Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery Tour — Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Discover the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery Tour in Tennessee

Visit the original Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, known as “The Holler,” located on the Parkway in Gatlinburg. This guided tour invites visitors into the heart of Tennessee moonshine production: you’ll walk through the stillhouse, observe the operation of copper stills, learn the story of Appalachian moonshine heritage, and sample a variety of moonshine and whiskey flavors. The experience is fun, immersive and ideal for craft spirit enthusiasts, group outings and travelers exploring the Smoky Mountains.

Why it’s special:
This is America’s most-visited distillery location, where the history of East Tennessee moonshine meets modern craft spirit innovation. Set amidst live music, a lively patio, and the scenic backdrop of Gatlinburg, it offers both production insight and entertainment in one stop.

History/Story of Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

Founded in 2010 at the Gatlinburg location, Ole Smoky Moonshine became the first federally licensed distillery in East Tennessee. The brand draws on the region’s moon-running past and transforms it into a celebrated, legal craft spirit operation. The Holler remains the flagship site where visitors can witness both heritage methods and modern production of flavored moonshines, cream liqueurs and whiskeys.

What You’ll See & Do on the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery Tour

• Tour the stillhouse at The Holler: watch copper stills, mash vats and view active production areas

• Learn about the heritage of Appalachian moonshine and how it evolved into today’s craft spirits

• Enjoy a guided tasting of multiple moonshine flavors and whiskey samples for guests 21+

• Explore the retail shop and outdoor patio, often featuring live music and a festive atmosphere

• Photograph iconic elements like the “moonshine jars,” brand signage and the front-patio stage

Hands-On Elements: Guests aged 21+ receive a tasting flight; visitors may join a guided tour behind the scenes.
Photo/Video Policy: Photography is generally allowed in public areas; some back-of-house production zones may restrict photography for safety and operational reasons.
Souvenirs & Extras: On-site store offers exclusive jar-moonshines, branded apparel, glassware, seasonal flavors and cocktail options.

Pricing of the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery Tour

• Tasting & tour combo (21+): Free entry to tour, with tasting options starting around US $5 per person.

• Premium or expanded tasting flights may carry higher cost.

• Entry to facility and retail area is free; purchases/tastings are optional.

• Group visits may be accommodated by arrangement — check when booking.

Practical Info for Visiting Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

Duration: Approximately 45-60 minutes for standard tour + tasting.
Format: Guided tour combined with tasting (for 21+); self-guided in retail areas for all ages.
Schedule & Seasonality: Open daily (typically 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; times may vary by season and day) — check ahead. olesmoky.com+1
Audience: Adults 21+ for tastings; all ages welcome to visit, shop and tour.
Accessibility: Mostly accessible, though production and patio areas may involve steps or uneven ground.
Safety & Restrictions: Valid photo ID required for tastings; minors may accompany but cannot sample alcohol. Closed-toe shoes recommended in production areas.
Languages: Tours in English; other languages may be available by request.
Group & School Visits: Groups welcome; large or educational groups should contact ahead to arrange.
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, valid ID (if tasting), camera for photos.
Facilities: Retail store, restrooms, outdoor patio seating with live music, parking available nearby.
Closures & Downtime: Open year-round but may have holiday or special event closures — verify before visiting.
Nearby:

• Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies — family-friendly aquarium adjacent to the Parkway.

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park — ideal for combining nature time with your distillery visit.

• Sugarlands Distilling Company — another great moonshine experience just down the Parkway.

FAQs About Visiting Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

Do I need to book a tour in advance?
Reservations are recommended for guided tours, especially during peak season, but walk-ins are often accepted for tasting and retail visit.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children can accompany adult visitors but cannot participate in alcohol tastings.

Is the distilling process active/visible during the tour?
Yes — visitors may see live production equipment, though the extent of visible activity may vary by day and schedule.

What’s included in the tasting?
Typically a variety of moonshine flavors and whiskey samples are available for tasting for guests 21+.

Is photography allowed on site?
Yes, photography is allowed in most guest areas; for behind-the-scenes zones, staff may restrict cameras for safety reasons.