An Insider’s Guide To The Gatlinburg Strip…
So, you are thinking about coming to Gatlinburg, TN huh? As a native, local business owner and performer, I’ve spent countless days (years) right in the middle of it all. Many of the locals even gave me the nickname of “Mr. Gatlinburg” a couple years ago (There is a Facebook page for it, so it has to be real.) I’m also the founder of Gatlinburg Comedy Tours, a walking tour that includes food, attractions, drinking, and fun. Although I sold that business in 2019, I still spend countless days in Gatlinburg writing, performing Stand Up Comedy at several venues, and doing book signings in the middle of all the chaos (I’m apparently into self torture as many of you.) I see all of the Facebook group pages relating to Gatlinburg, the Smokies, Pigeon Forge, etc, and all of the many questions visitors have before coming. So, I was just sitting around thinking the other day….maybe you would like to hear some of the insights from a local who hangs out with all the other locals. From parking, places to eat, the attractions, late night food and hangouts, music, moonshine, wine, shopping, and more…. I can give you a great place to start. Now, this article pertains primarily to the actual Gatlinburg Strip. I’m not including the National Park, The Arts And Crafts Community with cool shops such as Gyver’s Gadgets and Treasures In Earthen Vessels Pottery, or great restaurants such as The Greenbrier or Delauders Barbecue. Maybe I’ll write a separate article on that area. It’s a MUST do when visiting. But, here, I’m just sticking to the strip. So, let’s get started. You might want to print this out and grab a highlighter pen before coming.
Parking
It all starts with parking. This is where the adventure begins. I know this sounds like a stupid place to start, but it’s important. If you are staying in a Gatlinburg hotel, then for the most part you shouldn’t have to worry about parking in order to wander the strip. However, if you are venturing in from Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Cherokee, or a cabin deep in the woods, you are going to need to find parking. Every week is getting busier here, and I’ve seen people in the last couple of months spend over 2 hours…..you read that right….2 hours trying to find a parking spot around 1pm. So, my advice? Go ahead and set that $20 bill aside, get to town as early as possible, say 4am (just kidding kind of I think), and find a parking spot. On weekends especially, the lots start filling up around noon.
Breakfast
So, now you’ve parked! You’ve already accomplished the hardest part of your vacation. You got through the traffic, found that perfect spot, and now you are starving! Especially since you probably passed 600 pancake houses along the way. Well, lucky for you, there are some great options for you. The most famous, The Pancake Pantry, is a no brainer. There could be a Tornado going right down the strip, and you will see a line a mile long waiting to get in the Pancake Pantry, not budging. On the other end of town, you have Crockett’s Breakfast Camp….where, instead of a line, you will just see a huge cluster of people sitting outside waiting to go in for the ginormous breakfast. The newest up and comer in the Gatlinburg breakfast world, Tennessee Jed’s, is my personal favorite. Right across the street from the Pancake Pantry you will find it, and it has already reached number 1 on Tripadvisor in just a year. Smaller than the others, this locally owned spot uses the best local ingredients you can find, and it’s made to order. You will probably…most definitely…see them pop up in the lunch section as well. Last, and CERTAINLY not least, a MUST visit is The Donut Friar. I started going there daily at the age of 14 when I got my first job. I’m only 21 now (just disregard any pictures of me you see on the internet.) The Donut Friar is not only one of the best craft donut shops in East Tennessee, but in the Southeast. If you’ve already knocked off those 4, there are quite a few other great spots along the strip and just off of it, so get to exploring.
Lunch
Now it’s lunchtime, and you’ve become hungry again after navigating the packed sidewalks for a couple of hours. You’ve probably had to dance around some widewalkers (family of 3 or 4 who walk side by side blocking the sidewalk), or some widestoppers (group of 10 or more who literally just stop in the middle of the sidewalk making it impossible to pass.) There are many more, but you will have to wait for my upcoming book to see the entire list. Anyway…..Lunch time. There are a TON of great options here. So, here’s the deal. I’m going to stick with my favorite lunch only spots in the section, then put the others in the Dinner section. There are just too many to list. First on my list, and my daily go to, is Tom And Earl’s Back Alley Grill. Small, locally owned, but oh so good! They were even rated in a magazine a couple years back as the 5th best lunch spot in the State Of Tennessee! From the Hillbilly Philly to the Bust It Big Brisket sandwich, everything is awesome. The bar itself is top notch, and the atmosphere is laid back and relaxing. Next, I have to throw Tennessee Jed’s back in here. As I hear almost on a daily basis “That is the best Reuben I’ve ever had” when talking about Jed’s. Just get one while here. You will thank me. In the same alley as Tennessee Jed’s is the New Orleans Sandwich Shop. Absolutely fantastic! They are from New Orleans, so it’s about as authentic as you are going to get. One of the most hidden gems, however, is some of the best Indian Food you will ever have, and it’s at a Lemonade and Funnel cake establishment. Behind Puckers and Cafe 420 you will find it. Just look for the big “Lemonade” sign. Also, right behind there, you have another new Philly place called “Bigfoot Philly Cheesesteaks.” They are actually from Philadelphia, and have the Cheese Wiz option. Very big and very good! If you are in the mood for pizza, you have several options….but my favorite is at Gatlinburg Brewing Company. They are located at the very beginning of the strip as you come into town. Make sure to try their cheesesticks too! At the very end of town, near the National Park entrance, you will find Old Dad’s General Store And Deli. Best….place….to pack a lunch for a hike, or a drive to Cherokee, or to just sit. Amazing!Like I said, there are a ton of great lunch options, but these are my favorites.
