If you enjoy history and the arts, you should definitely visit the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community. The artisans that are a part of this community in East Tennessee keep tradition alive. You’ll find all kinds of cool skills and items you can purchase. Here are the top 6 reasons you should visit the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community:

1. Largest Independent Organization of Artisans

One of the coolest facts about the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community is it’s the largest independent organization of artisans in the United States. With over 100 artists and craftsmen, you’ll definitely get to see all kinds of work. These people have continued tradition for years and passed down skills that are rare.

2. Shops to Explore

There are about 100 shops throughout the 8 mile loop. Visitors are able to stop by and browse through the items made by these artisans and craftsmen. Some of the things you’ll find in the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community include handmade pottery, paintings, soap, candles, basket weaving, wood carvings, jewelry, instruments, and more. Many of the people in the community are more than happy to let you watch them at their craft. You’ll have a hard time deciding what you want to bring back home with you.

3. Delicious Local Food

Not only are there shops where you can purchase items made in Gatlinburg, you’ll also find restaurants and snack shops throughout the loop. Crystelle Creek Restaurant has a little bit of everything on their menu. They are next to a river and have beautiful landscaping, making it an ideal romantic place to get away. There are quite a few pubs where you can get traditional European food. A casual eatery with unique food concepts is Split Rail Eats, where you can get tater tots covered in different toppings. You’ll want to try all of the delicious local food in this community!

4. Full of History

Artisans and craftsmen in the past worked in downtown Gatlinburg, bringing their wares to sell to locals and visitors. In 1937, many of these craftsmen decided they were going to go back to their home in the Glades. They realized working from home made them more productive, so they began opening storefronts near their homes. The community continued to grow until it began the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community it is today.

5. Put on Craft Shows

The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community has quite a few craft shows throughout the year. The artists bring their items to the Gatlinburg Convention Center where guests can explore everything and purchase items they like easily. You will probably also get to see these artists in action!

6. Ride the Trolley

One of the cool things about this community is you can get there by riding the Gatlinburg trolley! You just hop on the Yellow Route and it will take you through the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community, making it easy to get from place to place.

You have plenty of reasons why you should check out the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community the next time you’re in town. You might be wondering about what else you should do when you visit Gatlinburg. Check out these other fun things to do in Gatlinburg!