About Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community

The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is an eight-mile loop of studios, galleries and shops just east of downtown Gatlinburg, along Glades Road, Buckhorn Road and East Parkway (U.S. 321). The community describes itself as the largest independent organization of artisans in the United States, and it has grown for decades into a place where you can watch artists and craftspeople work and talk with them about their craft. Along the loop you will find handmade dulcimers, pottery, ceramics, paintings, leather goods, jewelry, stuffed bears and much more, along with cafes, eateries, lodging and wedding chapels. Each shop has free parking, and Gatlinburg’s Yellow Line trolley also serves the loop. To get there from downtown, take U.S. 321 North east for about three miles to Glades Road, follow Glades to Buckhorn Road, then return to 321 to finish the loop. The community also hosts seasonal arts and crafts shows, including a Thanksgiving show and a Christmas show each year.