Discover the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center: A Journey Through Time
Explore the rich cultural and natural history of the Smoky Mountains at the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, a must-visit for all travelers.
Nestled in the heart of Townsend, Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center invites tourists to explore the rich cultural and natural history of the region. This captivating museum offers a unique glimpse into the diverse heritage of the Smokies, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
- 123 Cromwell Dr, Townsend, Tennessee, 37882, US
- +1865-448-0044
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid the weekend crowds for a more relaxed experience.
- Check the schedule for special events and guided tours that enhance the learning experience.
- Don’t forget to explore the outdoor trails for a beautiful view of the surrounding landscape.
- Bring a camera; the exhibits and gardens offer fantastic photo opportunities.
- Allow a few hours to fully explore the exhibits and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Getting There
-
Car
If you're traveling by car within the Great Smoky Mountains area, head toward Townsend, TN. From the main park entrance, take US-321 N for about 10 miles. As you approach Townsend, turn left onto Cromwell Drive. The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center will be on your right at 123 Cromwell Dr, Townsend, TN 37882. There is free parking available on-site.
-
Public Transportation
Traveling by public transportation can be a bit limited in this area. If you are staying in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, look for shuttle services that operate to Townsend. You will likely need to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) from the shuttle drop-off point to reach the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center at 123 Cromwell Dr. Make sure to check the shuttle schedules ahead of time, as they may not run frequently.
-
Bicycle
For the more adventurous visitors, biking is an option! If you have access to a bicycle, you can ride from nearby campgrounds or hotels in Townsend. Take US-321 N, and then turn onto Cromwell Drive. Please ensure you wear a helmet and follow all safety guidelines, as the roads can be busy.
Discover more about Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Little River Gorge
2.5 km
Explore the enchanting Little River Gorge in Tennessee, a natural paradise offering stunning views, wildlife encounters, and outdoor adventures.
Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church
11.7 km
Explore the rich history and serene beauty of Cades Cove Primitive Baptist Church nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
Wonderland Hotel - Elkmont Club Buildings
12.2 km
Explore the historical charm of the Wonderland Hotel - Elkmont Club Buildings in Gatlinburg, TN, where nature meets fascinating stories from the past.
Elkmont Historic District
13.0 km
Explore the historic charm and natural beauty of Elkmont Historic District in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, a journey through time and nature.
Mayna Treanor Avent Studio
13.1 km
Explore the rich artistic heritage of Mayna Treanor at her historic studio in Gatlinburg, where creativity meets the breathtaking beauty of the Smokies.
Dan Lawson Cabin
13.3 km
Discover the Dan Lawson Cabin in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park—an authentic glimpse into Appalachian life and history in Tennessee.
Henry Whitehead House
15.1 km
Explore the historic Henry Whitehead House in Townsend, TN, where captivating architecture meets stunning mountain landscapes for an unforgettable experience.
Goats on the Roof of the Smoky Mountains
16.0 km
Discover the whimsical charm of Goats on the Roof in Pigeon Forge, where family fun, scenic views, and adorable goats create unforgettable memories.
The Goat Coaster at Goats on the Roof
16.0 km
Enjoy thrilling rides and breathtaking views at The Goat Coaster in Pigeon Forge, the ultimate family-friendly amusement park experience.
John Ownby Cabin
16.0 km
Explore the historic John Ownby Cabin in Sevierville, TN, a charming glimpse into the life of early Smoky Mountain settlers amidst breathtaking nature.
Cataract Falls
16.7 km
Explore the captivating beauty of Cataract Falls in the Great Smoky Mountains, a serene escape offering breathtaking views and tranquil hikes.
Smokies Life
16.8 km
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains with expert guidance at the Smokies Life Visitor Center in Gatlinburg, your essential starting point for adventure.
Sugarlands Visitor Center
16.8 km
Explore the wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains at Sugarlands Visitor Center—your gateway to adventure and discovery.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
16.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich cultural history of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
17.3 km
Discover the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, where adventure meets stunning natural beauty in the heart of Tennessee's Smoky Mountains.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cades Cove Heritage Tours
0.0 km
Discover the enchanting history and natural beauty of Cades Cove through immersive tours in Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains.
The Townsend Wye
2.3 km
Explore the serene beauty of The Townsend Wye in Tennessee—your ultimate destination for outdoor adventures and stunning natural scenery.
Little River Railroad/Lumber Museum
2.7 km
Explore the fascinating history of railroads and lumber at the Little River Railroad and Lumber Museum in Townsend, Tennessee, a must-visit for history lovers.
