Do you need a weekend away? This is your sign to plan one for you and your significant other, and don’t worry about coming up with a detailed schedule of things to do– we did that for you! Take a look at our romantic 2-day itinerary for a Smoky Mountain getaway:
Day 1
Morning
We help you get ready for the day with our complimentary hot breakfast! After eating breakfast, we recommend walking The Gatlinburg Trail. The trailhead is located on River Road, not far from our hotel, and takes you along the river to Sugarlands Visitor Center inside the national park. This easy walk is less than 2 miles long, and you could also choose to ride a bike along this trail if you want. Once you reach the Sugarlands Visitor Center, you’ll find several other access points to hiking trails if you want to continue enjoying the great outdoors!
After exploring The Gatlinburg Trail, it’s time to do more sightseeing and some shopping! The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is an 8-mile loop made up of local artisans and craftsmen selling a wide variety of interesting things, from woodworking to pottery. We recommend stopping at the Morning Mist Village, a complex with several unique shops, including a handmade jewelry shop, a quilt shop, art galleries, and an entire store dedicated to candles and fragrances.
Afternoon/Evening
If you’re looking for a quick lunch spot or just somewhere to grab a sweet treat, then you have to stop at Glades Soda Fountain, which is also in the Morning Mist Village. This locally owned and operated shop serves quick bites like hot dogs or nachos, but the specialty is old-fashioned phosphates and sodas, malts, and sundaes. Choose from an extensive list of sodas like red cream soda, Coke, Dr. Pepper, Sprite, sasparilla, root beer, and other flavors like orange, grape, cherry, chocolate, peach, lemon, lime, and pineapple– the combination options are nearly endless! They also offer many delicious ice cream flavors from banana pudding to rocky road.
The rest of the afternoon and evening can be spent at Anakeesta. It’s one of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions and for good reason. The views are incredible, and there are so many fun activities to enjoy. You’ll definitely want to do the Treetop Skywalk and the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the Dueling Adventure Zipline. For dinner, choose one of the many Anakeesta restaurants for a delicious meal with a view. We also suggest sticking around for a drink at the Clifftop bar to watch the sunset and then take a walk through Astra Lumina, an enchanted night walk among the stars. It’s the ultimate romantic ending to a perfect day!
Day 2
Morning
Of the many breakfast places in Gatlinburg, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp is one of the best for its cozy atmosphere and hearty breakfast dishes. Once you’re fueled up for the day, it’s time to head into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Driving the Cades Cove Scenic Loop allows you to see old cabins and other historic sites, watch for wildlife, and admire the natural scenery. You can easily stop to get out and explore places like the John Cable Mill or the Elijah Oliver Cabin, or even take a short hike to Abrams Falls.
Afternoon
If you have more time to explore, we suggest taking the short hike up to Clingmans Dome, the tallest point in the Smokies. You won’t believe how far you’ll be able to see from the observation point, especially on clear, sunny days. Taking a picnic lunch is a great idea, since there are plenty of picnic areas throughout the national park, or enjoy a meal in downtown Gatlinburg on your way out of town. No Way Jose’s Cantina or Bennett’s Barbeque are two options for a satisfying meal!
Our Downtown Gatlinburg Hotel
Black Bear Inn & Suites is situated in downtown Gatlinburg, close to the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and all of the shops, restaurants, and attractions along the Parkway. A few of the amenities include an enclosed heated pool, high-speed internet, continental breakfast, and 24/7 coffee service in the lobby.
All the work is done for you with this romantic 2-day itinerary, so all you have to do is book one of our luxury King Suites for the ultimate Smoky Mountain getaway. We can’t wait to welcome you and your sweetheart to the Smokies!