Dinner
Now, this section is going to be just about impossible. If you thought lunch was overwhelming, just wait! Let’s make this easier…. I’m going to break this down into specific categories, so you can easily navigate the list when you come.
Fancy It Up With A Steakhouse: Ok, if you are in that let’s get dressed up mood (I mean you can still wear the neon shirt that says you are in Gatlinburg on it, we really don’t care around here), then here are some of my favorite options. First, you have the Peddler on the backside of the strip on River Road. A longstanding Gatlinburg favorite will not disappoint. Make reservations, however. Also, another old favorite steakhouse is Howard’s on the strip. There has always been something about the atmosphere there that I’ve loved (the food is great as well.) Some other options on that end of town include Cherokee Grill and the Park Grill (both outstanding), and they both bring a different feel that the others don’t. A newcomer to the Steak game, however, is Burg Steakhouse. Only opened for a few months now, this upscale establishment, located right smack in the middle of town, brings a different approach. All of the entrees, including their steaks and seafood, are the same price. You then get a full hot bar and salad bar included. I’ve eaten there several times already, and have yet to be disappointed. The atmosphere is sophisticated yet laid back, and they have some of the best bartenders I’ve seen anywhere (see the article picture of the Smoke On Smoke Old Fashioned.) Also, as I mentioned before, if you venture off of the strip, The Greenbrier Restaurant is top notch.
Seafood Time: Surprisingly, the seafood options in Gatlinburg are both abundant for the size of our town and very good! From local Trout to Crab Legs, we’ve got you covered! As you come into town is the newcomer Chesapeake’s (However, they are not new to the Seafood game….they have been Knoxville’s premiere seafood spot for a long time! Matter of fact, that was my prom date spot in 1991!) Chesapeake’s brings to Gatlinburg an upscale menu with a casually sophisticated atmosphere. Not only is the food spot on, they offer up a great bar as well. Highly recommend for a date night or family night out. Almost right across the street is The Smoky Mountain Trouthouse. Like the name says, if you are in the mood to try out some local trout, this is the spot! They have been a favorite since 1975! As you move down the strip, you will next find Crawdaddy’s, one of my personal favorite places to go for many reasons. Large menu, with all of your favorite seafood options including Shrimp Boils and Low Country Boils, and also stuff for the kids. The atmosphere there is fun, laid back, and right in the middle of the action. Just a couple doors down you have Bubba Gump’s, a national chain but also very good. They as well have a large menu and fun, casual atmosphere. There are several other restaurants that I’ve mentioned who also have seafood on their menu. I just focused on the actual seafood spots!
Pizza Time (And Italian):This is always a tough one. Everyone has their own preferences and styles, so it’s hard to say what’s best. I’m just going to run through the options that I like. I’m sure I’ll miss some. Like I said before, as you come into town, you will hit Gatlinburg Brewing Company. Don’t let the name fool you (Yes, they have incredible craft beer made right on site), but they have some of the best food anywhere, especially their pizza which they term as “Cutting Edge Craft Pizza”…..they even have a Cauliflower Crust, and I must say it’s the best I’ve had anywhere. With 2 locations, Best Italian offers up some great Pizza as well! They are also the primo Italian spot in town, so there’s that, and lookie there…. I just knocked out another category. Great Bloody Mary’s as well. Oh, and the garlic knots…. make sure to check them out. On River Road, you will find Big Daddy’s, another favorite amongst the tourists. You also have Luigi’s, a smaller Italian spot on the far end of the strip who won’t disappoint. Near the very end of the strip you will find Smoky Mountain Brewery. With a huge menu, including their well known pizzas, you won’t leave hungry. From an upscale Filet, to wings, to the pizza, it’s worth the walk. I almost forgot, right in the middle of it all, you have Mellow Mushroom. Excellent pizza, subs, and probably the best beer selection in town. Great place to take the entire family!
