Historic Areas and Old Smoky Mountain Buildings

According to the National Register of Historic Places, the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg areas hold quite a few historical and old Smoky Mountain treasures. On your next Smoky Mountain vacation, be sure to check out some of these old Smoky Mountain areas!  

Cades Cove Historic District

Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1977, the Cades Cove Historic District is filled with historical buildings and landmarks. Most of the buildings were constructed in the 1800s, and have been preserved for viewing. Cades Cove consists of 11 miles of history that attracts thousands of visitors every day. At Cades Cove, visitors will find The Myers Barn, The John Cable Grist Mill, some of the first area churches, cabins and homesteads. Today, Cades Cove is a popular place to see black bears and other wildlife. If you are looking to visit some of the old Smoky Mountain buildings, this is a great place to start!

Pigeon Forge Mill

Another of the most popular old Smoky Mountain buildings still stands in Pigeon Forge. The Old Mill, known on the National Register of Historic Places as Pigeon Forge Mill, has turned into one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Smokies. The Old Mill brings millions of people to the Smoky Mountains every year. The Old Mill is situated in the center of Pigeon Forge, on the Little Pigeon River. The Old Mill is one of the most photographed mills in the country. Today, Old Mill Square has been formed. Old Mill Square is a small community that holds two Southern-style restaurants, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor, a candy kitchen, and many other shops. The Old Mill is a popular destination for anyone looking for old Smoky Mountain buildings!

Roaring Fork Historic District

Between 1800 and 1810, the first permanent Euro-American settlers arrived in, what is now, Gatlinburg. The old Smoky Mountain buildings sit along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. At the Roaring Fork Historic District, visitors will find three significant buildings: The Jim Bales Places, The Ephraim Bales Place, and The Alfred Reagan Place. Each of these cabins has a unique design. Among the cabins, you will also find a farm, barns, and an old tub mill.

Little Greenbrier School Place

The Little Greenbrier School was built in 1882 and was used as the community school until 1936. Many students would travel upwards of nine miles to attend school at this old Smoky Mountain building. The Little Greenbrier School also doubled as a church. There is a cemetery across the road that was created by the people of the church. The school was closed due to the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Want to learn more about about other things to do in the Smoky Mountain area? For more information about attractions and activities in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, check out our ‘What to Do’ page!