Top Rated Parks to Visit in Maggie Valley

"Patriot Park is a quaint park that’s dedicated to wartime veterans and sits along the river’s edge. It’s a perfect spot to go for a picnic, have some time of quiet reflection or respect the county’s veterans. The park isn’t huge, at only 16 acres, but its proximity to nearby shops and restaurants makes this green space perfect for a quick outdoor getaway in the middle of the day."

"For a slow, casual day out, spend it in Patriot Park along Old Mill Square. This park is dedicated to the veterans of war who lived in Sevier County."

"Visit Mingus Mill near the Mountain Farm Museum, and explore one of the most historic sites in the region, surrounded by some of Cherokee country’s finest hiking trails and numerous historic landmarks. Mingus Mill is the ideal place for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural world of the Cherokee people."

"Buncombe County Sports Park is a popular multi-use facility located very close to the Biltmore Lake community. Known for its seven soccer fields, BCSP is always busy on the weekends accommodating Asheville and Buncombe County soccer leagues. But there’s more than just soccer fields."

"Sevierville City Park has a number of amenities for families of every variety, including basketball courts, picnic shelters, and walking trails. Of course, these are all in addition to the indoor and outdoor pools. Spend a few hours on the playground or squeeze in a match on the tennis courts before cooling off under the surface."

"Juney Whank Falls is divided into an upper and lower section. Both can be viewed from the footbridge which crosses Juney Whank Branch at the falls. Together they drop 90 feet from top to bottom."

"Baskins Creek Falls is located along the Roaring Fork Motor Trail, which is a beautiful area in the Smoky Mountains in the fall. You’ll see the fall colors and a waterfall along this 3-mile round trip trail. At the beginning of this hike, you’ll have some great views of the mountains covered in fall foliage."

"Relative to their popularity, this 40-foot, two-tiered waterfall just might be the most underrated falls in the Great Smoky Mountains. It's also a great place to kick back and enjoy a picnic."

"Mad Dog’s Creamery and Donuts is a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth!. Visitors will find an impressive selection of treats to enjoy, including hand dipped ice cream, soft serve, banana splits, sundaes, milkshakes, donuts, funnel cakes, and even more decadent desserts. Mad Dog’s has a great open air seating area that overlooks a running creek so you can enjoy your ice cream in the sunshine."

"Mad Dog’s Creamery and Donuts has a full selection of hand-dipped premium ice cream, soft serve, sundaes, banana splits and so much more!. You’ll be able to choose from 24 different flavors of ice cream, from Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough to Strawberry Cheesecake. You can even get milkshakes!"

"Mad Dog’s is your one stop sweet shop in premium ice cream, funnel cakes, and donuts!. With over 20 ice cream flavors everyone in your family is sure to find something they like!. Feel free to bring your four-legged friends and spoil them to some doggie treats and toys."

"3526 Parkway, Suite 4, Pigeon Forge 865-365-1700www.facebook.com/pg/SmokiesCubancafepf/. This locally owned gem serves up authentic Cuban food for both breakfast and brunch. You are sure to find all your favorites including Cuban sandwiches, plantains, and yucca fries."

"This is the perfect place to stop in Pigeon Forge for some genuine Southern shopping. Items in the shop range from cute clothes that will remind you of your time here in the Smokies to delicious, locally made fudge and treats to enjoy right there on the spot. Did we mention a chance to meet four live bears that were rescued and are being taken care of by talented staff right on the premises?"

"The perfect place to get souvenirs to remember your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains is from the Three General Bears Store. There are all kinds of giftware, from t-shirts to mugs to magnets. Your kids will find all kinds of toys and stuffed animals they will want to bring home."

"This small little eatery has gained quite a bit of notice from locals and tourists alike since it opened a few years ago. The Lil Black Bear Cafe is a small business open for breakfast and lunch, but it’s a big hit with the kids and worth including as one of the top places to eat in Pigeon Forge for the little ones. The owner is very caring and lets kids do some coloring to be featured on their ​Facebook page​ as members of the Color the Bear Club."

"If you’re looking for a new breakfast and lunch spot in Pigeon Forge, you need to check out Lil Black Bear Cafe!. Their breakfast menu features everything from a classic stack of hot pancakes to veggie and meat omelettes. Their lunch menu consists of yummy soups, sandwiches, and salads, like the warm philly steak and cheese or the hearty chef salad."

"This small, family-owned restaurant has built a loyal following for its super friendly service, mouthwatering food, and extremely reasonable prices. Guests will find a great selection of omelets, salads, soups, sandwiches, and more all-American fare. Standout menu items include the biscuits and gravy, fried bologna sandwich, and the patty melt."