Understand

The national park, which was opened in 1934, played a significant role in the development of the town. Back in 1912, the town only had six houses, but by 1935, the number of visitors passing through the town each year exceeded 500,000. Today, the park attracts over 9 million people annually. The town had to rapidly grow to accommodate this influx, but it also had to tackle issues related to urban sprawl and air quality due to the large number of outsiders visiting.

Get in

To reach Gatlinburg, the adventure begins by taking I-40 to TN 66 SOUTH. Follow the exhilarating twists and turns of TN 66 as it leads you to the bustling town of Sevierville. From there, your journey continues along the captivating US 441, guiding you through the enchanting town of Pigeon Forge, and finally arriving at the awe-inspiring destination of Gatlinburg. Those approaching from the west have two remarkable routes to choose from. The first option is to embark on an unforgettable expedition along US 441, starting from the vibrant city of Knoxville. Alternatively, one can opt for a scenic drive through US 411 and US 321, beginning in the captivating town of Maryville and leading you to the wondrous town of Gatlinburg. For travelers arriving from the south, US 441 unveils a majestic path through the heart of the Smokies. This fascinating route attracts visitors from Cherokee, NC. A journey of approximately 35 miles awaits those venturing from Cherokee to Gatlinburg. However, the astounding popularity of the area may extend the expedition to at least an hour, due to the abundant tourist traffic along the road. Adventure seekers arriving from the east are greeted by the welcoming embrace of US 321, leading them directly from I-40 in North Carolina to the breathtaking town of Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg, a captivating and highly sought-after resort town, can sometimes pose a challenge for drivers during the vibrant summer months, particularly on weekends. Fear not, as there is a solution to safely navigate through this bustling hub. The Gatlinburg By-Pass offers a thrilling escape from the traffic delays, especially for those heading towards the majestic wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In addition, once you find yourself immersed in the heart of town, several hidden shortcuts await, patiently ready to guide you through Gatlinburg's vibrant streets.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

**1. Hamburger**The hamburger, often simply called a burger, is a sandwich consisting of a cooked patty of ground beef, usually served in a bun with toppings and condiments such as lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese, and pickles. It is a quintessential American fast food item that can be found at restaurants, fast food joints, and even street vendors throughout the country. While traditional hamburgers typically include beef, there are also vegetarian options available made from plant-based ingredients.

**2. Pizza**Pizza is a popular Italian-American dish consisting of a yeasted flatbread base, typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various other ingredients such as meats, vegetables, and herbs. In the United States, pizza is often sold as both a take-out and sit-down dining option, with numerous regional variations in styles and toppings. Pepperoni is a particularly popular topping in the U.S., but vegetarian and vegan pizzas are also widely available.

**3. Fried Chicken**Fried chicken is a southern-style dish comprised of marinated chicken pieces that are coated in a seasoned flour mixture and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. Originating from the American South, fried chicken has become a staple in the country's culinary landscape, with various regional variations in preparation styles and seasonings. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as part of a larger feast, and although traditionally prepared with chicken, vegetarian alternatives do exist.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing