The Bearskin Lodge exterior

6 Downtown Shops and Restaurants You Can Walk to From Our Hotel in Gatlinburg

August 11, 2026
  • The Bearskin Lodge is a top-rated hotel in downtown Gatlinburg, steps from the Parkway and the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
  • Several unique shops and restaurants., including Old Dad’s General Store, The Village Shops, Mountain Mall, Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, The Park Grill, and The Peddler Steakhouse, are within a 1-15 minute walk.
  • Guests enjoy riverside rooms with private balconies, a lazy river, outdoor pool, free breakfast, and exclusive rewards.
  • Leave your car parked: everything from gourmet dining to Smoky Mountain souvenirs is just a stroll away.

Read on to learn more about some of the downtown shops and restaurants you can walk to from our hotel in Gatlinburg!

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great smoky arts & crafts community sign

7 of the Most Unique Things to Do in Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains

February 6, 2026

When you think about Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains, you likely picture mountain views, outdoor adventures, shopping, and moonshine distilleries. While there are many well-known attractions in Gatlinburg, there are also plenty of hidden gems and one-of-a-kind activities to discover! Here are some of the most unique things to do in Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains that you can’t find anywhere else:

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Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg TN

Top 7 Indoor Attractions in Gatlinburg TN

January 6, 2026

Are you searching for indoor fun during your Smoky Mountain vacation? Whether you’re visiting in January and trying to avoid Gatlinburg snow or you’re looking for ways to escape the heat or rain in summer, Gatlinburg has a wonderful variety of indoor activities for all ages and interests! From fascinating exhibits to family-friendly games, you’ll find plenty of exciting entertainment inside! Here are some of the top indoor attractions in Gatlinburg TN that you won’t want to miss:

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view of downtown Gatlinburg in winter covered in snow

Your Guide to Winter in Gatlinburg, TN

November 12, 2025

Planning a winter getaway to the Smoky Mountains? There’s no better place to experience the magic of the season than Gatlinburg, TN! Nestled at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this town transforms into a charming winter wonderland filled with sparkling lights, cozy lodges, and endless mountain adventures! In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your visit, from top activities and dining spots to the best place to stay this winter in Gatlinburg.

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ripleys aquarium of the smokies in gatlinburg

Top 4 Things to Do on the Gatlinburg Strip

October 20, 2025

There is nowhere else in the world quite like downtown Gatlinburg TN! Commonly known as The Strip, the heart of the city may only be a few blocks long, but it is absolutely jam-packed with incredible attractions, restaurants, and shops. Over 11 million people come to Gatlinburg each year to experience everything our Smoky Mountain city has to offer. To help you get started planning your next trip, check out these top 4 things to do on the Gatlinburg Strip:

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Anakeesta fall decor in front of mountain view

Top 4 Things to Do in Gatlinburg in October

October 13, 2025

Gatlinburg, TN, comes alive in October, offering a spectacular blend of vibrant fall foliage, exciting seasonal events, and thrilling attractions. Do you need help planning an unforgettable autumn getaway? To help you plan the perfect visit to this charming mountain town, we’ve put together this list of some of the can’t-miss things to do in Gatlinburg in October:

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Gatlinburg Space Needle in downtown gatlinburg

5 Gatlinburg Attractions Within Walking Distance of Our Hotel

October 2, 2025

Our downtown hotel is not only within walking distance of numerous restaurants and the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park but also some of the best Gatlinburg attractions . During your stay with us, take a stroll around town and stop in at the following attractions for non-stop fun.

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ripley's believe it or not odditorium in gatlinburg

Top 4 Museums in Gatlinburg TN You Have to Visit

October 2, 2025

Want to do something fun and unique while you’re staying with us? One of the best things to do in the area is visit a museum! There are several different museum attractions in the area with unique themes, and you will want to visit all of them! Check out these top 4 museums in Gatlinburg TN you have to visit:

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bicycles along the Cades Cove Loop Road

Gatlinburg in September: Things to Do, Events & Fall Foliage

September 2, 2025

The month of September is the transition from summer to fall, and the Smokies offer all kinds of unique opportunities for family fun, whether you’re enjoying a late summer vacation or an early fall getaway. The weather is still warm, but with a slight nip in the air in the mornings and evenings, and you may catch glimpses of the leaves starting to change color. Find out the best things to do, seasonal events, and where to see the beginnings of Smoky Mountain fall foliage in our local guide to Gatlinburg in September!

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Gatlinburg Trolley

Getting Around Gatlinburg: Your Guide to Gatlinburg Transportation

August 18, 2025

Are you planning a trip to Gatlinburg, TN? Are you wondering about the best ways to get around town? The primary means of transportation include walking on foot, riding the Gatlinburg Trolley, and driving a car. Keep reading to find out more about Gatlinburg transportation and how to get to everything on your Smoky Mountain vacation itinerary.

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