The 5 Most Iconic "Modern" Landmarks in Gatlinburg You Must Photograph

When I say “modern,” I’m referring to the last 50 or so odd years with most of these landmarks, anyway. Gatlinburg has changed a lot over the years, and even that’s an understatement. Depending on what you believe is “old” Gatlinburg, these may not seem too modern to some of you. However, to me, despite some of these symbols’ age, I believe they belong here, retaining an identity you can only associate with this particular tourist town. And now, let’s reveal the list!

1. The Gatlinburg Space Needle

The Gatlinburg Space Needle has taken up many of my pictures throughout the past decade and a half, and it’s hard to imagine it not being a part of the skyline. But it’s only been here for 55 years. It’s a 407-foot-tall observation tower that’s not for the acrophobic. You ride a glass elevator to the top, and you can see magnificent 360-degree views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. On a breezy day, you can get a little jittery and wobbly. I’ve done this several times, and I don’t like to stay up here too long for that reason. But again, the views are worth it.

2. The Village

Like the Space Needle, (also opening in 1969) I’ve taken hundreds upon hundreds (maybe thousands?) of photos inside The Village. Located smack dab in the middle of the bustle of downtown Gatlinburg, it sits a bit off the Parkway, giving you a sense you are entering a totally different world. There are 27 shops in The Village full of uniqueness, tasty treats, and charm. You haven’t truly visited Gatlinburg until you’ve walked through this Old World, European “neighborhood.” Mornings are absolutely revitalizing and peaceful. The smells from The Donut Friar and the gentle water sounds coming from the two fountains are sensory infusions that can be described as simply uplifting—a perfect beginning.

3. The Park Vista Hotel

If you're wondering what that circular high-rise building that sits 1,000 feet above Gatlinburg overlooking the Smoky Mountains is, it’s The Park Vista hotel. This marvel opened on June 8, 1976, and its architecture is quite unique to East Tennessee. The hotel cost $13 million at the time of construction, and it offers guests stunning woodland views and distant vistas. While I haven’t ever stayed here, I can’t help but wonder how attractive it has been to tourists over the course of 49 years as an iconic landmark I still get a kick out of seeing daily.

4. Log Cabin Pancake House

Log Cabin Pancake House has a rabid customer fan base that’s only rivaled by another famed flapjack house, Pancake Pantry. This breakfast icon has been in business since 1976, but it opened their Gatlinburg location in 1979. The wagon extending from the roof of the place is a sign that everyone who’s ever visited recognizes instantly. The food is fantastic all-around. Their pancakes are value-driven but delicious; the biscuits and gravy are top notch, with a special nod to the omelets, which is my more health-conscious choice. It’s a winning option that’s a staple of modern Gatlinburg.

5. The Famous Gatlinburg BMW

One of the most off-the-board choices is something most of us who’ve visited Gatlinburg look for as the unofficial welcome sign. You’ve made it when you see that black BMV in the most unusual of spaces. It’s a small triangle section beside Parton’s Deli that serves as a parking space for the always backed in car. Never is it parked butt end to the Parkway, making it even more mysterious.

The car is owned by David Parton, brother of former owner, Dennis. David is a lawyer who has an office above the deli, and he apparently is rather amused at the attention the BMW has received—it now has its own Facebook Group. I’ve lightened up about the nonstop posts on the internet, and I find it just as humorous now that it has basically become an internet meme.

Most people try to get a picture while sitting in traffic coming into Gatlinburg, but please, please, please be careful. If you have downtown accommodations, you can walk by and take all the pictures you like.

Of course, there are more iconic modern landmarks of Gatlinburg, but these are arguably the five most popular ones. It’s just my opinion. In a typical week, I’ll take dozens of pictures involving a combination of these iconic symbols in this busy tourist town.

I hope you enjoyed this list, and please feel free to comment, like, and follow me on Facebook if you haven’t already. I am Gatlinburg NOW there, of course. You can also subscribe on this platform to get my posts directly in your email. I appreciate every single one of you for supporting my passion and dream. Thank! You!