2026-10-09
Shopping in the Smoky Mountains: Unique Shops, Outlets & Local Treasures
Some of the best souvenirs from a Smoky Mountain getaway aren't found in the usual souvenir shops. They're handmade pottery, old-fashioned candies, locally crafted treasures, and Southern specialties that bring a little piece of the mountains home with you!
From the artisan studios of Gatlinburg to the charming shops of Pigeon Forge and the brand-name outlets of Sevierville, shopping in the Smokies is an experience all its own. And when you stay at Margaritaville Island Hotel, you're perfectly situated to explore it all, with some of the area's most entertaining shopping just steps from your room.
SMOKY MOUNTAIN SOUVENIRS & LOCAL TREASURES
Looking for something that truly captures the spirit of the Smokies? From locally made crafts and mountain traditions to delicious Southern treats, you'll find plenty of unique treasures to bring home from your Smoky Mountain getaway.
Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community – Gatlinburg
For authentic Appalachian craftsmanship, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is a must-visit. This historic 8-mile loop along Glades and Buckhorn Roads is filled with studios, galleries, and workshops where talented artisans create everything from handcrafted pottery and woodwork to leather goods, jewelry, candles, and traditional brooms.
The best part? In many shops, you can meet the artists and purchase something directly from the person who made it. It's a wonderful way to bring home a one-of-a-kind Smoky Mountain treasure.
The Old Mill Square – Pigeon Forge
One of Pigeon Forge's most beloved landmarks, The Old Mill is also a wonderful place to shop for authentic Southern specialties.
Bring home stone-ground cornmeal and grits, old-fashioned jams, sorghum, baking mixes, and handcrafted pottery. These make thoughtful gifts and delicious reminders of your mountain getaway.
While you're there, explore the surrounding shops and watch craftsmen at work. Nearby Iron Mountain Metal Craft offers another distinctive experience for visitors interested in traditional metalworking.
Smoky Mountain Knife Works – Sevierville
For outdoor enthusiasts, collectors, and anyone who appreciates a beautifully crafted knife, Smoky Mountain Knife Works is worth the stop.
Known for its enormous selection of pocketknives, kitchen knives, outdoor gear, and collectibles, this Sevierville landmark is much more than a typical retail store. Be sure to explore the Relic Room for unusual historical items and fascinating finds.
Lodge Factory Store – Pigeon Forge
Want a souvenir you'll use for years? Tennessee-made Lodge cast-iron cookware is a wonderful choice.
Browse classic skillets, specialty pans, and other kitchen favorites at the Lodge Factory Store on Teaster Lane. Whether you're shopping for a home cook or treating yourself, it's a practical piece of Tennessee craftsmanship to bring home.
Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen – Gatlinburg
Some Smoky Mountain traditions are especially sweet!
A Gatlinburg favorite since 1950, Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen is known for its old-fashioned saltwater taffy and signature Taffylogs. Stop in to watch the candy-making process, then pick up a box or two to share with family and friends back home.
The Village Shops – Gatlinburg
Wander charming walkways filled with specialty boutiques, candles, soaps, sweet treats, and unique gifts in a picturesque European-inspired setting. Explore The Villages.
The Incredible Christmas Place – Pigeon Forge
Shop for personalized ornaments, festive decorations, and beautiful holiday keepsakes any time of year. Explore Christmas Place.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park Visitor Centers
Find park-themed apparel, books, maps, and souvenirs at visitor centers such as Sugarlands and Oconaluftee. Purchases through the park's nonprofit retail partner help support the national park.
Three Bears General Store – Pigeon Forge
A fun stop for black-bear gifts, ornaments, candy, and classic Smoky Mountain souvenirs. Explore Three Bears General Store.
SHOPPING AT THE ISLAND IN PIGEON FORGE
One of the best things about staying at Margaritaville Island Hotel? You don't even have to get in the car to enjoy some fantastic shopping!
Right outside your door, The Island in Pigeon Forge offers a lively collection of specialty shops, boutiques, sweet treats, and unique gifts. Browse at your leisure, stop for a delicious meal or refreshing cocktail, and enjoy the Island Show Fountains along the way. A few favorites you won't want to miss:
Savannah Bee Company
Discover specialty honeys, gourmet treats, and honey-inspired bath and body products. A wonderful stop for thoughtful gifts.
