Holiday Shopping Guide
By Leif Palmer
Posted on November 18, 2020
If you're like most of us, you probably haven't put a very big dent in your holiday shopping list this year. But Christmas will be here before you know it, which is why we've put together a handy list of businesses in the Great Smoky Mountains where you will enjoy the visit in its own right and also get some Christmas shopping done. Why not kill two birds with one stone?
Read on and discover our suggestions for some of the places you might want to check out if you happen to be in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge or Sevierville in the next few weeks. (If you decide to visit Gatlinburg specifically, remember that there are downtown Gatlinburg parking garages and lots that will allow you to hit multiple shops while leaving your vehicle in one affordable location.)
Let's first think in terms of retail. Destinations like Mountain Mall, Marketplace Mall and Baskins Square in downtown Gatlinburg have a wide variety of shops. Mountain Mall in particular offers a climate-controlled location, which can be a good option for those shopping days when the weather isn't so pleasant. You can also choose from the hundreds of individual specialty shops throughout the area, including All Sauced Up and Nantahala Outdoor Center.
Another must-stop when it comes to retail is the Tanger Outlet Center in Sevierville, which is home to dozens and dozens of shops spanning a wide array of merchandise-from clothing and footwear to housewares, electronics and specialty foods. All the retailers involved cater to specific interests, which means there's a great chance of finding something for even the most hard-to-please people on your list.
Gift cards are another reliable idea for giving this holiday season. It's simple for you, and they allow the recipient to buy the things they want most. That takes all the guesswork out of it for you. Many retail locations sell gift cards, but restaurants are also a favorite. When it comes to the Smokies, the choice of eateries is seemingly endless. A few of the names to consider include The Melting Pot, The Park Grill, The Peddler, Crockett's Breakfast Camp, Joe's Crab Shack, No Way Jose's, Holston's Kitchen, Longhorn and Chipotle.
And don't forget about giving the gift of experiences. Consider buying gift cards to area attractions like Star Cars Museum, all the local Ripley attractions, The Track and Dolly Parton's Stampede. There's also outdoor fun to be had at Five Oaks Adventure Park, which offers horseback riding, ziplines and more.
About Leif Palmer
Leif Palmer loves residing in Gatlinburg. He is an avid outdoorsman: rowing for exercise on the lake, trail hiking, and free climbing rocks in the mountains. He indulges his arty side by periodically beating up pieces of marble by sculpting. He is always frustrated by his inability to sink long putts, and hates his curly hair (but his wife loves it). Leif has been known to muster enough courage to change a diaper, and hopes his son will become a chip off the old block.