Gatlinburg’s Most Unique Attraction and Shopping Experience
Shopping is one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg. The world-famous Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is one of the best attractions in the Smoky Mountains. In addition to the gorgeous scenery, this historic 8-mile loop of local artisans and crafters includes studios, galleries, shops, and eateries. Visiting this area of Gatlinburg will present opportunities to learn about the town’s history, meet local artists, and take home the perfect Smoky Mountain souvenir. It’s a completely different kind of retail therapy!
This community is the largest independent group of artisans in the country. Local artisans display their talents by working with wood, glass, clay, and other media. Meet the artisans, learn about their craft, and purchase handmade items! Culture and history are alive in Gatlinburg – come and see for yourself.
Immerse Yourself in Smoky Mountain Art & Culture
It’s easy to find this historic shopping district. From traffic light #3 in Gatlinburg, take Highway 321 (also known as East Parkway) 3 miles to Glades Road. The drive is quick and easy although you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another place and time! Step back in time to see traditional Southern Appalachian artisans at work.
Once you’re there, spend the entire day shopping the 8-mile loop. You will make memories with Gatlinburg locals who love to share their knowledge and craft with others. The loop includes scenic views of the Glades, a small community of Gatlinburg. Before it became an attraction, many of Gatlinburg’s founders lived and farmed in the Glades community during the 19th and 20th centuries. This includes the Whaley and Morton families. Local artist Randy Whaley descended from both bloodlines.
Whaley operates his multi-generational business, Whaley Handcrafts, with his 92-year-old father. The woodworking shop sits at the corner of Glades Road and Morton Road, where his family have lived for generations.
“My dad, Frank Whaley, opened this business in the 1950s. I grew up in this holler hunting, fishing, and eventually going to work with him when I was a teenager. I’ve seen a lot of changes to Gatlinburg and the Glades during my lifetime, but one thing has stayed the same: the folks in Gatlinburg are talented. They always were and still are,” Whaley said. “Our skills were born out of necessity, but today they are considered art. The Arts and Crafts Community is where those two worlds collide, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
During your visit to Whaley’s Handcrafts, chat with Randy about the family’s history and enjoy his hospitality as he shows you around his shop. Randy has a multitude of stories and jokes, and he welcomes his customers with warm Southern hospitality. Shop his assortment of handmade birdhouses, carvings, and other wood crafts. Kids will love the collection of historic wooden toys!
Authentic Smoky Mountain Souvenirs from the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
Alewine Pottery is a landmark business in the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. This studio & shop combo offers some of the area’s finest pottery. Watch potters mold, fire, and finish their fine pottery pieces. Shop the exclusive collection of handmade pieces such as coffee mugs, bakeware, vases, and other creations.
Glass is a medium unlike any other. Hand-blown glass demonstrations are thrilling. Find a live demonstration at the area’s numerous glass studios. Take home glass vases, stained-glass windows, beaded jewelry, and other locally-made items.
Quilts and hand-woven baskets are a favorite among antique collectors. These prized possessions are also coveted family heirlooms handed down through generations. During your visit, shop for heirloom-quality pieces such as handmade quilts, other textiles, and baskets. Items like these stand the test of time, and your family will enjoy them for years.
Shopping in Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
There are plenty of places to shop in Gatlinburg but for a unique experience, venture out to this charming community. Candles, leather works, paintings, photography, and plenty of other handcrafts are waiting for you at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Touring this community is one of the best free things to do in Gatlinburg, and it’s a fascinating opportunity to learn more about the depth of history and culture of the Smoky Mountains.
The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is just a short drive from Sevierville and Pigeon Forge. If shopping in Gatlinburg is on your Smoky Mountain vacation itinerary, don’t miss a day at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community.
Authored in Appalachia || Amy Morton
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