The 5 Most Loved Places in Gatlinburg by the Majority of Visitors

Sometimes you can just tell what places resonate the most from visitors who make Gatlinburg their vacation home every year. Some of you are aware that I have a Facebook Page devoted to our love for this area. What I’ve found is that when I post my content, there are certain things that get the most positive responses. This is what has motivated me to write this. It always surprises me when I post something that gets tons of comments and likes, but I can usually count on a few places that the majority of my followers overwhelmingly approve of every time I post a picture that relates to these places. And they are, in no particular order.

Fannie Farkle’s

Home of the foot-long Ogle Dog, Fannie Farkle’s has delighted guests and awakened their taste buds for decades strong. When you put your grill right next to the thousands of people who walk the Parkway daily, you’re bound to attract an audience. And it’s not just the Ogle Dog, which is basically a giant corn dog; it’s equally those sausages with peppers and onions conveniently cooked for all to see and smell. Oh yes, it is well worth your $9 to get a whole lot of savory bites out of this. Take it to The Village nearby, and you’ll get a true sensory overload to remember. Oh yeah, if you have kids or just like to play games, they have that on the inside too.

Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen

Founded in 1950 by a couple of California-bound dreamers, Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen has about as much history as it gets in this little tourist town. Of course we’re all happy Dave and Peggy Dych decided to stop here and live out their vision for striking it big. What resulted from their business is countless cheerful customers that have either just watched the taffy-making from the window, or shuffled up to the counter to order a bag or box of their delicious varieties of sweets. You simply cannot imagine Gatlinburg without this institution.

Log Cabin Pancake House

Family-owned and operated for 46 years, Log Cabin Pancake House is another loved landmark with plenty of history on its side. I know some of you will criticize me for not listing another popular pancake place, but I have been inundated with an amazing amount of positive comments not seen from any other breakfast restaurant in Gatlinburg. It’s not just the covered wagon on the front of the building. No, I believe Log Cabin balances everything in the most consistent of manners: price, service, ambiance, and of course, food. It’s really tough to have a bad meal here. It’s why most have found it to be an easy choice for their first meal of the day on every visit.

The Village

One of the most unique and adored locations in all of Gatlinburg is without question, The Village. Modeled after a old European village, a visit here is like walking into a time warp and wondering what the heck happened to the tacky tourist temptations that are prominent in other spots in town. The Village is centered perfectly by a beautiful fountain with benches and tables surrounding it. I honestly don’t believe anyone hates this little village. It has 27 different little shops, boutiques, eateries, and cafes that serve a need for everyone. Even a morning stroll before most shops open can be the most peaceful and positive thing you can do for your spiritual and mental well-being. I love it so much, and I included it, because I know all of you do too!

The Donut Friar

I saved this legendary Gatlinburg staple for last. And while it needs no introduction, I will briefly touch on its appeal. Sure we all love donuts, but some places just do it better than the others. The Vietnam War was dividing Americans in 1969, but in Gatlinburg, The Donut Friar opened, and was something almost everyone could agree on. You won’t find fancy here. They open before the crack of dawn at 5, and make the tastiest donuts I’ve ever sank my teeth into. The friar with a plate of donuts is a perfect mascot. And a play on words that this guy can appreciate. Like most donut shops, the inside is small, but they have an array of souvenirs—including dozens of mugs—begging you to walk out with more than a morsel of all-world goodness from those donuts. They are equally kid and adult approved!

Don’t beat me up too bad for these, but it’s hard to argue with the vast majority of visitors, myself included. These five places are all lovely, tasty, friendly, legendary, and almost guaranteed to give you a consistency unrivaled by any other business or location in Gatlinburg. You don’t have to take it from me. Ask the repeat customers what they’ve come to expect.

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