If you like roadside attractions that are a little weird (in the best possible way), visit the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum in Gatlinburg, TN.
The museum calls itself the world’s only salt and pepper shaker museum and boasts a collection of more than 20,000 sets from around the world.
Getting there
Getting to the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is simple enough for RV travelers already headed toward the Smokies. From Pigeon Forge, head toward Gatlinburg. Turn left at Stop Light #3 on Hwy 321. Then, go up the hill about half a mile to Winery Square.
The museum’s address is 461 Brookside Village Way in Gatlinburg. Hours of operation run Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Note: Check Facebook for unexpected closures.
What you’ll see
Inside the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, visitors can expect to see shelves upon shelves of salt and pepper shakers that range from tiny novelty figures to themed sets and more traditional designs. Yes, 20,000 pairs of them!
The museum’s collection highlights the way these everyday table items became collectible art. You’ll see sets in all kinds of colors, shapes, and materials.
For RVers, this stop works especially well because it’s quick, inexpensive, and easy to pair with a bigger Gatlinburg day. The tourism office encourages visitors to use the free trolley to easily get around this bustling area.
More to see and do
In addition to the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, consider a visit to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Anakeesta, and Ober Mountain.
Or visit the Gatlinburg SkyPark and the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. This area offers lots to see and enjoy.
Places to stay
If you need a nearby place to park your rig, here are some good choices:
• Twin Creek RV Resort is inside the Gatlinburg city limits. It borders Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers trolley service to Gatlinburg and Dollywood.
• Greenbrier Campground has RV sites with full hookups, Wi-Fi, cable, pull-through sites, and riverfront spots along the Little Pigeon River.
• Adventure Bound Gatlinburg sits on Highway 321 just minutes from the park entrance and provides a pool, a 500-foot waterslide, and a fishing pond.
You should go!
The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is a fun (and quirky) stop for RVers visiting Gatlinburg, TN. The modest admission fee and huge one-of-a-kind collection make this museum a memorable place for RVers to visit.
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RVT1262
Thank you for the information, Gail. I had no idea that this museum existed or was so near us. Don’t get to Gatlinburg often — tend to leave it to the tourists — but will try to remember it is there when we are next there. Have a great day and safe travels!