Ditch the Shot Glass, Keep the Memory
Now look, I ain’t one to judge—but if you’ve ever found yourself leavin’ a gift shop with a plastic bear that lights up and plays “Rocky Top” every time it sneezes, you might’ve been hoodwinked by one of them tourist traps. Don’t worry—it happens to the best of us. Gatlinburg’s got more souvenir shops per square mile than we’ve got squirrels in the holler, and not all of ‘em are worth your hard-earned vacation bucks.
That’s where I come in.
See, I’ve been strollin’ these streets longer than most of them rubber tomahawks have been collectin’ dust on the shelves. And I’ve seen the good, the bad, and the downright “why’d I buy this?” when it comes to Gatlinburg souvenir shops. That’s why I decided to round up a short and sweet list of the top 3 spots where you can find real keepsakes—not just stuff that’ll break on the ride home.
We’re talkin’ locally made pottery, hand-poured soaps, and little treasures that’ll remind you of the Smoky Mountains every time you pass by ‘em on your shelf. No gimmicks, no neon signs screamin’ “BUY 3 GET 1 FREE,” and definitely no shot glasses shaped like a bear’s behind.
These are the Gatlinburg souvenir shops where locals actually shop—and where you can find somethin’ with a story behind it.
So grab a sweet tea, pull up a rocking chair (at least in your mind), and let ol’ Gary walk you through the places that are worth your time, your money, and your memories.
Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg
This pet-friendly, smoke-free hotel features free WiFi, an indoor pool and hot tub, on-site dining at the Garden Grille with a bar and happy hour, a fitness center, family-friendly amenities like in-room microwaves and refrigerators, free parking (including accessible options), cooked-to-order breakfast, a business center with over 1,100 sq ft of meeting space, laundry facilities, and convenient access to golf, tennis, hiking, and skiing, all in a five-story building built in 2009 with extensive accessibility features throughout.
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Margaritaville Resort
Conveniently situated in the Gatlinburg part of Gatlinburg (TN), this property puts you close to attractions and interesting dining options. This 4-star property is packed with in-house facilities to improve the quality and joy of your stay.
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Courtyard by Marriott Gatlinburg Downtown
Stay in the heart of it all at Courtyard by Marriott Gatlinburg Downtown, where you’re just steps from the Gatlinburg Convention Center and the iconic Space Needle. Start your day with an energizing session at the 24-hour fitness center, then relax with a coffee from the on-site café or wind down in the evening with a drink at the cozy bar/lounge. Whether you’re soaking in the indoor pool or easing into the hot tub, comfort is key. Each room includes handy amenities like a refrigerator and microwave. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff and unbeatable location.
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Gatlinburg Town Square By Exploria Resort
Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts places you right where the action is, just a short 10-minute stroll from top attractions like the Gatlinburg Convention Center and the Space Needle. Whether you’re looking to stay active at the fitness center or make a splash in the indoor or seasonal outdoor pools, this eco-certified resort has you covered. Kids will love their own dedicated pool, while adults can relax and unwind in the hot tub. Guests frequently rave about the welcoming staff and prime location.
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Historic Rocky Waters Inn
Newly remodeled in 2024, Historic Rocky Waters Inn, A Small Luxury Hotel offers upscale comfort just steps from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Anakeesta, and SkyPark. This boutique retreat blends modern elegance with Gatlinburg charm, featuring a scenic terrace, outdoor entertainment space, and a cozy bar. Guests can enjoy breakfast or dinner at the on-site restaurant, The Heirloom Room, and stay connected with free in-room WiFi. Additional perks include free self-parking, concierge service, and express check-in/check-out for added convenience. Each guestroom is thoughtfully designed with premium bedding, air conditioning, and bathrobes, plus modern touches like 50-inch flat-screen TVs, workspaces, and balconies. With glowing reviews for its walkable location and attentive service, this small luxury stay is perfect for travelers seeking both style and substance in the Smokies.
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Gatlinburg River Inn
Just steps from Anakeesta, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and SkyPark, Gatlinburg River Inn offers a relaxing stay with thoughtful amenities and scenic comfort. Guests enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast each morning, along with access to a seasonal outdoor pool, children’s pool, and a riverside terrace complete with firepit and hot tub for winding down after a day of exploring. Free in-room WiFi, self-parking, and laundry facilities make your stay even more convenient. The 58 guest rooms feature balconies, mini-fridges, microwaves, and air conditioning, with clean, comfortable spaces that reviewers consistently praise. With a 24-hour front desk, vending machines, and a smoke-free setting, Gatlinburg River Inn is a well-rounded choice for both families and couples looking to stay close to the action in downtown Gatlinburg.
