Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular vacation spot known for its beautiful Great Smoky Mountains scenery, rich history, and variety of activities for visitors of all ages. However, during the winter season, Gatlinburg transforms into a winter wonderland, and one of the most iconic and beloved attractions is the Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store.
As the holiday season approaches, visitors from all over the country flock to Gatlinburg to experience the magic of Christmas. One of the main attractions that draw people in is the Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store, a massive 12,000-square-foot retail space dedicated entirely to all things Christmas. This store is a holiday enthusiast's paradise, offering a vast selection of ornaments, decorations, and gifts that will make your holiday season merry and bright.
The History of Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store
Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store has been a staple in the Gatlinburg community for over 40 years. The store was founded by a local family who shared a passion for Christmas and wanted to create a unique shopping experience that would bring joy to visitors of all ages. Over the years, the store has undergone several expansions and renovations, but its commitment to providing an exceptional holiday shopping experience has remained the same.
What to Expect at Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store
When you step into Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store, you'll be greeted by a winter wonderland of sights, sounds, and smells that will instantly put you in the holiday spirit. The store is divided into several sections, each featuring a different theme or type of product. You'll find everything from traditional glass ornaments to unique, handmade decorations, as well as a vast selection of gifts, toys, and collectibles.
Some of the most popular sections of the store include:
- The Ornament Room: This section is dedicated entirely to Christmas ornaments, with over 10,000 different designs to choose from.
- The Village: This charming section features a collection of miniaturized Christmas villages, complete with tiny houses, shops, and figurines.
- The Tree Lot: Here, you'll find a vast selection of artificial Christmas trees in all shapes and sizes, as well as a variety of tree toppers, garlands, and other decorations.
- The Gift Shop: This section offers a wide range of holiday-themed gifts, including toys, collectibles, and home decor items.
Special Events and Activities
Throughout the holiday season, Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store hosts a variety of special events and activities that are fun for the whole family. Some of the most popular events include:
- Photos with Santa: Bring your children to meet Santa Claus and take part in a special holiday photo shoot.
- Ornament Decorating: Join the store's staff for a fun ornament-decorating workshop, where you can create your own unique holiday decorations.
- Holiday Craft Demonstrations: Watch as skilled artisans demonstrate traditional holiday crafts, such as glassblowing and woodworking.
Tips for Visiting Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store
- Plan to spend at least an hour or two exploring the store, as there is so much to see and do.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking and standing.
- Bring your camera to capture special holiday memories.
- Don't miss the store's famous "Christmas Tree Lane," a stunning display of decorated trees that's perfect for photos.
Accommodations and Dining in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference, from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to luxury resorts. Some popular options include:
- The Inn at Christmas Place: This festive hotel is decorated in a holiday theme and offers a variety of amenities, including an indoor pool and hot tub.
- The Lodge at Buckberry Creek: This luxury resort features beautifully decorated rooms and suites, as well as a range of amenities, including a fitness center and spa.
When it comes to dining, Gatlinburg has plenty of delicious options to choose from. Some popular restaurants include:
- The Alamo Steakhouse & Saloon: This casual steakhouse serves up mouth-watering steaks, ribs, and other American favorites.
- The Cherokee Grill: This popular restaurant serves up a range of American cuisine, including steaks, seafood, and pasta dishes.
Getting Around Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is a relatively small town, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, there are also several transportation options available, including:
- The Gatlinburg Trolley: This convenient trolley service runs throughout the town, offering a fun and easy way to get around.
- Gatlinburg Parking: There are several parking lots and garages located throughout the town, making it easy to park and explore.
Tips for Getting Around Gatlinburg
- Plan ahead and allow plenty of time to get around, as traffic can be heavy during peak season.
- Consider using the Gatlinburg Trolley or other public transportation options to avoid parking hassles.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
Insider Tips and Tricks
- Visit Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store early in the season to avoid crowds and find the best selection of products.
- Consider visiting during the week instead of on weekends, when crowds are smaller.
- Don't miss the store's special events and activities, which are a fun way to get into the holiday spirit.
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive guide to Gatlinburg's Christmas Store Wonderland in Tennessee. Whether you're a holiday enthusiast or just looking for a fun and festive destination, Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination during the winter season.
What is the address of Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store?
+The address of Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store is 653 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37863.
What are the hours of operation for Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store?
+The hours of operation for Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store vary depending on the time of year, but generally, the store is open from 9am to 9pm during peak season.
Is Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store open year-round?
+No, Ole Red Gatlinburg's Christmas Store is only open during the holiday season, typically from late November to early January.