The closest towns to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and Cherokee, North Carolina. Both towns offer a range of accommodations, dining options, and activities that cater to tourists visiting the park.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is one of the closest towns to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located just minutes from the park’s visitor center and several waterfall hikes. This charming mountain town is a popular destination for its diverse range of accommodations, from cozy cabins to luxurious resorts.
Accommodations in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg boasts a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. Some of the popular options include:
- Appy Lodge: A rustic-chic hotel with stunning mountain views and amenities like an outdoor pool and hot tub.
- Old Creek Lodge: A cozy, family-friendly resort with spacious suites and a convenient location near the park’s entrance.
Activities in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg offers a wide range of outdoor activities and tourist attractions that cater to visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the top things to do in the area include:
- Hiking: Explore the park’s numerous hiking trails, including those that lead to stunning waterfalls.
- Mini Golf: Enjoy a round of mini golf at one of the town’s many themed courses.
- Laser Tag: Test your aim at the town’s indoor laser tag arenas.
- Adventure Parks: Experience the thrill of zip lining, mountain coasters, and other adrenaline-fueled activities.
Tourist Attractions in Gatlinburg
In addition to its natural wonders, Gatlinburg is also home to a variety of tourist attractions that cater to visitors of all interests. Some of the must-see attractions include:
- Gatlinburg Space Needle: Offering panoramic views of the Smokies from its observation deck.
- Skylift: A scenic chairlift that provides elevated views of the surrounding mountains.
- Kitschy Tourist Attractions: Explore the town’s many quirky and entertaining attractions, such as wax museums and haunted houses.
Cherokee, North Carolina
Cherokee, North Carolina, is another gateway town to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering easy access to the park’s campgrounds and outdoor activities. This town is known for its rich cultural heritage and its connection to the Cherokee tribe.
Accommodations in Cherokee
Visitors to Cherokee can choose from a variety of accommodations, including:
- Campgrounds: Both within the park and in the surrounding areas, offering a range of amenities.
- Resort-Style Amenities: Luxury resorts and hotels with on-site dining, spas, and other high-end amenities.
Activities in Cherokee
In addition to the outdoor activities available within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee also offers a range of its own attractions and experiences, including:
- Outdoor Activities: Hiking, fishing, and other outdoor pursuits.
- Dollywood: A popular theme park located just a short drive from Cherokee.
- Cultural Experiences: Opportunities to learn about and engage with the Cherokee tribe’s history and traditions.
Tourist Attractions in Cherokee
Some of the top tourist attractions in Cherokee include:
- Dollywood: A world-renowned theme park with thrilling rides, live entertainment, and more.
- Biltmore House: A historic mansion and estate located just a short drive from Cherokee.
- Appalachian Trail: The famous hiking trail, which passes through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Alternative Towns Near the Great Smoky Mountains
While Gatlinburg and Cherokee are the closest towns to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are several other nearby towns that offer their own unique experiences and attractions:
Bryson City, North Carolina
Bryson City is a quaint town with a charming downtown area, featuring shops, cafes, and easy access to the park via Deep Creek Road.
Townsend, Tennessee
Townsend is a mountain town with a KOA campground and easy access to Cades Cove, one of the most popular destinations within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a larger city located just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains, offering a vibrant downtown area, the Biltmore House, and a range of other attractions.
Camping Options
Visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park have several camping options to choose from, both within the park and in the surrounding towns.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Campgrounds
The national park itself offers 10 frontcountry campgrounds, all of which have running water and flush toilets, but no shower facilities or hookups.
Campgrounds near Gatlinburg and Cherokee
In addition to the park’s campgrounds, there are also several campgrounds located near Gatlinburg and Cherokee that offer a range of amenities, including hookups, shower facilities, and resort-style amenities.
Tips for Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains
When planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, there are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Rent a Car: Renting a car can be more cost-effective than relying on public transportation, especially if you are under 25.
- Book Ahead: Make camping reservations and hotel bookings in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.
- Avoid Tourist Traps: Consider staying in less touristy areas like Bryson City or Townsend for a more relaxed experience.
References
- https://www.fodors.com/community/united-states/closest-city-to-the-great-smoky-mountains-263403/
- https://www.harborsandhavens.com/blog/cities-near-smoky-mountains-national-park
- https://www.reddit.com/r/GSMNP/comments/16n5w30/must_visit_cities_near_smoky_mountains/
- https://www.campingkiddos.com/blog/best-towns-near-great-smoky-mountains-national-park
- http://www.destinationparks.com/towns/towns-cities-near-great-smoky-mountains-national-park.php