Great Smoky Mountains Arts and Crafts

The Smoky Mountains don’t just feel like a magical place, they really are a mystical destination. The phrase “old as the hills” rings true when you really dive into the old lore of the mountains. When you come to visit, take this otherworldly tour and investigate for yourself. Here are six of the Smokies’ best kept secrets.

1. Elkmont Trollbridge

Escape to a place that really feels like a glimpse into a mythical land. The Elkmont Trollbridge is a true hidden gem that only locals know about. Hike along the Little River Trail until you reach this spot. Covered in moss and mushrooms, the Trollbridge is perfect for capturing pictures or looking for hidden fantastical creatures.

2. House Of The Fairies

This whimsical spot is only a mile from downtown Gatlinburg yet it feels like you’ve been transported into another realm. Map to this magical place, then go out and explore. Here, you’ll find towering trees and moss covered logs and boulders. Then at the end of the trail you’ll see it...an arched doorway, that looks like it’s almost cut into the side of the hill, sits with a wooden ladder leaning against the frame. Step inside and find a cool spring, filled with water that tinkles like bells. 

3. Synchronous Fireflies

The synchronized fireflies that come out every year like clockwork might be more science than magic but when you’re sitting among the trees and they begin to spark in unison, flickering in and out of sight, it feels like something otherworldly. This rare phenomenon is only seen in a few places in the world and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of them.

4. Elkmont Ghost Town

Once a thriving vacation spot for the Knoxville elite, the Elkmont Ghost Town looks like a legend brought back to life. Recently restored, explore inside the homes and hike trails where you will find the remains of homes once occupied by Appalachian locals who would serve, supply and work in the town. This piece of history is frozen in time and feels like stepping back into the past.

There are many magical places in the Smokies and these are only four of them. Don’t stop here, continue to search for more mystical creatures and sprites living in the trees and hollows. To discover more, stay overnight in the mountains in a log cabin. This cabin is even called Magical Moments, which is exactly what you’ll find when you visit the Smoky Mountains.

Welcome to the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. The largest group of independent artisans in North America. This historic 8-mile loop has been designated a Tennessee Heritage Arts & Crafts Trail. Established in 1937, these artisans whittle, paint, sew, cast, weave and carve to create original collectibles such as candles, baskets, quilts, brooms, pottery, jewelry, dolls, ceramics, scrimshaw, silversmithing, leather, stained glass, wearable fashions, fine photography, frameable art, oils and watercolors, also lodging, restaurants, cafes, tea room, soda fountain and candy shops. Make plans to visit the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community.

Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountain resort of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the famed Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community presents three annual craft shows each year. They are the Easter Arts & Crafts Show, Thanksgiving Arts & Crafts Show and the Christmas Arts & Crafts Show all being held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Admission to all of the craft shows, as always, is free.

We have a tradition of featuring local artists and craftspeople at all of our craft shows. This year is no exception. Visitors will be able to watch demonstrations, view displays, and purchase hundreds of high quality, handmade artworks and craft products. Take a leisurely stroll through booths displaying jewelry, brooms, pottery, baskets, candles, leather, candy, ceramics, wearable fashions, frameable art, oils and watercolors, quilts, wood crafts, Lucite, stained glass, plus much more. Make a point of visiting, and purchasing a handmade memory of your visit to the Smokies and Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

We hope that all who attend our traditional craft shows will visit the historic Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community which has been designated a historic pathway on the Tennessee Arts & Crafts Trail by the governor of Tennessee. Since it inception in 1937, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community has grown to encompass more that 80 studios, galleries and shops in its eight-mile loop located three miles east of downtown Gatlinburg along East Parkway (Hwy 321 North), Glades Road, Buckhorn Road and adjacent byways. This is the nation’s largest concentration of independent artist and crafters.

Web: Great Smoky Mtns Arts and Crafts
Address: Glades Road in Gatlinburg
Phone: (865) 671-3600 ext. 3504 Toll Free: 1 (800) 565-7330