Meigs Falls
4.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Meigs Falls, a serene waterfall located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Tuckaleechee Caverns
5.1 km
Explore Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend, Tennessee—an awe-inspiring subterranean adventure filled with stunning geological formations and rich natural history.
The Sinks
5.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of The Sinks in Great Smoky Mountains National Park—a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Spruce Flats Falls
6.0 km
Explore Spruce Flats Falls in Townsend, TN - a stunning waterfall and hiking paradise in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
Wears Valley
7.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and adventure of Wears Valley, Tennessee, a serene escape in the Smoky Mountains perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Little Greenbrier School
7.6 km
Explore Little Greenbrier School: A historic gem nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, perfect for hiking and discovering Tennessee's rich heritage.
Walker Sisters Place
8.6 km
Explore the rich history and breathtaking scenery of the Walker Sisters Place, a treasured historical landmark in Sevierville, Tennessee.
Cades Cove entrance
8.9 km
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty and rich wildlife of Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a top destination for outdoor adventure.
Foothills Pkwy
8.9 km
Experience the breathtaking views and natural beauty of Foothills Parkway in Tennessee, a scenic drive for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Tennessee Shine Co
9.0 km
Experience the rich tradition of Tennessee moonshine at Tennessee Shine Co, a charming distillery and gift shop in Sevierville.
Cades Cove Picnic Area
9.1 km
Experience the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains at Cades Cove Picnic Area, a perfect spot for relaxation and nature immersion.
Cades Cove Scenic Loop
9.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Cades Cove Scenic Loop in the Great Smoky Mountains, a must-visit destination for all travelers.
Essential places to dine
Burger Master Drive In
0.3 km
Discover delicious hamburgers and classic American fare at Burger Master Drive In in Townsend – where great taste meets nostalgic charm.
The Riverstone Restaurant
0.4 km
Discover The Riverstone Restaurant in Townsend - where hearty breakfasts meet scenic views in an inviting atmosphere.
Pizza Hut
1.8 km
Savor delicious pizzas and chicken wings at Pizza Hut in Townsend—your perfect stop after exploring the Great Smoky Mountains.
Trailhead Steak & Trout
2.2 km
Experience mouthwatering steaks and fresh trout at Trailhead Steak & Trout in Townsend, TN - where Southern hospitality meets delicious cuisine.
Jim Bob's BBQ
2.6 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Jim Bob's BBQ in Townsend, TN – where every bite tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Good Vibes On the River
3.4 km
Discover Good Vibes On the River - where delicious food meets stunning riverside views in Townsend, Tennessee.
Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro
5.1 km
Experience culinary excellence at Dancing Bear Appalachian Bistro in Townsend, TN—where local flavors meet stunning mountain views.
Elvira's Cafe
5.5 km
Experience the warmth of Southern hospitality at Elvira's Cafe in Sevierville - your go-to spot for breakfast, brunch, and delightful desserts.
The Barn
12.8 km
Experience exquisite American cuisine at The Barn in Townsend, TN—where rustic charm meets gourmet excellence amidst stunning landscapes.
Boss Hogg's BBQ Shack
16.6 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Boss Hogg's BBQ Shack in Pigeon Forge—where smoky flavors meet hearty portions.
The Peddler Steakhouse
18.3 km
Discover unparalleled dining at The Peddler Steakhouse in Gatlinburg - where delicious steaks meet breathtaking river views.
Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que
18.4 km
Experience authentic Southern barbecue at Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que in Gatlinburg—where smoky flavors meet warm hospitality.
The Park Grill
18.5 km
Discover The Park Grill in Gatlinburg – where American flavors meet Southern hospitality amidst stunning mountain views.
Crockett's Breakfast Camp
18.5 km
Indulge in hearty Southern breakfasts at Crockett's Breakfast Camp in Gatlinburg - A must-visit culinary gem nestled in the Smoky Mountains.
Cumberland Jacks LeConte Kitchen
18.5 km
Discover family-friendly dining at Cumberland Jacks LeConte Kitchen in Gatlinburg - where delicious food meets Southern hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cades Cove Jeep Outpost
1.0 km
Discover unique apparel and car accessories at Cades Cove Jeep Outpost, the ultimate stop for adventure enthusiasts in Townsend, Tennessee.
Rocky Top Country Store
5.2 km
Experience the essence of the Smoky Mountains at Rocky Top Country Store, your go-to gift shop for local crafts and unique souvenirs in Sevierville, TN.
The Dancing Bean
5.3 km
Discover The Dancing Bean, a cozy coffee shop in Townsend, TN, where rich brews and a warm atmosphere await travelers in the heart of the Smokies.