Mexican Time: I’ll be honest, you don’t have too many options in this category in Gatlinburg. However, the 3 on the list are all very good, and offer up different experiences. If you want to be in the middle of it all, and even sit up high on a rooftop overlooking the strip while sipping a margarita and eating a top notch Quesadilla, then Loco Burro is the place to be! I’ll tell ya, sitting on that rooftop drinking one of their signature “Fire And Ice” Margaritas is one of my favorite things in town to do. Closer to the beginning of town is a long time favorite, No Way Jose’s. Sitting on the water, they offer up a large menu with casual, fun atmosphere. Definitely a fun place for the entire family. A smaller, hidden gem is El Sonador, which is located right next door to Gatlinburg Brewing Co. Definitely worth the find, trust me!
Barbecue/Wings: When It comes to Barbecue, there are many great places that I’m not going to list that are close by, but they aren’t on or within walking distance of the strip. I would go out adventuring in this category for sure. But we do have quite a few places right here that offer up great pulled pork, ribs, and wings. Calhoun’s, next door to Smoky Mountain Brewery on the end of the strip, is an East Tennessee staple when it comes to barbecue. They have an extensive menu, and it is all very good. Another great bar to boot! A little ways off the strip, my favorite smoked wings in town can be found at Bones Barbecue. Just follow the scent. You will find it. On River Rd, you have Bennet’s Barbecue, which will down right fill you up quick with their ginormous portions. Some other hidden gems that don’t necessarily specialize in Barbecue or wings, but are great, include Tom And Earl’s Back Alley Grill (Pulled Pork Sandwich, Brisket Sandwich, Wings), Gatlinburg Brewing Company (Wings), Smoky Mountain Brewery (Wings), The Chicken Hut (Wings and Fried Chicken), and one of my new favorite wing spots, The Daquiri Shack And Bar Margaritaville, with its open air atmosphere.
What? It’s Late Night and you are Still Hungry?
One of the most common questions us locals hear around 10 and 11 pm…. “Please help!!! We are starving and had a lot of moonshine….need food where find it!” Well, I’m not going to spend a lot of time here. I’m just going to give you the late night list that us locals hit! Gatlinburg Brewing Company, Smoky Mountain Brewery, Puckers, Shamrocks, Stangas Sausage (right on the strip), Bigfoot Philly Cheesesteaks, Mayfield’s (yes, they also have food), Carnival Treats. Doesn’t matter which end of the strip you are on, you are covered up until 1am at some of these, and the others just go as long as people are out.
Time To Loosen Up And Have Some Fun!
So, now that we got the food out of the way ( I know I probably missed some and will have to come back to add more), let’s let our hair down a bit and focus on the Attractions, Shopping, Moonshine, Whiskey, Beer, Wine, Music, Comedy, and late night hangouts, shall we?
Before we hop on the party bus, let’s knock out the attractions and shopping first. I don’t want to be responsible for you guys getting tipsy on a putt putt course or going home with 300 t-shirts that say the same thing on them, just in different colors. I’ve seen them both happen before, a couple times simultaneously.
Attractions
As most of you know, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are well known for their attractions. Here are some of my favorites in town. You got to start off with the big boy, Ripley’s Aquarium. Plan to spend several hours there. One of the best Aquariums in America, loved by both children and adults. The Fish seem to like it too. On River Road, my personal favorite (I love Haunted Houses) is The Mysterious Mansion. I’ve been to haunted houses all over, and this permanent attraction just gets better every year. When it comes to Putt Putt, you have many options. One of my favorites is Circus Golf and Mirror Maze, also known as Blindshot Barnaby’s. This indoor, 3D Blacklight course has been a favorite for over 10 years. Not far from there you have Shoot Em’ Up Cinema, a 7D shooting game (look for the famous horse riding the cowboy.) I think I have the world record. I’m not sure (I am sure, I just don’t like to brag.) This past year they added a great arcade that is attached called the Red Rocket Retro Arcade. Great mix of old and new games, including Pinball. If you are looking for a huge package deal with many attractions, check out Gatlin’s right in the middle of town. From putt putt, to laser tag, and the best Escape Rooms in the area, you will find something there for the entire family. Now, if you want some thrilling coaster rides, you have several options, with my favorite being Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster. Definitely a thrill! And last but not least, and I may be a little biased here, is Gatlinburg Comedy Tours (new and improved coming soon!) They have taken what I started years ago and expanded, with several tour guides to walk you through town, make you laugh, while also telling you everything you need to know. They even are adding specialty tours such as 21 and up, Ghost Comedy Tours, and more!
