Your Guide to a Memorable Valentine’s Day in the Smokies

While flowers and chocolates are go-to items for Valentine’s Day, it’s always nice to mix things up a bit. Planning a romantic getaway to the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee is a great way to treat your special someone. With romantic cabin rentals in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, incredible scenery, fine dining, fantastic shopping, wine tasting, and tons of attractions, it’s the perfect place to steal away with your partner for a few days.

Visit Our Top 5 Romantic Spots in the Smokies

Instead of cuddling in a cozy cabin with a hot tub for the entirety of your Valentine’s getaway, venture out to explore romantic spots in the Smokies — adding unforgettable moments to your mountain retreat. From charming gardens to serene valleys, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg offer countless places to spark romance and create lasting memories. These top 5 romantic destinations will take your Valentine’s celebration to the next level! 

Ferris Wheel at The Island

Steal a kiss atop the 200-foot-high Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at The Island in Pigeon Forge, shopping and entertainment complex — featuring 60+ shops, stellar restaurants, a show fountain, exciting games, and more fun rides.

360 Space Needle in Gatlinburg

Show your sweetie a view to remember from the tippy-top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle. Ride a glass elevator 407 feet above the city, showcasing stunning views of the calm Smoky Mountains all around and bustling downtown life below.

Cades Cove in the National Park

Take an early morning drive together through Cades Cove, a beautiful valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This scenic 11-mile loop boasts wondrous wildlife, historic buildings, old churches, and beautiful scenery at every glance.

The Great Smoky Mountain Sky

Bring your love to new heights with Scenic Helicopter Tours. Yep, one of the most romantic spots in the Smokies is literally in the clouds! From rushing rivers and serene lakes to city views and rolling hills, soak it all in with your sweetheart by your side.

Heart Twigloo Atop a Mountain

Walk hand in hand through the enchanting Vista Gardens at Anakeesta and snap a selfie at the heart arch made of twigs. Flowers aren’t the star of this mountainside stroll, which harbors a flowing stream, a quaint gnome village, an elegant pergola, and incredible mountain vistas.

Planning to pop the question? Check out of top spots to propose in the Smokies!

14 Fun Things to Do for Couples

Looking for ways to make your Valentine’s Day or romantic getaway truly special? The Smoky Mountains are brimming with activities for couples to enjoy together, from peaceful nature hikes and scenic dinners to thrilling adventures and cozy moments. Whether you’re celebrating new love or rekindling a lifelong romance, these 14 fun things to do will help you create unforgettable memories in one of the most romantic destinations in the country. Let the Smokies set the stage for your perfect couple’s getaway!

1. Reconnect on a Nature Hike 

Escape to the tranquil beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where dozens of peaceful trails wind through serene forests and alongside calming creeks. Bundle up, take your partner’s hand, and enjoy a romantic stroll through nature’s splendor. The crisp mountain air and scenic views make this the perfect way to reconnect.

2. Go Night Skiing & Ice Skating

Head to Ober Gatlinburg for a night of skiing or snowboarding under the stars. Whether you’re gliding down the slopes or cozying up with cocoa afterward, it’s a winter date to remember. Don’t forget to skate at Ober’s indoor ice rink for a fun and romantic afternoon activity, making the best of winter in the Smokies!

3. Sip Wine & ‘Shine

Toast to your love while sampling local wines and moonshine! Follow the Rocky Top Wine Trail to discover charming wineries like Smoky Mountain Winery or Sugarland Cellars. Add a spirited twist with a visit to Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler, where live music complements your tasting experience. 

4. Get a Couple’s Massage

Indulge in pure relaxation with a couple’s massage at a local spa or salon in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. Many offer Valentine’s Day specials with champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries to enhance your day. For ultimate romance, book an in-cabin massage and let the serenity come to you!

5. See an Appalachian Show

Enjoy dinner and a show for a unique date night! Laugh, cheer, and marvel at productions like Dolly Parton’s Stampede, the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, or the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show. It’s an entertaining way to share an unforgettable experience with your sweetheart.

6. Renew Vows at the Grand Staircase

Celebrate your love in a beautiful setting by renewing your vows at the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge. During Sweetheart Month in February, you can reaffirm your commitment on the iconic Grand Staircase, the breathtaking focal point of the Titanic’s ballroom, with ceremonies presided over by the ship’s captain.

7. Spend a Day at Anakeesta

Experience breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at Anakeesta, an aerial park in Gatlinburg. Walk along the 40+ foot-high Treetop Skywalk, zipline side by side, shop at the village, and enjoy a romantic dinner overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains at sunset.

8. Share a Kiss Beneath the Sea

Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, where you can marvel at exotic sea creatures and even see a penguin paint! Seal the day with a kiss in the magical underwater tunnel beneath the sharks — it’s a one-of-a-kind moment.