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Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail
Nestled near the entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and just minutes from the Gatlinburg Convention Center and Space Needle, the Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail offers a peaceful yet central stay. Guests can enjoy a complimentary self-serve breakfast each morning, unwind by the outdoor firepit, or relax in the landscaped garden. The hotel also features an indoor pool with sun loungers, a fitness center, and convenient amenities like dry cleaning, concierge service, and multilingual staff. Each of the 114 sound-insulated rooms includes free WiFi, flat-screen TVs with premium channels, and kitchen essentials like refrigerators, dishwashers, and microwaves. With high marks for cleanliness, spaciousness, and a walkable location, this modern retreat makes a great base for both exploring the Smokies and enjoying downtown Gatlinburg.
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The Appy Lodge
Just a short distance from Anakeesta, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, The Appy Lodge offers a charming blend of comfort and convenience in the heart of Gatlinburg. Guests can unwind in the hot tub, enjoy a swim in either the seasonal outdoor pool or indoor pool, and stay active at the on-site gym. The hotel also features a terrace, business center, gift shop, and free self-parking. Each of the 101 rooms is designed with guest comfort in mind, offering premium bedding, air conditioning, free WiFi, and thoughtful amenities like flat-screen TVs, mini fridges, and microwaves. With laundry facilities, 24-hour front desk service, and tour assistance available, The Appy Lodge delivers a relaxed, welcoming stay just minutes from the area’s top attractions.
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River Edge Inn
Conveniently located near the Gatlinburg Convention Center, Gatlinburg Space Needle, and Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, River Edge Inn offers a welcoming stay just steps from the action. Guests can start their day with a complimentary to-go breakfast, relax on the terrace, or unwind by the cozy lobby fireplace. The hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool and children’s pool with sun loungers, as well as a snack bar/deli, free self-parking, and high-speed in-room WiFi (50+ Mbps). Each guestroom is equipped with premium bedding, air conditioning, a private balcony, and essentials like a microwave, refrigerator, and 32-inch TV with premium channels. Families will appreciate extras like hypoallergenic bedding and available cribs, while guest reviews consistently praise the helpful staff and clean, comfortable rooms. Whether you’re here for business or a mountain getaway, River Edge Inn delivers easy comfort in a prime downtown location.
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Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Gatlinburg Downtown
Just steps from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg Convention Center, and the Space Needle, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Gatlinburg Downtown offers a bright and modern stay in the heart of the action. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast each morning, relax in the seasonal outdoor pool or hot tub, and unwind on the terrace or by the lobby fireplace. The hotel also features a fitness center, luggage storage, and convenient dry cleaning services. All 98 guest rooms come with premium bedding, air conditioning, free WiFi, and thoughtful extras like refrigerators, microwaves, and 50-inch LED TVs. Families will appreciate free infant and extra beds, while eco-conscious guests can take comfort in the use of LED lighting and recycling amenities. With rave reviews for its clean rooms, friendly staff, and walkable location, this Marriott property is a standout choice for your next Smoky Mountain getaway.
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Bearskin Lodge on the River
Tucked near the entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and just minutes from the Gatlinburg Convention Center and Space Needle, Bearskin Lodge on the River offers a cozy, nature-inspired retreat with modern comforts. Guests can relax by the firepit, enjoy a workout in the gym, or float the day away in the seasonal outdoor pool featuring a lazy river. Complimentary perks include free self-parking, in-room WiFi, and coffee or tea in the inviting lobby. Each of the 96 rooms is designed for comfort with premium bedding, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and convenient extras like refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers. With helpful staff, tour assistance, and a location that blends peaceful riverside views with downtown access, Bearskin Lodge is a favorite for travelers looking to experience the Smokies in style and comfort.
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River Terrace Resort and Convention Center
Just steps from Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Anakeesta, and SkyPark, River Terrace Resort & Convention Center offers comfort, convenience, and a touch of Southern hospitality in the heart of Gatlinburg. Guests enjoy a complimentary to-go breakfast each morning and can take advantage of an outdoor pool, free self-parking, and practical amenities like laundry facilities and a business center. The resort also offers concierge service, tour assistance, and express check-out to make your stay hassle-free. Each of the 205 rooms is equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, in-room safes, and free WiFi, along with bathrooms that feature hydromassage showers or tubs. With high marks for its friendly staff and central location, River Terrace is an ideal base for exploring the Smokies or attending events downtown.
