8 Charming Gateway Towns Near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which straddles Tennessee and North Carolina, is by far the busiest national park in the whole U.S., with more than 12 million annual visits. It spans about 800 square miles, encompassing stunning mountain vistas, 10 developed campgrounds and numerous backcountry sites, the hike-in LeConte Lodge, a wealth of hiking trails, and more than 2,100 miles of rivers and streams. Visitors call it one of the best U.S. national parks for hiking. Whether you explore on foot or behind the wheel, there's plenty to keep you occupied for a week or more, and that's just within the park itself. Surrounding its boundary are a number of fantastic gateway towns brimming with distinctive character, attractions, great dining, and places to stay. A trip to this region is among the best things to do in Tennessee for first-time visitors, as it puts the beauty of the mountains on full display. 

The destinations surrounding Great Smoky Mountains National Park include major tourist hubs such as Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, as well as outdoorsy havens like Townsend and Bryson City. Many of these are located within very easy distance of one another, such as Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Cherokee, and Bryson City, which all sit within a 35-mile area. Cities like Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are located near one another and are often visited together. Whether you're seeking an action-packed family vacation or a quiet, romantic getaway, these places offer something for everyone. Below are eight destinations — and one fun bonus — that are considered some of the best gateways to the Smokies, each with their own distinctive qualities and draws.

A buzzing destination bordering Great Smoky Mountains National Park on its northern side, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is one of the area's busiest gateway towns. It's surrounded by the mountains and home to myriad hotels, restaurants, and attractions. One of the best places to take in the views is SkyPark, an all-ages destination where you can ascend Crockett Summit in a chairlift, cross the longest pedestrian cable bridge on the continent, and walk along 1.5 miles of trails.

The Parkway — known locally as "the Strip" — is the beating heart of Gatlinburg. The stretch buzzes with restaurants, museums, mini-golf, and themed retail attractions like The Village Shops, which are modeled after a quaint country hamlet. Make discoveries at Ripley's Believe It or Not, take a spin on the Ripley's Mountain Coaster, and hop aboard the Gatlinburg Tram up to Ober Mountain for ziplines, skiing, and other activities.

It may be known for its theme parks and family-friendly attractions, but Gatlinburg has its quiet side, too. You can enter the park directly from the edge of town, where you'll find plenty of relaxing hiking trails, numerous hotels, lodges, and B&Bs. It's a great place to book a cabin for a little seclusion within easy reach of it all. You'll find numerous vacation rentals available on sites like VRBO and Airbnb, including rustic gems and cozy spots with hot tubs nestled in the woods. If you're in a resort state of mind, check into Margaritaville Resort or Bearskin Lodge on the River.

Just over 7 miles north of Gatlinburg sits Pigeon Forge, a city that shares a similar spirit to its neighbor. Chock-full of attractions, such as the cruise ship-shaped Titanic Museum full of immersive exhibits and realistic interiors, there's no shortage of funky entertainment options. Bounce down a hill inside a giant zorb at Outdoor Gravity Park, or head to The Island in Pigeon Forge, with its towering observation wheel, thrill rides, and games.

Pigeon Forge is also practically synonymous with another famous theme park: Dollywood. Many would tell you that it's one of those tourist attractions that first-time visitors should never skip. Country music icon Dolly Parton assumed co-ownership of the park in 1985 as a celebration of her Great Smoky Mountain roots. Dollywood has expanded over the years to include three other properties. If you want thrills, then the flagship park or Splash Country Water Park are your go-to spots. Want to relax, unwind, and maybe swim a little? Check into DreamMore Resort & Spa or HeartSong Lodge & Resort.

There is so much more to Pigeon Forge than rides and games, though. See hundreds of tropical birds at Parrot Mountain and Gardens, or taste a regional specialty at one of numerous distilleries specializing in moonshine, such as Tennessee Shine Company, Junction 35 Spirits, and Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine. You can even let someone guide the way with a moonshine and wine tour from Tennessee Mountain Tours.

If amusement parks and huge resorts aren't exactly your cup of tea, escape to Townsend. It's only a half-hour southwest of Pigeon Forge by car, but it feels a world away. It's also less than 3 miles away from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park boundary, making it a cinch to head into the park for the day. This town is sometimes referred to as the "Gateway to Cades Cove," a valley in the national park that's accessible from sunrise to sunset and can be enjoyed on an 11-mile scenic loop. Encircled by mountains, it's an amazing place to spot wildlife, hike, and glimpse history at numerous preserved sites.

Townsend is an outdoor lover's oasis, whether you prefer adventure or a more relaxing pace. Take a swing at Laurel Valley Golf and Country Club, go tubing on the Little River, visit the Little River Railroad Museum, charter a trout fishing trip with R&R Fly Fishing, or descend into the otherworldly Tuckaleechee Caverns.