9. Break for Afternoon Tea

Enjoy a quiet and elegant afternoon at the Wild Plum Tea Room. Sip freshly brewed tea and indulge in house-made pastries while savoring a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

10. Explore a Fairytale Village

Step into a storybook setting at The Village Shops, a charming collection of 27 unique stores and eateries in an outlet inspired by European architecture. Wander together, sample sweet treats, and find the perfect keepsake to remember your day.

11. Ooh & Aah at Gatlinburg SkyPark

Ride the Gatlinburg SkyLift to the top of Crockett Mountain, where you can take in panoramic views and walk across the SkyBridge — the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Stay to enjoy a meal with breathtaking mountain vistas.

12. Play Mini-Golf 

Add a little playful competition to your date by hitting the mini-golf courses throughout Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg! With whimsical themes and fun layouts, mini-golf in the Smokies is a lighthearted way to share laughs and create memories with your significant other.

13. Find the Magic at Dollywood

Explore Dollywood Theme Park, where thrilling rides, captivating shows, and oversized cookies await! Spend your day wandering the charming shops, enjoying craft demos, and soaking up the park’s festive ambiance with your Valentine.

14. Make a Wish at The Old Mill Square

Stroll through the historic Old Mill Square, where you can shop for handmade pottery, enjoy a cozy meal, or simply soak in the charm of the Little Pigeon River. Don’t forget to toss a coin and make a wish for your future together in the old fountain!

Write Your Own Cabin Romance

Whisk away your partner to a Smoky Mountain cabin and spend Valentine’s weekend or your honeymoon in Pigeon Forge in a charming setting. Whether you’re seeking seclusion or luxurious amenities, a cozy 1-bedroom cabin provides the ultimate romantic retreat. 

Sip red wine, relax in a hot tub, and soak in breathtaking mountain views. Or cozy up by a crackling fireplace, light a few candles, and feel your stress melt away. With so many amenities designed for comfort, romance, and fun, your romantic Smoky Mountain cabin stay will be nothing short of magical. 

Lovey-Dovey Amenities

Enhance your romantic escape with these romantic cabin perks!

• Heart-Shaped Jetted Tub: Add a whimsical touch to your getaway with an intimate bath.
• Cozy Fireplace: Snuggle up with blankets and hot cocoa by a warm, glowing fire.
• Game Room: Challenge each other to pool, air hockey, or classic arcade games.
• Hot Tub with a View: Unwind in the steamy water while enjoying serene mountain scenery.
• Private Movie Theater: Watch romantic comedies from the comfort of a luxurious theater.
• Fully Equipped Kitchen: Cook meals together and create unforgettable dining experiences.
• Firepit: Roast marshmallows, share stories, and enjoy romantic evenings under the stars.
• King-size Bed: Cuddle up and sleep in late in a spacious and inviting bed.
• Private Indoor Pool: Take a midnight swim without leaving your cozy mountain retreat.

Complete the ideal escape by surprising your love with a thoughtfully curated gift basket for a true stay-in-the-cabin-all-weekend vibe. Don’t have a pet sitter to watch your fur babies? Bring them along for a Valentine’s Day retreat at one of our pet-friendly cabins. 

Enjoy an Upscale Dinner for Two 

A romantic evening in the Smokies isn’t complete without a delicious dinner for 2. Whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, an anniversary, or simply enjoying a special date night, these elegant restaurants offer the perfect ambiance for love. From cozy mountain lodge vibes and riverside views to rich history and locally inspired menus, these dining spots in Gatlinburg promise to make your evening unforgettable. 

Treat your taste buds and your sweetheart to a memorable meal at one of these top picks for a romantic night out. Don’t forget to make reservations ahead of time — Valentine’s week fills up fast!

Lodge Vibes at Cherokee Grill

Located on the Parkway in Gatlinburg, Cherokee Grill offers a “timeless mountain lodge setting” with delicious food and wine plus a nice atmosphere. The interior of the restaurant is highlighted by granite and walnut décor, so it’s a beautiful setting for a romantic night. The menu has a selection of juicy steaks, fresh seafood, rotisserie chicken, salads, and more. 

Riverside Setting at The Peddler

Set on the Little Pigeon River with lovely views, The Peddler Steakhouse is a cozy and unique restaurant with steaks cut tableside. The Peddler also has a large salad bar, fresh mountain trout, and tasty desserts. Built around the home of one of the area’s pioneer families and constructed with materials from other local cabins, the restaurant is rich in tradition and local flare. 