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Sidney James Mountain Lodge
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Smoky Mountains, Sidney James Mountain Lodge offers a warm, family-friendly retreat just minutes from Gatlinburg’s top attractions. Guests enjoy free WiFi, cozy rooms with flat-screen TVs, in-room coffee, air conditioning, and private balconies in select accommodations. Relax in style with access to three outdoor pools, a serene indoor pool, a kids’ pool, and a soothing sauna—perfect after a day of exploring. On-site free parking adds convenience, while the Poolside Café, serving breakfast and lunch, makes grabbing a bite easy. Located near beloved local art galleries like Fowler’s Clay Works and the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, Sidney James is more than just a place to stay—it’s a gateway to the charm and adventure of Gatlinburg. Pet-friendly and offering a variety of room types including suites, it’s a comfortable, value-rich option for families, couples, and explorers alike.
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What Makes a Souvenir Shop Worth the Stop?
Now I’ll tell ya straight—there’s a big difference between a place that sells souvenirs and a place that helps you carry a memory home in your pocket. If you’ve ever wandered into one of them Gatlinburg souvenir shops and felt like every shelf came straight from the same factory five states away, well… you ain’t alone. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to help folks separate the real gems from the plastic junk.
Locally Made vs. Mass-Produced
If the gift you’re buyin’ has “Gatlinburg” stamped on it but was made in another country, that ain’t a souvenir—that’s a scam with a price tag. The best Gatlinburg souvenir shops carry items made by mountain hands, not conveyor belts. Think hand-carved wood, blown glass, Appalachian quilts, and pottery with fingerprints still warm from the kiln. It’s the kind of stuff that smells like cedar, not shrink-wrap.
When you buy local, you’re not just pickin’ up a memento—you’re supportin’ a crafter who pours their heart (and probably a little sawdust) into what they do.
Atmosphere and Experience
Now here’s a little secret—if you walk into a shop and it smells like incense or fresh-baked fudge, chances are you’re in the right place. The best Gatlinburg souvenir shops feel like part of the Smokies. You’ll find creaky wooden floors, bluegrass music on the radio, and folks behind the counter who actually live in the zip code.
Some places even let you watch the artists work. I once saw a potter shape a mug with a squirrel’s tail on the handle while tellin’ a story about the black bear that used to steal tomatoes off her porch. Now that’s a souvenir with soul!
Price vs. Quality
Look, I get it. You don’t want to blow your whole trip budget on a single keychain. But I promise ya—spend just a couple extra bucks, and you’ll walk away with somethin’ that’ll last longer than a fridge magnet with a faded Smoky Mountain sunset.
The sweet spot? Shops that offer a range of prices, from small tokens to statement pieces, all made with care and pride. That way, whether you’re buyin’ for yourself, the grandkids, or that coworker who watered your plants, you’ll find somethin’ worth passin’ along.
The Honey Pot – A Cozy Cabin of Keepsakes
Now if there’s one place I always point folks to when they ask where to find “a little somethin’ special” in Gatlinburg, it’s The Honey Pot. Tucked right off the Parkway but somehow still feelin’ like a hidden nook in the woods, this shop is as homey and heartfelt as they come.
From the moment you step inside, it smells like cinnamon, lavender, and a little touch of nostalgia. You’ll find hand-painted garden signs that’ll make you chuckle, mountain-themed kitchen towels with sass and style, and enough pottery to fill Granny’s cupboard twice over. It’s the kind of place where you pick up one thing for Aunt Susan and somehow leave with a bag full of treasures for yourself, too.
What sets The Honey Pot apart from the usual Gatlinburg souvenir shops is its vibe—it’s more like walkin’ into someone’s front porch than a store. The owners keep it stocked with local goods, charming knick-knacks, and seasonal decor that’s always just the right side of whimsical. No flashing neon, no pushy sales talk—just a slow-paced, feel-good shopping experience.
The kiddos can find adorable animal figurines, the missus can sniff out a new seasonal candle, and you? Well, you’ll be lookin’ for more trunk space on the drive home.
Grinning Gary’s Tip:
Head in during the early morning or late afternoon when the Parkway crowds thin out. The folks behind the counter are friendly as can be and happy to chat about the artists they support—just ask ‘em.
Handmade, heartfelt, and the kind of gift that gets remembered—just don’t wait ’til they’re sold out.
