Where Should I Christmas Shop while in the Smokies?
Are you trying to check some people off your Christmas list? Below are nine places to go Christmas shopping in the Smokies. You can get some really fun and unique items for those you love while you’re here!
Each place I mention I personally enjoy going to — especially the island and tanger outlets.
Once you’re done shopping don’t forget to go see some Christmas lights. There is a walking trail decked out with lights, you can drive around the parkway looking at displays, or visit Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland (it’s a drive through light show).
Tanger Outlet
1. Tanger Outlets
We’re going to start big… so first on this list of places to Christmas shop in the Smokies is Tanger Outlets in Sevierville. If you like to shop here is where you want to be. There are a lot of designer stores for fashion, home goods, jewelry, electronics and more. Some of the stores include Michael Kors, Eddie Bauer, Kate Spade, Lululemon, Old Navy, Vera Bradley, North Face, Vineyard Vine, and so many more.
The outlets do get crowded and busy — especially during the Christmas season. Try to go early when they open on a weekday for less crowds.
2. Santa’s Claus-et
It is the biggest Christmas store in Gatlinburg! It’s not in the downtown area though, it’s closer to Pittman Center. But, it’s still a good choice for Christmas shopping in the Smokies. When you stop here you can sample foods, get personalized ornaments, and maybe even see Santa. They also have toys, games, and more. A lot of their items are unique and you won’t usually find them in other stores.
3. The Mountain Mile and Tower Shops
It’s in Pigeon Forge and is one of the newest shopping centers in the area. So, what better place to go Chrsitmas shopping in the Smokies? It is similar to the island in that there are attractions, games, and rides here along with shops and restaurants. Some of the shops include REI, Old Time Pottery, Nike Clearance, and more.
4. The Incredible Christmas Place
It’s located in Pigeon Forge. It’s also open year round and is the largest Christmas store in the south! In here you will find every Christmas item you can possibly think of. There are a lot of decor themes to shop in, even if you have a niche theme, I bet you will be able to find something here for it. They even have unique outdoor Christmas lights to choose from.
The store is huge and they also offer many personalized items.
5. Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
Also known as the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community, it is exactly what it sounds like. You won’t find it in downtown Gatlinburg, it is closer to Pittman Center. It’s an 8-mile loop with over 100 artisans all along the loop.
If you’re looking for something unique and handmade, you will find it here. They are the largest group of independent artisans in America! You will find artists, ceramics, carvers, weavers, and so many more people showcasing their craftsmanship.
The Incredible Christmas Place
The Island
6. The Island
This is my favorite place to do some Christmas shopping in the Smokies! They have over forty stores that range with all kinds of items. There are boutiques, local souvenir stores, toy stores, stores for specific hobbies, just all kinds. Along with the shops are restaurants, dessert shops, an arcade for kids, and rides.
During Winterfest the island will be filled with Christmas decorations and the fountain will dance to Christmas music. There is also a walking trail near the island where you can see over 25 different light displays. Click here to learn about more places to see Christmas lights in the Smokies.
7. Bass Pro Shops
It’s located in Kodak which is right off the 407 exit. But, it’s part of this list because it’s a great place to go Christmas shopping in the Smokies if you love the outdoors. The store is two stories and has a Christmas section, lots of winter clothes, and items for any outdoor sport you can think of.
Santa is here sometimes too and you can book appointments with him before you go.
8. The Village Shops
They are found along the strip in Gatlinburg and the area is designed to look like a small German village. There are many stores in here including a christian shop, Life is Good, gourmet olive oil shop, Spice & Exchange, and many more.
This is also where you will find Gatlinburg’s oldest coffee shop and the Donut Friar. The Donut Friar is beloved by locals and tourists so be sure to get there early before they sell out!
9. The Gatlinburg Strip
Building on the Village Shops, you can shop all along the Gatlinburg strip. It is quite impossible to name every shop and cluster of shops along the strip. Many of them are souvenir stores, however, there are also specialty stores. It’s the perfect place to do Christmas shopping in the Smokies because you will find some of the most unique stores in America along these sidewalks!
You will find wood working stores, local jams and jellies, distilleries, boutiques, a pet bakery, a bee company, and so many more odds and ends.
The Village Shops
