Gatlinburg has become an important handicraft center for the Southern Highlands area. At a number of shops in the vicinity visitors can watch craftsmen displaying such outstanding skills as weaving, pottery, broom making, woodworking and furniture making.
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts offers various programs and courses throughout the year; phone (865) 436-5860. The Gatlinburg Convention Center often hosts public events, including several craft fairs.
Of theatrical interest is Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre, which presents original comedy musicals and vaudeville-style shows from late April to December. Reservations are recommended; phone (865) 436-4039 or (877) 388-5784.
The 5-mile Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail begins and ends in Gatlinburg, winding along Cherokee Orchard Road past mountain streams, trees, flowers and numerous homesteads.
Visitor Centers
Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau 811 East Parkway Gatlinburg, TN 37738. Phone:(865)436-4178 or (800)588-1817
Shopping
Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, 3 miles east of downtown, began as a craft show in 1937 and now includes nearly 120 craft shops, studios and galleries along an 8-mile trail.
Things to Do
AnakeestaOle Smoky Moonshine Distillery
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Westgate's Wild Bear Falls Water Park