Our Staff Picks: Favorite Things to Do in the Smokies

We look forward to seeing you in the Great Smoky Mountains for the Tennessee Annual Convention!

Wednesday evening is meeting-free, so you’ll have an opportunity to explore the area and enjoy an evening meal in one of Gatlinburg’s many restaurants. There are plenty of things to do and restaurants to choose from.

Here are a few of our favorites! 

Restaurant Recommendations

Mellow Mushroom is a short walk from the Convention Center, and they have outdoor seating with a nice view. I would take a larger group here since they have a little more space.

Caroline Bays
Director of Development & Engagement

My favorite is Loco Burro, right on the main street just down from the Convention Center. Great food and my favorite part is the rooftop bar and eating area. The views are awesome!

David Griffiths
Chief Operating Officer

My favorite place to eat in Gatlinburg is the Greenbriar Restaurant. It is located up the mountain and is only open for dinner.

Fred Robinson
President and CEO

Check out Cherokee Grill. It has a great salad bar, good food and a great atmosphere. It’s also within walking distance from the Convention Center and hotels!

Sarah Waters
Chief Advocacy Officer

Entertainment Recommendations

I love Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies! The tunnel is really cool, and I like to sit and watch the fish.

Caroline Bays
Director of Development & Engagement

Anakeesta! The skylift to the top has amazing views and there is so much to do up there. Restaurants, fire pits, skybridge walkway, shops and plenty of great sunset views.

Kim Bohannon
Chief Innovation Officer

Fall color on Rich Mountain Road Overlook in Cades Cove. Photo from the National Park Service.

Take a trip into the Great Smoky Mountains! Close to town is the 5.5-mile loop of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. There are lots of mountain streams, great picnic spots and a number of well-preserved log cabins, gristmills and other historic buildings. Another favorite is the historic Elkmont area, which was once a logging camp and then a resort community. Several of the original structures still remain and can be seen on a short hike.

Jessica McCosh
Senior Corporate Communications Specialist