Nestled in the East Tennessee mountains, in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, in Sevier County, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a picturesque and vibrant destination that attracts millions of visitors each year. While it’s well-known for its breathtaking natural beauty, thrilling outdoor adventures, and charming mountain town atmosphere, Gatlinburg has another hidden gem waiting to be discovered – its burgeoning brewery scene.
In recent years, Gatlinburg has embraced the craft beer movement with open arms, giving rise to an impressive collection of local breweries that showcase the creativity, passion, and skill of the region’s brewers. Gatlinburg’s breweries are not only brewing up great beer, but they’re also fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie among locals and visitors alike.
If you’re a beer enthusiast searching for your next sudsy adventure, look no further than the breweries in Gatlinburg, TN. From cozy taprooms serving up bold IPAs to sprawling brewpubs with stunning mountain views, there’s truly something for every type of beer lover in this enchanting mountain town. For those in the family whose interests lie outside of craft brews, the town of Gatlinburg itself is pretty sure to offer them an unforgettable experience.
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Why Gatlinburg, TN is a Must-Visit Destination for Beer Enthusiasts
Gatlinburg’s craft beer scene stands out for several reasons. First, there’s the sheer variety of breweries and beer styles available in town. With a thriving community of brewers pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing techniques, you’ll find a diverse array of beers to sample and savor, from crisp pilsners to rich stouts and everything in between.
Another reason why Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts is its commitment to using local ingredients whenever possible. Many of the breweries in Gatlinburg TN source their ingredients from the surrounding region, ensuring that their beers have a distinct local flavor that you won’t find anywhere else. This dedication to local, fresh ingredients not only results in better-tasting beer, but it also supports the local economy and fosters a strong sense of community.
Finally, the atmosphere and ambiance of Gatlinburg’s breweries is truly unparalleled. With stunning mountain views, cozy taprooms, and friendly, knowledgeable staff, each brewery offers a unique and memorable experience that will leave you craving more.
Best Breweries in Gatlinburg TN
a. Gatlinburg Brewing Company
Gatlinburg Brewing Company is a true gem in the heart of the Smokies. Established in 2014, this family-owned and operated brewery is dedicated to crafting high-quality, innovative beers that showcase the flavors and spirit of the region. With a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere and an ever-changing lineup of beers on tap, Gatlinburg Brewing Company is the perfect place to kick back and enjoy a pint or two.
Their beer selection includes a mix of year-round staples and seasonal releases, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try. Some fan favorites include the Bearway to Heaven IPA, a bold and hoppy brew with notes of citrus and pine; the Mountain Light Lager, a crisp and refreshing option that’s perfect for a hot summer day; and the Black Bear Boogie, a rich and creamy stout infused with locally-roasted coffee beans. Be sure to ask for the brewmaster special, and any of the local beer, oft times brewed in small batches, and not to be found elsewhere. All are sure to be at a minimum, good beer.
b. Smoky Mountain Brewery
Smoky Mountain Brewery is another must-visit stop on your Gatlinburg brewery tour. With locations in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Knoxville, and Maryville, this popular brewery has earned its reputation as a go-to destination for craft beer lovers in the region. Their Gatlinburg location is located in Calhoun’s Village, an easy walk to the corner, where you will find one one of my favorite Gatlinburg restaurants, Calhouns. Smokey Mountain Brewery features an expansive taproom and restaurant, complete with outdoor seating and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
At Smoky Mountain Brewery, you’ll find a wide variety of beers to suit every palate, from their flagship Mountain Light to their bold and hoppy IPA, as well as their world famous “Cherokee Red Ale“, as well as their hugely popular “Appalachian Pale Ale”, all are sure fire hit on a good hot day.
They also offer a rotating selection of seasonal and limited-release brews, ensuring that there’s always something new and exciting to try. And with a full food menu featuring everything from pizzas and burgers to salads and sandwiches, you can easily make a meal out of your visit.
c. Tennessee Homemade Wines
While not a traditional brewery, Tennessee Homemade Wines is a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates handcrafted beverages. Located just steps from the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, this charming winery specializes in small-batch, fruit-based wines that showcase the flavors and essence of the region.
Their selection includes unique and flavorful options like blackberry, blueberry, and peach wines, as well as traditional offerings like muscadine and chardonnay. With free tastings available daily, you can sample and savor a variety of wines to find your new favorite.
Unique Beer Styles and Flavors to Try in Gatlinburg
When exploring the breweries in Gatlinburg TN, you’ll encounter a wide array of unique beer styles and flavors that are sure to delight your taste buds. Some of the standout options include:
Smoky Mountain-Inspired Beers: Many of Gatlinburg’s breweries draw inspiration from the flavors and ingredients found in the surrounding region, resulting in beers that truly capture the essence of the Smokies. Look for brews infused with local honey, berries, or herbs for a truly unique and authentic taste experience.
