Discover the Sugarlands Distilling Company Tour in Tennessee

Step inside one of Gatlinburg’s most popular craft distilleries and experience how authentic Appalachian moonshine and spirits are made. At Sugarlands Distilling Company, visitors explore the stillhouse, learn the step-by-step production process and enjoy lively, guided tastings featuring their famous moonshines, Sippin’ Creams and small-batch whiskeys. The tour blends tradition with a fun, modern atmosphere right in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

Why it’s special:
Sugarlands is one of the highest-visited distilleries in Tennessee, known for its creative flavor lineup, award-winning spirits and energetic tasting bar. The distillery combines hands-on sampling, behind-the-scenes access and Appalachian storytelling, making it a memorable experience for spirit lovers and curious travelers alike.

History/Story of Sugarlands Distilling Company

Sugarlands Distilling Company opened its doors in 2014 with the goal of honoring the region’s long-standing moonshine heritage while bringing modern craft distilling to downtown Gatlinburg. Inspired by the traditional methods of Appalachian bootleggers, the company mixes old-fashioned techniques with innovation to create moonshines, cream liqueurs, vodka and whiskey. In just a few years, Sugarlands grew into a major craft brand, attracting large crowds, winning multiple awards and becoming a key destination for visitors exploring the Smoky Mountains.

What You’ll See & Do at Sugarlands Distilling Company

• Tour the stillhouse and see how grain, mash and vapor become moonshine and whiskey

• Learn each stage of production, from fermentation to distillation to bottling

• Sample a wide variety of moonshine flavors, Sippin’ Creams and whiskeys during a guided tasting

• Enjoy premium offerings like cocktail flights and mixology-focused experiences

• Shop exclusive spirits, merchandise and seasonal flavors in the distillery’s general store

• Relax in the back-porch cocktail bar overlooking the distillery space

Hands-On Elements: Guided tastings with multiple samples, interactive demonstrations of the distilling process and optional cocktail-making experiences.
Photo/Video Policy: Photos are welcome in visitor and tasting areas; some production zones may restrict photography for safety.
Souvenirs & Extras: Exclusive bottlings, branded merchandise, seasonal flavors, tasting-room apparel and gift items.

Pricing of the Sugarlands Distilling Company Tour

Tastings & Experiences:

• Basic tasting (multiple flavors): Around $5

• Whiskey or enhanced tastings: Around $10

• Premium cocktail flight & behind-the-scenes experience: Approximately $27+

• General entry to the facility and store: Free
  Group Tours: Available with advance reservation.

Practical Info for Visiting Sugarlands Distilling Company

Duration: 45–75 minutes depending on tasting or tour type
Format: Guided tastings, guided behind-the-scenes tours and premium cocktail experiences
Schedule & Seasonality: Open daily from morning through late evening; closed on Christmas Day with reduced hours on select holidays
Audience: Adults 21+ for tastings; families and under-21 visitors welcome for tours and retail
Accessibility: Mostly accessible but includes mixed indoor/outdoor terrain; some production areas have mobility limitations
Safety & Restrictions: Valid ID required for tastings; minors permitted but may not consume alcohol
Languages: English
Group & School Visits: Group visits and private tastings available with advance arrangement
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable footwear, weather-appropriate clothing and a valid ID for 21+
Facilities: Visitor center, tasting bar, restrooms, retail store, cocktail porch and nearby parking
Closures & Downtime: Closed Christmas Day; occasional special-event closures

Nearby

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park — trails, overlooks and scenic drives

• Ole Smoky Distillery — another popular Gatlinburg moonshine experience

• Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies — family-friendly attraction in downtown Gatlinburg

FAQs About Visiting Sugarlands Distilling Company

Do I need to book in advance?
Walk-ins are welcome for most tastings, but premium experiences are best reserved in advance.

Can children visit the distillery?
Yes. Children may join the tour and visit the retail area but cannot participate in tastings.

How many samples are included in a tasting?
Basic tastings generally include a dozen or more moonshine and cream liqueur samples.

Is photography allowed?
Yes, in most public and tasting areas; some production spaces may have restrictions.

Is the distillery open year-round?
Yes, with extended hours most of the year and reduced hours on select holidays.