Ah, Sevierville. An enchanting town in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. From the quaint downtown streets lined with local shops and eateries to the stunning mountain landscapes, Sevierville is genuinely remarkable. It’s one of those places that you never forget once you’ve been there.
If your ideal weekend getaway combines relaxation, adventure, and a healthy dose of Southern hospitality, Sevierville should be on your radar. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, you’ll love this town like no other.
In this blog post, we’ll help you plan a weekend itinerary in Sevierville that will make the most of your time in this special place. So, grab a cup of tea, cozy up, and get ready to fall in love with this East Tennessee town.
Start Your Trip with a Hike
With the backdrop of the most visited national park in the United States, it’s no surprise that one of the highlights of a trip to Sevierville is exploring the great outdoors.
There are plenty of hiking trails to choose from, but we recommend starting with the Laurel Falls Trail. It is a moderate 2.6-mile hike that will take you through some of the most stunning scenery in the park and reward you with a beautiful waterfall at the end.
If you’re looking for something more fascinating, the Ramsey Cascades Trail is a 4.5-mile trek that leads to an impressive 100-foot waterfall. It’s one of the most stunning sights in the park.
Head to SkyLand Ranch
Skyland Ranch offers a delightful balance of relaxation and fun for visitors of all ages. This mountaintop entertainment hub is accessible by a chairlift. If you prefer not to ride the chairlift, you can get to the attraction by shuttle or an open-air safari truck.
Once you reach the top, there are plenty of activities to keep everyone happy.
There’s the famous thrilling Wild Stallion Mountain Coaster for those looking for an exciting activity. So, hop on for a ride and revel in the spectacular.
There are also miniature animal encounters with miniature horses, donkeys, cows, and more, as well as daily live entertainment, retail shops, and plenty of dining options.
As a cherry on top, stop by the bakery for homemade candy and other sweet treats.
Explore Sevierville’s Downtown
Sevierville’s Downtown is the heart and soul of the town. It’s the kind of place that feels frozen in time. But in a good way, of course. The streets are lined with local businesses, including antique shops, boutiques, and eateries. It’s the perfect place to wander around and explore.
Some must-try eateries include the casual Hickory Cabin and the upscale The Appalachian. From tasty burgers and wholesome steaks to delicious Southern-style comfort food, you’ll find something for every taste.
The Downtown area also hosts several annual events, including the Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass Festival and the Sevierville Commons Arts Council’s Summer Concert Series. Whether you’re looking for a good meal, some retail therapy, or a place to people-watch, you shouldn’t skip this spot.
Spend Time at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation
If you’re an aviation fan, don’t miss out on the Tennessee Museum of Aviation. The museum boasts an impressive collection of aircraft, ranging from World War II planes to modern jets. You’ll get up close and personal with planes like the P-47 Thunderbolt, the F4U Corsair, and the B-25 Mitchell.
The museum offers guests a chance to explore the fascinating history of aviation and provides insight into how this industry has shaped Tennessee. What makes it even more extraordinary is that many of the planes on display are still functional, and you may be fortunate enough to witness one take off! It is truly an experience like no other.
Pay Tribute to Dolly Parton
To recognize the outstanding achievements of global superstar and Sevierville native Dolly Parton, a magnificent bronze statue was erected in honor of her accomplishments at the heart of this city. The figure is 8-foot-tall and stands proudly on Sevier County Courthouse lawn. It offers a perfect photo-op.
Since the icon is admired by many, you’ll have to wait for your turn before you can take that perfect selfie. Don’t worry; the statue is open 24/7 and is free to visit.
Pick Some Good Finds at the Tanger Outlets
For some retail therapy, head over to the Tanger Outlets. It’s a shopping paradise! With over 100 stores offering various products, from apparel and accessories to home décor and electronics, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
And if you’re looking for bargains, you’ll love the incredible discounts and deals.
What’s more, you can even take a break from shopping and enjoy delicious meals at the many eateries a stone’s throw away. We recommend The Chop House for some succulent steaks and Dave & Buster’s for their saucy wings.
Have a Blast at the NASCAR SpeedPark
Are you a kid? Or maybe just a kid at heart? Either way, NASCAR SpeedPark is a delight. You can channel your inner racer and zoom around the multiple go-kart tracks that cater to all ages and skill levels.
And if go-karts aren’t your thing, don’t worry. There are plenty of other rides and attractions to keep you entertained. There’s something for everyone, from bumper boats and mini-golf to a rock wall and laser tag.
If you need a break from all the excitement, the park has a restaurant and arcade where you can refuel and recharge.
Marvel at the Beauty of the Forbidden Caverns
No trip to Sevierville is complete without a visit to Forbidden Caverns. This underground cave system is estimated to be over 10 million years old and is an excellent spot for spelunking.
The guided tours will take you deep into the cavern system, where you’ll learn about the history and geology of the area. You’ll also get to explore some of the cave’s more hidden passages and discover spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations. It’s just the kind of adventure you need to make this weekend complete!
Wrapping Up
Sevierville is a promising East Tennessee destination, and, as you can see, there’s plenty to do in this lovely city. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll through the Commons Arts Council, a shopping spree at the Tanger Outlets, or an adrenaline-filled day at NASCAR SpeedPark, you’re sure to have a weekend to remember in Sevierville.
So, don’t wait. Start planning your trip now. This city can get quite busy, and you don’t want to miss out on any fun!