Home » Family Travel » Tennessee Travel Guide » 8 Best Bars in Gatlinburg, TN for Tourists

8 Best Bars in Gatlinburg, TN for Tourists

By Molly Weinfurter

|

Published on

When visiting Gatlinburg, you may be focused on all the exciting tourist attractions, but don’t forget that there are plenty of bars in the city too! Adults deserve an opportunity to relax and enjoy a drink during their trip, so where’s are the best places to check out?

Whether you’re focused on the views, atmosphere, or types of drinks, Gatlinburg has it all! So, keep reading to find out which Gatlinburg bar you should check out!

Why Should You Visit Gatlinburg Bars?

Jumping from one activity to another on vacation can be exhausting. So, spending some time at a bar can be the perfect way to wind down. Plus, the most fun bars in Gatlinburg TN aren’t your typical businesses.

The best bars have scenic views, live music, special drinks, and other alluring characteristics. So, instead of booking your trip as full as possible, it might be a good idea to take some time to check out the local bars. 

bars in gatlinburg tn

Best Bars in Gatlinburg Tennessee

The following eight bars are some of the best places to get drinks in Gatinburg. They’ll give you unique experiences that you won’t get from bars in other cities.


#1 – Cliff Top

Cliff Top
Trip Advisor

Cliff Top, also known as “the Bar at the Top of the World,” is located in Anakeesta, which is an amusement park among the Smoky Mountains. You need to pay Anakeesta’s admission to access this bar, but it’s worth it if you enjoy the park’s other attractions too.

This bar is at the top of the list because it has the best views of any bar in Gatlinburg. You can witness gorgeous mountain views from the indoor or outdoor seating.

This bar is ideal for adults who want a peaceful place to drink and chat without being overwhelmed by loud parties.


#2 – The Fox & Parrot Tavern

The Fox & Parrot Tavern
Trip Advisor

This bar is a British-themed pub that’s more traditional. It’s located in the woods along Gatlinburg’s Arts and Crafts trail. It’s perfect for guests looking for a casual experience surrounded by nature.

It has classic pub food, a wide selection of beer, darts, and live music. Plus, the outdoor spaces are dog-friendly, so you can bring your pooch along if you’d like.


#3 – Loft Lounge

Loft Lounge
Trip Advisor

The Loft Lounge is located at Ober Gatlinburg, which is a popular attraction for skiing and snowboarding. It’s the perfect spot after a day of winter activities.

Even people who aren’t skiing stop by to enjoy the views of the snowy hills. There’s a wide range of wines, spirits, and beers on the menu, along with some food options. This bar is especially popular during its annual Oktoberfest Celebration.

Ober Gatlinburg


#4 – Shamrock Pub

Shamrock Pub
Trip Advisor

You can find this Irish pub right in downtown Gatlinburg. It might not have insane views like some of the other bars on this list, but it’s a great social setting.

Every day starting at 4pm, Shamrock Pub Gatlinburg hosts live entertainment for guests to enjoy. Karaoke and live music are just some events you may experience. The pub also has rooftop dining so you can overlook the city while enjoying drinks with your friends.


#5 – LandShark Bar & Grill

LandShark Bar & Grill
Trip Advisor

LandShark Bar & Grill has a topical-themed location right in the heart of the city. It’s the perfect destination for all ages because it’s not only a bar, but also a restaurant with a diverse menu.

Whether you’re looking for a burger, salad, or fish tacos, you can find it at this bar. So, if you’re on vacation with the kids but you still want to enjoy a tasty drink, then this is the destination for you.


#6 – Ole Red

Ole Red
Trip Advisor

Ole Red isn’t just a bar and restaurant. It’s also a famous music venue! It’s named after Blake Shelton’s hit, “Ol’ Red,” so it’s known for hosting lots of country stars.

The country music plays from open to close so all guests can enjoy some entertainment while they eat and drink. So, if you prefer a concert atmosphere over a party or casual one, then you should consider stopping by Ole Red.


#7 – Smoky Mountain Brewery

Smoky Mountain Brewery
Trip Advisor

Smoky Mountain Brewery has a location in both Gatlinburg and the neighboring city of Pigeon Forge. The Gatlinburg location is in a cabin-like structure that has large, beautiful windows.

They often host events, such as trivia, live music, and karaoke. However, some people adore it simply because of its drinks. They have a large drink menu with seasonal brews. The employees are very knowledgeable about the products, so they can give suggestions if you don’t know what to order.

Smoky Mountains


#8 – Gatlinburg SkyCenter

Gatlinburg SkyCenter
Trip Advisor

The Gatlinburg SkyCenter is located in the Gatlinburg Skylift Park, but it’s worth it because it is another bar with some of the most impressive views. It’s situated on top of Crockett Mountain, and it can be accessed by riding a skylift.

You can enjoy a wide variety of drink as you look at the view, but there’s also a food menu. A night at this bar will be one you’ll never forget!


Frequently Asked Questions

Do any of these bars seem appealing to you? If so, you might have some additional questions about Gatlinburg. Here are some answers for you before you plan your trip!

How Far is Pigeon Forge From Gatlinburg?

Pigeon Forge TN is located right next to Galtinburg. They’re only a few miles away from each other, and it only takes about 17 minutes to get from the center of Galtinburg to the center of Pigeon Forge. So, you can stay in either city and still enjoy the same bars and attractions.

What are the Best Bars in Pigeon Forge TN?

Here are some of the best Pigeon Forge bars:

  • Iron Boar Saloon
  • Smoky Mountain Brewery
  • Margaritaville
  • Old Forge Distillery
  • The Casual Pint Pigeon Forge

So, if you’re looking for a place to get some drinks during your vacation, both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have options for you. However, bars in Gatlinburg have better views because they’re closer to the Great Smoky Mountains.

Pigeon Forge Tennessee

Planning Your Gatlinburg Trip

Gatlinburg is an exciting vacation destination with many fun things to do. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the tourist attractions, so don’t forget to set aside time for less stressful activities like getting a drink too. 

If you’re not sure if Gatlinburg is the destination for you, consider visiting other areas of Tennessee. The state is filled with beautiful nature, historical sites, and action-packed attractions. So, there’s something for everyone, and there’s no shortage of bars to check out!

About Molly Weinfurter

Molly Weinfurter is a freelance writer and editor that specializes in family, travel, and animal-related topics.

Leave a Comment