Shop Till You Drop In the Smoky Mountains

Robbin Dean
Shopping at home is a necessity. Shopping while on vacation is sheer excitement! In fact, many people bring an extra, empty suitcase with them in order to have room for all the souvenirs and bargains they might find. The Smoky Mountains is no exception. With plenty of outlets, local specialty stores and craft fairs, your head will be spinning over the delights you'll find. Toss in a tax-free weekend here and there and the adrenaline levels really rise!

Old Mill Village - Pigeon Forge, TN

What a unique setting. Old Mill Village is home to a 170 year old working mill. The central place where local villagers congregated for generations, this popular spot was converted into a store, restaurant and shopping village. Today the mill still produces products that are sold to visitors as well as jams, country ham and other delicious temptations while the restaurant serves up good ole home cookin' like momma used to make.

Shopping at the Village opens the doors to wonderful finds including candles, angels, children's clothing, gourmet coffee, crafts and more.

Pigeon Forge Factory Outlet

Locally known as the "Red Roof Mall," Pigeon Forge Factory Outlet is open year round and is convenient to both Gatlinburg and Sevierville. You'll find many of your favorite brands represented under the red roof, each selling its wares at deep discounts.

Take advantage of the savings at Bass Factory Outlet, Oneida Factory Outlet, Pfaltzgraff Clearance Center, Angels Dolls & Gifts and more. For the fellas, you'll find plenty to pique your interest at Gadjitz & Tools, Wallet Works and Tools & More.

Downtown Gatlinburg

The shops of downtown Gatlinburg combine with a village-like setting to create a shopping experience like no other. Stroll along the sidewalks at a leisurely pace as you peek in the windows of each store. With over 500 shops, you'll find unique gems from talented local artists who produce wonderful pottery, artwork, jewelry, ceramics, leatherworks, candles, woodcrafts and so much more.

Unlike at chain stores, you can speak directly with the shop owners and artists about the delightful array of products they sell. The experience itself is as exciting as the treasures you'll find.

Tax-Free Weekends

What could make a shopping weekend in the Smokies even more special? Free sales tax! March 21-23 and August 1-3, 2008 bring special excitement because the Tennessee Department of Revenue has declared these as tax-free weekends. Selected items are exempt from incurring the usual 7% state sales tax including hiking boots, wedding gowns, ski bibs, camping clothes and other things you'll find useful during a Smoky Mountains visit.

Whether it's during family vacation or a girl's weekend getaway, shopping in the Smoky Mountains always delivers rare finds and enormous bargains. Make your plans today… and don't forget that extra suitcase!

Robbin Dean is a Reservations Agent for Smoky Mountain Resorts offering Pigeon Forge hotels including comfortable lodging and the most popular attractions in the Smoky Mountains. Visit http://www.smokymountainresorts.travel today for details. © 2008, All Rights Reserved