Clayton’s Landing: A Fresh Chapter for Gatlinburg’s Beloved Historic Attraction
As I strolled through the misty morning air of Gatlinburg last week, the familiar scent of pine and mountain laurel welcomed me back to the Smokies like an old friend. Having written about these mountains for over a decade now, I thought I’d seen all the hidden gems this tourist haven had to offer. But sometimes, even the oldest attractions can surprise you with something new.
That’s exactly what happened when I visited the recently expanded Clayton’s Landing, one of Gatlinburg’s most historic attractions that’s been given a breath of fresh mountain air.
Historic Roots Meet Modern Mountain Charm
If you’ve visited Gatlinburg before, you’ve likely passed by this longstanding landmark. For generations, it has been a gateway to experiencing the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. What’s exciting is how this expansion manages to honor the attraction’s storied past while bringing something entirely new to visitors.
“We wanted to preserve what people have always loved about this place,” one of the staff members told me, “while creating new reasons for both first-timers and returning visitors to experience the Smokies from our unique vantage point.”
The expansion includes renovated viewing areas, interactive exhibits about local wildlife and history, and—something I personally couldn’t wait to try—a brand new dining experience featuring a burger that’s already creating buzz among locals and tourists alike.
The Clayton Burger: A Taste of the Smokies
Let me tell you about this burger. As someone who’s sampled mountain fare from Cades Cove to Cosby, I don’t get excited about just any restaurant offering. But the new signature Clayton Burger is something special.
Made with locally-sourced beef, topped with artisanal cheese from a nearby creamery, and served on a brioche bun baked fresh each morning, it’s a true taste of the Smokies. The secret house sauce (which I tried unsuccessfully to get the recipe for) has a subtle hint of blackberry that perfectly complements the savory flavors.
What Makes Clayton’s Landing Special
Beyond the culinary delights, what struck me most about the expanded Clayton’s Landing was how it offers a fresh perspective on the mountains I thought I knew so well:
- Panoramic Views: The newly designed observation deck provides a 180-degree vista of the Smoky Mountains that simply takes your breath away.
- Interactive History: Touch-screen displays tell the story of the land, from Cherokee settlements to early pioneers.
- Local Artisans: A small but impressive gallery showcases work from regional craftspeople.
- Family-Friendly Activities: New programs designed specifically for young explorers make this a perfect stop for families.
When to Visit Clayton’s Landing
If you’re planning a trip to Gatlinburg, I’d recommend visiting Clayton’s Landing in the early morning or late afternoon when the crowds are thinner and the light on the mountains is simply magical. During fall, the expanded viewing areas offer some of the best leaf-peeping opportunities in town.
| Season | Special Features | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Wildflower exhibits, seasonal menu items | 9-11 AM |
| Summer | Evening firefly viewing, extended hours | After 7 PM |
| Fall | Fall foliage viewing, harvest celebrations | 2-5 PM |
| Winter | Hot chocolate bar, snow-capped mountain views | 10 AM-2 PM |
Connecting with Smoky Mountain History
What I appreciate most about the Clayton’s Landing expansion is how it manages to bring visitors closer to understanding the rich history of the Smokies. The attraction doesn’t just offer pretty views—it tells the story of these mountains and the people who have called them home.
From the original settler Clayton family (whose pioneering spirit gave the landing its name) to the conservation efforts that eventually created the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the exhibits weave together the human and natural history in a way that’s both educational and entertaining.
A Must-Visit on Your Gatlinburg Itinerary
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Gatlinburg or someone who returns to the Smokies year after year like I do, Clayton’s Landing deserves a spot on your itinerary. The combination of history, natural beauty, and yes, that mouthwatering burger, makes it a standout experience even in a town full of attractions.
As I sat on the new deck, savoring the last bite of my Clayton Burger and watching the afternoon light play across the ridges of the Smokies, I was reminded why these mountains keep calling us back. Sometimes, the most memorable experiences come from seeing something familiar in an entirely new way.
Next time you’re in Gatlinburg, give yourself the gift of this fresh perspective on our beloved Smoky Mountains. And don’t forget to try the burger—you can thank me later.
One of Gatlinburg’s oldest attractions offers a fresh take on the Smokies – and a new burger to try – with its recent expansion, Clayton’s Landing. Source link