Visiting Gatlinburg is always a memorable experience, with its mix of mountain scenery, family attractions, and a lively downtown full of shops and restaurants. Whether you’re here to stroll along the Parkway, ride the Ober Mountain tramway, or explore local favorites from our what to do in Gatlinburg guide, one thing every visitor has to figure out is where to park. Parking in Gatlinburg, TN, can be tricky, especially during busy weekends and peak seasons when the city fills with travelers. Knowing your options in advance, from city garages to free parking with trolley service, can save you time, reduce stress, and make your trip smoother from the moment you arrive.
Overview of Parking in Gatlinburg
Travel by Car
If you’re driving, Gatlinburg is accessible via key routes like US-441 and US-321. The Great Smoky Mountains Parkway serves as the main road and connects Gatlinburg to Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Interstate 40. While arrival is convenient, traffic congestion is common, plan extra time if traveling during peak tourism seasons.
Fly in, Drive Down
McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville is the closest commercial airport, about an hour away by car.
Parking Options Overview
Once you’re here, you’ll find many choices for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, ranging from city-operated garages and private lots to free park-and-ride locations:
City-owned garages:
McMahan/Parkway Parking Garage: approximately 366–382 spaces; daily fee around $10.
Aquarium Parking Garage: about 364 spaces; daily fee around $10.
Free Park-and-Ride Lots:
Gatlinburg Welcome Center (Highway 441): roughly 145 spaces for cars, buses, and RVs.
City Hall complex (Highway 321): about 95 spaces for cars, buses, and RVs.
Additional paid lots:
Highway 441 Parking Lot: 34 spaces; hourly rate around $1.
Private and permit lots: Several permit-only areas exist for downtown employees, plus privately operated parking facilities across town.
Free Gatlinburg Trolley
Once you’ve parked, especially in a park-and-ride lot, you can hop on the free Gatlinburg Trolley, which runs year-round and connects you to downtown destinations including the Mass Transit Center at Ripley’s Aquarium. This is a great way to skip downtown traffic and parking stress.
Why This Matters
Choosing the right option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN can mean arriving stress-free and stepping right into exploration mode. City garages offer convenient access but come with a daily fee. Free park-and-ride lots, coupled with the trolley, are budget-friendly and help you avoid congestion. This guide will walk you through each choice in detail, so you can focus on enjoying Gatlinburg, not finding a spot.
Getting to Gatlinburg & Parking in Gatlinburg, TN
Parking in Gatlinburg can feel overwhelming at first glance, especially if it’s your first visit to the Smoky Mountains. The city is compact, with most of the action centered around the Parkway, which means spaces fill up quickly during peak hours. Luckily, there are several reliable options to choose from. Visitors can park in city-owned garages that are located close to major attractions, find daily-rate private lots within walking distance of downtown, or take advantage of free parking in Gatlinburg Tennessee at designated park-and-ride locations connected to the trolley system.
Each option has its own advantages. City garages give you convenience and easy access to downtown shops and restaurants, private lots can be more strategic for quick visits, and free parking with trolley access is ideal for anyone looking to save money while avoiding downtown traffic. This guide covers everything you need to know about parking in Gatlinburg, TN; from the best garages to hidden free lots, plus practical tips to help you navigate the busy seasons.
Highway 321 Park-and-Ride Lot
One of the most convenient and budget-friendly options for parking in Gatlinburg, TN is the free Park-and-Ride lot located at the City Hall complex on Highway 321. This lot has approximately 95 spaces available for cars, buses, and RVs. It’s an excellent choice if you’re planning to use the Gatlinburg Trolley to get downtown, once you park, simply hop on and ride without the hassle of finding a spot on the Parkway.
Address: 1230 East Parkway (City Hall complex), Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-4991
This setup makes it easy to park your vehicle safely and enjoy a trolley ride into downtown, helping you avoid both traffic and parking stress. Click here to learn more.
Burning Bush Parking Lot
The Burning Bush Parking Lot is a centrally located option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, just at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With approximately 103 spaces available for passenger vehicles and motorcycles (no RVs or trailers), it’s an ideal pick if you’re planning a trail or nature outing. Note that overnight parking is not allowed, but the lot is open 24/7 and located just an 11-minute walk from the Gatlinburg Convention Center—near a trolley stop for easy downtown access
Address: 1151 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Typical Day Rate: $12–$20 all day, cards accepted (Visa, MasterCard, Discover)
Contact (if available): No specific phone number listed for this lot. For general parking questions, you can call Gatlinburg’s Parking Department at (865) 436-4991. Click here to learn more.