Mountain Elegance at The Greenbrier

One of Gatlinburg’s favorite family restaurants, The Greenbrier Restaurant is set in a 1930s cabin with great food, ambiance, and views. The menu features salads, homemade dressings, appetizers, and desserts, including lobster, shrimp, prime rib, and vegetarian dishes. Known as a food and spirit outpost, there’s also a full bar with wine, beer, and cocktails. 

Want more options for your Valentine’s Day dinner? Browse our list of favorite Smoky Mountain restaurants.

Find Unique Gifts to Take Home

Looking for a special keepsake or token of love to commemorate your Valentine’s Day in the Smokies? An array of charming shops and local treasures, perfect for unique and memorable gifts for your date night in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville await! Whether you’re shopping for something romantic, practical, or just plain fun, here are some ideas to spark inspiration.

• Frame-worthy Memories: Snap an old-time photo with your sweetheart to cherish forever.
• Sweet Treats: Indulge in creamy fudge or chocolate-dipped strawberries from Aunt Mahalia’s.
• Matching Mementos: Get matching airbrush T-shirts for a playful take-home souvenir.
• Handmade Treasures: Find handcrafted jewelry in the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community.
• Fashion Finds: Browse stylish handbags at The Island or designer outfits at Tanger Outlets.
• Outdoor Essentials: Grab hiking gear or outdoor equipment from Nantahala Outdoor Center.
• Old-fashioned Delights: Treat your love to nostalgic candies from Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen.

These thoughtful gifts will not only make your Valentine’s celebration extra special but also serve as wonderful reminders of your romantic getaway in the Great Smoky Mountains.

10 Ways to Get the Kids Excited for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day often centers around couples. Restaurants, shops, and area attractions feature special menus, decorations, and activities focused on romance…and the kids often get overlooked. But Valentine’s Day is about love and friendship for all ages! It’s a great time to get away — with snowy peaks, Appalachian events, and family-size cabins in the Smokies. And we have 10 great ways to get your kids or grandkids excited about a Valentine’s Day this year!

1. Make Themed Arts & Crafts

Get creative with Valentine’s-themed arts and crafts. Browse online for fun and affordable ideas like frames, garlands, crowns, or cards made from affordable materials. They’ll enjoy creating heartfelt keepsakes to take home or give to friends and family. 

2. Let Them Choose a Local Activity 

Let your kids pick a local attraction to visit, giving them a sense of control and excitement for the day. Present options within your budget, such as fun museums, mini-golf, or kid-friendly shows, and watch as their enthusiasm for the holiday grows.

3. Bake Sweet Treats

With a fully equipped kitchen in your cabin, whip up Valentine’s Day treats together! Bake cookies or brownies, dip strawberries in chocolate, or try fun recipes like heart-shaped pizzas or fruit-filled crepes for a delicious bonding activity.

4. Draw a Bath with Heart Fizzies

Turn bath time into a Valentine’s Day treat with heart-shaped bath fizzies! Kids will love the colors and bubbles while relaxing in a soothing, warm tub after a day of excitement in Appalachia.

5. Host a Valentine’s Day Scavenger Hunt

Plan a scavenger hunt in the cabin for Valentine’s-themed treasures. Hide items like chocolates, hearts, and flowers for kids to find and enjoy some interactive fun!

6. Decorate Your Cabin Rental

Transform your Smoky Mountain cabin rental into a festive Valentine’s haven! Use streamers, balloons, and novelty items to create a cozy, celebratory atmosphere that feels just like home for the holiday.

7. Plan a Parent-Child Date Night

Create a special parent-child Valentine’s date night to build lasting memories. Dress up, exchange flowers, and enjoy a sweet dinner together in the cabin — a heartwarming way to share quality time in the Smokies.

8. Invite Them to Help with Preparations

Involve the kids in Valentine’s Day preparations by letting them help set the table, cook dinner, or choose flowers and cards. It’s a simple way to keep them engaged while getting ready for quality time as a family. 

9. Watch Love-Inspired Movies

Wind down the day with family-friendly, love-inspired movies. Pick classics like Beauty and the Beast, Lady and the Tramp, Gnomeo and Juliet, Shrek, or Enchanted, ensuring entertainment everyone can enjoy together. 

10. Play Games Together

Bring games for the whole family to play or book a cabin with a game room so it’s one less step while traveling! Let the youngsters stay up late for extra fun and make sure to stay engaged while playing together — it means a lot. 

Whip Up Sweet Recipes for Cabin Downtime

It’s Valentine’s Day, and you’re tucked into a cozy Gatlinburg cabin with your love. You have a soothing hot tub on the back deck, twinkling stars above, mountains rolling in the distance, an inviting fireplace in the living room, a comfy couch, and a relaxing master suite…everything you need to keep you in the cabin for relaxation and romance this weekend. 

