A fun thing to do while you’re in Gatlinburg is to browse through all kinds of shops. You might find the perfect souvenir to remember your trip, or you could pick up the perfect gift for a special someone in your life! There are hundreds of shops along the Strip, but there are specific shopping centers you’ll want to check out. Here are the top 4 places to go shopping in Gatlinburg:
1. Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community
If you’re someone who appreciates craftsmanship and handmade items, then you’ll definitely want to explore the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community. This area is the largest collection of artists and craftsmen in the country, and you’ll find all kinds of talented people. Watch potters make unique ceramics, look at incredible photos and paintings, or appreciate the time it took to craft the jewelry for sale. You’ll also find basket weavers, blacksmiths, candle and soap makers, restaurant owners, glass blowers, leatherworkers, quilters, and woodworkers. You could spend a whole day in the Aets & Crafts Community.
2. The Village Shops
A popular spot for shopping in Gatlinburg is The Village Shops. Located along the Strip, this shopping area is slightly tucked away, creating a secluded experience. The shops are modeled after European villages, and you’ll find all kinds of unique stores to explore. There’s a store dedicated to hikers, one for sock lovers, and another for people who love hot sauces. Of course, there’s Bonediggity Barkery for pet owners, The Tea and Spice Exchange for foodies, and The Honey Pot for just about everyone! You’ll also find plenty of coffee and snack shops, including The Donut Friar, Coffee & Creamery, and Maddi Mae’s Cafe & Creamery.
3. Baskins Square
Baskins Square is a quaint outdoor shopping mall with several locally owned and operated businesses. At the front, you’ll spot Little Bear Winery, a popular place for free wine tastings. There’s also Claire’s, the accessory store for young kids. As you walk towards the back, you’ll see Doc’s Magic Shop, Bigfoot HQ, GodsWorld, and Earthbound Trading Company. If you want to do something fun, you can play an escape game at Breakout or make your way through Ripley’s Mirror Maze. When hunger strikes, you have plenty of options, including New Orleans Sandwich Company and Tennessee Jed’s.
4. The Mountain Mall
An indoor mall that is frequented by many people is The Mountain Mall. It is located near the front of the Strip, right in front of the aquarium. This mall features 6 floors full of locally owned stores that sell all kinds of wares, from children’s toys to jewelry to leather goods. There’s also Tennessee Cider Company, a hard cider retailer that also offers free samples. Be sure to stop by Aunt Mahalia’s Candy Store to pick up some sweets too! You’ll have so much to explore here when you’re shopping in Gatlinburg.
Now you know about the best places to go shopping in Gatlinburg. But before you head out for a fun day, you need to fuel up! Stop by our restaurant, and try our signature cinnamon rolls or huge stack of griddle cakes. If you have questions, reach out to us, and we’ll be happy to answer them!