pigeon Forge, the farmhouse restaurant is one of two located on the Apple Barn & Cider Mill property. Surrounded by orchards and featuring a winery, cider mill and general store, Applewood Farmhouse is an ideal stop not just for a family dinner but to grab cute souvenirs before heading home, too. Other great restaurants include Courthouse Donuts, a place known for its build-your-own donut toppings, and Tony Gore’s Smoky Mountain BBQ & Grill. Established by Southern Gospel musician Tony Gore, the barbecue joint is known for its generous portions. If you time your visit right, you’ll even be able to watch Tony perform! Local moonshine distilleries are extremely popular in the Smokies as well. Thunder Road Distillery, Tennessee Legend Distillery and Sevier Distilling Company all offer tastings for adults over 21 — and you can even take some ‘hooch home with you as a souvenir if you’re so inclined.
Lodging
With charming interiors, cozy modern amenities and magnificent views, all travelers to Sevierville can find a lodging option that fits their definition of a "true mountain oasis." Because of its on-site waterpark and family meal deal plan, Wilderness at the Smokies is a great option for families with young ones on the move. Meanwhile, locations like Oak Haven Resort & Spa and Hidden Mountain Resort include luxurious log cabins with stunning panorama views of the mountains. Appleview River Resort and The Lodge at Five Oaks, Sevierville’s newest hotel, are ideal for travelers who want to stay close to the downtown area — without sacrificing the beautiful natural views Sevierville is known for. No matter when you go, you’re sure to find accommodations to fit every budget and travel style while you’re in Sevierville. Click here to begin planning the rest of your Smoky Mountains vacation.