smoky mountains

Top 5 Things to Know About the Double Decker Bus Tours of the Smoky Mountains

If you are looking for a convenient and fun way to get around the Smokies while learning more about the area, don’t miss the new double decker bus tours! These exciting tours feature an authentic 2-level bus just like the ones in London, making it easy for you to see all of the sights throughout Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge! Here are the top 5 things you need to know about the new double decker bus tours of the Smoky Mountains:

1. What to Expect

pigeon forgeThe double decker bus tours of the Smoky Mountains offer a hop on, hop off bus service with multiple stops throughout the most popular areas of the Smokies! This bus service is not just a means of transit as tour guides are on board to tell you about things to do, where to eat, which attractions you should visit, and much more! Since the bus is an authentic representation of those found in the United Kingdom, your driver will even be sitting on the right side!

2. Difference from the Trolley Service

The double decker tours are different from the trolley service operated in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, which is simply a means of transit. When you want to take the Pigeon Forge Fun Time Trolley to Gatlinburg, you must transfer at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center located on the Spur/Highway 441 between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. The double decker tours are much more convenient because they make one continuous loop from Sevierville to Gatlinburg with no transfer required!

3. Bus Stops

apple barn in seviervilleThere are currently 14 stops along the double decker bus tour, including top destinations such as the Apple Barn in Sevierville, the Old Mill in Pigeon Forge, and the Gatlinburg Convention Center. There is even a stop in front of the Nantahala Outdoor Center, which is just steps away from our hotel! Since the bus tours are still new, they will be adding many more stops in the future as well as service to Cades Cove and other areas!

4. Hours of Operation

The double decker bus tours of the Smoky Mountains start at 10 a.m. on all operating days, which vary throughout the year. Be sure to check the official operating schedule when planning your vacation to make sure the bus is operating! There are 2 double decker buses in operation now and a third bus arriving in the next few months. Once you have hopped off the bus to explore an attraction, simply wait for the next bus to come along to continue your tour!

5 . Ticket Information

Gatlinburg bypass viewThere are several ticket options for the double decker bus tours, including the 24 hour pass where you can hop on and off at any of the stops as many times as you want! There are separate prices for adults, teens, and children, and kids ages 4 years old and under ride for free! You can also purchase single ride tickets that are valid for a single, one-way ride for just a nominal fee.

You’ll love being able to learn more about the area through the double decker bus tours of the Smoky Mountains. Want to start planning your trip now? Check out all of the rooms at our hotel in Gatlinburg TN!