Apple Valley Mountain Village & Cafe
5.4 km
Experience the best of Townsend at Apple Valley Mountain Village & Cafe – a perfect blend of gifts, gourmet breakfast, and local culture.
Harper Bros. General Merchandise Store
5.5 km
Explore Harper Bros. General Merchandise Store in Sevierville for unique finds, local crafts, and a cozy coffee experience amidst the beauty of the Smoky Mountains.
The Potter's Bench
6.1 km
Explore The Potter's Bench in Townsend, TN – a premier destination for exquisite handmade pottery and vibrant local artistry.
Mountain Brothers General Store
7.4 km
Discover the authentic charm of Mountain Brothers General Store, your gateway to local crafts, outdoor essentials, and Tennessee flavors.
Cades Cove Campground Store and Bike Rental
9.4 km
Explore Cades Cove Campground Store and Bike Rental for unique gifts, bike rentals, and local flavors in the stunning Smoky Mountains.
Honeysuckle Rose Boutique
10.1 km
Explore Honeysuckle Rose Boutique for unique gifts and local treasures in Sevierville, Tennessee, and take home a piece of the Smoky Mountains.
Puzzled
15.2 km
Explore Gatlinburg's beloved gift shop, Puzzled, where games, toys, and unique gifts await every visitor in a charming mountain setting.
Antique Mall
15.9 km
Uncover a world of vintage charm and unique finds at Pigeon Forge's premier Antique Mall, where every item has a story to tell.
Lanier's General Store
16.0 km
Explore the unique treasures of Lanier's General Store in Pigeon Forge, where local crafts and souvenirs come together to create unforgettable memories.
Giftville
18.6 km
Explore Giftville in Gatlinburg for unique clothing and accessories that capture the spirit of the Smoky Mountains.
Gifts Unlimited
18.6 km
Explore a world of unique gifts and local treasures at Gifts Unlimited in Gatlinburg, the perfect stop for unforgettable souvenirs.
Season's Best
18.8 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at Season's Best, Gatlinburg's charming gift shop, capturing the spirit of the Smoky Mountains.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Company Distilling
0.2 km
Explore the heart of Tennessee's craft distilling at Company Distilling, where artistry meets flavor in a beautiful setting.
Peaceful Side Social | Townsend
1.8 km
Experience delightful dining and craft brews at Peaceful Side Social, a charming restaurant in Townsend, TN, perfect for tourists and locals alike.
The Abbey at the Heartland Chapel
2.6 km
Experience relaxation and local brews at The Abbey at the Heartland Chapel, a serene beer garden in the heart of Townsend, Tennessee.
Little River Pub and Deli
3.8 km
Discover the charm of Little River Pub and Deli in Townsend, TN, where local flavors meet Southern hospitality in a relaxed atmosphere.
Snoring Bear Diner
12.8 km
Enjoy a delightful breakfast experience at Snoring Bear Diner, where family-friendly vibes meet delicious comfort food in the heart of Walland, TN.
Salty Bear
18.4 km
Discover a taste of Gatlinburg at Salty Bear, where delicious grilled dishes meet a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the Smokies.
Dude's Daiquiris
18.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing flavors at Dude's Daiquiris, Gatlinburg's ultimate bar destination for tourists.
Shamrock Pub
18.9 km
Enjoy a vibrant dining experience at Shamrock Pub in Gatlinburg, where great food, drinks, and friendly vibes await.
Old smokey barrelhouse
19.1 km
Discover the heart of Gatlinburg at Old Smokey Barrelhouse, where local spirits and Southern hospitality come together in a vibrant atmosphere.
Boudicca's Celtic Pub
19.2 km
Discover the heart of Celtic culture at Boudicca's Celtic Pub, where traditional dishes and live music create an unforgettable experience in Gatlinburg.
Hogg Shed
19.3 km
Experience the best of Pigeon Forge nightlife at The Hogg Shed, where great drinks and live entertainment meet in a vibrant atmosphere.
Iron Boar Saloon
19.3 km
Experience the lively ambiance of Iron Boar Saloon, a sports bar serving delicious Mexican cuisine and craft beers in Pigeon Forge, TN.
Smoky Mountain Brewery
19.4 km
Discover craft beers and hearty American fare at Smoky Mountain Brewery, a must-visit brewpub in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
The Bar At The Top Of The World
19.5 km
Discover breathtaking views and a lively atmosphere at The Bar At The Top Of The World in Gatlinburg, a perfect retreat for tourists.
Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville
19.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine and refreshing cocktails at Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville in Gatlinburg.
