Gatlinburg: Spirits in the Smokies

Explore Gatlinburg’s Haunted Past on a Spirits in the Smokies Tour

Gatlinburg: Spirits in the Smokies offers a 2-hour walking tour through the town’s shadowy corners, uncovering stories of moonshine, restless spirits, and Appalachian witchcraft. Run by Ghost City Tours, this experience combines history, mystery, and a touch of spooky fun for an adult audience 21+. The tour costs full price, but booking is flexible with a pay later option, and full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

This tour is ideal for those curious about Gatlinburg’s darker side, blending local legends with entertaining storytelling. While drinks are not included, participants visit several welcoming bars and pubs along the route, making for a stress-free outing that’s perfect for groups celebrating or simply exploring the town’s eerie past. It’s a rain-or-shine experience, with wheelchair accessibility and a guide leading the way.

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Key Points

• 2-hour guided walking tour through Gatlinburg’s haunted sites
• Uncovers moonshine lore, local spirits, and mountain mysteries
• Visits several bars and pubs where libations can be purchased
• Suitable for adults 21+ with valid ID; drinks are not included
• Led by knowledgeable guides with a focus on storytelling and local history
• Starts at the Elks Plaza Sign on Parkway in Gatlinburg

Meeting Point at Elks Plaza Sign on Parkway

The tour begins at the Elks Plaza Sign on Parkway in Gatlinburg, with check-in facilitated at this central spot. The coordinates: 35.708587646484375, -83.5204086303711 make it easy to locate. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes given the on-foot nature of the tour and to be prepared for whatever weather might come.

Walking Tour Through Gatlinburg’s Eerie Streets

Guests set out on foot, wandering through Gatlinburg’s storied streets. The full route takes them past various locations steeped in moonshine, mountain legends, and local ghost stories. As they walk, they learn about the restless spirits rumored to linger in Gatlinburg and the Appalachian witchcraft that adds a mysterious layer to the town’s past.

The pace is designed to be relaxed and engaging, allowing ample time to absorb the stories and take in the atmosphere. The group size is manageable, creating a cozy environment where guides can answer questions and share fascinating details about each stop.

Bar Hopping and Storytelling at Gatlinburg Pubs

Between stops, the tour makes its way into several local bars and pubs. Here, participants can order a drink of their choice—though drinks are not included in the ticket price—and enjoy the welcoming ambiance. These venues serve as perfect spots to hear more stories, laugh, and share in the spooky fun. The bars are chosen for their history and character, adding an extra layer to the storytelling.

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The Guides of Spirits in the Smokies

The tour is led by English-speaking guides who excel in storytelling and local lore. Known for their knowledgeable and engaging style, the guides make the evening both informative and entertaining. Their ability to bring stories to life adds to the overall enjoyment, making each stop feel like part of an ongoing narrative of Gatlinburg’s haunted past.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

This fully on-foot tour is accessible for wheelchair users, ensuring everyone can enjoy the stories and sights. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you will be walking through Gatlinburg’s streets for approximately two hours. Since the tour operates rain or shine, guests should consider bringing appropriate clothing or an umbrella if necessary.

Booking Flexibility and Cancellation Policies

Booking offers the convenience of reserve now and pay later, which means travelers can secure a spot without immediate payment. The tour allows full refunds if canceled more than 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for those planning flexible trips. This approach makes it easier to fit the experience into unpredictable schedules.

Comparisons to Other Gatlinburg Experiences

While Spirits in the Smokies focuses on local haunted lore, similar experiences include tours like Gatlinburg ghost tours exploring Gilded Age graves, or other pub crawl options like the Gatlinburg Cocktails Behind the Stave Tour. However, this tour uniquely combines history, mystery, and pub visits in a condensed 2-hour format, with an emphasis on storytelling and local legends.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience suits adults 21+ who enjoy history, ghost stories, and lively group outings. It’s perfect for groups celebrating, fans of paranormal tales, or anyone wanting to explore Gatlinburg’s darker side in a relaxed, guided environment. Since drinks are not included, it’s ideal for those who want to control their beverage choices and enjoy the stories without an overly commercialized vibe.

Final Thoughts on Gatlinburg: Spirits in the Smokies

Gatlinburg: Spirits in the Smokies offers an entertaining blend of local legends and haunted histories, wrapped in a fun, guided pub crawl. The 2-hour duration makes it a compact yet immersive experience, especially suitable for those who appreciate storytelling and atmospheric walks. Its flexible booking and accessible design add to its appeal.

While the drinks are not included, the welcoming bars along the route enrich the overall experience. The knowledgeable guides ensure that the tales are engaging and authentic, making it a worthwhile outing for anyone curious about Gatlinburg’s mountain mysteries. This tour is a solid choice for local history buffs and spirits enthusiasts alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is designed for adults 21+ with a valid ID, as it involves visits to pubs and alcohol consumption.

Are drinks included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included; participants can purchase beverages at the stops.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and involves walking around Gatlinburg.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for participants with mobility needs.

Where does the tour start?
The tour starts at the Elks Plaza Sign on Parkway in Gatlinburg.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking through Gatlinburg’s streets.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for guests under 21 or pregnant women.

Is weather a concern?
The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly with weather-appropriate clothing.

How many stops are included?
Guests will visit several bars and pubs along the route, each with its own story or theme related to Gatlinburg’s haunted past.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby