Sevierville, Tenessee
Gateway to the Skies and the Smokies
Tours & Experiences from Sevierville
Sevierville is where your Smoky Mountain adventure begins. Some of it’s biggest claims to fame are that it’s Dolly Parton’s hometown and a popular hub for shopping, dining, and attractions. It’s also the launch point for scenic helicopter tours over the Smokies. Located just north of Pigeon Forge, Sevierville combines modern conveniences with easy access to outdoor adventure.
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park Helicopter Tour
50-mile narrated helicopter flight over the Smokies.... More
- 50 Miles • Sevierville, TN
- Perfect for couples & families
- See Gatlinburg & Clingmans Dome
- Expert pilot narration included
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Smoky Mountain Spectacular
110-mile deluxe helicopter adventure over the Smokies.... More
- 110 Miles • Sevierville, TN
- Perfect for photographers & explorers
- Customizable route options
- FAA-certified pilot & narration
More Things to Do in Sevierville
In Town
Discover unique shops, savor local cuisine, and visit attractions like the Sevierville Historic Downtown and the Dolly Parton Statue.
- Dolly Parton Statue – Located on the courthouse lawn, honoring the town’s most famous resident.
- Tanger Outlets Sevierville – One of the largest outlet malls in the region.
- Wilderness at the Smokies – A massive indoor/outdoor waterpark resort.
- Downtown Sevierville – Restaurants, shops, and a growing craft brewery scene.
Near Town
- Helicopter Tours – FAA-certified pilots take off from Sevierville for flights over Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, and the Smoky Mountain ridgelines.
- Scenic Drives – Quick access to the Foothills Parkway and Newfound Gap Road.
- Fishing & Boating – Douglas Lake, just outside Sevierville, offers water recreation.
- Day Trips – Just minutes from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg attractions.
Family Favorities
Mini-golf, local parks, and educational attractions.
Cultural & Historical Experiences
Explore Sevierville’s rich heritage at the Sevierville Heritage Museum and the historic downtown district, showcasing the region’s history and culture.
Best Time to Visit Sevierville
Spring and fall for mild weather and beautiful foliage.
- Spring: Outlet shopping, wildflower season in the park and mild weather make for a great experience.
- Summer: Waterparks, helicopter flights, and fishing trips.
- Fall: Vibrant foliage tours by air or scenic drive.
- Winter: Holiday lights throughout the Smokies and cozy cabin stays at off-season rates.
Events & Festivals
- Bloomin’ BBQ Music & Food Festival – May, with live music and BBQ competitions.
- Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival – Fall celebrations across Sevier County.
- Winterfest – Holiday lights from November through February.
Where to Eat
There is a diverse dining scene with options ranging from casual to family-friendly. Sevierville’s dining scene caters to tourists.
- Local Cafés & Diners – Homestyle Southern cooking.
- BBQ & Smokehouses – Regional specialties served with a mountain twist.
- Casual Grills & Breweries – Relaxed atmospheres perfect after a day outdoors.
Where to Stay
Sevierville offers a variety of accommodations, including hotels, motels, cozy cabins, and campgrounds.
- Cabins & Cottages – Private retreats surrounded by forest.
- Bed & Breakfasts – Cozy, personal stays with mountain hospitality.
- Campgrounds & RV Parks – Both in-town and near the park entrance.
- Unique Stays – Riverside lodges and small inns with rustic charm.
Suggested Itineraries
Sevierville, the county seat of Sevier County, is a vibrant city in East Tennessee. Known for its rich history and as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, it offers a blend of outdoor activities and local culture.
1 Day Itinerary
Morning: Clingmans Dome, Cades Cove.
Afternoon: Hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping.
Evening: Enjoy wildlife, scenic views, sunsets, and stargazing.
3 Day Itinerary
Day 1: Junior Ranger programs and easy trails.
Day 2: Hiking and fishing.
Day 3: Enjoy scenic drives & cultural experiences.
Weeklong Adventure
Why not combine hiking, wildlife viewing, and canoeing? Or perhaps take a day and go hiking and fishing? But don’t forget to take some time to go shopping and dining in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Stay in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Cherokee for easy access.