With a day spent outdoors comes a good appetite. Tuck into lunch or dinner at The Abbey, a former wedding chapel converted into a restaurant with a fantastic patio. For upscale regional cuisine, dig into seasonal delicacies at Dancing Bear Lodge and Appalachian Bistro. It also features contemporary cabins and villas, including a few riverfront locations, so you can nod off to the sound of rippling water.

About 20 miles northwest of the boundary to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you'll find Maryville — or "Mur-vuhl," if you want to sound like a local. Where Townsend has a bit over 600 permanent residents, Maryville is home to more than 32,000. Tucked at the foot of the mountains, its downtown sports charming streets, boutiques, and plenty of dining options.

Maryville is indeed a destination for good food and drink, with dozens of locally-owned establishments to feast at. Favorites include the culinary comfort food of Foothill Milling Company and The Walnut Kitchen, or the upscale farm-to-table vibe of The Restaurant at RT Lodge, among many others. And don't miss specialty beers on tap at both Tri-Hop Brewery and Peaceful Side Brewery.

This under-the-radar gateway is full of unique shops, a thriving art scene with murals and sculptures dotting downtown, and historic sites like the rustic Sam Houston Schoolhouse and the 19th-century St. Andrew's Episcopal Church. And while there aren't any theme parks in Maryville, you'll find thrills aplenty if you drive just a short ways out of town. A famously winding stretch of road called the Tail of the Dragon is a popular destination for driving enthusiasts, as it features a whopping 318 curves in 11 miles and is a trial for even the most experienced drivers. The speed limit is 30 miles per hour, for good reason, but the adrenaline and views are well worth it if you accept the challenge.

Nestled in what's known as the Qualla Boundary, home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, is the charming town of Cherokee. This small North Carolina town is packed with charm, combining nature, culture, and entertainment. Its downtown is just a five-minute drive from the Oconaluftee area of the national park, where you can visit the the Mountain Farm Museum. Incidentally, the area also marks the southern extent of the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the best North Carolina attractions to check out on your first trip.

Learn about the Indigenous communities that have lived in the region for thousands of years at the Museum of the Cherokee People, and find myriad handmade gifts at Medicine Man Crafts, Native American Craft Shop, and Qualla Arts and Crafts, among others. Gambling is legal in Cherokee, so at Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort, you'll find gaming, shops, and lodging all under one roof. There are a number of motels with a fantastic retro vibe, such as Rivers Edge Motel, plus several other familiar chains.

Get outdoors in Cherokee at the Fire Mountain Disc Golf Sanctuary along the Raven Fork River. Take a relaxing stroll across the scenic bridges of Oconaluftee Islands Park, and hike to the scenic Mingo Falls, a nearly 200-foot cascade. Just inside the national park boundary, see Mingus Mill, a water-powered grist mill built in 1886 to grind corn. And if you want some locally-ground grains to take with you as a souvenir, head to Saunooke's Mill, where they still grind cornmeal and grits the old fashioned way.

Located west of Cherokee by just about 10 winding miles, Bryson City is only slightly farther afield from the national park's Oconaluftee entrance. While you can drive into the park with ease, this is also a great jumping-off point for exploring the Fontana area, shaped by the long, almost riverine Fontana Lake. At 29 miles long, the lake has a charming yet remote feel that makes it perfect for boating and fishing. Bryson City is also a popular gateway to the Nantahala Gorge, where the Nantahala River flows north into Fontana Lake. It's an ideal place for whitewater rafting, hiking, and cruising on ziplines. And in Bryson City itself, the Tuckasegee River is a great option for a relaxing paddle, tubing, and fishing.

Bryson City features fantastic places to stay and tons of outdoor activities, from gem mining to mountain biking. Much like Marion, it's an underrated and scenic North Carolina city that's packed with attractions, making it perfect for the whole family. Head to the historic train depot to glimpse 19th-century locomotives and hop aboard a scenic train ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. During the holidays, don't miss a chance to delight the kids with a ride on the Polar Express steam engine, one of the best December tourist attractions for a winter getaway.

Round out your stay with great eats at local spots like River's End Restaurant, perched over the Nantahala River where you can watch rafters go by as you dig into a pizza or burger. Then, taste local brews at Mountain Layers Brewing Company, which has both a downstairs and upstairs bar, including a dog-friendly patio.

Nothing says "gateway town" quite like a literal arch announcing as much as you head into the charming town of Waynesville, North Carolina. It's likely your first stop if heading to Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Asheville, as it sits only about 30 miles west. From downtown Waynesville, it's only another 18 miles to the nearest park entrance in the Cataloochee and Balsam Mountain area. The scenery is nothing to sniff at, with the Blue Ridge Parkway's highest point — the Richland Balsam Overlook — and many other great vistas easily accessible from town.