Now Let’s Get High!
Come on guys, that’s not what I’m talking about! I’m still on attractions! I’m talking about the ones where you go up high! You’ve got 4 in this category. Let’s start in the beginning of town with Anakeesta (my personal favorite of the 4.) With both traditional 3 person open air chair lifts, to 4 person enclosed, this ride takes you up to the top where you will find some of the best views in the smokies! Once up there, they have several attractions, including ziplines and a beautifully lit walking bridge. There are several shops. However, my favorite thing they have is the open air restaurant and bar. What a place to eat, drink, and stare out into the Smokies. Oh, and good chance you might see a bear or 2 while there. As you move down the strip you will reach the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, which is your traditional open air lift straight up the mountain. Once at the top, you have the Nation’s longest walking bridge, the Gatlinburg Skybridge. Once again, the views here are out of this world! Across the street is the Space Needle. Basically, you ride an elevator way up and lookout in every direction. I had to lay down the last time. At the opposite end of the strip is Ober Gatlinburg. This longstanding attraction offers a lot once you get up to the top on the giant Gondola. From Ice Skating to skiing, mountain slides and restaurants, it’s definitely worth the trip!
Now, Let’s Buy Some Cool Stuff
Sure, take the easy way out. Come to Gatlinburg and buy a ton of t-shirts and ninja stuff. Yeah, you read that right. Of course everyone notices all of the t-shirt shops, but have you noticed how many stores we have selling throwing stars and swords? It’s crazy! Once again, you can wear that neon shirt all you want, but you won’t be the stealthiest ninja going about it like that. There are several unique shops on the strip, however, that you should definitely hit. Let’s start in one of my favorite little alleys, the shops at Marketplace. You have Trunk Of Man, who specializes in Beard Care. Matter of fact, they have the largest selection of Beard Care products anywhere, as well as a HUGE array of custom soaps. Add on to that custom apparel, from shirts to shoes, and it’s a must stop. Right next door you have Red Mill Monograms, one of the coolest sign shops around. Matter of fact, they have made over 6 signs for me that I take around the country using them at my shows and at book signings. They are custom made in just minutes! The Celtic Shop is also in this same alley, and they have some hard to find stuff that makes great gifts. Across the street you will find the Village, a longstanding favorite spot in Gatlinburg. From soaps, to teas, candles, paintings, hiking gear, jewelry and much more, you are bound to find that perfect gift. Close to the Village you will find All Sauced Up. In the mood for samples? Here ya go. I think my wife makes me bring something home from there every time I’m in town. Anakeesta also has some interesting shops up on the mountain. At the other end of Gatlinburg, behind Calhoun’s, there are several unique and interesting shops worth checking out. Along the way, sprinkled here and there, you will find some neat places. I’m sure I’m leaving a lot out. I don’t want you guys to think I’m some kind of shopaholic or anything. Oh, and don’t forget….make sure to make the drive out to the Arts And Crafts Community. Take a day just for that!
Ok, Ok, Ok….Let’s Get Your Drink On
Ok now, look…. You can find me on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok, etc, as THE BEER COMEDIAN. Yes, alcohol is in my stage name. I perform at a lot of breweries around the country. But, that doesn’t mean…..that I don’t know about Wine, Moonshine, Whiskey, and Cocktails. I don’t want to be labeled. I mean, I guess I do, but I don’t. Anyway. Let’s move on.
Moonshine/Whiskey
I know, this is what many of you come for! There are a ton of Moonshine Distilleries in our area, but I’m only going to focus on the Gatlinburg Strip here. First of all, DON’T FORGET YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE. Ok, let’s move on. We basically have 3 Moonshine tasting places and one Whiskey on the strip. First, you have Sugarland’s Distillery right smack in the middle. With a huge tasting room and many flavors, this is a must do. Their staff is fun and will put on a great show for you. Overall a great experience! Not far from there is Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler. Gigantic! Once again, many, many great flavors to taste, as well as pickles, cherries, peaches, etc. A little way down you have the Barrelhouse, or Ole Smoky’s Whisky tasting. Always a great rotation of whiskeys on hand, and a fun filled experience. At the beginning of town you now have Tennessee Shine Co., formerly Doc Collier’s. Huge selection of Moonshines and more. Another great tasting experience. My recommendation? Do them all! Just remember…. take your driver’s license, and you can only do one sampling per day at each location.
Wine Please? Or Cider?
