If there’s one part of traveling on which almost everyone agrees, it’s that you absolutely must bring back souvenirs from your trip. And if you’re headed to Gatlinburg, you’ll have no shortage of options. Here are 10 of our favorite stops to make today!
Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen
Bringing the best of Appalachia and surrounding areas to sweets enthusiasts everywhere, the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen is your one-stop shop for all things sugary and delicious. Try homemade taffy in tons of flavors, chocolate brown bears, peanut brittle, and more. If you happen to be in Gatlinburg during the week leading up to Valentine’s Day, you’ll get a special treat. Hand-dipped chocolate strawberries that are bound to be a win. They’re perfect for sharing with a sweetheart or – let’s be honest – just enjoying on your own.
Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
Proud to be the largest independent organization of artisans in the United States, the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is a hit for anyone who loves a collection of fine handmade goods on display. The thing that’s really fun about this souvenir mecca, however, is that it’s not all in one place … it’s a collection of artisans in the Gatlinburg area and surroundings, so you can plan a whole day around making these shops. Check out the community map on their webpage to learn more.
Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
If you’ve ever wondered whether anyone had more salt and pepper shaker sets than your Grandma Nora, the answer is an emphatic yes. The Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum is an absolute must-stop for anyone who loves collectibles, antiquing, and just general cuteness. It houses roughly 20,000 sets from all over the world – and since children under 12 get in free, it’s a great family stop. This shop is a great place for souvenir shopping. Plus, the gift shop is bound to satisfy even your most creative desires for salt and pepper goods.
Novus Candela
If you needed another outlet for handmade goat’s milk soap, you’ve found it in Novus Candela. In addition to soft-smelling and gentle soaps, they offer soy candles, wax melts, and bath bombs. Check out their fragrance list for a truly impressive surprise. They also offer wholesale products, so you might see their goods on display at various Gatlinburg gift shops as well.
Aunt Mahalia’s Candies
This shop claims to be the best homemade candy on Earth, and who are we to argue? From handmade fudge to syrups and jams to sugar-free varieties, there’s an option for any dessert aficionado here. They’re especially famous for their assorted creams and truffles, made with the finest ingredients – and they taste like it too. Add butter toffee, chocolate-covered pretzels, peppermint sticks, jelly beans, and various seasonal candies to the list, and you’ve got an unbeatable bargain in Aunt Mahalia’s Candies.
Old Town Photos
Photo Credit by @lynx.xoxx on Instagram
Admit it, you’ve always wanted to dress up in old-timey Western gear and have your photo taken. Well, now you can. Old Town Photos offers everything you want, from sexy saloon girl to baby in the bathtub to “Just Hitched.” Whether you’re here in Gatlinburg on your honeymoon, on a solo trip to get away from it all, or enjoying some well-earned family time, it’s a definite destination win.
Smoky Mountain Farms Jelly House
Jams and jellies, did we say? Yes, indeed. The Smoky Mountain Farms Jelly House is a favorite tourist destination – for obvious reasons. It is located in a rustic building with an old-fashioned sign on the front. Smoky Mountain Farms Jelly House is the perfect combination of a gift store visit and an Instagram-worthy photo op. In addition to more than 80 types of jellies, jams, and preserves, they also offer pickles and hot sauces. Oh, and don’t forget about all the free samples, so you might want to come hungry.
Izzy Bees Stuffed Friends
If you’re searching for Stuffy Heaven, you’ve found it. Izzy Bees Stuffed Friends not only offers pre-stuffed animals, but you can also make your own stuffed pal as well. Every animal comes with its own backpack for $16, or you can choose a smaller size for only $12. With over 125 animals from which to choose, you’re bound to find one of Mother Nature’s companions that fits. It’s the perfect gift shop if you’re looking for something to take back to the grandkids and an ideal stop for families who want to treat their little ones as well.
Misty Mountain Soap Co.
Love handmade soap and healthy skin? The Misty Mountain Soap Co. can help with both. This mother-daughter project was born about 15 years ago, with a mission to make pure products out of nourishing goat’s milk, stuffed with natural botanicals, herbs, and essences. From a small business born in the kitchen sink, Misty Mountain now has 5,000 feet of workshop space as well as two retail outlets in the Gatlinburg area. Put it on your souvenir loop today!
Gift Barn
Gift Barn is located directly off the parkway in Pigeon Forge where the previous All Sauced Up location use to reside. This gift barn is spacious and open, and has an array of various clothing that you can take home with you. There are swimsuits, graphic tees, bucket hats, sunglasses, and frequent discounts at this store to make for some real fun shopping!
Final Thoughts
Remember to check the hours of operation before making a trip out to any of these establishments. Not all of them are open during regular business hours. Some places don’t allow you to bring in food or drink, so make sure to gas up before you head over to avoid any blood sugar crashes.
And that’s it! Make sure to put these stops on your list so you can see the best Gatlinburg has to offer on this trip.
