Exploring the Arts and Crafts Community of Gatlinburg in Winter

Gatlinburg Cabin Search

Spend a brisk winter day discovering treasures in Gatlinburg’s historic Arts & Crafts Community. More than 80 artists and craftsmen invite you to visit their studios and shops. Here’s what you’ll find, where to eat, and how to get here. 

Shop for Handcrafted Gifts

The Arts & Crafts Community is clustered along an eight-mile loop road, just three miles from downtown. You can simply pop in and out of whichever studios catch your eye. Or you can plan a shopping campaign, focusing on specific types of crafts. Use the Arts & Crafts Community’s website for a full list of artisans.

You’ll find baskets, brooms, glass, jewelry, candles, and leather goods from belts to vests. Woodworkers and carvers create furniture, toys, games, and sculptures. Artists sell paintings and photography, featuring iconic Smokies scenes. Skin care workshops produce small-batch products.

Appalachia is famed for pottery and quilting. Visit potteries to see clay transformed. Watch local quilters bring traditional patterns to life. You’ll also find custom knitted and crocheted items, embroidery, and hand-dyed silk. How about a whimsical hat, knitted to look like your favorite animal?

Watch Artisans at Work

You might see a jeweler adding the finishing touches to fused glass pendants, or a carver turning a chunk of tree into a sign for your home. Don’t hesitate to ask questions!

Make Your Own Souvenir

Some studios encourage you to try your own hand at making a keepsake. Why not learn to dip candles or make marbled patterns on paper? You can even learn to chip arrowheads out of stone! These are great activities for a wintry day. 

Dine Deliciously 

You won’t go hungry, or uncaffeinated. Three coffee shops stand ready to fuel you. The Fox and Parrot Tavern and The Rampant Lion feature English and Celtic pub grub. Split Rail Eats serves comfort food, sandwiches and burgers. Later, treat yourself to dessert at Glades Soda Fountain.  

How To Get Here 

By car, head east out of Gatlinburg on Highway 321 North. Turn onto Glades Road. The loop, taking you past the studios, is Glades Road, then Buckhorn Road, back to 321. 

Alternatively, park in downtown Gatlinburg and take a Yellow Line trolley directly here. Browse, shop, and eat without worrying about driving and parking! 

Where to Stay

Spend your vacation in a Gatlinburg cabin, and you’re always close to this creative community. Reserve a private, luxurious cabin now.