Highway 441 Parking Lot
The Highway 441 Parking Lot offers 34 spaces for passenger vehicles and charges around $1 per hour, making it a practical option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN if you need to stay for a short visit. Located next to Hillbilly Golf, it’s about a 19-minute walk to the Gatlinburg Convention Center and within easy reach of downtown attractions.
Address: Adjacent to Hillbilly Golf on Highway 441, Gatlinburg, TN
Phone: For general parking information, call the Gatlinburg Parking Department at (865) 436-4991
This lot is especially useful if you’re looking for a central and cost-effective spot for a brief downtown visit. Click here to learn more.
Towne Center Public Parking
The Towne Center Public Parking lot offers approximately 135 spaces for passenger vehicles only. RVs and trailers are not permitted, and overnight parking is also prohibited. It’s an excellent choice if you’re aiming for convenience—this lot sits just a short 5-minute walk from downtown Gatlinburg and its attractions, making it ideal for a hassle-free visit.
Address: Alternate vehicle entrance at 407 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: For general parking information, call the Gatlinburg Parking Department at (865) 436-4991
This location combines easy access with a central spot, giving you a practical and stress-free option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN. Click here to learn more.
Bear Skin Parking Garage
The Bear Skin Parking Garage is one of the most centrally located options for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, with easy access to downtown and nearby attractions. This facility offers 24/7 service and has approximately 515 spaces for passenger vehicles. Motorcycle, RV, and trailer parking are not permitted, and overnight parking is not allowed. Rates typically range from $12 to $20 for an all-day stay, though prices may vary during peak seasons and special events. A friendly attendant is on duty, and there’s a trolley stop just 50 feet away, making it especially convenient for visitors heading to the Gatlinburg Convention Center or the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway.
Address: 955 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-8856
Rates: $12–$20 per day (seasonal variation)
Hours: Open 24 hours, every day
Restrictions: No overnight parking; no motorcycles, RVs, or trailers
Trolley Access: Stop located within 50 feet
Click here for more info.
Holiday Lot
The Holiday Lot is a centrally located parking option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, offering about 93 spaces for passenger vehicles. Overnight parking is not allowed, making it best suited for daytime visits. It’s conveniently located just behind the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum and within easy walking distance to downtown attractions.
Address: 130 Reagan Drive, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-4991
Restrictions: No overnight parking
Parking Type: Passenger vehicles only
Recommended for: Short daytime visits to downtown Gatlinburg
St. Mary’s Church Parking
The St. Mary’s Church Parking lot offers a budget-friendly option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, with a flat rate of $5 per day when parking outside of normal Mass times (Saturday 4 pm through Sunday noon). This makes it one of the most affordable choices for visitors planning to spend a full day downtown.
Address: 304 Airport Road (Historic Nature Trail), Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-4907
Rate: $5 all day, outside of Mass times
Note: Avoid parking during scheduled Mass hours, as the lot is reserved for parishioners. Click here for more info.
Tramway Parking
The Tramway Parking area serves those visiting the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway — perfect for combining parking in Gatlinburg, TN with a scenic ride up the mountain. This lot offers about 320 spaces for standard passenger vehicles.
Address: 305 Cottage Drive, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-5423 (Ober Mountain Adventure Park & Ski Area main number)
Recommended For: Visitors planning to ride the Aerial Tramway or explore Ober Gatlinburg
This location ensures convenience for tram riders, eliminating the hassle of navigating downtown traffic while offering a straightforward option for reaching the mountaintop attractions. Click here to learn more.
Maples Lane Parking Lot
The Maples Lane Parking Lot offers a quiet, convenient option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN with around 67 spaces for standard passenger vehicles. Nestled on River Road, it sits just across the street from SkyPark, making it a smart choice if you’re planning to visit that scenic attraction—yet remaining close enough to downtown if you’d prefer to walk or catch the trolley.
Address: 510 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Vehicle Type: Passenger vehicles only (no RVs or large trailers)
Closest Attraction: Ideal for visitors heading to SkyPark or wanting to stay near River Road
Benefit: Offers a balance between adventure access and proximity to downtown Gatlinburg
Reagan Drive Parking Lot
The Reagan Drive Parking Lot is a convenient downtown choice for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, offering around 142 spaces for passenger vehicles. It’s open 24/7 and has an attendant on duty, making entry and exit easy, especially during peak times. RVs and trailers may be accommodated in limited capacity, but motorcycles are not allowed. Overnight parking is not permitted.
Address: 220 Reagan Drive, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-7390
Rates: Approximately $12–$20 for all-day parking, varying by season or special events
Hours: Open 24 hours daily; attendant present during peak periods
Trolley Access: Available—just steps away
Note: Ideal for visitors headed to the Convention Center, Space Needle, or Hollywood Star Cars. Click here for more info.