Insider Tips
- Book helicopter tours in advance — they sell out during foliage season.
- Stay in Sevierville for lower lodging costs than Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge.
- Douglas Lake is a hidden gem for fishing and boating.
- For a quieter experience, explore Sevierville’s downtown rather than the Parkway corridor.
Practical Travel Info
- Closest Park Entrance: Sugarlands Visitor Center – about 30 minutes via US-441 S.
- Nearest Airport: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) – 35 miles (approx. 50 minutes).
- Getting Around: Driving is easiest. Parking is plentiful at outlets and attractions.
- Best Time to Visit: Fall for helicopter foliage flights, summer for waterparks and family trips.
Notable Features
Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, rich in Appalachian culture and history.
Town Highlights
Home to the Dolly Parton statue, Sevierville Historic District, and various shopping outlets.
Weather / Climate Overview
Sevierville, Tennessee, has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers averaging 80°F and mild winters.
Crowd Levels / Peak Times
Sevierville experiences peak crowds in the summer, with weekends drawing a significant number of visitors.
Accessibility Notes
Certain attractions and trails in Sevierville are designed to accommodate wheelchair users.
Shuttle / Transport Info
Limited public scheduled transport. Shuttles from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge to the park are available to book. (Park staff can not book shuttles for you.) Parking is limited at the most popular national park trailheads.
Nearest airports: McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). Approximately 45 minutes from Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport.
Personal vehicles recommended.
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes for hiking, weather-appropriate clothing and sunscreen. For thosefishing, please bring water shoes. Those planning to go horseback riding are required to wear closed-toed shoes and pants.
Safety Tips
Stay hydrated during outdoor activities and be aware of wildlife.
Cell Service / WiFi
Cell service and Wi-Fi are generally reliable in Sevierville, Tennessee, but may be inconsistent in more remote park areas.
Sustainable Travel Tips
Use public transportation, when possible, support local businesses, and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Sevierville from the park?
It’s about a 30-minute drive to the Sugarlands Visitor Center entrance near Gatlinburg.
Where should I stay in Sevierville?
Family resorts and chain hotels are plentiful, while cabins and lakefront rentals offer more privacy.
Is Sevierville family-friendly?
Yes — waterparks, go-karts, mini-golf, and zoos make it a top spot for families.
What’s Sevierville known for?
Dolly Parton’s hometown, outlet shopping, and helicopter tours over the Smokies.
When is the best time to visit Sevierville?
Fall for scenic foliage flights, summer for family attractions, and spring for shopping and outdoor activities.
Other Park Gateway Towns
Gatlinburg is a bustling resort town in eastern Tennessee, nestled at the entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its lively atmosphere, it offers a mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly attractions.
Pigeon Forge, TN
Pigeon Forge is a vibrant mountain resort city in Sevier County, Tennessee, just north of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It offers a mix of entertainment, shopping, and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for families and country music fans.
Cherokee, NC
Cherokee is a vibrant community nestled in the Oconaluftee River Valley, rich in Cherokee culture and history. It serves as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, offering visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Townsend, TN
Townsend is a quaint city in Blount County, Tennessee, serving as a primary gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Known for its serene landscapes and historical significance, it offers visitors a peaceful retreat with access to outdoor adventures.
Marshall, NC
Marshall is a quaint town nestled in the Appalachian Mountains, known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene. The town offers a blend of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, making it a perfect gateway to the surrounding natural beauty.
Knoxville, TN
Knoxville, Tennessee, is a lively city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains. It offers a blend of outdoor activities and urban experiences.
What Visitors Say About Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Plan Your Smoky Mountain Adventure
Sevierville combines big attractions with easy access to outdoor adventure. From shopping and waterparks to soaring helicopter rides, it’s a gateway town that has something for everyone.
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CONTACT US
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National Park Tours
700 Rochelle Cir
Fort Collins, CO 80526 -
Meeting locations vary for each tour: You will be sent a meeting location after you book
