Duration
1-2 hours (longer during peak times with potential wait)
Price
$25-40 per person for dinner entrees (includes salad bar), kids eat for $1 per year of age
Best For
Families wanting authentic mountain dining • Couples celebrating special occasions • Groups needing reliable parking near the national park
Pro Tip
Sit near the Timber Tales projection wall if you have kids - the bear show plays every 20 minutes and keeps them happy while you finish your meal.
About The Park Grill
The Park Grill has earned a reputation as a premier mountain dining destination, with many visitors returning repeatedly for the authentic Smoky Mountains experience. This massive log lodge sits prominently at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it impossible to miss.
The legendary salad bar alone justifies the visit - featuring fresh vegetables, homemade dressings, and enough variety to constitute a complete meal. However, the hickory-grilled steaks and fresh trout that built this restaurant's fame deserve equal attention.
Families particularly appreciate the new Timber Tales experience with Gatlin Bear, which entertains children while parents savor their dining experience. The rustic atmosphere captures the authentic Smoky Mountains spirit without feeling overly touristy.
Visitors should expect weekend dinner waits exceeding 45 minutes during peak season. The dining room becomes quite lively when at capacity, though many consider this part of the establishment's charm.
Most entrees range from $25-40 and include access to that remarkable salad bar, representing solid value considering the prime location and quality. The family-friendly pricing extends to children, who dine for $1 times their age, making it particularly appealing for families exploring the area.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Famous Salad Bar
This isn't your typical restaurant salad bar - we're talking fresh vegetables, fruits, cheeses, and scratch-made dressings that taste like someone's grandmother made them. It's included with every entree and honestly could be a meal by itself.
Hickory-Grilled Steaks
The signature steaks are grilled over real hickory wood, giving them that authentic Smoky Mountain flavor you can't get from a gas grill. Portions are generous and cooked to order, though consistency can vary on busy nights.
Timber Tales Experience
This immersive storytelling experience features Gatlin Bear and Smoky Mountain tales projected on the wall every 20 minutes. It's designed for families and keeps kids entertained while parents can actually finish their meals in peace.
Authentic Log Lodge Atmosphere
Built from genuine Idaho spruce logs and Tennessee stone, this place feels like a real mountain lodge, not a theme restaurant. The rustic interior with stone fireplaces creates that cozy cabin vibe we all come to the Smokies for.
Fresh Rainbow Trout
The mountain trout is a local favorite, prepared with Southern Appalachian flavors that showcase regional cooking traditions. It's lighter than the steaks but just as satisfying, especially with a trip to that amazing salad bar.
Prime National Park Location
You literally can't get closer to Great Smoky Mountains National Park - the restaurant sits right at the entrance. It's the perfect spot to fuel up before hiking or celebrate after a day on the trails.
Know Before You Go
- Free parking fills up fast during peak dinner hours - arrive early or consider lunch instead
- Bring a light jacket in cooler months as the log cabin interior can feel chilly
- They accept walk-ins but calling ahead for large groups (6+) is recommended
- The dining room gets quite loud when full - not ideal if you want intimate conversation
- Cash and cards accepted, with full bar service available
Visitor Sentiment
Based on reviewsThe Park Grill receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
The Park Grill Opening Hours
Best Times to Visit The Park Grill
For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for The Park Grill?
The Park Grill typically opens for lunch and closes mid-afternoon, then reopens for dinner from 5:00-9:00 PM. Hours can vary by season, so we recommend calling ahead to confirm exact times for your visit date.
How much does The Park Grill cost?
Most dinner entrees run $25-40 and include the salad bar. Burgers and lighter fare are typically $15-22. Kids 12 and under eat for $1 times their age (so a 7-year-old pays $7). Desserts are around $7-10.
Do I need reservations for The Park Grill?
They accept walk-ins but recommend calling ahead for large groups. During peak times (weekends, summer, fall foliage season), expect 30-60 minute waits without reservations.
How long should I spend at The Park Grill?
Plan about 1-1.5 hours for a typical meal with the salad bar. If you're coming during busy times or have a large group, budget 2 hours including potential wait time.
Is The Park Grill good for kids?
Absolutely! Kids love the Timber Tales bear experience, and children 12 and under eat for just $1 times their age. The casual atmosphere works well for families, though it can get loud when busy.
Is there parking at The Park Grill?
Yes, they have free on-site parking for restaurant guests. The lot can fill up during peak meal times, but public parking is available nearby on the Parkway if needed.
Does The Park Grill have vegetarian options?
Yes, they offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The salad bar alone has plenty of fresh vegetables, and the kitchen can accommodate most dietary restrictions with advance notice.
What makes The Park Grill different from other Gatlinburg restaurants?
It's built from authentic Idaho spruce logs and Tennessee stone, creating a genuine mountain lodge feel. The location right at the national park entrance and the famous included salad bar set it apart from typical tourist restaurants.
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More great places in Gatlinburg
We use a weighted 10-point scoring system to evaluate the best places to visit and things to do in the Smokies.
Scoring is carefully evaluated based on reviews, social signals and expert assessments.
The Park Grill receives consistently positive feedback from visitors. Located in Gatlinburg, it's a solid choice for the area.
Last Updated Dec 27, 2025
1110 Parkway Gatlinburg TN 37738
1110 Parkway Gatlinburg TN 37738
Gatlinburg
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