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An Introduction to The Village Shops in Gatlinburg

On a trip to Gatlinburg, shopping occupies a significant portion of your visit. The Village Shops, located strategically across from the Mountain Mall, invites you to a quaint European experience right in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

As you approach, you might feel an overwhelming sense of whimsy; the architecture and ambiance echo the charm of a German village. Two culinary landmarks immediately draw your attention at the entrance: The Pancake Pantry and the Old Smoky Candy Kitchen. Dive deeper, and you’ll find diverse shops awaiting your exploration. From gastronomic delights at The Spice & Tea Exchange and The Donut Friar to the mix of shops offering unique items, art, toys, home decor, and accessories, The Village Shops promises an unforgettable experience you’ll treasure for many years.

What Is The Village in Gatlinburg?

Located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, The Village is a picturesque shopping complex reminiscent of old-world European hamlets. The quaint, cobblestone paths and charming architecture create an ambiance that takes you on a journey through time and culture. If you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, Gatlinburg-style, The Village in Gatlinburg is the place to be.

The Village Shops: A Few Recommendations

There are many options for shopping in Gatlinburg, but The Village Shops offers the most unique finds:

Gatlin’s Escape Games

Gatlin’s Escape Games is an adventure waiting to be explored. This store is a haven for puzzle enthusiasts and gamers. It boasts extensive board games, brainteasers, and unique challenges. If you’re searching for the latest Escape Board Game, Murder Mysteries, or Brainteasers, Gatlin’s got you covered. Their collection isn’t limited to just games; they also offer a variety of jigsaw puzzles and a fascinating selection of Cube puzzles, perfect for gifting.

The adventure doesn’t stop at shopping. Discover the “Realm of Illusions,” where Reflecto, a renowned magician, challenges you to solve a series of magical tricks and puzzles. Gatlin’s Escape Games is not just about buying a game; it’s about living the experience.

The Honey Pot

The Honey Pot is a treasure trove for artisanal items. Every piece, from handmade pottery to oil lamps, vases, and even personalized mugs, tells a story. Venture further and discover garden accents like handmade flags and enchanting chimes. The Honey Pot also offers a range of home decor: plush pillows, wall decor, mini plate sets, clocks, and other collectibles. For culinary gurus, the kitchen section includes bread warmers, cutting boards, and creatively designed wine holders. The Honey Pot in Gatlinburg is your ideal shopping destination for enhancing your home.

Pepper Palace

The Pepper Palace’s journey began in a modest storefront on Gatlinburg’s outskirts. Over the next few years, their passion for spices saw them hop from one location to another, searching for the perfect spot. Today, they’ve carved out a niche at The Village Shops. The Village Shops represents Pepper Palace’s second Gatlinburg location (the first being a 3,000-square-foot store at Mountain Mall that stands as the world’s largest spice-themed specialty retail space). A trip to Gatlinburg isn’t complete without visiting this flavor-packed paradise.

The Sock Shop

Give your feet a treat! From quirky designs to classic patterns, The Sock Shop offers a range of socks to suit all styles and preferences. With a collection featuring thousands of styles from suppliers like SmartWool, this shop ensures quality with every purchase. It’s not just about socks; they also offer a curated selection of stylish shoes, hats, jewelry, scarves, and clothing. If you’re in the mood for a deal, don’t forget their “Buy 10 – Get 1 Free” punch card offer. Visit them in-store or explore their collection online.

Eateries at The Village in Gatlinburg

Shopping can be tiring, and there’s nothing better than refueling with delicious food. The Village in Gatlinburg does not disappoint when it comes to dining options!

Pancake Pantry

Pancake Pantry offers a delightful start to your Gatlinburg mornings. As Gatlinburg’s first pancake house since 1960, this establishment has perfected the art of the pancake. Their menu has an impressive range of flavors, ensuring you’ll find a stack that sings to your taste buds. A cozy interior and the aroma of freshly cooked flapjacks characterize the ambiance. Take advantage of this iconic breakfast destination when you’re in The Village.

The Donut Friar

Embark on a sweet expedition to the Donut Friar. This quaint little bakery springs to life every day at dawn break. Its sugary confections waft the heavenly scents of freshly baked donuts, pastries and its renowned cinnamon bread through the crisp mountain air. The delightful menu is timestamped, signaling you to arrive on time to savor every bite of their glazed croissants, cinnamon rolls, crullers and eclairs. The Bavarian cream and chocolate glazed donuts top off the morning delivery. The Donut Friar also brews magic for coffee lovers. Enjoy cappuccinos, lattes, and espressos, each brewed to perfection and according to your liking. The Donut Friar may very well be the sweetest part of your journey. 

Discover More of Gatlinburg

Once you’ve taken in the quaint charm of The Village Shops, let the Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau be your digital compass to the next stop. As your online directory to everything fascinating about Gatlinburg, the bureau provides insights into the region’s attractions and activities. If you’re seeking world-class entertainment venues, the online directory offers a comprehensive guide tailored to your interests. The Gatlinburg Vacation Guide and user-friendly mobile app are your tickets to an exciting trip that’s nothing short of magical.


Gatlinburg offers you a unique blend of small-town charm and world-class attractions. At the heart of this experience is The Village Shops, a delightful mix of boutiques and eateries reminiscent of a quaint German village. The Village promises a memorable experience for every traveler. When you’re finished dining and shopping in Gatlinburg, let your curiosity take the reins and scroll through the online pages of the Gatlinburg Convention and Visitors Bureau, where every click reveals a new facet of Gatlinburg’s appeal. As you plan your next visit to the Smoky Mountains, remember that The Village Shops in Gatlinburg is a shopping destination and a historic blueprint of a cherished past.

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