Regardless of whether you’ve been to the Smokies once, are long-time visitors to the area, or are planning a vacation for the first time, you probably want to explore unique and hidden gems in Gatlinburg in addition to some of the more popular attractions. We’ve made a list of a few of our favorites, so read on to discover some secret spots you need to know about:

Gatlinburg Restaurants Off the Beaten Path

1. Ski Mountain Pizza

Ski Mountain Pizza is located on the way to Ober Mountain on Ski Mountain Road and offers dine-in, carry-out, and delivery; plus, they’re open late until 1 AM! In addition to handmade pizzas with fresh dough made onsite daily, this pizza joint also serves calzones, stromboli, subs, pasta, wings, salads, garlic bread, homemade desserts, ice cream, and more. 

2. The Baht Thai Restaurant & Bar

If you like Thai food, then you have to check out this incredible restaurant by the river in Gatlinburg! You won’t find this on the main strip, but tucked away on Spruce Lane, one of the side streets off of the East Parkway. The Baht serves lunch and dinner, has a full-service bar, and offers incredible views thanks to the walls of windows overlooking the river! 

Looking for more restaurant recommendations? Check out the best romantic Gatlinburg restaurants for date night!

Lesser-Known Spots in the Smoky Mountains

3. Upper Tremont Road

If you’re looking for a less-crowded scenic drive or an alternative to Cades Cove, we suggest giving Upper Tremont Road a try! There are many activities in the area if you wish to get out and explore, including the Great Smoky Mountains Institute at Tremont, fishing, hiking trails, and more!

4. The Gatlinburg Trail 

A lot of people don’t realize that there is a trailhead for a hiking trail located in downtown Gatlinburg! Starting at River Road and leading to the Sugarlands Visitor Center inside the national park, the Gatlinburg Trail is a little under 4 miles roundtrip. It’s also one of the only dog-friendly and bike-friendly trails in the Great Smoky Mountains! 

More Hidden Gems in Gatlinburg

5. Historic Ogle Cabin

Did you know that the Gatlinburg Welcome Center is home to the first ever cabin in Gatlinburg? That’s right, the historic Ogle Cabin was originally built in the White Oak Sinks area of the national park in the early 1800s and can now be seen at the welcome center at Traffic Light #3!

6. The Wood Whittlers 

There is no shortage of secret spots along the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Loop, from shops selling handmade soaps, quilts, and jewelry to workshops featuring pottery, leather goods, and woodcarvings. One such place, The Wood Whittlers, is actually Gatlinburg’s oldest retail business and definitely worth visiting! 

7. Our Exotic Car Experience  

Speedwerkz is one of the hidden gems in Gatlinburg, hiding in plain sight! We’re located next to Ole Red right as you’re about to enter the downtown Gatlinburg Strip, yet many people don’t realize what an awesome attraction they’re passing by! You may assume we’re just another car museum, but you’ll find so many exciting things at Speedwerkz, from racing simulators to photo opportunities sitting inside one of our display supercars!

Read More: “Why Speedwerkz is One of the Most Unique Things to Do in Gatlinburg”

We hope you’ll explore some of these hidden gems in Galtinburg the next time you’re in town– and don’t forget to stop by and see our incredible car collection for yourself! Want to learn more about our unique Gatlinburg attraction? Get a behind-the-scenes look at the cars found only at Speedwerkz!