Attractions, shops, and eateries line the Gatlinburg Strip, a stretch of road running through the heart of town. Use these tips for exploring this lively downtown, with stops for food, fun, and souvenirs!
1. Navigate like a local.
The Strip is what locals call the downtown section of U.S. Route 441, also known as the Parkway. When you’re looking up a business, its address will say “Parkway.” You’ll also see attractions’ websites noting what traffic light is closest to them. You’ll find the lights’ numbers on a local map.
2. Get a map in advance.
Save a map from Gatlinburg’s tourism website linked here. For maps plus tourist information, download the free Visit Gatlinburg app. You’ll get a great idea of what awaits you on the Strip.
3. Enjoy the walkability.
With so much entertainment, shopping, and dining clustered along one road, walking is easier than driving around and parking repeatedly. If you’re a wheelchair user, you’ll find the Strip is fairly level, with wide pavements and curb cuts.
4. Parking fills up quickly.
With more than two dozen paid lots on or near the Strip, plus street parking, Gatlinburg boasts spaces galore. But at peak tourist times in summer and fall, spaces disappear. Pro tip: Turn up early in the day. Why not have breakfast on the Strip to make your early start easier?
5. Ride the free trolley.
Want to explore with less walking? Park for free at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center, then hop onto a free trolley. Board and exit as many times as you like. The Visit Gatlinburg app includes a real-time tracker so you know when the next trolley will arrive at any stop. The trolley runs 365 days a year.
6. Save big attractions for another day.
From the Strip you can access attractions including Anakeesta and the Aquarium of the Smokies, but you could fill a whole day at these large destinations. If your goal is exploring the Strip, consider stopping at attractions like arcades, mini golf courses, or the Space Needle. Take a break from your stroll and be ready to start again in about an hour.
7. Choose a cabin near the Strip.
When your vacation cabin is close to the Strip, you can return again and again. We’ve got cabins combining privacy with great locations close to downtown. Browse our Gatlinburg rentals now and book your cabin near the Strip!
