Wander the Smokies

What to do, when to go, and where to stay — your complete Smokies guide.

Explore the Smokies

Historic building

Smokehouse:

Preserved storage building in the Oconaluftee / Mountain Farm Museum: A Living History Exhibit area (built 19).

Gatlinburg, TN · GSMNP

About Smokehouse:

(576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738) provides another mountaintop adventure, accessible by a scenic Chondola (open-air chairlift or enclosed gondola) or Ridge Rambler (adventure vehicle). At the summit, Anakeesta offers a diverse range of activities. The Tree Canopy Walk features 880 feet of bridges suspended 50-60 feet above the forest floor. Other attractions include the Rail Runner mountain coaster, a dueling zipline, Vista Gardens with its botanical displays, and the AnaVista Tower, the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg, offering 360-degree views. Dining options like Cliff Top Grill & Bar and Smokehouse provide scenic meals, and the Firefly Village offers shopping and relaxation spots. Anakeesta emphasizes a blend of adventure and immersion in nature.

Beyond the Cinnamon Bread, Dollywood's food legacy is built on a foundation of Southern comfort food and festival-specific culinary delights. The park offers a wide array of dining options, from traditional barbecue at Miss Lillian's Smokehouse to hearty Southern buffets, fried chicken, and classic American fare. Throughout the year, Dollywood hosts various festivals, each bringing its own unique culinary offerings. The "Harvest Festival" features fall-themed treats and artisan foods, while the "Smoky Mountain Christmas" offers seasonal specialties. The park's food program emphasizes quality, generous portions, and a taste of Appalachian hospitality, ensuring that the culinary experience is as integral to the visit as the rides and shows. Dolly Parton's personal touch and her celebration of her mountain heritage are evident in every bite, making Dollywood a true culinary ambassador for the region.

1. Aunt Granny's Restaurant: A beloved Dollywood institution, Aunt Granny's is known for its all-you-care-to-eat family-style Southern buffet. Dishes typically include fried chicken, pot roast, mashed potatoes, and various country vegetables.

2. Dogs N Taters: A classic American concession stand within Dollywood, offering hot dogs, corn dogs, and crispy tater tots. Ideal for a quick, casual bite while exploring the park.

3. Front Porch Cafe: Located in Dollywood's Craftsman's Valley, this cafe offers a menu of sandwiches, salads, and classic Southern dishes in a relaxed setting.

4. Miss Lillian's Smokehouse: A fan-favorite for its smoked meats, including pulled pork and chicken, served with traditional sides. Miss Lillian herself often makes appearances, adding to the entertainment.

5. Grist Mill: Famous for its fresh-baked cinnamon bread, a must-try Dollywood treat. Also offers sandwiches and other baked goods.

6. Victoria's Pizza: A casual spot for pizza slices and whole pies, located near the Country Fair section of Dollywood.

7. Red's Drive-In: A 1950s-themed diner serving classic burgers, fries, and milkshakes.

8. Hickory House BBQ: Another excellent option for smoked meats, offering ribs, pulled pork, and chicken.

9. Till & Harvest Food Hall: Located in Wildwood Grove, this newer establishment offers a variety of fresh, fast-casual options including salads, bowls, and Mexican-inspired dishes.

10. Song & Hearth: A Southern Eatery (DreamMore Resort): A buffet-style restaurant at Dollywood's DreamMore Resort, serving breakfast and dinner with a focus on Southern comfort food.

11. Ember & Ash (HeartSong Lodge & Resort): The signature restaurant at the new HeartSong Lodge, offering a refined menu with Appalachian influences and a focus on wood-fired dishes.

12. High Note Rooftop Bar & Restaurant (HeartSong Lodge & Resort): Offering small plates, craft cocktails, and stunning views from the rooftop of HeartSong Lodge.

The Cable Mill complex is a highlight of the loop. Built by John Cable in 1868, the grist mill utilized the power of Abrams Creek to grind corn and wheat for the community. Today, the mill is often operational during peak season, demonstrating the grinding process. Surrounding the mill are several other historic structures relocated from elsewhere in the Cove, including a barn, a smokehouse, and a blacksmith shop. These buildings collectively paint a vivid picture of the self-sufficient agrarian lifestyle.

History

Smokehouse: is a preserved storage building, built 19, in the Oconaluftee / Mountain Farm Museum: A Living History Exhibit area. The building is viewable from outside only — please do not enter.

Best time to visit

Spring brings wildflowers and roaring waterfalls. Summer is busiest — arrive early. Fall is peak season for foliage (mid-October typical). Winter offers solitude, ice-rimed rock, and sharp long views, but expect road closures at high elevations.

Getting there

From downtown Gatlinburg, head toward the park entrances at Sugarlands (Gatlinburg side) or Oconaluftee (Cherokee side). A "Park It Forward" parking tag is required anywhere inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park for stays over 15 minutes (daily $5 / weekly $15 / annual $40 via recreation.gov or park kiosks).

Know before you go

High-elevation overlooks can be closed in winter when roads are icy. Always check the park road status before driving up.

Where to stay nearby

Most visitors to Smokehouse: base out of Gatlinburg or the nearby GSMNP area. Cabins, hotels, and B&Bs are all well-represented. See the Stay22 map below for live availability and pricing.

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Where to stay

Near Smokehouse:

Stay close to Smokehouse: — most visitors base out of Gatlinburg or the wider GSMNP area. Live pricing below.

Map powered by Stay22. Prices and availability update live.

Further reading

This page draws on our research reports: Historic Buildings List

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