Ole Smoky Moonshine is a must-stop when you’re visiting the Smoky Mountains. Here you can taste real mountain moonshine, listen to live music, and relax with friends. Their moonshine tastings in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge feel more like a laid-back party than a tour. So when you’re making your list of things to do in Gatlinburg and things to do in the Smokies, this spot is an easy one to put at the top.
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A Quick Pour of Moonshine History
Moonshine has long been part of life in the Smoky Mountains, with old family recipes passed down through the years. That simple mountain tradition is what inspires the fun, flavorful moonshine you’ll taste at Ole Smoky today.
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Meet Ole Smoky Moonshine
Ole Smoky Moonshine opened in 2010 in Gatlinburg and has been serving Smoky Mountain moonshine to visitors ever since. They use old family-style recipes but keep everything fun and easygoing, with relaxed tasting bars, creative flavors in mason jars, and plenty of live music. Today, it’s one of the most popular places to stop in the Smokies.
Ole Smoky Locations
Ole Smoky has several spots around the area, and each one has its own fun style. It’s easy to fit a tasting into your day whether you’re exploring Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge.
Downtown Gatlinburg – Ole Smoky Holler
- You can check out the Holler HERE
- Lively outdoor courtyard with moonshine tastings, live music, and lots of people-watching.
Gatlinburg – Ole Smoky Barrelhouse
- See the Barrelhouse details HERE
- A cozy indoor tasting room where you can try both whiskey and moonshine.
The Island Pigeon Forge – Ole Smoky Barn
- Find the Barn location HERE
- A fun open-air spot surrounded by shops, music, and rides at The Island.
More Tasting Fun in Pigeon Forge
Popular Ole Smoky Moonshine Flavors
Ole Smoky makes all kinds of Tennessee and Smoky Mountain moonshine, plus a full line of Tennessee whiskey. Some of their moonshines are smooth and light, while others are thicker “sipper-style” pours that feel a little more like a dessert. They also sell fun moonshine gifts, from jars to cherries to mini packs that make great souvenirs.
- Apple Pie – Sweet, smooth, and a favorite for first-timers.
- White Lightning – Classic, strong, and full of that moonshine kick.
- Moonshine Cherries – Bright red cherries soaked in shine and packed with flavor.
- Peach – Light, fruity, and great for simple cocktails. (Check out our Peach Moonshine Cocktial)
- Blue Flame – Bold, higher proof, and made for confident sippers.
Ole Smoky FREE T-Shirt, Anyone?
You can get a FREE Ole Smoky T-shirt by completing Ole Smoky’s Hooch Hop passport, their exclusive mini moonshine trail in the Smoky Mountains. Along the way, you can enjoy moonshine tastings in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge as you collect your stamps. You’ll need to grab something at each location for your stamp, but go ahead and taste away too. Here’s what to do:
- Make a purchase at any Ole Smoky location and grab your Hooch Hop passport.
- Visit the other listed Ole Smoky spots, make a purchase at each one, and get your passport stamped.
- When your passport is full, turn it in for a FREE Ole Smoky T-shirt.
Sounds fun, doesn’t it?
Tips for Visiting Ole Smoky
So you’re heading out for a moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge? A few quick tips can make your Ole Smoky visit even easier.
- Tastings: Tastings are not free. Most spots charge a small fee (often around $5) for several moonshine or whiskey samples, and you may get a coupon toward a purchase.
- Best Time to Visit: Mornings and weekdays are usually less busy. Evenings and weekends feel louder, with more music and more people.
- Parking and Trolleys: Both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have trolley systems. You can often park once and ride the trolley instead of moving your car all day.
- Nearby Fun: In Gatlinburg, you’re close to shops, restaurants, and plenty of things to do on the Parkway. At The Island in Pigeon Forge, you’ll find rides, games, and family fun right by the Ole Smoky Barn.
Trekkn Favorites for Moonshine Sippin’ and Mixing at Home
Want to keep the moonshine fun going once you’re back home? Here are a few of our favorite little add-ons that make mixing and sipping even easier (and way more fun):
- Mason Jar Pour Spouts – Perfect for smooth, no-spill pours when you’re working with those classic jars.
- Mason Jar Cocktail Shaker Top – Turns any mason jar into a ready-to-go cocktail shaker. Great for quick moonshine mixes.
- Mason Jar Shot Glasses – Cute, sturdy, and just right for sharing a little shine with friends.
These simple extras make moonshine sipping feel even more fun — whether you’re mixing cozy cocktails or sharing a taste of the Smoky Mountains at home.
Happy Sippin’, Trekkn Friends
We love a little mountain moonshine and hope you have so much fun exploring Ole Smoky on your next trip. Whether you’re team Apple Pie, White Lightning, or those famous Moonshine Cherries, we want to hear about it.
Do you have a favorite Ole Smoky flavor? Comment below and tell us what you’re sippin’.
We’d also love to see your sippin’ fun, so be sure to tag us on social at @TennesseeTrekkn or use #TennesseeTrekkn so we can follow along. Happy sippin’, Trekkn friends!
Disclosure: This post contains links from our trusted partners, including Amazon. If you book or purchase through theese we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We appreciate your support!