Sevierville welcomes you to its charming, classic American downtown! Famed as Dolly Parton’s hometown, Sevierville is a window into Tennessee history. Don’t miss these six things to do in the heart of Sevierville.
1. Take a Self-Guided Walking Tour
Stroll past buildings dating from the 1890s through the early 20th century. A handy online guide, available at this link, details stops ranging from a tribal archaeological site, to an old mill, to a church with unique stained glass windows. Kids will relish finding out how the town reused prison cell bars after the jail burned down!
2. Visit Dolly Parton’s Statue
Smiling and cradling her guitar, Dolly Parton perches on a rock, waiting patiently for you. This bronze statue has graced the courthouse lawn for 30 years. Dolly calls it “one of the greatest things that ever happened to me.”
3. Take Selfies at Wings of Wander
Head for 111 East Main Street, then walk around the building to the back. Giant orange-and-black butterfly wings spread across the wall. Stand between them and snap photos of yourself as a beautiful butterfly.
4. Discover the Red’s Cafe Mural
Red’s Cafe is long gone, but love for the midcentury eatery never fades. Generations of locals (including young Dolly) ate and socialized there. This sweet mural shows cafe owner Red Clevenger serving a burger to a delighted child. You’ll find the mural on a building on Bruce Street.
5. Travel Back In Time at Red’s Soda Fountain
This soda shop transports you to the 1950s and the good old days of hand-scooped shakes and sundaes served in tall glasses. Slip into a booth and try a juicy, plump hot dog or order a sandwich. The vintage theme is a tribute to the late, beloved Red’s Cafe, so this is the ideal snack stop after you’ve seen the Red’s Cafe mural!
6. Play at The Pines
Starting in the 1940s, legendary country music artists performed at this iconic theater, including June Carter Cash, Roy Acuff, and Chet Atkins. Dolly Parton debuted here. Today, The Pines hosts entertainment of another kind. Enjoy duckpin bowling, shuffleboard, foosball, darts, and more games, while you nosh on pizzas, burgers, and appetizers.
Spend your Smokies vacation close to Sevierville’s history, dining, and attractions. Book a private, luxurious cabin rental near Sevierville today.
