You’ve got the cozy cabin, the scenic mountains, fabulous coffee shops, and plenty of fine dining close at hand. Now you just need your next great read (or two, or three…) to enjoy by the fire.
For true bibliophiles, no vacation would be complete without seeking out independent bookshops along the way. And that bodes well for visitors to Sevierville. Here you’ll find a wide variety of bookshops and shops with books, whether you’re into new books, used books, vintage books, or all of the above. So grab a cup of coffee from one of the town’s best coffee shops and stop by one or more of these bookish destinations while you’re enjoying your time in the Smoky Mountains.
The Moon Pie General Store and Original Book Warehouse
Moon Pies: You either love them or hate them. Either way, when you visit this store, you also have a warehouse full of books, which makes this stop a no-brainer. This one-of-a-kind stop in Pigeon Forge is home to a huge variety of Moon Pies and Moon Pie Memorabilia (who knew?!), but they also boast rows upon rows of shelves of discounted books. You might not find the newest releases here, but you will find a huge array of great books from practically every genre at surprisingly low prices.
Escape Reality Comics
Photo Credit by @escaperealitycomics on Instagram
Get off the beaten path and hit up this lovely little comic book store in Sevierville. Escape Reality Comics keeps customers coming back, thanks to their great selection and over-the-top helpful, friendly service. Don’t let the small size of the store fool you; they offer an impressive selection of variant covers, back issues, and graphic novels.
This unassuming location is in central Sevierville, just a few blocks south of the Dolly Parton statue and the Dutch Bros. Coffee.
A Long Story Short Co.
Photo Credit by @alongstoryshortco on Instagram
This eclectic little bookstore and gift shop has it all: vintage typewriters, vintage and antique books, jewelry, and fun little trinkets around every corner. A homey escape for those wanting a quiet refuge from the tourist traps, A Long Story Short is the perfect little refuge: a little steampunk, a little kitschy, and a little nerdy all at once. The selection varies widely depending on when you visit, but you’re not unlikely to find the vintage book of your dreams while you browse their extensive collection.
A Long Story Short is located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, right next to Patriot Park. Stop by Espresso Yourself across the street for a to-die-for latte to pair with your new-to-you books.
The Next Chapter Bookshop
Photo Credit by @thenextchapterbookstore on Instagram
This bookshop is the perfect stop for new books. A true bookshop (as opposed to many of the gift shop/bookshop/trinket locales, which have their own charm), The Next Chapter is small but very well-equipped and welcoming. The airy, open floor plan and color scheme welcome you in like a breath of fresh air. Expect a wonderful children’s book section, cozy armchairs to sit down and browse, and warmly friendly service from owners who are truly passionate about connecting their visitors with the perfect book.
You’ll also love The Next Chapter’s location; it’s nestled off of Glades Road in Gatlinburg, along with several other charming small shops.
Books-A-Million
Photo Credit by @bookamillion on Instagram
Some people think of Books-A-Million as a relic of the ’90s, but this location is particularly well-run and offers a surprisingly good collection of contemporary and classic fiction, nonfiction, and regional books. Enjoy the calm, open environment, the ample selection of novelty apparel, mugs, and other merch, and the friendly, helpful service. There’s something for everyone here, so even the less-enthusiastic readers you drag along will likely find something to pique their interest.
Located at Governor’s Crossing Mall, Books-A-Million is easily accessible during a day of exploring the town. You’ll find ample parking and nearby restaurants and shops.
For some, stopping at one of the above locations will be enough to satiate their bookish impulses. For others, a bookshop crawl might be in order. Whether you’re in search of a cozy mystery or the latest dystopian drama, you’ll find plenty of cozy places in the Smoky Mountains to settle in, put your feet up, and get lost in another world–perhaps while others in your party take in some of the noisier, brighter local attractions.
After all: what could be better than a quiet day in the mountains, with coffee and excellent food near at hand and books all around? We think such a day would be pretty tough to beat.
