The 4 Coolest Places to Stop On a Drive Through the Smoky Mountains

If you’ve never been to the Great Smoky Mountains in eastern Tennessee, you’re missing out on one of the most majestic places the country has to offer. No matter what time of year, the Smoky Mountains are a relaxing nature-filled way to escape the hustle and bustle of city and suburban life. Once you’ve decided to take the trip, check out a few of these places as you weave your way through the beautiful landscape.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Once you come over a hill, you’ll see the bizarre, yet delightful town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Wrapped in wilderness, Gatlinburg is certainly one of the most oddball towns in America, and it certainly seems out-of-place. Here, you can take your pick of odd tourist traps, such as the Gatlinburg Space Needle, Hillbilly Golf, which is an unusual miniature golf course, or Dollywood, a theme park with rides and attractions devoted entirely to the country legend Dolly Parton. From a nature perspective, take a nice rafting trip down the Pigeon River or ride horses deep into the forests of the Smoky Mountains.

Clingmans Dome

The highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains at over 6,600 feet, Clingmans Dome is the premier spot to take in all the flora and fauna of the area. Once you get to the top, head to the observation tower. This amazing architectural feat built in 1959 is awesome looking all by itself. However, at its peak, you can view either the greatest sunrise or sunset you’ve seen in your life.

Smoky Mountain Brewery

If you’re a beer lover or a beer snob and can’t imagine drinking anything but the finest of microbrews, head to the Smoky Mountain Brewery, with three locations throughout the Smoky Mountains. All the locations offer some great pizza, burgers, and snacks, as well as a seasonal menu of beers. Once you find a table among the locals and visitors alike, try one of their three signature beers: the Velas Helles light German lager, the Cherokee Red Ale, or Mountain Light American-style Pilsner. The best part about these beers aside from the taste is that they’re only $3.65 a pint, which is cheaper than you can get a Budweiser in the city. Just remember to have a designated driver and please remember to drink responsibly.

Legacy Mountain Ziplines

The zipline is the perfect foray for those looking for a thrill, but not quite ready to bungee jump or skydive. At Legacy Mountain Ziplines, they have over 4.5 miles of ziplining fun, with the average trip at about 2,500 feet. As you cascade over the tops of the Great Smoky Mountains, you’ll see dense forests, magnificent peaks, and abundant wildlife. The average tour takes about three hours, so make sure you have enough time. The price per person is $99, but its well worth it for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Whether you love adventure, touristy gimmicks, beers, or the outdoors, a drive through the Great Smoky Mountains gives you the opportunity to do any activity you want. The next time you want a change of pace, pack everyone in the car and take a trip through one of the best gems in the south.

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