As I mentioned in a previous posting, Gatlinburg is celebrating Sweet Week from February 7-14. You can win a nice prize package, with the biggest one being a Sweetheart Giveaway that includes accommodations and fabulous eats you and your valentine will love at prime Gatlinburg locations. Visit and check in at 7 of these shops I’m about to reveal, and you’ll be guaranteed an entry in the giveaway and the prize pack that includes a “Life is Sweet” t-shirt and a “Sweet Week” sticker. First, you’ll want to download the “Visit Gatlinburg” tourism app, and keep checking for info on how to “check in” to each of the listed shops below for your reward. Did you catch all that? I hope so. Here is the full lineup for this sugary shindig!
1. Aunt Mahalia’s Candies
Located in the Mountain Mall on the Parkway, Aunt Mahalia’s is Gatlinburg’s oldest running candy shop. Generations of guests have loved their pecan nests and chocolate concoctions that never disappoint.
2. Byrd’s Famous Cookies
A newcomer to the Gatlinburg Parkway, Byrd’s has been a Savannah (Georgia) staple for nearly a century, and their bite-sized, crispy morsels have exploded and expanded into neighboring states.
3. Cloud 9 Cafe and Mimi’s Creamery at Anakeesta
Ice cream, cookies, and cinnamon rolls are just a few of the sweets you can find at Anakeesta’s vast array of treats at their 70-acre adventure park.
4. Coffee and Company
Coffee is Coffee and Company’s specialty, but they also serve cookies and pastries to compliment their flavorful blends in The Village.
5. Coffee Shack
If you need a pick-me-up on the Parkway, Coffee Shack is there for your sweet and caffeine needs in a walk-up kiosk near the light #6 intersection.
6. The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar
Known for their “crazy” milkshake creations, this shop is located near the Airport Road intersection. Get one of their sweet shakes and keep the jar for your collection.
7. The Donut Friar
A founding staple of The Village since 1969, not much more needs to be said about this shop which keeps churning out amazing donuts.
8. Gatlinburg Grind
Located on Glades Road, the Grind is another good coffee option which also serves up sweet pastries you have to try when visiting the Arts and Crafts Community.
9. Glades Soda Fountain
Located in Morning Mist Village on Glades Road, you’ll get the feels of an old-fashioned soda shop when you step inside this slice of nostalgia.
10. Lit’l Donut Shop
Mini-donuts are definitely another outstanding snack option in Gatlinburg. These are served fresh out of the fryer, and have an array of flavors in which to indulge.
11. Maddi Mae’s Cafe and Creamery
Maddi Mae’s is located in The Village, and is home to some of the best kinds of finger foods and homemade ice cream that the owners take great pride in creating.
12. Maddog’s Creamery and Donuts
Maddog’s is probably the biggest donut competitor to the legendary shop in The Village. Their varieties are a bit more adventurous and every bit as good, not to mention the ice cream options.
13. The Melting Pot
This special occasion restaurant doesn’t immediately come to mind when it comes to sweets, but their fondues have a dessert-y flair that shouldn’t be ignored. They are located on the Parkway.
14. Ober Mountain Fudge Shop
Along with pancakes, fudge has to be branded as a top 3 sweet in this tourist town. You have to go up to the Ober Mountain ski resort to get some, but I doubt you’ll regret it.
15. Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen
Gatlinburg’s favorite candy shop is still showing googly-eyed guests their taffy-making process in the window, giving it a retrospective feel that’s simply undeniable. They operate 2 different delectable locations on the Parkway.
16. Ripley’s Candy Factory
In case you haven’t yet been struck by sweetness overload, Ripley’s Candy Factory at the Mirror Maze will keep you dizzy with excitement. They are located on the Parkway near the Baskins Square Shops.
17. Savannah Bee Company
Located on the Parkway close to Blake Shelton’s Ole Red, Savannah Bee Company has lots of honey collections good for your skin and taste buds
18. So Very Cherry
Located inside the first collection of shops on Glades Road, So Very Cherry will help ease your aches and pains, plus gives you a great selection of jams, jellies, and other sweet creations to satisfy your cravings.
You may have to loosen your belt if you’re going to be a willing participate in Gatlinburg Sweet Week. I doubt you’ll have much regret, though. Enjoy the sweetness of this tourist town and let your nose lead the way to all the flavors you’ll be devouring.
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