The Great Smoky Mountains of eastern Tennessee draw throngs of visitors to Gatlinburg. What’s great about the beautiful southern city is that it is easily accessible by less than a day’s drive for more than half of the country’s population. On a good day, you can get there by taking I-40 to Exit 407 and going south through Sevierville and Pigeon Forge. For alternative routes consider the following:
From the North:
-If coming to Gatlinburg from Virginia, consider a drive via I-81 South to I-40 East and get off at Newport (Exit 435). Then, follow Highway 321 South into Gatlinburg.
-For those driving to Gatlinburg from Lexington, Kentucky, take I-75 South and follow Highway 321 to I-40 East to Exit 435.
From the West:
– People driving from Nashville to Gatlinburg, you will take I-75 South and follow the same directions as if you were coming from Chattanooga.
From the East:
-Those making the trip to Gatlinburg from Asheville, North Carolina can take I-40 West to Exit 440 and follow Highway 321 South to Gatlinburg.
From the South:
-Driving to Gatlinburg from Chattanooga, Tennessee, take Exit 81 on I-75 North, following Highway 321 North to Gatlinburg through Maryville and Townsend. Expect to be on 321 North for approximately an hour and ten minutes.
-Making a drive from Atlanta, Georgia to Gatlinburg? Take a leisurely road trip along I-85 North to I-985 North to US 23. Take US 23 to Highway 23/441, changing to Highway 74/441 through Cherokee, North Carolina. It will take you about 4 hours and ten minutes. This will allow for maximum sight-seeing potential along the drive!
Knoxville’s Airport:
For those who may balk at taking a road trip but still want to take in the unique fun and foods of Gatlinburg, consider flying into Knoxville. McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is 55 miles north of Gatlinburg. Most major airlines fly there daily and once you are on the ground, renting a car is quite easy for maximum enjoyment of the trip. Hop in the car, turn up the radio, and be prepared to enjoy some good ole southern hospitality! Gatlinburg is waiting with open arms.
Once you’ve made it to Gatlinburg, you may need to know how to get around. Traffic in our area can be heavy during peak visitation. Luckily, we have your guide all about how to avoid traffic in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Check out our local driving guide. If you love a good scenic drive, we have a guide for that too!
Book a Stay
Since you know how to get here, we recommend finding the perfect cabin, chalet, or condo to help you enjoy all the area offers. Check out our Cabins Near the Parkway so you can be close to all the action. Rather enjoy the peace and quiet of the mountains? We offer secluded cabins too! No matter your group size or budget, there’s something for you when you stay with American Patriot Getaways.
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