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.

The Park Grill

Duration

1-2 hours (longer during peak times with potential wait)

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 stands as one of Gatlinburg's most recognizable restaurants, housed in an impressive log lodge right at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This American restaurant combines mountain charm with upscale dining, making it a go-to spot for both special occasions and family meals.

The restaurant's signature salad bar has become legendary among locals and tourists alike, featuring fresh produce, house-made dressings, and enough variety to serve as a meal itself. While the salad bar draws crowds, the hickory-grilled steaks and fresh mountain trout remain the stars of the menu. Each entree ($25-40) includes salad bar access, making it a solid value despite the premium pricing.

Families appreciate the kid-friendly pricing policy, where children dine for $1 times their age. The new Timber Tales experience with Gatlin Bear keeps young diners entertained while parents enjoy their meals in the rustic dining room. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between mountain lodge authenticity and modern comfort.

During peak season, especially weekend evenings, expect wait times of 45+ minutes. The dining room can get quite lively when full, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. While the restaurant sits in a tourist-heavy location, it maintains the quality and service that keep locals coming back.

Pro tip: If you're visiting during high season (June-October), arrive before 6 PM to minimize your wait time, or consider making a reservation if available. The massive parking lot offers free parking, a rare find in downtown Gatlinburg.

Last updated: February 21, 2026 • Based on 4,472 reviews

Amenities & Features

Honey bacon Brussels sprouts are a crowd favorite that guests specifically call outExtensive, well-maintained salad bar that impresses first-time visitorsExceptional service with servers frequently mentioned by name for outstanding attentionHigh-quality steaks cooked perfectly to temperature, with homemade chips as a standout side

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

Opening Hours

Monday11:30 AM to 4 PM, 5 to 9 PM

Tuesday11:30 AM to 4 PM, 5 to 9 PM

Wednesday11:30 AM to 4 PM, 5 to 9 PM

Thursday11:30 AM to 4 PM, 5 to 9 PM

Friday11:30 AM to 4 PM, 5 to 9 PM

Saturday11:30 AM to 3:30 PM, 4:30 to 9 PM

Sunday11:30 AM to 4 PM, 5 to 9 PM

Best Times to Visit The Park Grill

For the best dining experience, consider making reservations for weekend evenings.

🔥Buzzing

Weekend dinner rush 5PM - 8PM

☀️Relaxed

Tuesday & Wednesday evenings

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.