I recall going around the town of gatlinberg
It is beyond me that people go to fantastic destinations to go to shops. I always wonder where they live that they can’t go shopping
Such as Berkshires, people go there to go to the little outlet mall.
In general, shopping is at the bottom of my 'things to do on vacation' list. But I'm coming from a metro area that is known for shopping. However, something unique in a vacation area might be of interest. For example there is a 'Made in America' non-chain shop in Branson that was interesting and it was fun to talk with the owner. Local craft fairs can also be enjoyable.