Where You Can (and Can’t) Buy Alcohol in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge & Sevierville
One of the most common questions we hear is:
“Can I buy alcohol here?”
Sevier County operates under unique alcohol laws, and rules can change depending on whether you’re in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Sevierville. To make it easy, we’ve broken down exactly where you can buy alcohol, what types are available, and what restrictions to know in each city. According to the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) and local city ordinances, alcohol availability and retail sales differ by municipality within Sevier County.
Quick Overview: Why the Rules Are Different
Sevier County is considered a “dry county,” meaning alcohol sales are limited outside of city limits. However, individual cities within the county have passed their own ordinances allowing certain types of alcohol sales. That’s why availability can vary from one town to the next.
Gatlinburg: The Most Flexible Option
Gatlinburg offers the widest access to alcohol purchases in the Smokies.
Where You Can Buy Alcohol in Gatlinburg
- Liquor/package stores (spirits, wine, and beer to-go)
- Grocery and convenience stores (beer and wine)
- Bars, breweries, and restaurants (beer, wine, and cocktails)
- Wineries
- Distilleries (moonshine & cider)
What You Can’t Do
- Carry open alcoholic beverages on public streets or sidewalks
- Buy packaged liquor on certain major holidays (such as Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter)
Bottom line: If you’re looking to purchase bottles of liquor or wine to take back to your cabin or hotel, Gatlinburg is your best bet.
Pigeon Forge: Drinks On-Site, Limited Retail
Pigeon Forge allows alcohol sales primarily for on-site consumption.
Where You Can Buy Alcohol in Pigeon Forge
- Restaurants, breweries and bars (beer, wine, and mixed drinks)
- Grocery and convenience stores (beer & wine)
- Distilleries (moonshine & spirits)
- Bottles of wine from wineries
What You Can’t Buy in Pigeon Forge
- Packaged liquor (spirits)
- Bottles of wine from retail liquor stores
If you want bottles of liquor or wine to take with you, you’ll need to drive to Gatlinburg or Sevierville.
Sevierville: Retail Sales Allowed
Sevierville has expanded alcohol sales in recent years.
Where You Can Buy Alcohol in Sevierville
- Liquor/package stores (spirits, wine, and beer)
- Grocery and convenience stores (beer and wine)
- Restaurants, bars, and breweries
Bottom line: Sevierville and Gatlinburg are currently the two cities where you can purchase packaged liquor within city limits.
General Tennessee Alcohol Rules (Apply to All Three Cities)
- Must be 21 years or older to purchase or consume alcohol
- Liquor stores typically operate 8 AM–11 PM (Sunday hours may vary)
- Bars and restaurants may serve alcohol until 3 AM, depending on licensing
- No public open containers outside licensed establishments
Individual businesses may choose to close earlier than state limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I buy liquor in Pigeon Forge?
No. Pigeon Forge does not currently allow sales of liquor & wine in a traditional package store, however, sales of wine are allowed at wineries and spirits are allowed at distilleries.
Can I bring alcohol into my cabin or hotel?
Yes. Alcohol that is legally purchased may be consumed on private property, including cabins, hotels, and vacation rentals.
Can I drink alcohol in public in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
No. Open containers are prohibited on sidewalks, streets, and most public areas.
Do grocery stores sell wine in all three cities?
Yes, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville grocery stores may sell beer and wine.
Final Tip for Visitors
If you plan to enjoy drinks at your cabin, hotel, or rental, stop in Gatlinburg or Sevierville first to pick up what you need. If you’re dining out in Pigeon Forge, you’ll still find plenty of restaurants and attractions that serve alcohol — just not traditional retail liquor stores.
Disclaimer
Alcohol laws and city ordinances can change. Visitors should always verify hours, availability, and current regulations with individual businesses or local authorities.
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