Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center — Attraction in Pigeon Forge

We saw signs for this hidden gem on our way in to Gatlinburg and happened to pass it on our way to Cades Cove. We stopped in and visited for a while and were pleasantly surprised. It was a fun impulse stop where the kids got to see some interesting things in the museum and the outdoor portion was one of my favorite things we did the while trip. During our tour of the outdoor portion, the old church bell behan to ring. I was a little behind my family and the rest of the group (because I like to stop and actually read the plaques describing the piece of history on display) and thought maybe the kids had found the bell and were playing with it. When I caught up, the kids and kids at heart that were with us were coming out of the church and had made a small craft toy, that kept me... I mean them, entertained the rest of the time we were there. They had a small gift shop area with some great books and homemade soaps, among other things, that we couldn't pass up on our way out. The staff was very friendly, very knowledgeable of the area, and really took the time to provide information. Next time you pass by, I recommend you swing in for a...

The Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center is a gem nestled in the heart of Townsend, Tennessee. This museum brilliantly captures the rich history and culture of the Smoky Mountains and its people.

From the moment you step in, you’re greeted with an array of exhibits that are both educational and engaging. The meticulously curated artifacts, ranging from Native American relics to pioneer-era tools, offer a deep dive into the region’s past.

What sets the Heritage Center apart is its dedication to authenticity and storytelling. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate, providing insightful tours that bring the exhibits to life. The outdoor exhibits, including historic cabins and farm structures, provide a hands-on experience that is both immersive and informative.

The center also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year, from craft demonstrations to live music performances, making each visit unique and memorable. It’s a perfect destination for families, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to gain a deeper appreciation for the Smoky...

Two adults visited this on a Friday in late September 2023 and thoroughly enjoyed our time here. We spent about 4 hours going through the museum and its outdoor buildings. Great history of the area from the Indians to the lumbering companies that destroyed the area in the late 1800s/early 1900s. Lots to see and read in the museum along with a great video. The outside buildings are all from the area but moved to the museum site for restoration and preservation. Lots of information in the buildings, in many cases better than the equivalent in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There is a small separate Transportation Museum building there also that has a few interesting old cars and wagons and is worth stopping in for a few minutes. Our only suggestion would be to add guided tours of the museum and out buildings either through people or maybe downloadable to fill in...