Barrel-Aged Beers: Several of Gatlinburg’s breweries are experimenting with barrel-aging, a process that involves aging beer in wooden barrels (often used to age whiskey or wine) to impart complex flavors and aromas. Keep an eye out for barrel-aged stouts, porters, or sours for a one-of-a-kind beer experience.
Fruit-Infused Beers: If you’re a fan of fruity flavors, you’ll love the variety of fruit-infused beers available at Gatlinburg’s breweries. From tart and refreshing sours to rich and decadent stouts, there’s no shortage of fruit-forward brews to suit every palate.
Don’t Overlook the Obvious; It’s hard to go wrong, regardless of choice with a cold beer on a hot day.
Brewery Tours and Events in Gatlinburg
In addition to the Smoky Mountain breweries themselves, Gatlinburg offers a variety of brewery tours and events that allow you to dive deeper into the local craft beer scene. Some options include:
- Guided Brewery Tours: Several companies in Gatlinburg offer guided brewery tours that take you behind the scenes at some of the town’s top breweries. These tours often include transportation, tastings, and expert insights into the brewing process, making them a fun and educational option for beer enthusiasts.
- Beer Festivals: Throughout the year, Gatlinburg plays host to several beer festivals and events, showcasing the best of the local craft beer scene. These events typically feature tastings, live music, and food from local vendors, making them a great way to sample a variety of beers and connect with fellow beer lovers.
- Brewery-Hosted Events: Many of Gatlinburg’s breweries host their own events, ranging from beer release parties to trivia nights and live music performances. Be sure to check the events calendar at your favorite breweries to stay in the loop on upcoming happenings.
Pairing your Brewery Visit with Other Gatlinburg Attractions
While the breweries in Gatlinburg TN are undoubtedly a major draw, the town also offers a plethora of other attractions and activities to keep you entertained during your visit. Some popular options to consider pairing with your brewery adventure include:
- Outdoor Adventures: With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at its doorstep, Gatlinburg is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Consider embarking on a scenic hike, going for a bike ride, or exploring the park’s many waterfalls and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Shopping and Dining: Downtown Gatlinburg is home to a variety of unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants offering great food, making it a great place to spend an afternoon browsing and indulging in the local cuisine.
- Attractions and Entertainment: From the iconic SkyLift Park and Anakeesta to the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Ober Gatlinburg, and ski lodge, there’s no shortage of fun, family-friendly attractions to explore during your stay in Gatlinburg.
Tips for Visiting Breweries in Gatlinburg TN
To make the most of your brewery adventure in Gatlinburg, keep these tips in mind:
- Plan Ahead: While many of Gatlinburg’s breweries are located within walking distance of one another, it’s a good idea to map out your route and plan your stops in advance to ensure that you have enough time to enjoy each brewery.
- Dress for Comfort: With so much walking and exploring on the agenda, be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers to accommodate changing weather conditions.
- Stay Hydrated: In addition to sampling the local brews, be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and avoid overindulging.
- Don’t Forget to Eat: With so many delicious food options available at Gatlinburg’s breweries, be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to indulge in some tasty eats while you sample the local beers.
Responsible Drinking and Transportation Options
As you explore the breweries in Gatlinburg TN, it’s important to remember to drink responsibly and plan for safe transportation. Some options to consider include:
- Walking: Many of Gatlinburg’s breweries are located within walking distance of one another, making it easy to explore on foot.
- Trolley: Gatlinburg offers a convenient trolley service that can transport you to and from many of the town’s breweries, as well as other attractions and lodging options.
- Rideshares and Taxis: Lyft, Uber, and local taxi services are available in Gatlinburg, providing a convenient and safe option for getting around town.
- Designated Drivers: If you’re traveling with a group, consider designating a sober driver who can ensure that everyone gets home safely.
Authors Note: Traffic in Gatlinburg during the main tourist season is bumper to bumper. Parking is available, but relatively expensive, and to get to it, you have to endure the traffic to get there. I can strongly recommend, (after having tried all the above options), the use of taxis, Uber, or Lyft. So saying, I also recommend that you take at least one drive through the town, (using a designated driver), just to get the feel for it, and to enjoy the sights. It’s also worth mentioning that the town you will see during the day, versus during the night are markedly different. Both provide a fun time.
Conclusion
With its stunning mountain setting, vibrant craft beer scene, and endless opportunities for adventure, Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. As you explore the breweries in Gatlinburg TN, you’ll be treated to a diverse array of unique and delicious beers, as well as warm hospitality and unforgettable experiences. So raise a glass and toast to the magic of Gatlinburg – cheers!