McMahan / Parkway Parking Garage
The McMahan / Parkway Parking Garage is one of the largest city-owned options for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, with approximately 366 spaces for passenger vehicles. Located at 520 Parkway, it provides easy access to downtown attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Address: 520 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-4991
Rates: $10 per day
Spaces: About 366 passenger vehicle spots
Access: Centrally located at Traffic Light #3 on the Parkway
Note: In spring 2025, the city began repair work on this garage. Access may be limited to certain levels during construction, though it remains open on most weekends. It’s recommended to check current availability if you plan to park here. Click here for more info.
M & O Parking Lot
The M & O Parking Lot offers a compact, convenient choice for parking in Gatlinburg, TN. It has approximately 58 spaces available, accommodating both passenger vehicles and motorcycles—though it does not support larger vehicles like RVs or trailers.
Address: 120 M & O Street, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Vehicle Type: Passenger vehicles and motorcycles only
Capacity: Around 58 spaces
Suitable For: Quick access to downtown attractions without the hassle of oversized vehicles Click here for more options.
Premier Parking Lot
The Premier Parking Lot is a spacious and versatile option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, accommodating approximately 235 spaces for passenger vehicles, buses, and RVs. Located next to Anakeesta, it provides easy access to one of Gatlinburg’s top attractions—and it’s just about a 13-minute walk to the Gatlinburg Convention Center. This lot is an excellent choice whether you’re visiting with a large vehicle or heading straight into downtown events.
Capacity: Around 235 spaces
Vehicle Types: Passenger vehicles, buses, and RVs
Nearby Attractions: Adjacent to Anakeesta; within walking distance to the Convention Center
Ideal For: Visitors with larger vehicles or those planning to explore both downtown and mountain attractions. Click here for more info.
Reagan Parking Lot
The Reagan Parking Lot is a centrally located surface lot ideal for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, offering convenient access to downtown attractions. It supports approximately 185 parking spaces, accommodating standard passenger vehicles and even buses or RVs, making it a flexible option for groups or large vehicles
Address: 220 Reagan Drive, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-7390
Spaces: Around 185 spaces, including room for buses and RVs
Restrictions: Passenger vehicles, buses, and RVs allowed; no mention of motorcycles or overnight parking limitations in official sources
Walking Distance: A short walk to the Convention Center and other downtown destinations.
Ideal For: Visitors traveling with larger vehicles or those who need flexible parking near central Gatlinburg.
Willow Lane Parking Lot
The Willow Lane Parking Lot is a modern and convenient option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN. It offers approximately 75 spaces suitable for passenger vehicles, buses, and RVs. This lot includes EV charging stations on site, making it a smart choice for eco-conscious travelers.
Address: 115 Willow Lane, Gatlinburg, TN
Capacity: Around 75 spaces for cars, buses, and RVs
Features: EV chargers available on site
Walking Distance: Approximately a 5-minute walk to Anakeesta and downtown Gatlinburg. Click here for more info.
Aquarium Parking Garage
The Aquarium Parking Garage is a prime option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, especially if you’re headed to Ripley’s Aquarium or downtown attractions. It accommodates approximately 364 spaces for passenger vehicles and operates on a straightforward flat rate of $10 per day.
Address: 161 Greystone Heights Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-4991 (City Parking Department)
Spaces: Around 364 passenger vehicle spots
Rates: $10 per day
Access: Centrally located with easy access to the Parkway and nearby shops and attractions
Note: City municipal garage; open year-round (closed only on Christmas Day). Click here for more info.
Central Gatlinburg Parking
The Central Gatlinburg Parking lot offers a compact and convenient option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, with approximately 46 spaces available for passenger vehicles and motorcycles. Overnight parking is not permitted. Situated behind Circus Golf, this lot is just a short four-minute walk to the Gatlinburg Convention Center—making it an ideal choice for quick and easy downtown access.
Address: 520 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Spaces: Around 46 passenger vehicle and motorcycle spots
Restrictions: No overnight parking
Walking Distance: About 4 minutes to the Gatlinburg Convention Center. Click here for more.
Bishop Lane Parking Lot
The Bishop Lane Parking Lot is a permit-only facility primarily reserved for downtown Gatlinburg business employees. It offers about 70 to 89 spaces for passenger vehicles, making it one of the key permit-access locations in the city. Monthly permits are required for access and can be obtained through the city’s Customer Service Center with proof of employment at a downtown Gatlinburg business.