Ok, so I love Wine (I just don’t drink it much anymore because it makes me slur onstage.) If you are a lover of Sweet Wines, and want to sample, then Gatlinburg is a hotspot for you! There are so many, and I know I’m going to leave some out. I apologize upfront. I’m just going to go ahead and start with my favorite, Tennessee Homemade Wines. Right across from the Village, THW has a large selection of some of the best sweet wines anywhere! From Peach to Strawberry, and everything in between, you won’t leave empty handed. Not far from them is Tennessee Cider Co., with some crazy good ciders! My favorite there changes every visit. Oh, and the hot cider when they have it is a must! In the Marketplace shopping center you have Goodwater Wines, where they will make you a killer wine slushie! Definitely a must try. I hear a lot of you ask about the famous Cotton Candy wine. Well, across the street you will find that at Little Bear Winery. In Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler you will find Bootlegger’s wine, where they have a Black and Blue that is amazing! Sugarlands Winery is also a great place to keep your wine tasting going. Once again, don’t forget your license!
Beer
Well, since I am The Beer Comedian, I better tell you beer lovers where to go! We have to start at Gatlinburg Brewing Company at the beginning of town. My first experience with them was a few years ago, when I was the Master Of Ceremonies for a craft beer festival. They won! Out of 30 plus breweries. So, now they are here, and they have a great selection of craft beer from IPA’s, Stouts, Lager’s, Porters, and Sours. My personal favorite? Breakfast Juice. Not a craft beer drinker? That’s ok too! Try their Gatty Lite! Thank me later. At the other end of town you have the longstanding Smoky Mountain Brewery. They have a good selection of beers they make. For me, most of their styles don’t fit my palate. But that’s not to say they aren’t good. They really are. It’s a must hit. If you want just a bar with a good beer selection, Mellow Mushroom has a ton! Definitely hit there. Tom And Earl’s Back Alley Grill also carries a small selection of good craft beers as well.
Late Night Bars
Not ready to give up yet, huh? You want to close it down? Well, Gatlinburg is 1am at the latest. Here are your late night spots. Gatlinburg Brewing Company on the one end, and Smoky Mountain Brewery on the other. In the middle, you have Puckers Sports Bar and Grille, a happening dance club/ Karaoke hot spot. It stays packed! Across the street, you have Shamrock’s Pub and Grille. Packed as well! They have a brand new building, with a bottom level with garage doors that open and their newly added rooftop bar! Loco Burro and Crawdaddy’s stay open late sometimes as well, up to midnight.
So, You Want To Be Entertained?
Another category that I see the most questions from….. live entertainment! Where is it? Who has it? Who does it? We want it now! Well, here’s a nice little rundown. Let’s start with the live music. You will often find live music at Gatlinburg Brewing Company, Smoky Mountain Brewery, and Ole Red’s. I would always check their schedule to see what’s going on that day or night. There are a couple places that keep to more of a regular rotation. Tom And Earl’s Back Alley Grill, from Thursday through Saturday, features the very own Denver Evans. He has a huge following, so get there early for his outdoor patio show. On Sundays, at Back Alley Grill, they often have Rossdafareye, the creator of Appalachian Space Funk. He will have you dancing or at least nodding your head while you eat. Shamrock’s has live music daily, with performers such as Nygel Bounds and Henry Wombat to name a few. You will hear them from the strip as they play out on the large patio. Sugarland’s Distillery has a large stage in back, and if your lucky, you might catch the infamous Fish Fisher in town. Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler also features many musicians on their large open air stage. If you are looking for Stand Up Comedy…..well….just check my facebook page or website. I’m really the only one who performs here sometimes, although I do bring different openers with me. Want some Magic? Definitely check out the guys at Impossibilities inside the Space Needle. Just make sure you buy tickets in advance!
So, whew….. I hope this helps! I may add more down the road. Just in case you guys wanted to know a little about me, here ya go…..
I grew up in the area but stayed in Knoxville to live after I graduated College. About 10 years ago I came back here to work and perform. I have been a professional Stand Up Comedian and Author for 11 years. My books, 5 of them which are related to Gatlinburg, include: Messing With Tourists, Stupid Answers To Stupid Questions, Messing With Tourists 2: Here We Go Again!, The City Bear In The Smokies (children’s book), A Gatlinburg Christmas (just released), and 5 Years Of This? Husband. Father. Comedian. My Story. Messing With Tourists 3: Candy Bears And Awkward Stares is coming soon, as well as a couple others. You can follow me on facebook and Instagram at The Beer Comedian, and my new website www.thebeercomedian.com is coming soon! If you see me in town at a show, or doing a book signing, come say hi!