Summer’s End 5 Day Wears Valley

Vacation Planner

As summer begins winding down in the Smokies and we prepare to say goodbye to the lightning bugs, it’s time to find new ways to enjoy the last few late nights of summer. We’ve helped you get ahead by planning your end-of-summer escape to the Smokies for you. Take a look at days 1 and 2 for the ultimate end-of-summer getaway:

Day 1:

Welcome to the Smokies!

As you first get into town from Exit 407, take a moment to stop at Buccees before dropping by the Visitors Information Center. You can fill up and then get a few discount coupons and brochures for your stay.

Next, drop by the Heartland Cabin Rentals Pigeon Forge office to check-in. You’ll pick up your entry instructions, a map, and your Gateway To Fun Pass.

Jump into vacation, fork first, with a hearty lunch at Pottery House Café. Grab dessert at the Old Mill Creamery across the square.

After dessert, it’s time to call to make your reservations for tomorrow for an adventurous day at Jayell Ranch Family Adventure Park! You’ll have a day filled with horseback riding, ATV rides, ziplining, and fresh smoked BBQ- if there’s time, plan to stick around and play with the animals at the petting zoo.

On your way back towards Wears Valley Road, snag some groceries from Publix or Kroger to stock up your cabin.

Day 2:

It’s Adventure Park Day! Start your day in the Smokies off with breakfast at Brick and Spoon before heading over to Jayell Ranch Family Adventure Park. If you aren’t planning to spend your lunch hour at the Ranch, plan for lunch at The Island.

Grab a walking slice from Mellow Mushroom while you wait for your turn at the Escape Room. There are plenty of unique activities to enjoy while you wait for dinner. Plan to enjoy a well-rounded southern meal at Paula Deen’s Kitchen before catching the sunset showing at The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.

Be sure to get a good night’s rest, days 3, 4, and 5 are going to be jam-packed!

Day 3:

Start your day off right with a hand-crafted breakfast at Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant in Sevierville. After your meal, enjoy a leisurely stroll by the river or browse the general store for some treats to bring back to your cabin.

On your way back into Pigeon Forge, swing by Pigeon Forge Deli to get a few sandwiches or wraps for an adventurous picnic lunch- then make your way to Metcalf Bottoms. At Metcalf Bottoms, you’ll find plenty of picnic spots to choose from with river access. While here you can swim, skip rocks, and take a short hike along Little Brier Gap Trail to the Walker Sisters Place.

The dinner hour is right around the corner- take a drive into Townsend to Peaceful Side Social for a little taste of everything. There’s even a playground and a detached taco bar.

Day 4:

Today, you’ll wake up early and flip pancakes for the whole crew. Try breakfast on the deck and take in the birdsongs before your adventure in the Smokies. Before you head out into the mountains, make your reservations at Dolly Parton’s Stampede for dinner. If you don’t have time to pack some snacks, The National Park Market will be on your way into Townsend.

Welcome to Cades Cove! Take the route to auto tour Cades Cove Loop Road. You’ll see active wildlife, historical structures, and several opportunities for waterfalls.

It’s time to get ready for Dolly Parton’s Stampede, you’re in for a treat!

After dinner, drop by the Alpine Mountain Coaster for a wind down on Wears Valley Road on your way back to the cabin.

Day 5:

Start your day off with a full belly at Grandmother’s Kitchen in Wears Valley. This is a true local spot! After breakfast, head to the river for a day of tubing at River Rat Whitewater in Townsend.

Lunchtime has rolled around, head up to Red Jasper for a laid-back family day by the river. Play some darts, have a picnic, and mine for gems.

For your last night, plan for an early meal at Azul Cantina then grab dessert from Cookie Monster and retreat to your cabin for a cozy movie night.

Wears Valley Cabin Specials

Hey, wait a second before you go! Be sure to check our Current Cabin Specials, Deals, and Discounts to see if your stay qualifies for a special discount! Book your cabin in Gatlinburg with Heartland Rentals for a memorable moment in the mountains.