Quick Facts
About the Community
The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is America's largest independent artisan community, stretching along an 8-mile loop just east of downtown Gatlinburg. Since 1937, this peaceful mountain road has been home to generations of craftspeople creating everything from pottery and leather goods to brooms, candles, and fine art.
What makes this community special is authenticity. These are not mass-produced souvenirs but handcrafted pieces made by real artisans, many of whom learned their craft from parents and grandparents. When you buy here, you are supporting individual artists and taking home something with a story.
Many studios welcome visitors to watch the creative process. Seeing a potter throw a bowl, a woodworker shape a chair, or a glassblower create a vase adds meaning to the finished piece you might take home.
Approx drive time from our cabins: 10 to 15 minutes to the start of the loop on Glades Road.
The Gatlinburg Trolley runs a loop through the Arts and Crafts Community, allowing you to hop on and off at different stops without worrying about parking or driving. It is a relaxing way to explore the entire loop. Check current schedules at the Gatlinburg visitor center.
Getting There
The community is located along Glades Road, East Parkway (US-321), and Buckhorn Road, forming an 8-mile loop just east of downtown Gatlinburg. From the main Parkway:
- Turn onto US-321 North (East Parkway) at traffic light 3
- Continue approximately 3 miles to Glades Road on the right
- Follow Glades Road to experience the full loop
- Return to Gatlinburg via Buckhorn Road
Stay Near the Action
Our cabins are just 10 to 15 minutes from the Arts and Crafts Community. Spend a leisurely day browsing and return to your cabin to relax!
Check Cabin AvailabilityTypes of Crafts
Pottery and Ceramics
Several studios specialize in functional and decorative pottery, from traditional Appalachian styles to contemporary designs. Watch potters at their wheels and browse finished pieces ready to take home.
Woodworking
Skilled woodworkers create everything from hand-carved walking sticks and furniture to intricate wooden toys and decorative pieces. The scent of fresh-cut wood fills these studios.
Leather Craft
Handmade leather goods including belts, wallets, bags, and custom pieces. Many shops offer personalization while you wait.
Candle Making
Traditional hand-dipped candles and modern scented varieties. Some studios let you try dipping your own candle.
Broom Making
Traditional Appalachian broom making is a dying art, but you can still watch it practiced here. Handmade brooms are both functional and decorative.
Glass Art
Glassblowing demonstrations are mesmerizing to watch. Studios create everything from ornaments to functional art pieces.
Jewelry
From traditional silver and gemstone work to contemporary designs, local jewelers create unique pieces often inspired by mountain themes.
Fine Art
Painters, sculptors, and photographers showcase work inspired by the Smoky Mountains. Meet the artists and discuss their inspiration.
Textiles
Quilters, weavers, and fiber artists create beautiful functional and decorative textiles using traditional techniques.
Notable Stops
- The Village Potters: One of several excellent pottery studios
- Ogle's Broom Shop: Traditional Appalachian brooms made by hand
- Morning Mist Village: Collection of shops including pottery and art
- Cliff Dwellers Gallery: Fine art with mountain themes
- The Old Mill Pigeon River Pottery: Functional pottery for the home
Note: Specific shops and studios may change. The community association maintains an updated directory.
Annual Events
Craftsmen's Fairs
Special events throughout the year bring additional artisans and demonstrations. The July and October fairs at the Gatlinburg Convention Center showcase the community's best work.
Studio Open Houses
Several times per year, studios coordinate open house events with special demonstrations, refreshments, and exclusive pieces.
Christmas Arts and Crafts Show
November brings special holiday-themed creations and festive atmosphere to the community.
Tips for Your Visit
- Allow half a day: With 100+ stops, you cannot see everything, but 3 to 4 hours lets you explore the highlights
- Start early: Studios typically open around 10 AM; avoid afternoon crowds
- Bring cash: Some smaller studios may not accept cards
- Talk to artists: They love sharing their craft so ask questions!
- Watch for demonstrations: Many studios offer scheduled demonstrations
- Consider shipping: Larger pieces can often be shipped if you do not want to carry them
- Enjoy the scenery: The mountain road itself is beautiful, especially in fall
Dining in the Community
Several restaurants and cafes are located within the Arts and Crafts Community, offering a break from shopping:
- The Wild Plum Tea Room
- The Greenbriar Restaurant
- Various coffee shops and snack stops
Related Guides
Approx Drive Time from Our Cabins
| Location | Drive Time |
|---|---|
| Arts and Crafts Community (Glades Road) | Approx 10 to 15 minutes |
