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    1. Local experiences/
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    5. Cades Cove Heritage Bus Tour

    The very best experiences curated by local experts

    Best local prices
    Flexible cancellations
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    Cades Cove Heritage Bus Tour

    Discover the rich history and spot wildlife aboard a comfortable, ADA-compliant bus

    From$47/ person

    Duration

    3–4 hrs

    Ideal For

    Up to 14 people

    Includes

    Guided bus tour, Museum admission

    Highlights

    Explore the storied past of Cades Cove on a guided bus tour through the Great Smoky Mountains. Your knowledgeable guide shares local history and family tales while you watch for wildlife along the scenic loop.

    1. Ride in an ADA-compliant bus with panoramic windows
    2. Hear stories of pioneer families and local culture
    3. Spot black bears, deer, and other native wildlife
    4. Enjoy complimentary entry to the museum and village
    5. Bring snacks and non-alcoholic drinks for the ride

    What's Included

    1. Guided bus tour
    2. Admission to the museum and heritage village

    Things to know

    The bus seats up to 14 guests, and advance notice is required if you need the handicap lift.

    Cancellation policy

    Cancellation terms vary for this tour; if a refund is issued, credit card processing fees are non-refundable.

    Meeting location

    Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center - 123 Cromwell Dr, Townsend, TN 37882

    Experience provided by Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center
    Experience provided by Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #TNM469

    Adult

    $47

    Ages 13+

    0

    Child

    $34

    Ages 5-12

    0

    Child 3 and Under

    $0

    Ages 3 and Younger

    0

    Handpicked for you, so you can book with confidence

    • Best local prices

    • Flexible cancellation

    • Private and secure

    Each booking directly supports small businesses in our community.

    4.7 stars• 1.1K reviews

    Review summary

    4.7
    Excellent
    1.1K reviews•Google Maps

    Visitors consistently praise the friendly and welcoming staff who create an inviting atmosphere at this cultural attraction. The educational exhibits showcase Native American artifacts and Appalachian history through indoor displays and historic buildings you can explore. People appreciate the thoughtful curation, including efforts to repatriate native items, and the well-stocked gift shop with quality merchandise. The experience resonates particularly with those who have personal connections to the region's heritage, with guests mentioning how the displays bring back memories of their grandparents' way of life. It's an easy, low-key stop that doesn't require a huge time commitment but offers genuine insight into the area's cultural background. The outdoor historic structures add dimension to the indoor exhibits, giving you a fuller picture of traditional mountain life. Overall, it's a charming local museum that punches above its weight with informative displays and genuinely kind staff who seem passionate about sharing the region's story.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    First of all , I highly recommend pairing this visit with a drive through Cades Cove...made the perfect day trip . The museum and gift shop areas are very nice . Lots to see and read throughout the building and I feel it's just enough to hold the interest of younger children while also being informative and thought provoking for teens and adults . The tour of the outside structures are probably better suited for a cooler day ...but if you really want to have an authentic experience and see just how it felt living and working without electricity I highly suggest a visit in July .

    Photo of Rachel Rucker

    Rachel Rucker

    August 8, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    First of all , I highly recommend pairing this visit with a drive through Cades Cove...made the perfect day trip . The museum and gift shop areas are very nice . Lots to see and read throughout the building and I feel it's just enough to hold the interest of younger children while also being informative and thought provoking for teens and adults . The tour of the outside structures are probably better suited for a cooler day ...but if you really want to have an authentic experience and see just how it felt living and working without electricity I highly suggest a visit in July .

    Photo of Rachel Rucker

    Rachel Rucker

    August 8, 2025

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