The Smoky Mountains region is known for its rich musical heritage, especially bluegrass music. There are some great places to hear bluegrass music in the area and we’ve pulled together 7 of our favorite places to hear bluegrass music (along with other genres) in the Great Smoky Mountains. (This information is subject to change. Please check with events and venues for the latest information.)
Ole Smoky Tennesse Distillery – Gatlinburg, TN; Pigeon Forge, TN
At Ole Smoky, there’s no cost at all to wander through the distillery and listen to the talented musical acts. Enjoy a free concert and sample some moonshine while you’re at it. As Tennessee’s first legal (and largest) moonshine distillery, Ole Smoky has two locations in Gatlinburg and one in Pigeon Forge. Take a behind-the-scenes tour to see how the inventive flavors of moonshine is made, and stick around for free concerts, where you just might hear big-name country or bluegrass acts like Easton Corbin or the Soggy Bottom Boys.
Sugarlands Distilling Company – Gatlinburg, TN
Belly up to the bar at this award-winning distillery in Gatlinburg, TN. Sugarlands is keeping Tennessee’s moonshine history alive with a modern twist. They stay true to their roots by following traditional heritage recipes dating back to the Smoky Mountains’ classic moonshine days, while adding in fresh flavors for the more contemporary palates. Take a still house tour to go behind the scenes for a first-hand look at the art and science of distilling, then finish off with a tasting. Then head to the back patio for free live music in their Back Porch Concert Series. Listen to classic Americana music from talented local bands, up-and-coming artists, and touring acts.
Meadowlark Motel – Maggie Valley, NC
Nestled amidst the breathtaking Smoky Mountains, the Meadowlark Motel is an Appalachian gem that offers the perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities to create a truly unforgettable experience for guests. With surprises like the BackPorch Pavilion, reminiscent of the traditional mountain dance halls of yore, guests can dance the night away while enjoying the talented local musicians, including artist-in-residence, Mike Ogletree, former band member of Simple Minds. With the sounds of lively bluegrass and traditional Scots-Irish music, you’ll be transported to another time and place. On Sunday nights, the Speakeasy hosts a special BlueGrass Jam, where seasoned old-timers come out to toe-tap to the old-style clogging. Come stay overnight at the Meadowlark Motel and immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Smoky Mountains!
Ole Smoky Barn – Pigeon Forge, TN
The Ole Smoky Barn is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to experience authentic bluegrass music. The barn is home to a variety of events, including live concerts featuring talented local musicians, as well as the annual Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales festival. With a rustic interior and open-air seating, the Ole Smoky Barn provides a unique atmosphere for music lovers to enjoy the sounds of traditional bluegrass in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. The venue also offers a selection of locally brewed moonshine and other beverages, as well as a small selection of food items to enjoy during the show. Whether you’re a die-hard bluegrass fan or simply looking for a fun night out in the Smokies, the Ole Smoky Barn is definitely worth a visit.
The Down Home – Johnson City, TN
The Down Home is a historic music venue that has been hosting live music events since 1976. While it showcases a variety of genres, the venue is particularly well-known for its bluegrass music events, attracting both local and national performers. The cozy atmosphere of the Down Home provides an intimate setting for music lovers to gather and enjoy the authentic sounds of bluegrass music. With a capacity of just over 200 people, it offers an up-close and personal experience with the performers. Visitors can enjoy a selection of local craft beers and wine while listening to the soulful tunes of talented bluegrass musicians. Whether you’re a seasoned bluegrass aficionado or new to the genre, The Down Home is a must-visit destination for an authentic and memorable live music experience.
Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts – Franklin, NC
The Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts is a state-of-the-art venue that hosts a variety of performing arts events, including a diverse selection of bluegrass music performances. The venue boasts excellent acoustics and a seating capacity of 1,500, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors to the Smoky Mountains. The Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts is known for its high-quality productions and has featured performances by renowned bluegrass artists, such as Rhonda Vincent and The Travelin’ McCourys. The venue also hosts several bluegrass festivals throughout the year, including the Mountain High Music Festival and the Fire on the Mountain BBQ and Music Festival. With its top-notch facilities and impressive lineup of bluegrass events, the Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts is a must-visit destination for any bluegrass music lover in the Smoky Mountains region.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort – Cherokee, NC
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resor is a popular destination for music lovers and features a variety of bluegrass music events throughout the year. The 3,000-seat Event Center at Harrah’s Cherokee is known for hosting some of the biggest names in bluegrass music, including The Del McCoury Band, Ricky Skaggs, and Dailey & Vincent. The resort also hosts the annual Cherokee Bluegrass Festival, which brings together some of the best bluegrass musicians from around the country for a weekend of music, food, and fun. In addition to the music events, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort also offers a range of dining and entertainment options, including a spa, a golf course, and a variety of gaming options.
