In the United States alone, over 10 billion donuts are consumed each year! As our love for these delicious pastries grows, so does the number of mom and pop donut shops around the Nation. With that rise in doughy delights we decided to break down our choices for the top 5 local donut shops in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.

Donut Friar – Gatlinburg Favorite since 1969!

Hidden away in the Village Shopping Center in Downtown Gatlinburg, you’ll find this adorable little cafe that has been serving up fresh donuts to locals and tourists alike since 1969. Donut Friar is famous for offering these tasty treats at an unbelievably affordable price! Their donuts range in price between $0.97 and $1.14, making them cheaper than corporate donut chains! Your visit to the Smokies won’t be complete without a visit to Donut Friar, and be sure to try their world renown Cinnamon Bread before it sells out!

Mad Dog’s Creamery & Donuts – Most Unique!

Here you’ll find almost 30 different flavors of house specialties, yeast donuts, and filled donuts. Mad Dog’s Creamery and Donuts not only offers some of the most mouth watering and flavorful donuts, but they also offer an array of goodies for your furry companion! Mad Dogs also serves up all natural, gourmet dog treats in the shape of donuts and ice cream cones so Fido can feel special too! You can check out Mad Dog’s in Gatlinburg (731 E Parkway) or in Pigeon Forge (3048 Parkway).  

Courthouse Donuts – Best Flavor Assortment!

Located directly across the street from the Sevier County Courthouse, you’ll find an assortment of homemade donuts that are so delightful they should be illegal! Courthouse Donuts is special, because the donuts are made to order so each customer gets their “perfect donut”! You start with a freshly cooked donut base made from the Dyer family’s secret recipe – then choose your coating (chocolate, vanilla, or glazed). After your donut is generously coated, you get to choose from a wide variety of toppings like crushed oreo cookies or butterfinger pieces! Lastly, you can add a saucy drizzle of marshmallow creme, caramel, and etcetera. Courthouse Donuts lets you be as eccentric or as basic as you want, making it perfect for our ever changing moods!

Doc’s Donuts – Best View and Seating Area!

Doc’s Donuts is located in Wears Valley and offers a unique twist on the classic donut. Doc’s offers fresh baked donuts made from a specialty recipe using potato flour. Not only does Doc’s offer a wide selection of tasty donuts, they also have a super cozy indoor  lounge and seating area, making Doc’s the ideal spot if you’re trying to be a little productive. For those warmer days be sure to check out their patio seating, which offers a stunning view of Cove Mountain!

Maypop’s – Favorite Cake Donuts!

Last but certainly not least, we have a staple in the heart of Gatlinburg. Right next to Sweet! Candy Company, you’ll find the illustrious Maypops. Before you even spot the vibrant blue and pink building, you’ll be able to smell the sweet and savory aromas for blocks! Maypops is famous for their maple bacon, Red Velvet Cake, and Blueberry Cake donuts! If you’re in the mood for something a little heavier before dessert, they even offer Giant Turkey Legs!