But what would Valentine’s Day be without some sweet treats? Thankfully, your romantic cabin also has a fully equipped kitchen — complete with a coffeemaker, oven/stove, microwave, dishes, glasses, utensils, counter space, dishwasher, and more. Check out our favorite Valentine’s recipes below and enjoy decadent desserts in an intimate setting.

Raspberry-Chocolate Parfaits 

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Servings: 2 | Source: Food Network Kitchen

Ingredients

• ½ cup raspberries
• 1 tablespoon chocolate liqueur (optional for adults)
• Brownies, crumbled
• Chocolate ice cream
• Whipped cream

Directions

1. Toss the raspberries with chocolate liqueur (if using).
2. In 2 glasses, layer crumbled brownies, chocolate ice cream, and the raspberry mixture.
3. Top with whipped cream and garnish with additional raspberries.

Cream Puffs 

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 20 | Source: AllRecipes

Ingredients

• 2 (3.5 oz) packages instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• ½ cup butter
• 1 cup water
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 eggs

Directions

1. Mix the vanilla pudding mix, heavy cream, and milk until combined. Cover and refrigerate to set.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F. In a pot, bring water and butter to a boil. Stir in flour and salt until the mixture forms a ball.
3. Transfer dough to a bowl. Using a spoon or mixer, beat in eggs one at a time until smooth. Drop tablespoonfuls onto an ungreased baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden brown with dry centers. Let cool.
5. Fill the cooled shells with pudding using a pastry bag or by splitting them open.

Valentine Night Strawberries

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 24 | Source: AllRecipes

Ingredients

• 24 fresh strawberries
• 1 (3 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
• 1½ tablespoons powdered sugar

Directions

1. Dice 2 strawberries and set aside. Cut the stems off the remaining strawberries so they can stand upright. Slice each strawberry into 4 wedges, stopping just before the stem end to keep them intact.
2. Beat the cream cheese until fluffy. Mix in the diced strawberries, walnuts, and powdered sugar.
3. Spoon or pipe a teaspoon of the mixture into each strawberry.

Hot Chocolate Float

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4 | Source: Delish

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• ¼ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 oz chocolate chips
• 2 tablespoons chocolate sauce
• Vanilla ice cream
• Chocolate shavings

Directions

1. Heat milk in a saucepan over medium heat until simmering. Whisk in cocoa powder and sugar until smooth. Stir in chocolate chips and vanilla, cooking until melted.
2. Dip the rim of each cup into chocolate sauce. Pour the hot chocolate into the cups.
3. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and sprinkle with chocolate shavings. Serve immediately.

Chocolate Stout Affogato Egg Cream

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4 | Source: Food Network

Ingredients

• 2 oz coffee liqueur (e.g. Kahlua)
• 16 oz plain seltzer
• 1 (12 oz) bottle stout or chocolate stout
• 1 pint chocolate ice cream, slightly softened

Directions

1. In 4 tall glasses, add 1 tablespoon of coffee liqueur each. Pour in ½ cup seltzer per glass.
2. Divide the stout among the glasses and stir gently.
3. Top each glass with 1-2 scoops of chocolate ice cream. Serve immediately or let the ice cream melt slightly for a richer drink.

Red Velvet Cheesecake Bites 

Prep Time: 20 minutes + chilling | Servings: 28 | Source: Delish

Ingredients

• 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus required ingredients)
• 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a muffin pan with cupcake liners. Prepare the cake mix according to the box instructions, divide batter into liners, and bake for 18-20 minutes. Cool completely.
2. Break 4 cupcakes into crumbs and set aside.
3. In a bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until fluffy. Add heavy cream and vanilla, beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Scoop the cream cheese mixture into balls using a cookie scoop. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze for 1 hour.
5. Roll the cream cheese balls in red velvet crumbs until fully coated. Chill until ready to serve.

Make Plans for Valentine’s Day in the Smoky Mountains

This Valentine’s Day, treat your loved one to an unforgettable escape in the Great Smoky Mountains. From cozy cabin nights to breathtaking adventures, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Gatlinburg offer the ultimate destination for romance and relaxation. Whether you’re indulging in gourmet dining, hiking scenic trails, or simply savoring a quiet moment by the fire, your time together will create memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Our 1-2 bedroom cabins are thoughtfully designed with romance in mind. Enjoy comfortable king or queen beds, big screen TVs for your favorite romantic comedies, and warm fireplaces perfect for cuddling up. Unwind in soothing hot tubs, share a candlelit dinner, or take in the serene beauty of the mountains from your quiet deck.

Cabins for YOU offers everything you need for a magical Valentine’s getaway, from charming, secluded retreats to luxurious lodges with stunning views and premium amenities. Book your romantic cabin today — and let the Smokies set the stage for your love story!

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