There’s something so soothing about dining in the crisp air of the Smoky Mountains. Whether a weekend getaway or an entire family vacation, the area has just the right places to relax with an informal outdoor feast—beautiful picnic spots, open-air restaurant patios, and naturally, private decks at lovely mountain cabin retreats.
If you’re willing to dine al fresco with mountain scenery in every direction, then the following are the best spots to have an outdoor meal in the Smokies.
1. Greenbrier Picnic Area – Tranquility by the River
One of the best-kept secrets near Gatlinburg, the Greenbrier Picnic Area is a peaceful riverside haven with picnic tables scattered under tree cover. It’s ideal for homemade lunches, takeaway sandwiches, or snacks between hikes. The sounds of the Little Pigeon River add the perfect natural soundtrack to your meal.
🌲 Plan your stop with Visit Gatlinburg for local eats and area guides.
2. The Park Grill – Smoky Mountain Dining with a View
Just steps from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Park Grill offers an inviting patio surrounded by mountain scenery. Feast on hickory-grilled steaks, trout, and Southern sides—all while enjoying the crisp Gatlinburg breeze.
3. Cades Cove Picnic Pavilion – Scenic and Historic
Cades Cove is a favorite among nature lovers, and its picnic pavilion makes it easy to enjoy a meal surrounded by fields, wildlife, and Appalachian charm. Bring a lunch or grill out with your crew. You can even pack a meal from your cabin rental and head here for a peaceful retreat.
🏞️ Want rustic lodging near the park? Check out Smoky Mountain Cabin Rentals at Smith Creek Resort for cozy outdoor spaces and scenic surroundings.
4. Smoky Mountain Brewery – Lively Patio with Local Brews
If you like a cold craft beer with your burger, the outdoor seating at Smoky Mountain Brewery in Pigeon Forge offers a fun, laid-back atmosphere. It’s great for group meals, casual date nights, or watching sports with mountain air.
🍺 See upcoming events and brews at Smoky Mountain Brewery.
5. Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area – Shady, Serene & Family-Friendly
With its large trees, stone grills, and access to shallow water for wading, Metcalf Bottoms is a favorite for families and day-trippers. Whether you bring sandwiches or grill up a feast, it’s a perfect way to connect with nature and food.
6. Clifftop Restaurant at Anakeesta – High-Elevation Dining
Take the scenic chairlift up to Anakeesta, where the Clifftop Restaurant lets you dine with one of the best panoramic views in the Smokies. With outdoor seating and seasonal menus, it’s one of the most breathtaking places for a casual meal.
🌄 Reserve your spot and view hours at Anakeesta.
7. Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant – Orchard Fresh Comfort Food
Enjoy homemade apple fritters and Southern-style comfort meals under the trees at Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant in Sevierville. With picnic spots and a full cider bar nearby, it’s a quaint place to relax outdoors after a day of exploring.
🍏 Learn more at Apple Barn and Cider Mill.
8. Your Private Cabin Deck – Dine with a View
Sometimes the best outdoor meal in the Smoky Mountains happens at your own cabin rental. Imagine sipping coffee on a deck at sunrise or enjoying a grilled dinner while surrounded by forest views. Many Smoky Mountain cabin rentals come with outdoor kitchens, picnic tables, or firepits for evening s’mores.
One top pick is Smith Creek Resort, which offers beautiful cabin rentals with private decks and outdoor dining spaces. It’s a peaceful and picturesque place to enjoy meals right from your home away from home.
🏡 Explore rentals perfect for outdoor dining at Smith Creek Resort.
9. The Island in Pigeon Forge – Vibrant Patio Dining
This buzzing entertainment complex offers everything from casual eats to fine dining, and many restaurants provide patio seating. Grab a bite from Margaritaville, Mellow Mushroom, or Timberwood Grill, and watch the dancing fountain show as you dine.
🎡 Plan your dining and entertainment at The Island in Pigeon Forge.
10. Chimneys Picnic Area – Natural Beauty in Every Bite
Located inside the park along the river, Chimneys Picnic Area provides stone grills, picnic tables, and some of the clearest water in the Smokies. It’s an ideal spot for a scenic lunch or dinner break during your hiking adventures.
Final Tip: Plan Your Meals Around the View 🌄
The Smokies offer some of the most scenic spots to enjoy food and fresh air. Whether you’re grabbing takeout and heading to a riverside table or grilling out on the deck of a mountain cabin, it’s all about pairing great food with a peaceful atmosphere.
Smith Creek Resort makes this easy with well-equipped rentals that let you dine outdoors in style. Enjoy full kitchens, private patios, and views you’ll never forget.