Explore lodging near The Honey Pot
Misty Mountain Soap Co. – Where the Scents Tell Stories
Now I don’t care how rugged your Smoky Mountain adventure is—sooner or later, you’ll want a moment of peace that doesn’t involve a trail map or bug spray. That’s where Misty Mountain Soap Co. steps in like a warm bath after a long hike. Tucked away in The Village Shops just off the main drag, this cozy little store is like walkin’ into a fresh breeze that smells better than a wildflower bloom in April.
They’re not just sellin’ soap, y’all—they’re craftin’ little bundles of Southern self-care. Everything here is handmade locally, from the lavender oatmeal bars that calm your nerves to the foot creams that could revive a mule. These ain’t your average hotel soaps either—these are bars infused with essential oils, goat milk, and mountain charm.
Now, before you say, “Gary, I’m not usually the soap-buyin’ type,” let me stop ya right there. I’ve gifted their peppermint lip balm to burly uncles and their honeysuckle lotion to tough-as-nails cousins, and every one of ‘em thanked me like I gave ‘em gold. It’s a great shop for thoughtful gifts, especially for folks back home who want a whiff of the Smokies without climbin’ the hills themselves.
And let’s be honest—after a few days on the trail or in the crowds, treatin’ yourself to a little refreshin’ scrub-down might be the best souvenir of all.
Grinning Gary’s Tip:
Ask ‘em about the seasonal soap scents—especially around fall and Christmas. I once got a bar called “Mountain Spice” that made my whole guest bathroom smell like a cinnamon forest. Folks still talk about it.
Give yourself a souvenir you can soak in. Better yet—book a stay close by and relax like you mean it.
Find cozy cabins near artisan shops
Gatlinburg Travel Guide 2025: Explore the Best Attractions, Outdoor Adventures, and Hidden Gems in the Heart of the Smoky Mountains
This Gatlinburg Travel Guide 2025 isn’t just a book—it’s a doorway to a life-changing adventure. Whether you’re drawn by the mountains, the history, or the people, Gatlinburg promises an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left. Get ready to create unforgettable memories, and let this guide be your trusted companion along the way.
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Alewine Pottery – Heirloom Art with a Smoky Mountain Soul
Now we’re talkin’. If you’re the kind of souvenir shopper who wants to bring home more than a memory—something you’ll use, admire, and maybe even pass down one day—then you need to pay a visit to Alewine Pottery. This family-run gem has been spinnin’ clay into masterpieces in the Arts & Crafts Community for over 40 years, and let me tell ya… it’s pure Smoky Mountain soul, baked and glazed.
The minute you walk through the doors, you’ll hear the gentle hum of the wheel and maybe catch a whiff of fresh clay in the air. You’ll see rows of hand-thrown mugs, vases, and serving bowls in earthy tones that reflect the mountains themselves—rich blues, mossy greens, and warm browns that feel like sunrise over a misty ridge.
And it ain’t just about buyin’ a pretty cup. Most days, you can actually watch the potters at work, shaping and painting right there in the studio. It’s like getting a front-row seat to a tradition that’s been passed down for generations.
What makes Alewine Pottery one of the best Gatlinburg souvenir shops is its authenticity. Each piece is signed, each glaze is unique, and the stories behind the art are as rich as the mountain clay it’s made from. Whether you’re pickin’ up a mug for your morning joe or a decorative platter for your mantel, this is the kind of souvenir that becomes a conversation piece.
Grinning Gary’s Tip:
Don’t miss the seconds shelf. It’s full of perfectly good pottery with tiny flaws—little quirks, really—that make ‘em even more lovable. And they’re a steal, which means more cash for funnel cake later.
Ain’t just a souvenir—it’s a piece of Smoky Mountain history you’ll hand down.
Plan your stay near the Arts & Crafts loop
Tips for Smart Souvenir Shopping in Gatlinburg
Now I’ve seen it all—folks who pack two suitcases of trinkets they regret by the time they hit Pigeon Forge, and others who wait ‘til the last gas station before the interstate and walk out with a raccoon snow globe and a stale Moon Pie. But with just a little know-how and a nudge from your ol’ buddy Gary, you can shop like a local and head home with souvenirs that actually mean something.
Ask the Locals Where They Shop
This one’s easy. If you’re lookin’ for Gatlinburg souvenir shops that aren’t full of overpriced plastic or identical bear T-shirts, just strike up a conversation. Ask the gal servin’ your biscuits or the guy who rented you that mountain cabin. We love to brag on our favorite hidden spots—and we’re more likely to steer you to a craftsman’s storefront than a neon-lit chain on the Parkway.
