The Ultimate Spring Break Guide to the Smoky Mountains

Spring Break in the Smoky Mountains is a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and Southern hospitality. Whether you’re exploring Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville, there’s something for everyone—thrill-seekers, families, couples, and groups alike. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your Spring Break in the Smokies!

Outdoor Adventures 🌿🏕️

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Spring is the perfect time to hike! Check out Laurel Falls, Alum Cave Trail, or Cades Cove Loop for breathtaking views and possible wildlife sightings.

2. Clingmans Dome – Hike up to the highest point in the Smokies for jaw-dropping panoramic views.

3. Wildflower Walks – Springtime in the Smokies means beautiful blooms! Don’t miss Whiteoak Sink or Porters Creek Trail for a floral-filled hike.

4. Whitewater Rafting – Get your adrenaline pumping on the Pigeon River with guided rafting trips.

5. Ziplining & Mountain Coasters – Try Anakeesta, The Goat Coaster, or CLIMB Works Zipline for a high-flying adventure.

Family-Friendly Fun 🎡🎢

1. Dollywood – A must-visit! Enjoy world-class rides, live entertainment, and Southern eats.

2. Anakeesta – A mountaintop adventure park with scenic views, treetop walks, zip lines, and fun dining spots.

3. Ober Mountain – The Aerial Tramway, Alpine Slide, and wildlife encounters make for an unforgettable experience.

4. Gatlinburg SkyPark & SkyBridge – Walk across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America for breathtaking mountain views.

5. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies – One of the top aquariums in the country with interactive exhibits for kids and adults.

Entertainment & Attractions 🎭🎤

1. The Island in Pigeon Forge – A great place for shopping, dining, and riding the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.

2. Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud – A hilarious dinner show with down-home cooking.

3. The Comedy Barn – A family-friendly comedy show full of laughs.

4. Titanic Museum – Step inside a replica of the Titanic and learn the stories of its passengers.

5. Alcatraz East Crime Museum – A unique look at crime history, featuring artifacts from real cases.

Foodie Favorites 🍗🍩

1. The Old Mill Pottery Café (Pigeon Forge) – Incredible lunch and now offering a weekend brunch too!

2. The Apple Barn & Cider Mill (Sevierville) – Try their apple butter, apple fritters, and fresh cider!

3. Pancake Pantry (Gatlinburg) – A must for breakfast lovers but the locals know it’s all about their LUNCH!

4. Local Goat (Pigeon Forge) – A modern spot with fresh, locally sourced dishes.

5. Chesapeake’s (Gatlinburg) – If you’re craving seafood in the mountains, this is the place to go.

6. The Donut Friar (Gatlinburg) - The best donuts for any sweet tooth. Family owned for generations!

Relax & Unwind 🧖‍♀️🌅

1. Moonshine & Wine Tastings – Visit Ole Smoky Moonshine, Sugarlands Distilling Co., or Tennessee Homemade Wines for local flavors.

2. Spa Day – Book a relaxing massage or facial at The Spa at RiverStone or Serenity Spa.

3. Scenic Drives – Cruise the Foothills Parkway or Newfound Gap Road for stunning mountain scenery.

4. Sunset Views – Watch the sunset from Morton Overlook or Anakeesta’s Cliff Top Restaurant.

Bonus: Special Spring Events 🌸🎶

• Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage (April) – Guided hikes and nature walks to see the Smokies in bloom.

• Dollywood’s Flower & Food Festival (April-May) – A stunning floral display and delicious seasonal bites.

• Spring Rod Run (April, Pigeon Forge) – A massive hot rod and classic car show.

• Dogwood Arts Festival (April, Knoxville) - Established in 1961, the Dogwood Arts Festival is one of the most celebrated cultural events in Knoxville!