One-tank trip: Gatlinburg

By Amy Hunter

For the AJC

If Panama City Beach moved to the mountains, it would probably look a lot like Gatlinburg, Tenn. The family-focused destination is chock-a-block with the kinds of attractions that make children’s eyes bug out: Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, miniature golf, laser tag, Guiness World of Records Museum, a wax museum.

Enlarge photo

Eight Gables Inn Eight Gables Inn in Gatlinburg, Tenn., is in the hills between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, but the feel is much more Smoky Mountain cozy elegance than tourist town ticky-tack. Be sure to ask for a room with a fireplace or whirlpool bath for the ultimate in romantic luxury.

More travel stories

• Southwest-AirTran deal: A timeline of two airlines
• Southwest Airlines launch: What this means to you
• Austin’s music, food usually take center stage
• Benefit from hat trick of airfare bargains
• Port city to spout festivals
• Travel guide
• Travel deals
• Still Traveling blog
• Atlanta Airport
• Beaches
• Southeastern travel
• U.S. and International travel

But look beyond those flashy amusements and visitors will discover a culture of mountain craftsmanship that dates back generations. After spending time in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited park in the United States, and getting their fill of Christmas stores and fudge shops, visitors are encouraged to explore this mountain town’s hand-crafted legacy.

Don’t miss

Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair. More than 200 booths feature artisans demonstrating their crafts and selling their workmanship, including pottery, jewelry, leather goods, paintings, baskets and more. Look for third-generation broom maker David Ogle and original watercolors and note cards by Verne Hippensteal. Musical entertainment is provided as well. Mondays-Saturdays 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sundays 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 8-25. Gatlinburg Convention Center, 303 Reagan Drive. $6; free for children 12 and younger. www.craftsmenfair.com/

Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts. This nationally renowned institution provides instruction in skills such as wood turning, metalwork, drawing, photography and painting. The Arrowmont School is open year-round to visitors, and is home to five galleries. The Arrowmont Store on the grounds is a great stop for hard–to-find art supplies and books. Before visiting, check the Web site’s calendar of events to see what workshops and exhibits are available. 556 Parkway, 865-436-5860, www.arrowmont.org

The Eight Mile Loop. Established in 1937 and designated a “Tennessee Heritage Arts and Crafts Trail,” the Eight Mile Loop encompasses one of the largest groups of independent artisans in the United States with more than 100 shops, galleries and studios three miles from downtown Gatlinburg. Artisans create candles, quilts, dolls and more. Most shops are open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. www.gatlinburgcrafts.com/index.html

The Cliff Dwellers Gallery. The cooperative gallery houses the work of more than 60 contemporary and traditional artists, including pottery by Winnie Utterback, who specializes in fired stoneware and porcelain wheel-thrown pottery. The historic chalet-style building, which dates back to the 1930s, was originally located in downtown Gatlinburg. In 1995, local artist Jim Gray bought the building, moved it to its current site and restored it for use as a gallery. 668 Glades Road, 865-436-6921, www.cliffdwellersgallery.com.

Enjoy the fall foliage. If there is one thing Gatlinburg is more famous for than its artisans, it’s the beauty of the fall foliage. Plan a trip to Gatlinburg in October or early November to appreciate the vibrant colors of fall leaves. www.nps.gov/grsm

If you go

Getting there: Gatlinburg is 196 miles from Atlanta. Take 1-85 North to I-985 North to U.S. 23. From U.S. 23, take U.S. 23/441 to U.S. 74/441 through Cherokee, N.C., to Gatlinburg.

Where to stay

Eight Gables Bed and Breakfast Inn. All rooms and suites have mountain views; some have fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. $140-$270. 219 N. Mountain Trail. 865-430-3344, www.eightgables.com

Laurel Spring Lodge Bed and Breakfast. Located in a historic, 1930s-era lodge, the B&B is within walking distance of the trolley and downtown. $119-$159. 204 Hill St. 888-430-9211, www
.laurelspringslodge.com

Where to eat

The Greenbrier Restaurant. Fine dining in a rustic log cabin overlooking Gatlinburg. Prime rib, mountain trout and pork tenderloin are on the menu. Entrees $14.95-$32.95. 370 Newman Road. 865-436-6318, www.greenbrierrestaurant.com

Legends by Max. Affordable Italian food in the heart of Gatlinburg. Sandwiches start at $6.99; entrees $10.99-$14.99. One child eats free with each adult meal. 650 Parkway. 865-436-7343, www.legendsbymax.com

Visitor Information

Gatlinburg Visitors and Convention Bureau. 811 E. Parkway. 800-588-1817, www.gatlinburg.com/default
.asp

Provided by Demand Studios