Avoid the “3 for $10” Trap
Now look, I’m all for a good deal. But when every shop on the block has the same generic T-shirts, mugs, and bottle openers, you’re probably buyin’ the same souvenir as 10,000 other folks that week. If it feels like a warehouse disguised as a storefront, it probably is.
You want pieces that feel like Gatlinburg, not like they came outta a box in Jersey. That’s why the best Gatlinburg souvenir shops specialize in handmade, locally crafted, and carefully curated goods—not clearance bins.
Know What Fits in Your Suitcase
You’d be surprised how many folks pick up a gorgeous piece of pottery… only to realize it won’t make it past TSA without turning into ceramic confetti. If you’re flyin’, ask shops about shipping options. Most of the quality places—like Alewine Pottery—will package it right and ship it safe.
Got a full trunk? No shame in shippin’ it home or settin’ it aside for the next visit. Just don’t let logistics keep you from bringin’ home something beautiful.
Make room in your suitcase—and your itinerary. Lodging near these shops makes it all easier.
See lodging options with walkable access
Gatlinburg City Magnet by Classic Magnets, Collectible Souvenirs Made in The USA, 3.8" x 3.4"
Features
| Part Number | CTY-119 |
| Model | CTY-119 |
| Color | White |
| Size | 3.8 x 3.4 inches |
- Durable .100″ Thick Flexible Rubber Construction
- Features an exciting collage of Gatlinburg, TN icons
- Made in the U.S.A. by Ideaman, Inc., the manufacturers of the Original Classic souvenir magnets!
- “Jumbo-Sized” Magnet Measures 3.8″ x 3.4″
- Great for the Vintage Souvenir Magnet Collector!
Gatlinburg Adventure Guide: Your Ultimate Handbook to Amazing Things to Do and See in the Smoky Mountains
Features
| Is Adult Product | |
| Language | English |
| Number Of Pages | 139 |
| Publication Date | 2024-05-25T00:00:01Z |
Things to do in the Smokies with Kids: Tips for visiting Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Features
| Is Adult Product | |
| Language | English |
| Number Of Pages | 128 |
| Publication Date | 2025-02-18T00:00:01Z |
Gatlinburg Tennessee Magnet 4 Inch 2-Pack – Strong Vinyl Decorative Travel Magnets for Fridge Locker Kitchen Office – Cute Fun Aesthetic Cool Durable &…
Features
| Part Number | ID44999 |
| Model | ID44999 |
| Color | Multi Color |
| Size | 211 inch on the longest side |
- Adventure at a Glance – Explore the World from Your Fridge! Bring your love for travel and exploration to life with stunning geography-themed Travel magnets! Featuring iconic landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and national park designs, these magnets let you relive your favorite trips and inspire your next adventure every day.
- Strong & Secure Hold – No Slipping, No Sliding! Keep your notes, photos, and reminders in place with ultra-strong magnets refrigerator that grip tight! Whether on a fridge, locker, or whiteboard, these durable cute fridge magnets provide a secure hold without slipping or sliding, keeping your space neat, organized, and stylish every time.
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Gatlinburg Travel Guide 2024-2025: Explore the Top Attractions, Scenic Trails, Budget-Friendly Activities, Accommodations, Dining, Maps and Insider Tips for…
Features
| Is Adult Product | |
| Language | English |
| Number Of Pages | 156 |
| Publication Date | 2024-07-20T00:00:01Z |
Tervis Tennessee – Gatlinburg Made in USA Double Walled Insulated Tumbler Travel Cup Keeps Drinks Cold & Hot, 16oz, Bear
Features
| Part Number | 1302849 |
| Model | Tennessee – Gatlinburg |
| Color | Hunter Green |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 16 oz Tumbler |
- Tervis tumblers feature double-wall insulated construction that keeps drinks hot or cold longer and reduces condensation to prevent rings on your table.
- Strong, impact resistant BPA-free material means these tumblers can take a tumble without shattering and won’t retain tastes or odors.
- Most tumblers are microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe for no-worry convenience and fit most cup holders.