Address: 237 Bishop Lane (intersection of Bishop Lane and Stephen Drive), Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-4991
Capacity: Approximately 70 to 89 spaces
Access Level: Monthly permit required (around $30 per month)
Shade Tree Parking Lot
The Shade Tree Parking Lot offers a convenient and centrally located option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN. This surface lot includes approximately 110 spaces for passenger vehicles only—no motorcycles, RVs, or trailers are permitted. It operates 24/7, with an attendant on duty during normal hours, and has a nearby trolley stop for easy downtown access.
Address: 120 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-7178
Spaces: Around 110 passenger vehicle spots
Rates: Typically $12–$20 for all-day parking, with variation during peak seasons or special events
Hours: Open 24 hours daily; attendant on duty during normal hours
Amenities: Trolley stop nearby
Restrictions: No overnight parking; no motorcycles, RVs, or trailers allowed. Click here for more info.
Marathon Gas Parking Lot
The Marathon Gas Parking Lot is a small, convenient option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN—especially handy if you’re near Ski Mountain Road or need a quick spot while fueling up or making a stop. It offers about 19 spaces for passenger vehicles only, with no overnight parking allowed. A trolley stop is located nearby, giving you easy access to downtown attractions.
Address: 118 Ski Mountain Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Spaces: Approximately 19 passenger vehicle spots
Restrictions: No overnight parking
Convenience: Ideal for quick stops near Ski Mountain Road
Trolley Access: Nearby trolley stop for downtown access. Click here for more info.
Highway 441 Park-and-Ride Lot
The Highway 441 Park-and-Ride Lot is a great choice for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, especially if you’re hoping to avoid downtown congestion. This free lot accommodates approximately 145 spaces for passenger vehicles, buses, and RVs—an ideal option for families or larger vehicles. After parking, visitors can hop on the free Gatlinburg Trolley to reach downtown attractions without traffic stress.
Address: 1011 Banner Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-4991
Spaces: Around 145 spots for cars, buses, and RVs
Cost: Free parking
Best For: Park-and-ride convenience to downtown Gatlinburg via trolley. Click here for more info.
Venus Parking Lot
The Midtown Parking facility is a centrally located option for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, offering convenience and year-round access. It provides a reliable solution for both visitors and locals looking to explore downtown attractions without hassle. The lot operates 24/7.
Address: 805 Parkway #7, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 430-1636
Hours: Open 24 hours daily
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible parking and entrance available
Mountain View Parking
The Mountain View Parking Lot is a convenient downtown choice for parking in Gatlinburg, TN, ideal for those planning to explore the Parkway or visit the Convention Center area. Located along East Parkway, it’s a short walk from many attractions, offering easy access while avoiding the busiest parts of downtown.
Address: 130 East Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Spaces: Suitable for passenger vehicles (specific capacity not listed)
Ideal For: Visitors seeking proximity to downtown with straightforward access
Public Transport - Gatlinburg Trolley
Once you’ve found your parking spot, the Gatlinburg Free Trolley makes getting around the city simple and stress-free. Operating 365 days a year, the trolley is a reliable way to reach downtown attractions, nearby neighborhoods, and even the Arts & Crafts Community—all without the hassle of moving your car. Click here for more information.
How It Works
The trolley is completely free to ride with no fares or passes required.
It runs year-round, including winter, making it dependable no matter when you visit.
Hours vary by season:
March–April: 10:30 AM – 10 PM
May–October: 8:30 AM – Midnight
November–February: Red, Purple, and Blue Routes run 10:30 AM – 10 PM; the Yellow Route operates Monday–Saturday, 10:30 AM – 6 PM.
- Learn more here.
Four Color-Coded Routes
Red Route: Covers downtown highlights, River Road, the Convention Center, Ober Mountain, and Anakeesta.
Purple Route: Connects the Welcome Center and “Spur” area, including theaters and mini golf.
Blue Route: Runs along East Parkway, stopping near the community center, dining spots, and local sports facilities.
Yellow Route: Seasonal service to the Arts & Crafts Community, perfect for shopping and gallery visits.
All routes connect at the Mass Transit Center at Ripley’s Aquarium, making it easy to transfer between trolleys.
- Learn more here.
Why You’ll Love It
Budget-friendly: Free rides make it a smart choice after paying for parking.
Eco-friendly: Helps cut down on traffic in Gatlinburg’s busiest areas.
Accessible: All trolleys are ADA compliant, with ramps and accommodations for service animals.
Final Takeaway
Pairing your parking plan with the Gatlinburg Free Trolley is the easiest way to explore the city. Whether you’re heading to attractions, restaurants, or shopping districts, the trolley helps you save time, skip the stress of downtown traffic, and enjoy Gatlinburg at your own pace.
Cabins Near Gatlinburg
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