The charming town of Sevierville is jam-packed with things to do and see. While many people use this area as their home base while exploring Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, there’s something to be said for staying in town and experiencing its many unique attractions. On the hunt for something different to do or see? Give these ideas a try:
Tennessee Museum of Aviation
No matter how you feel about historic aircraft prior to visiting the Tennessee Museum of Aviation, you’ll emerge feeling newly appreciative of the jets, fighters, and helicopters that have helped to shape our nation. The museum’s unique location along the Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge Airport makes it possible to view flight demonstrations throughout the day — without the need to follow a strict schedule. Vintage airplanes can regularly be seen taking off from the 5,500-foot runway.
Inside, the museum continues to impress with over 35,000 square feet of hangar space. While a variety of aircraft engines and accessories can be found there, the real highlight involves the collection of vintage Warbirds, which have been meticulously and lovingly restored. Set aside plenty of time to wander among these and other aircraft as you learn more about their fascinating history.
Wahoo Ziplines
Photo Credit: @morgcan
If the name of this zipline company is any indication, you’ll be shouting with glee as you soar through the air above Sevierville. Wahoo Ziplines features a total of six separate lines, with plenty of different experiences to keep each expedition interesting. The lowest zipline rests at 40 feet, while the tallest provides exceptional views at heights of 250 feet. Altogether, the ziplines reach a total length of two miles.
Experienced zipliners should find the tours entertaining, but novices can take comfort in knowing that they have the full support of their highly-trained guides. Most tours last between one and two hours, but you’ll likely end the experience wishing you could continue the fun.
Soaky Mountain Waterpark
When hot, sticky summer days arrive, nothing beats a refreshing trip down a waterslide. Thankfully, several can be found right in Sevierville. From laid-back relaxation by the pool to turbocharged expeditions on state-of-the-art slides, Soaky Mountain Waterpark provides something for everyone. Soaky Mountain primarily appeals to thrill-seekers, however, who will be excited to hit up the wave pool, translucent slides, and raft rides. The waterpark even offers FlowRider surfing.
Youngsters can make the most of a play zone and pint-sized versions of the park’s iconic rides. They’ll also adore the kid-friendly cuisine offered at the Bee Good Cafe, plus the sweet treats from The Candy Cabin. Taco trucks and shakes with ice cream mix-ins can also be found, so there’s no reason to go hungry in between trips down the slide.
Little River Gem Mine
While many of the locations on this list can be accurately referred to as Sevierville gems, the Little River Gem Mine brings new meaning to this expression. This cute shop provides the opportunity to pan for gems in a running trough. This makes any stones purchased there feel extra special.
Kids are especially excited about this experience, although older visitors can easily nurture their inner child after just a few minutes of mining for gems. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable, so you’re bound to learn a thing or two as you discuss your discoveries.
Apple Barn and Cider Mill
There’s a lot of vintage appeal to the Apple Barn and Cider Mill, which is housed in a structure built well over a century ago. Beyond this, the orchard includes over 4,000 trees, which produce both sweet and tart apples. These, in turn, are transformed into delicious beverages in the cider room. The sweet drinks can be sampled hot or cold at the onsite cider bar. Even more apple-based fun can be found in the Apple Pie Kitchen, where you can eat your fill of apple dumplings, apple doughnuts, and fried apple pies.
Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant
After a busy day, you’ll be ready to relax with expertly prepared comfort food. Where better to kick back than at the acclaimed Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant? As an expansion on the Apple Barn, this establishment holds the distinction of being Sevierville’s oldest restaurant. Its apple fritters and apple butter are legendary — and both are included with every order.
If you stop by in the morning, you’ll be greeted by an equally enticing breakfast menu that includes sugar-cured ham, country-fried steak, applewood-cured bacon, and much more. Enjoy a hearty breakfast to fuel additional Sevierville adventures.
Cruze Farm Ice Cream
Cruze Farm Ice Cream is a Knoxville institution. Luckily for Sevierville residents and visitors, it’s also available in the heart of Smoky Mountain territory. While the family dairy farm (from which the ice cream is sourced) is situated in Knoxville, the desserts served at the Sevierville location are still wonderfully fresh. A variety of unique flavors are available, including everything from espresso to lavender honey. Treat yourself to an ice cream cone you won’t soon forget.
Thrilling, whimsical, or relaxing, your trip to Sevierville can take many forms. With so many entertaining options available, you should have no trouble finding special ways to make new treasured memories. Discover the joy of Sevierville, one attraction at a time.
