While there are a ton of fun activities and attractions located in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, sometimes it can be fun to venture off the beaten path to check out some unique things to do. That’s why we’ve put together this list of some of the top things to do in the Smoky Mountains off the beaten path! From an eccentric museum to a hilarious show and more, you won’t want to miss these great hidden gems here in the Smoky Mountains:
1. Visit the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
One of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains off the beaten path is to visit the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum! This museum is unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere, with an incredible collection of over 20,000 pairs of salt and pepper shakers. You’ll have a great time learning about the interesting stories associated with different pieces in the collection, observing the changes in salt and pepper shakers over the decades, and admiring the creativity that many of the pieces display. Additionally, you can see a variety of salt and pepper shakers from across the world! If you’re looking for fun things to do in the Smoky Mountains off the beaten path, checking out the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum should definitely be one of your stops!
2. See the Red Skelton Tribute Show
If you’re a fan of the long-running Red Skelton Show from the Westin Las Vegas Hotel Casino, you can’t miss the chance to see the Red Skelton Tribute Show in Pigeon Forge! This family friendly comedy experience is a great way for adults to connect with a beloved show while kids enjoy experiencing it for the first time! With wacky characters, hilarious jokes and skits, and plenty of surprises, the Red Skelton Tribute Show is a great hidden gem here in the Smoky Mountains.
3. Check Out Bush’s Beans Visitor Center and Museum
Anyone who loves beans will absolutely want to make a stop at the Bush’s Beans Visitor Center, nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. Here you can check out their museum, featuring over 110 years worth of bean-related history, eat delicious food (including a free sample of “the bean of the day”), and bring your favorite beans home with you. You can even purchase some merchandise at the general store to commemorate your visit to this unique attraction here in the Smoky Mountains.
4. Explore the Walker Sisters Place
Another of the best things to do off the beaten path in the Smoky Mountains is going to visit the Walker Sisters Place. The Walker Sisters were a group of siblings who lived together in a cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, after refusing to sell their land to the Park. Instead, they welcomed visitors to their cabin and sold handmade products, quickly becoming a staple of the park. Although the last of the sisters passed away in the 1960s, you can still visit their historic cabin today and learn more about this unique family.
As you can see, there are plenty of unique things to do in the Smoky Mountains off the beaten path! So next time you’re looking for a brand new adventure here in the Smokies, just check out some of these fun activities and attractions and make memories that you won’t soon forget. And if you’re looking for the perfect place to stay during your visit, take a look at our selection of cabins in the Smoky Mountains! We can’t wait to welcome you.