Gatlinburg Travel Guide: The Ultimate Insider's Handbook To Exploring Tennessee's Magic With Budget-Friendly Tips
Features
| Is Adult Product | |
| Language | English |
| Number Of Pages | 115 |
| Publication Date | 2024-06-15T00:00:01Z |
Gatlinburg (Images of America)
Features
| Part Number | Illustrated |
| Release Date | 2011-08-15T00:00:01Z |
| Edition | Illustrated |
| Language | English |
| Number Of Pages | 128 |
| Publication Date | 2011-08-15T00:00:01Z |
- Used Book in Good Condition
Gatlinburg Black Bear Magnet by Classic Magnets, 4.1" x 2.5", Collectible Souvenirs Made in The USA
Features
| Part Number | RGL-GS2 |
| Model | RGL-GS2 |
| Color | Black |
- Authentic vintage Gatlinburg Black Bear magnet for the traveling collector
- Magnet Measures 4.1″ x 2.5″
- Made in the U.S.A. by Ideaman, Inc., the manufacturers of the Original Classic souvenir magnets!
- Features “Gatlinburg” raised on the side of the most popular animal in the Smoky Mountains!
- Great for the Souvenir Magnet Collector!
GM Johnson Black Road Map: Gatlinburg, Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, Tennessee, North Carolina Area – Smooth Finish
Features
| Color | greyscale |
| Edition | 2021 |
| Language | English |
| Number Of Pages | 2 |
| Publication Date | 2020-11-26T00:00:01Z |
FAQ – Souvenir Shopping Questions I Hear All the Time
If I had a nickel for every time someone flagged me down in town with a shopping bag in one hand and a worried look on their face, I could probably open my own little Gatlinburg souvenir shop. But since I’d rather point folks in the right direction than sell ’em a novelty spoon, I figured I’d go ahead and answer the questions I hear the most—right here, plain and simple.
Are there any Gatlinburg souvenir shops that actually sell local products?
You bet your boots there are—and they’re the only ones worth your time, if you ask me. Places like Alewine Pottery, The Honey Pot, and Misty Mountain Soap Co. carry handmade goods by local artists and small businesses. If you can smell sawdust or see someone actually makin’ what they’re sellin’, you’re probably in the right place.
What makes a souvenir “authentic” anyway?
Good question. To me, an authentic souvenir is somethin’ that tells a story—about the Smokies, about the people here, or about your trip. That could be a hand-thrown coffee mug from the arts and crafts loop or a bar of lavender soap made with Appalachian spring water. It’s not about price—it’s about meaning.
Can I ship souvenirs home from Gatlinburg?
Absolutely. Most of the nicer Gatlinburg souvenir shops will box up your purchase and ship it right to your doorstep—especially if it’s fragile, like pottery or glass. Just ask at checkout. And if you’re buyin’ a lot (hey, no judgment here), it might even save your back on the trip home.
What’s a good souvenir for someone who’s never been here?
I always say: give ‘em somethin’ that smells like the mountains or was made by mountain hands. Soap, candles, honey, or even a simple wooden ornament carved right here in town—those are the things that give folks a taste of Gatlinburg without ever settin’ foot on the Parkway.
Is it OK to haggle at souvenir shops?
Well now, this ain’t a yard sale, friend. Most of these shops—especially the local ones—price their goods fairly from the get-go. That said, if you’re buyin’ a few things, it never hurts to kindly ask if they offer any bundle deals or local discounts. Just be polite. Mountain manners go a long way.
Skip the Junk, Savor the Journey
Let’s face it: anyone can grab a keychain or slap a magnet on the fridge and call it a souvenir. But here in the Smokies, we believe in keepsakes with character. When you walk into the right place—where the floors creak, the air smells like cedar and lavender, and the shop owner calls you “hon” without missin’ a beat—that’s when you know you’ve found somethin’ worth takin’ home.
These three Gatlinburg souvenir shops—The Honey Pot, Misty Mountain Soap Co., and Alewine Pottery—ain’t just places to buy stuff. They’re where memories get preserved in pottery, scent, and handcrafted charm. You won’t find neon lights or plastic shot glasses shaped like bears. What you’ll find is the kind of treasure that still makes you smile six months after you unpack your suitcase.
So whether you’re gift-huntin’, self-treatin’, or just wanderin’ through Gatlinburg with a curious heart, skip the tourist traps. Support the makers, the artists, the mountain folks who put their soul into what they sell. Because a real souvenir doesn’t just say “Gatlinburg”—it feels like it.
And hey, if you’re plannin’ a visit and want to stay close to these gems without fightin’ through the crowded Parkway every time you need a bar of soap or a hand-thrown mug.
If you want a trip worth rememberin’, start by stayin’ where the real treasures are close by.
Book your Gatlinburg stay with character
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