Gatlinburg Shops: A Shopaholic’s Paradise in the Smokies

Whether you’re seeking one-of-a-kind crafts, cozy soft shirts, or the perfect souvenir to remember your trip, Gatlinburg retail stores and specialty shops have something for everyone. Strolling through downtown Gatlinburg, you’ll discover an array of shops each with their own charm and character, making it one of the best places to shop in Gatlinburg.

Grab your shopping list and let’s explore the best Gatlinburg shopping destinations together!

Gatlinburg Shopping Scene Overview

Let’s get you familiar with the main types of Gatlinburg shops you’ll encounter in Gatlinburg, from unique crafts to outlet deals:

The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community: This 8-mile loop is home to over 100 artisans showcasing unique, handmade treasures. Think pottery, paintings, wood carvings, jewelry, and more. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts.

The Village Shops: Nestled in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, this charming collection of 27 unique shops offers a delightful mix of Gatlinburg boutique shopping, galleries, and eateries.

Outlet Malls: If you’re looking for deals on brand-name goods, Gatlinburg is conveniently located near Tanger Outlets, where you’ll find discounts on clothing, shoes, accessories, and more.

Specialty Shops: Gatlinburg is peppered with specialty shops selling everything from local foods and crafts to outdoor gear and souvenirs. There’s truly something for everyone!

The Best Shopping Spots in Gatlinburg

Now that you understand the various shopping experiences available in Gatlinburg, let’s highlight some specific shopping destinations that are truly special, including the most unique shops in Gatlinburg:

The Village Shops: As we mentioned earlier, this charming European-style village is a must-visit. It features a delightful mix of boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. You’ll find everything from clothing and jewelry to home décor and gourmet treats.

Some shops worth mentioning include The Spice & Tea Exchange. This shop is a sensory delight, filled with the aromas of exotic spices and fragrant teas from around the world.

Visitors can explore an impressive collection of spices, blends, and teas, making it a perfect spot for culinary enthusiasts or anyone looking for a unique gift.

Oh, we also love the Sock Shop! As the name suggests, this store is a haven for sock lovers! They offer a wide variety of fun, colorful, and quirky socks for all ages and tastes. From cozy wool socks to silly novelty socks, there’s something to put a smile on anyone’s face.

Don’t want to get too carried away here but just need to share one more… The Honey Pot! This charming store offers a curated collection of home décor, gifts, and gourmet treats. You’ll find everything from rustic cabin-themed décor to locally sourced honey and jams. It’s a great place to find unique items to decorate your home or bring back as souvenirs.

The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community: This 8-mile loop is a treasure trove of handmade crafts. You can watch artisans at work and even take classes or workshops. It’s a truly unique shopping experience (so unique that you’ll read a lot about it in our Gatlinburg travel guides)!

Related Post: Hidden Gems in Gatlinburg – 11 Unique Things To Do

For someone seeking handcrafted souvenirs, the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community would be the perfect spot. From pottery and paintings to wood carvings and jewelry, the community offers a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, catering to various tastes and preferences.

The Mountain Mall: Located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, this multi-level mall is a fantastic choice for families. The mall has a good mix of stores that cater to different interests, from souvenir shops to candy stores, ensuring there’s something to keep everyone entertained.

It has kid-friendly attractions too! Ripley’s Mirror Maze is a big hit with kids. It’s filled with fascinating exhibits and interactive displays that spark curiosity and wonder.

Tanger Outlets: 70 percent discount, anyone? Ha! Knew you’d notice. If you’re looking for bargains on brand-name goods, head to Tanger Outlets in nearby Sevierville. You’ll find discounts on everything from clothing and shoes to housewares and electronics.

Nantahala Outdoor Center: Conveniently situated at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, NOC is easily accessible and hard to miss.

They boast a massive collection of outdoor gear, clothing, and footwear from top brands like The North Face and Patagonia. Whether you need hiking boots, camping tents, fishing gear, or even kayaks, NOC has got you covered.

Related Post: Smoky Mountain Epic Outdoor Adventures

Additionally, NOC Gatlinburg features a swinging rope bridge, a kid-friendly “bear cave”, and even a 25-foot climbing wall for visitors to enjoy! Your little tots can stay busy while you purchase all your outdoor gear.

Tramway Mall: As the name suggests, it’s called the Tramway Mall because it’s located at the base of the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway!

It’s a smaller shopping area, but it offers a few unique shops and eateries that might interest you, especially if you’re waiting for the tram or just got off it. They have a gift shop with Ober Gatlinburg souvenirs, a candy store, and even a coffee shop for a quick caffeine boost.

Visiting Ober Gatlinburg? If you’re visiting during peak season, consider purchasing your tram tickets online in advance to avoid long lines. This will give you more time to explore Ober Gatlinburg or the other attractions in town!

The Day Hiker: Another great option right on the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg. As the name suggests, The Day Hiker specializes in hiking gear and apparel. You’ll find a wide variety of hiking boots, backpacks, trekking poles, and other essentials.

Also, the staff at The Day Hiker are knowledgeable about the local trails and can provide valuable recommendations based on your specific needs and hiking plans.

Curious about the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg shops? The Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg isn’t a traditional enclosed mall, but it’s the heart of Gatlinburg’s shopping and entertainment scene. It’s a bustling street lined with a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Most of the shops mentioned here are found at the Parkway!

Practical Tips

Here are some essential shopping Gatlinburg TN tips to make your Gatlinburg shopping experience enjoyable and stress-free:

Parking: Gatlinburg offers a variety of parking options, including public lots, garages, and private lots. However, consider using the Gatlinburg Trolley system to avoid the hassle of driving and parking, especially during peak seasons. The trolley is typically available during Gatlinburg shop hours, from 10:30 am to 6 pm.

Budgeting: Remember that Gatlinburg has a sales tax. The combined state and local sales tax rate is 9.75%, which might seem a bit high compared to some other places. Factor this in when you’re planning a budget!

Timing: Gatlinburg shopping malls can get crowded during peak seasons and weekends. We highly recommend visiting during weekdays or shoulder seasons for a more relaxed shopping experience.

Related Post: Best Time to Visit Gatlinburg TN

But the good thing is many shops in Gatlinburg stay open late, allowing for evening browsing and leisurely strolls.

Accommodation: Consider booking accommodations near the best shopping spots ahead of time. Why? Because there’s no need to search “shopping near me” when one is literally across you! Kidding aside, this simple step makes carrying bags full of new purchases a breeze if your hotel is just a short walk away.

Moreover, with Tripster’s low rates for hotels in Gatlinburg, you can save more on your stay and splurge on more unique finds! Whether you’re hunting for that perfect souvenir at one of the Gatlinburg souvenir shops or exploring the charming local artisans’ creations in the crafts community, shopping in Gatlinburg is truly an adventure in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Dive into the vibrant mix of specialty shops, Gatlinburg retail stores, and cozy boutiques that make up the shopping scene in Gatlinburg. Remember to check the downtown Gatlinburg shopping hours to make the most of your visit. Happy shopping!