The Village Shops in Gatlinburg one of the best places in Gatlinburg to take a break from crowds without leaving downtown. Whether you’re grabbing fresh pastries from the famous Donut Friar, shopping for handmade soap, stocking up on hiking gear, or picking out unique gifts you won’t find anywhere else, there’s something for everyone here. It’s especially great for couples, families, and visitors looking for a slower-paced spot to explore at their own pace, just steps away from the action.
What to Expect
The Village Shops are more than just a place to shop—they’re a part of Gatlinburg’s history. In 1965, two local families—the Gerdings and the Dychs—bought the property and wanted to create something different from the typical tourist strip. Inspired by European villages, they designed a plaza with brick walkways, gas lanterns, slate roofs, and architectural details salvaged from old homes and churches that were being torn down at the time. Construction started in late 1968, and the first 19 shops opened the following summer. Over the years, more were added, eventually rounding out the 27 businesses that make up the Village today.
Once you walk through the entrance, the energy shifts. Even though you’re right off the Parkway, it feels quieter and more relaxed. The setup is compact and easy to navigate, with benches, fountains, flower beds, and tucked-away corners that make it easy to slow down and enjoy your time. The Village also has public restrooms, ATMs, and is pet-friendly—features that are surprisingly rare for other spots along the strip.
The shops here cover a wide range—gourmet spices, handmade soap, art prints, hiking gear, dog treats, quirky socks, and other items you won’t find in chain stores. Most are locally owned, and you’ll often meet the people who actually run them. It doesn’t feel overly commercial, and you can take your time browsing without feeling rushed.
It’s also one of the most photo-friendly spots in downtown Gatlinburg. From the entrance sign to the little corners between stores, the Village has a lot of small details that make it worth a visit—even if you’re not planning to spend much.
For more information about The Village Shops, including a full directory of stores, seasonal hours, and events, visit their official website.
Want to see where everything is before you go? The Village Shops has an interactive map that lets you explore all 27 shop locations, including restrooms, walkways, and nearby parking. Click here to view the full Village map on their website.
As of May 2025, The Village Shops are surrounded by a variety of events happening throughout Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. While The Village itself doesn’t host its own events, its central location makes it an ideal spot to relax and shop between activities. It’s a great resource to check before your visit to see what’s going on. Click here to explore the latest highlights and happenings at The Village Shops.
How to Get There
Address:
The Village Shops are located at 634 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. Look for the stone arch between The Pancake Pantry and Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen—that’s your entrance.
Parking:
There’s no private parking for The Village, but there are several convenient public parking options nearby:
- Parkway Parking Garage – 520 Parkway (2-minute walk)
- McMahan Parking Garage – 520 Historic Nature Trail (5-minute walk)
- Aquarium Parking Garage – 161 Greystone Heights Road
- Premier Parking – 115 Cherokee Orchard Road
- Pi Beta Phi Elementary School – 125 Cherokee Orchard Road
- Tingler Parking Lot – 128 Cherokee Orchard Road
Rates: Expect to pay between $10–$15/day. It’s best to arrive before 11 AM during busy seasons or weekends.
Click here for more Parking Map & Info
Shop Hours (As of May 2025):
The Village Shops operate year-round with seasonal hours:
- December – March 16: At lessee’s convenience; individual shop hours may vary.
- March 17 – April: Sunday–Friday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
- May: Sunday–Friday: 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
- June – October: 10 a.m.–10 p.m. daily.
November: Sunday–Friday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Saturday: 10 a.m.–10 p.m.
Please note that individual shop hours may vary, especially during the off-season. For the most up-to-date information, it’s recommended to check directly with the specific shops or visit the official website.
Trolley Access:
The Gatlinburg Trolley (Red & Blue Routes) stops directly across the street from The Village, near the Mountain Mall. It’s a convenient option if you’re staying downtown or want to skip parking. Trolley Schedules & Routes: Gatlinburg Trolley Info
Popular Shops
If you’re wondering where to start, here are some of the most talked-about, photographed, and revisited shops inside The Village—places people come back to every time they’re in Gatlinburg.
The Sock Shop – A floor-to-ceiling collection of fun and colorful socks, plus hats, slippers, and seasonal accessories.
Celtic Heritage – Carries gifts, food, and apparel imported from Ireland, Scotland, and Wales—perfect for those looking for something culturally unique.
The Donut Friar – A Gatlinburg icon. Known for its fresh pastries, cinnamon bread, and early-morning hours (opens at 5 AM daily).
Showcase Sports – Offers a wide variety of sports memorabilia and gear across major teams and leagues.
Coffee & Company – A cozy stop for locally roasted coffee, espresso drinks, and tea inside the Village walkway.
Pepper Palace – Hot sauce lovers will find dozens of options here, along with free samples and spicy snacks.
Candle Cottage – Long-standing candle shop with hand-poured candles in seasonal and signature scents.
Pop Culture – Gourmet popcorn shop serving small-batch, flavored popcorn made fresh on-site.
Maddi Mae’s Café & Creamery – Classic ice cream parlor with hand-dipped scoops, floats, and milkshakes.
Boudicca’s Celtic Pub – Offers a small menu of Celtic-inspired pub food and local/regional beers.
Life Is Good – Sells Life is Good apparel and accessories for men, women, and kids, plus pet items.
Click here to view the full directory of Village Shops on their website.
The setup is easy to walk, which makes it a solid stop for families, couples, and small groups who want something low-key but worth the visit.
Why Visit The Village Shops
The Village is one of the few places in downtown Gatlinburg where you can actually slow down. It’s not packed with loud attractions or chain stores—just locally owned shops, photo-friendly corners, and a relaxed setup that doesn’t feel overwhelming. Whether you’re in town for the day or just walking off the Parkway, it’s an easy stop that doesn’t require a big time commitment.
It’s also a good in-between option: grab a coffee, browse a few shops, or pick up something unique without feeling like you’re stuck in a tourist trap. And if you’re with a group or family, it’s the kind of place where everyone can split up, explore, and meet back at the fountain or bakery with zero hassle.
Visitor Tips
- Go early if you want parking nearby or plan to stop at The Donut Friar, which opens at 5 AM.
- Most shops open around 10 AM and close between 6–9 PM depending on the season. Winter hours are shorter, and each shop sets its own schedule.
- Parking is not free, but garages like Parkway Parking Garage and McMahan Parking are both close by. Expect to pay around $10–$15/day.
- Use the trolley if you’re already downtown. The Red and Blue Routes stop right across the street.
- Plan for 1–2 hours if you’re casually browsing. It’s a small area, but easy to spend time in if you take it slow.
- Bring cash or cards. Most shops accept both, but a few may have minimums during off-season.
Cabins Near The Village Shops in Gatlinburg
If you’re planning a trip centered around downtown Gatlinburg or spending time at The Village Shops, here are some cabin options nearby that offer easy access to it all. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, these cabins put you close to the action without the noise.
- 4.8
- 5
- 4.85
- 4.9
More Gatlinburg Attractions
Make the most of your Gatlinburg adventure by exploring these nearby attractions:
- Anakeesta: A mountaintop adventure park with stunning views, ziplining, and treetop walks.
- Gatlinburg SkyPark: Walk the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, and take in panoramic mountain views.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Dive into an underwater world with interactive exhibits and marine life from around the globe.
- Ober Gatlinburg: Experience year-round fun with skiing, ice skating, and mountain coaster rides.
- Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community: Explore the nation’s largest group of independent artisans, offering handmade goods, studios, and galleries along an 8-mile scenic loop.
