The Smoky Mountains have a long tradition of roadside attractions that are equal parts weird and wonderful. These are the places that make you say "wait, that actually exists?" and then spend two hours inside having the time of your life.
In This Guide
Ancient Lore Village
Fantasy realm with themed trails & dwellings
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Chalet Village
View Full Guide →Smoky Mountain Llama Treks
Guided llama hikes with scenic views
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Chalet Village
View Full Guide →Iron Mountain Metal Craft
Family knife-making classes
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Starr Crest Resort
View Full Guide →Little River Gem Mine & Rock Shop
Gemstone panning and mineral shop
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Starr Crest Resort
View Full Guide →Tennessee Silencer - Machine Guns & TANKS!
Shoot machine guns & tanks
Where to Stay: Eagles Ridge, Governors Crossing
View Full Guide →Board & Brush
Create personalized wood signs in arts & crafts
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Starr Crest Resort
View Full Guide →Circle Bar T Forge & Blade Works
Blacksmithing & knife-making demos
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Starr Crest Resort
View Full Guide →Smoky Mountain School of Cooking
Hands-on cooking classes in Gatlinburg
Where to Stay: Chalet Village, Ski Mountain
View Full Guide →Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Beautiful gardens with tropical birds
Where to Stay: Bear Creek Crossing, Starr Crest Resort
View Full Guide →Springtime Exotic Petting Farm & Adventure Park
Exotic animals petting farm for families
Where to Stay: Eagles Ridge, Governors Crossing
View Full Guide →Embrace the quirk. The Smokies are at their best when you stop taking things too seriously and just enjoy the ride. Some of these attractions are genuinely educational, others are purely entertaining, and all of them are uniquely Smoky Mountain.