Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Art center · Gatlinburg

Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Art center · Gatlinburg

668 Glades Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Highlights

Explore a charming stretch of local artistry and cozy shops along the 8-mile loop, where handmade treasures and delightful eateries await.

668 Glades Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Get directions

greatsmokyartsandcrafts.com

@gsacctn

@afar

"Many of the Smoky Mountains’ earliest tourists came here to shop from local craftsmen, popularized by the Pi Beta Phi women’s fraternity that chose supporting these mountain folk artists as their cause. In 1912, the women established a public school for the local children, evolving into the Arrowmont School of Arts of Crafts that persists today. Centuries-old trades continue to be passed down, and visitors willfind woodworking, basket weaving, ceramics, and metalworks created in the same manner they have for generations. An organized eight-mile loop road includes stops at 120 artists' studios and workshops, many with live demonstrations. Travel it at your leisure, or break it up over several days as you discover this thriving remnant of the culture that shaped Southern Appalachia."

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Mariz Lowder

Google

I definitely recommend going to the shops of the 8 mile loop. There are plenty of unique shops showcasing artwork, decor, clothing, treats and so much more. It was suggested to take a trolley. But we ended up driving to visit all the shops. We didn't have a hard time finding a parking spot. Some stores are closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Jen Lz

Google

This is actually an entire street/loop where lots of crafter and artists have their shops. You can find the map online or in most of the shops. We had a blast walking thru stores, purchasing handmade pieces, and getting to know locals. Highly recommend you find Sparky's Glass, and East Tennessee Leather Company.

Rose Pinner

Google

I have been a shop owner in the community for over 20 years. But that time has come to an end, not by our choice but by the changes that are encroaching on the over deployment of these beautiful Mountains an the lost of respect for the heritage of this beautiful place. Our shop Jams Jellies Nuts and More will close the end of March because the owner of our complex Dustin Brackins has sold it to Anakesta to tear it down and build condos. I just want to say to all the people that visited our shop an the many friends we made along the way WE LOVE YOU.

Georgene Saunders

Google

Really neat little shops in multiple areas out Glades Rd. Gatlinburg, TN, with several different types of gifts. If you are into art, there are some very nice pictures. I didn't get any inside pictures, but it was so cute outside and decorated so pretty for fall.

Nicole Coman

Google

This is a great strip to visit if you want to find unique stuff. There are clusters of artist shops along the 8 miles. Make sure to grab a map at one of the locations for up to date Info as a lot of these places aren't listed on Google maps and hours of operation vary from Google maps too.

Wayne Lowe

Google

We visited the Great Smoky arts District stretch on Glades road, seeing many of the craft and art studios and they were amazing 👍 Well worth a visit😀 We found a wonderful little ice cream parlour and had the best milkshakes 😋 ever!!! Glades soda fountain. Would definitely visit this area again. Wayne and Shelly 🇬🇧

CHEF TODD ALEXANDER CHEF TODD ALEXANDER

Google

A pleasant diversion from the crowds of tourists in downtown Gatlinburg. I saw several craftsman working hard today. A real pleasure for a returning vacationer. I enjoyed the history of several buildings that were moved to create this TREASURE. I highly recommend that you find this place. Visits like these makes me want to return.

Maxetta Gadd

Google

Most of the shops are closed on Mondays. Wish that was listed online & in the brochures. The few that were open weren’t welcoming at all with the exception of the one that sells olive Oil, dips & spices. That’s why it’s the only one I purchased anything from. Sadly, we were let down by this area and the experience.