Emery's 5 & 10
Step back in time at this nostalgic general store filled with vintage candies, classic toys, and unexpected treasures.
Hand-Blown Glass Gift Gallery
Browse colorful glass artwork, decorative pieces, and distinctive keepsakes.
Kapop! Gourmet Popcorn
Pick up freshly made caramel corn, kettle corn, and creative gourmet popcorn flavors for a delicious treat to take home.
Paula Deen Retail Store
Bring home a taste of Southern cooking with cookbooks, sauces, spices, baking mixes, and kitchen accessories.
RideMakerz
Let the kids build and customize their own toy car or truck for a souvenir that's also a memorable vacation experience.
Big Rock Candy Kitchen
Indulge in homemade sweets, nostalgic candies, and delicious treats.
Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville Store
Take home a little Island state of mind with Margaritaville apparel, accessories, and tropical-inspired gifts.
And that's just the beginning! With so many shops to explore, it's easy to spend an afternoon discovering something special.
Best of all, when you're staying at Margaritaville Island Hotel, you can drop off your shopping bags in your room and head right back out for dinner, entertainment, or an evening stroll around The Island.
Explore Shopping at The Island
BRAND-NAME BARGAINS AT TANGER OUTLETS
If your idea of a great vacation includes a little retail therapy, make time for Tanger Outlets Sevierville!
Located at 1645 Parkway in Sevierville, this popular open-air shopping destination features an extensive collection of brand-name and designer outlet stores, making it a favorite for everything from back-to-school shopping to holiday gifts and a few well-deserved treats for yourself.
Shop familiar favorites such as:
Nike Factory Store, Adidas, and Under Armour for athletic apparel and footwear.
Coach, Michael Kors, and Kate Spade New York for handbags, accessories, and designer finds.
Polo Ralph Lauren, Levi's Outlet, and Gap Outlet for everyday clothing and wardrobe favorites.
Columbia Factory Store, The North Face, and Merrell for outdoor apparel and footwear.
Disney Outlet and Carter's for children's clothing, gifts, and family favorites.
With so many stores in one location, it's easy to make a morning or afternoon of it. Be sure to check the outlet center's website for current promotions, special offers, and the latest store directory before you go.
Explore Tanger Outlets Sevierville
MAKE MARGARITAVILLE ISLAND HOTEL YOUR SMOKY MOUNTAIN HOME BASE
Whether you're searching for handcrafted Appalachian treasures, sweet Southern treats, or great deals on your favorite brands, the Smoky Mountains offer shopping experiences worth adding to your vacation itinerary.
And there's no better way to end a successful day of shopping than returning to the relaxed atmosphere of Margaritaville Island Hotel.
Unwind in your comfortable guest room, enjoy the rooftop pool, or head downstairs for dinner, cocktails, and entertainment at The Island in Pigeon Forge. With shopping, dining, and the Island Show Fountains right outside your door, the fun doesn't have to end when the shopping bags are full.
Ready for a Smoky Mountain getaway? Explore Margaritaville Island Hotel and discover the perfect place to shop, explore, and unwind.
Explore Margaritaville Island Hotel
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SHOPPING IN THE SMOKY MOUNTAINS
Where can you find authentic Smoky Mountain souvenirs?
The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community in Gatlinburg is one of the best places to find handmade Appalachian pottery, woodwork, jewelry, and other locally crafted treasures. The Old Mill Square in Pigeon Forge is another favorite for stone-ground cornmeal, grits, pottery, and Southern specialties.
What are the best places to shop in Pigeon Forge?
Popular shopping destinations include The Island in Pigeon Forge, The Old Mill Square, and specialty stores throughout town. The Island offers a convenient collection of boutiques, gift shops, and specialty retailers, along with restaurants and entertainment.
Where are the outlet stores in the Smoky Mountains?
Tanger Outlets is located in Sevierville, Tennessee, just north of Pigeon Forge. The outdoor shopping center features a wide selection of brand-name and designer outlet stores offering clothing, shoes, accessories, and gifts.
Can you walk to shopping from Margaritaville Island Hotel?
Absolutely! Margaritaville Island Hotel is located right at The Island in Pigeon Forge, putting specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment just steps from your room. You can enjoy an afternoon of shopping without getting in your car.
