TOP 10 Best Historic museums in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

The Hollywood Star Cars Museum, located at 914 Parkway in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a must-visit destination for car enthusiasts and movie fans alike. This museum is a unique tourist attraction that showcases a collection of iconic vehicles featured in popular Hollywood films and TV shows. Visitors can get up close and personal with famous cars such as the Batmobile, the DeLorean from "Back to the Future," and the General Lee from "The Dukes of Hazzard." With interactive exhibits and memorabilia, the Hollywood Star Cars Museum offers a fun and immersive experience for all ages. Whether you're a film buff or simply appreciate classic cars, this museum is sure to delight and entertain.

The Noah "Bud" Ogle Cabin is a historic log cabin located on Cherokee Orchard Road in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This well-preserved cabin serves as a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the pioneer life of the early settlers in the area. The cabin showcases traditional Appalachian craftsmanship and features artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the Ogle family who once lived there. Visitors can explore the grounds, take guided tours, and learn about the rich history of the region. The Noah "Bud" Ogle Cabin is a must-visit destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone interested in experiencing a piece of Tennessee's past.

Little Greenbrier School is a historic one-room schoolhouse located at Metcalf Bottoms Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This institution serves as a popular tourist attraction within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors can step back in time and explore the simple yet charming schoolhouse, which provides a glimpse into the educational practices of the early 20th century. The school is surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, making it a peaceful and picturesque destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

The Cades Cove Visitor Center is a travel agency located at 5686 Cades Cove Loop Road in Townsend, Tennessee, United States. As a proud partner of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the National Park Service, the center offers information and resources for visitors exploring the park. The historic Cable Mill area features a working gristmill, blacksmith shop, and other structures, with occasional demonstrations and ranger-guided programs. The center at Clingmans Dome Road provides exhibits on the area's history and ecosystem, with a trail leading to the observation tower atop Clingmans Dome. The Gatlinburg Welcome Center offers information on lodging, attractions, and park activities, with a park and ride option for trolleys into Gatlinburg. The Tremont Visitor Center, affiliated with the Great Smoky Mountains Institute, offers hiking trails and educational programs. The visitor center and museum near Cherokee showcase the area's history and outdoor museum features. The Gatlinburg visitor center offers a natural history museum, hiking trails, and ranger-led programs. The Swain County Visitor Center in the historic courthouse provides information on lodging, attractions, and access to the park. The Great Smokies Welcome Center in Townsend offers information and merchandise for visitors to the national park. Please note that the Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to vehicles on Wednesdays from May to September, with the visitor center closing early on vehicle-free days. Visit these visitor centers for a comprehensive experience in exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Pavilion is a tranquil retreat nestled in the mountains of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offering a serene escape in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With a capacity for up to 70 guests, this pavilion provides a covered eating area and multiple grills, perfect for hosting a party or family gathering. Surrounded by the diverse plant and animal life of the park, visitors can enjoy the picturesque scenery year-round, whether it's the vibrant wildflowers in spring or the colorful foliage in fall. Located at an elevation of 1,700 feet, Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Pavilion boasts a moderate climate, making it an ideal destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and more. The park also preserves a rich cultural history of Southern Appalachia, with over 90 historic structures that tell the stories of the people who once inhabited these mountains.

The Alfred Reagan Tub Mill is a historic tourist attraction located on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This institution is part of the park's collection of over 90 preserved or rehabilitated log buildings, showcasing the rich history of the region. Visitors can explore the mill and other structures along the trail, gaining insight into the communities that once thrived in the area. The Alfred Reagan Tub Mill is listed in the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting its significance in preserving the past for future generations. Be sure to pick up a self-guiding auto tour booklet to enhance your visit and learn more about the history of this unique site. Don't forget to visit the official online store for the park, operated by Smokies Life, where proceeds support educational, scientific, and historical projects within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The Ephraim Bales Cabin, located on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a historic homestead that offers a glimpse into the challenging life of early settlers in the Great Smoky Mountains. The cabin, once home to Ephraim Bales, his wife, and nine children, is a "dog-trot" style cabin with two separate living spaces connected by a shared roof. Visitors can explore the living area and kitchen, as well as the original corn crib, barn, and pig pen on the property. The Bales family lived on this land from around 1890 until it was purchased by the government in 1930 for inclusion in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Walking around the property, visitors can imagine the difficulties of living in a remote mountain cabin, where everything needed for survival had to be obtained from the land. Despite the challenges of farming on rocky terrain, Ephraim Bales and his family made this rugged landscape their home.

Cliff Dwellers is a unique art gallery located at 668 Glades Road in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, United States. This institution showcases a diverse collection of artwork created by talented local and regional artists. Visitors can explore a wide range of artistic styles and mediums, from paintings and sculptures to photography and mixed media. The gallery provides a welcoming and inspiring environment for art enthusiasts to appreciate and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether you're a seasoned art collector or simply looking to add a special piece to your home, Cliff Dwellers offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Cosby Campground, located at 127 Cosby Entrance Road in Cosby, Tennessee, offers a peaceful and secluded environment for visitors to enjoy the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Surrounded by a canopy of cool shade, this campground is a quieter option compared to busier campgrounds, providing a tranquil setting for traditional camping. Each campsite at Cosby Campground features a fire ring, picnic table, and tent pad, with RV sites available as well. Modern amenities such as flush toilets and drinking water are provided for campers' convenience. Reservations are recommended, especially on busy weekends, and can be made online or by phone.

Abandoned Park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a hauntingly beautiful and mysterious destination for those seeking a unique outdoor experience. This park, once bustling with families and laughter, now stands forgotten and overgrown, with nature reclaiming its space. Visitors can explore the decaying structures, overgrown pathways, and eerie atmosphere of this abandoned park, creating a sense of adventure and curiosity. The park's history and stories are shrouded in mystery, adding to its allure for urban explorers and thrill-seekers. Come visit Abandoned Park and immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind experience in the heart of the United States.

The Oak Ridge Convention and Visitor Bureau is a travel agency located at 1400 Oak Ridge Turnpike in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, United States. This institution offers expert tours around Oak Ridge, also known as the "Secret City", with a rich history and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can explore outdoor activities such as biking, paddleboarding, swimming, rowing, walking, and golf. The institution also provides curated trips by resident expert Katie the Calutron Girl. Discover the secrets of Oak Ridge, a former Manhattan Project site, and share your experiences on social media using #exploreoakridge. Sign up for monthly newsletters with event listings, scenic views, and insider tips. Visit Oak Ridge and uncover its fascinating history and attractions.