Gatlinburg Favorites
As you plan your Arrowmont visit, be sure to save time for a few staff-favorite Gatlinburg stops along the way.
Local Favs & Hidden Gems
Welcome to our mountain home! Nestled at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a vibrant mountain town where deep-rooted Appalachian heritage meets modern, high-energy entertainment. To help you explore like a local, we’ve curated this collection of favorite spots and secret finds straight from our staff, fellows, and residents.
Dining
- The Baht – (walkable, though you must cross East Parkway traffic)Â
- Tennessee Jed’s – (walkable from campus)Â
- Hungry Bear BBQ – (Less than a mile from campus, walkable)Â
- El Soñador Mexican Grill – (walkable from campus)Â
- Whole Earth Grocery & Café – Great for vegans & vegetarians!Â
- Byrd’s Famous Cookies – (walkable from campus)Â
- The Pancake Pantry – (walkable from campus)
- The Donut Friar – CASH ONLY (walkable from campus)
- Heirloom Room (walkable from campus)
- The Park Grill – (walkable from campus – 1.4 mi)
- The Peddler Steakhouse – (walkable from campus – 1.4 mi)
- Log Cabin Pancake House – (walkable from campus – 1.2 mi)
- Split Rail Eats – (4.8 miles miles)
Groceries
Hidden Gems
Trails Near Campus
Further from Campus
Gatlinburg Trolleys operate on a daily basis, serving visitors and residents 365 days a year, providing an easy, free way to get around Gatlinburg. Visitors in the area can board a Trolley at any stop in the City and be off to their destination.
There are no fares or fees to ride the Gatlinburg Trolleys.
The closest trolley stop to Arrowmont is at the Mass Transit Center, located at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
Local Spotlight
Showcase Gallery & Supply Store
Forgot something at home or need to re-up on an art supply? From tools to snacks to Arrowmont swag – The Supply Store has your basics covered. Also, don’t forget to visit the Showcase Gallery featuring giftable art and keepsakes from Arrowmont’s growing family of artists.
From the quiet beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the vibrant energy of the historic arts district, Gatlinburg serves as the perfect basecamp for your creative retreat. We invite you to explore the city’s diverse dining, shopping, and outdoor adventures to make the most of your mountain getaway.
Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce
(800)-588-1817