Waynesville is known for its walkable downtown with numerous shops, galleries, and dining options. Local artists have studios, galleries, and boutiques you can easily visit in town, such as Christina Bendo Studio, T Pennington, The Jeweler's Workbench, and Twigs & Leaves Gallery, among others. Fall is a spectacular time to visit Waynesville, especially during the Apple Harvest Festival in October, coinciding with the brilliant foliage. In July, the unique Folkmoot Festival transforms the city into a 10-day celebration of world cultures and music.

Grab a burger and a brewski at Boojum Brewing, soak up the atmosphere at Bogart's Restaurant & Tavern, or enjoy "old school" barbecue at Haywood Smokehouse. Speaking of barbecue — because no trip to the Carolinas is complete without a taste of perfectly charred pork — stop into Fat Buddies Ribs & BBQ, where you can top off your rack of baby back ribs with homemade dessert.

Just about 10 miles northwest of Waynesville, nestled amid rolling mountains, you'll find the small town of Maggie Valley. The closest entrance to the park is in the Cataloochee Valley area, but it's also only 20 miles from the Oconaluftee entrance near Cherokee, making it a great basecamp if you plan to explore different parts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Maggie Valley is a breathtaking resort town with friendly lodging options like Jonathan Creek Inn and Villas, the retro-meets-rustic Stony Creek Lodge, or the charming Cozy Creek Cottages. For more of a resort vibe, cozy up at Peppertree Maggie Valley, where you can putt on the green, pair up for tennis or pickleball, and let the kids run off some energy on the playground.

Anglers are in luck in this area of natural beauty. Maggie Valley and its scenic waterway, Jonathan Creek, are officially designated as a Mountain Heritage Trout Waters area, so public fishing access to the babbling brook is open to the public with the purchase of a license. You'll find well over a dozen public access areas around town where you can cast a line.

The fun doesn't stop in winter, as Maggie Valley is a go-to for snowy recreation at Cataloochee Ski Area. Open from early November to late March, this outdoor destination features 18 slopes and trails. It's a great place for skiers of all skill levels, as the vast majority of trails are beginner or intermediate. Enjoy aprés ski at BearWaters Brewing, or fuel up before hitting the slopes at Pop's Place Biscuits, Burgers & BBQ.

Although it's about 40 miles northeast of the Cataloochee area entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it a bit farther afield than the rest of the towns on this list, Hot Springs is a North Carolina gem too good not to include in our roundup of gateway communities. It's nestled in a small valley with mountain views all around, and its claim to fame is that it's home to the only natural hot springs in the state. Like Maggie Valley, Hot Springs is a Mountain Heritage Trout Water town, and local Spring Creek is a fantastic place to fish for brown, brook, and rainbow trout, which are stocked regularly throughout the year.

Hot Springs is one of the few towns where the Appalachian Trail passes right through its center, making it a popular resupply-and-rest point along its 2,185 miles. There's nothing like a good soak in some naturally heated mineral springs to help with achy limbs after a day — or several — spent outdoors. You can access the springs at the historic Hot Springs Resort & Spa and Broadwing Farm Cabins, which features hot tubs filled with the prized mineral water.

As it's connected to the Appalachian Trail, it's no surprise that there are plenty of amazing hiking opportunities around Hot Springs. But if you want to take in the views on foot — just not your own — head to Sandy Bottom Trail Rides to experience guided tours on horseback. Then, when you're ready for some great chow, don't pass up Smoky Mountain Diner for home-cooked comfort favorites, or Big Pillow Brewing for great on-site taps and a taqueria. 

In both Tennessee and North Carolina, towns encircling the boundary of Great Smoky Mountains National Park brim with unique character and history. Charming downtowns meet themed attractions and practically unlimited access to the outdoors. To help round out what makes these gateway towns so inviting, we consulted local and regional tourism sites like VisitNC.com, GreatSmokies.com, Gatlinburg.com, ExploreTownsend.com, MySmokyMountainPark.com, SmokyMountains.org, VisitCherokeeNC.com, ExploreBrysonCity.com, MaggieValley.org, and HotSpringsNC.org.

For specific information about attractions, we looked at the official sites of businesses and organizations like TitanicAttraction.com, TailoftheDragon.com, NPS.gov, BlueRidgeHeritageTrail.com, and AppalachianTrail.org. In addition to the author's own experiences visiting Waynesville, Bryson City, and Gatlinburg, we referenced attractions, restaurants, and accommodations rated highly by visitors on Tripadvisor and Google.