Ole Smoky Moonshine — "The Holler" | Gatlinburg, TN
Ole Smoky Moonshine in Gatlinburg, known affectionately as "The Holler," holds the distinction of being the first federally licensed distillery in East Tennessee and has grown into one of the most visited distilleries in the world. Nestled right on the Parkway, this rustic, barn-style venue houses gleaming copper stills, offers tastings showcasing an adventurous lineup of flavors — from high-proof white lightnin' to fruity seasonal blends — and immerses guests in Appalachian moonshine tradition while live bluegrass music plays in the background. It's both a sensory and cultural experience: part tour, part tasting room, and entirely a spirited snapshot of Smoky Mountain heritage.
What to Expect at The Holler
The moment you step inside, the smell of cooking grain and the sound of a live bluegrass band set the tone. The Holler is Ole Smoky's original distillery — the one that started it all in 2010 — and it shows. Working copper stills sit on display, and knowledgeable staff walk guests through the moonshine-making process from grain to jar.
Tastings are available daily with no reservation required. Samples rotate through Ole Smoky's lineup of over 25 moonshine flavors and 17 whiskey expressions, including classics like White Lightnin' and Moonshine Cherries alongside newer seasonal and limited-run releases. After your tasting, browse the retail shop for bottles, apparel, glassware, and Ole Smoky merchandise to take a piece of the mountains home with you.
Kids and leashed dogs are welcome inside, making it an easy stop for families and pet owners alike. Adults 21+ need a valid ID to taste.
Tastings & Tours
- Tastings: $5 per person; no reservations required
- Guided tours: Available daily — take you behind the stills for a closer look at the distilling process (must be 13+ to join)
Tip: Ole Smoky frequently runs promotions at the door. Check current offers on the Ole Smoky website before your visit.
Hours & Location
Address: 903 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Phone: (865) 436-6995 Hours: Open daily, 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Hours may vary on holidays. Always confirm current hours before visiting.
Also in Gatlinburg: The Barrelhouse
Ole Smoky has a second Gatlinburg location called The Barrelhouse (650 Parkway), which focuses on aged whiskey rather than moonshine. Tastings are $5 per person and include a $5 store coupon; a premium tasting option is available for $8 per person. Ole Smoky also runs a passport-style "Hooch Hop" program that rewards guests who visit multiple Tennessee locations — pick up your passport at either Gatlinburg distillery.
Nearby Attractions
Ole Smoky sits in the heart of the Gatlinburg Parkway, putting you steps from some of the area's most popular stops:
- Anakeesta — Mountain ridge attraction with zip lines, a tree canopy walk, and sweeping views accessible via gondola
- Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies — One of the top aquariums in the Southeast, great for families
- SkyLift Park — Home to the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America
- Gatlinburg Space Needle — 407-foot observation tower with panoramic Smoky Mountain views
- Ober Mountain — Ski resort and adventure park just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation? No reservations are required for tastings or general admission. Tours are available daily without advance booking.
How much do tastings cost? Tastings are $5 per person. Must be 21+ with a valid ID to participate.
Can I bring my kids? Yes. Children are welcome inside at all times. Only guests 21+ with a valid ID may taste.
Can I bring my dog? Yes — leashed dogs are welcome.
What's the difference between The Holler and The Barrelhouse? The Holler is the original Ole Smoky distillery, focused on moonshine. The Barrelhouse is a separate Gatlinburg location specializing in Ole Smoky's whiskey lineup. Both offer tastings and are worth a visit.
Is there parking nearby? Street and garage parking are available throughout downtown Gatlinburg. The Parkway gets congested during peak season — plan extra time or arrive early in the day.
Stay Close to the Action
After a tasting at The Holler, the last thing you want is a long drive back to your cabin. Browse our Gatlinburg cabin rentals to find a place within minutes of the Parkway — or explore our full selection of Smoky Mountain cabin rentals if you'd prefer a quieter setting a little further from town.
