Searching for all the most effective sights in Jewel of the Smokies? Our information to all the most effective issues to do in Gatlinburg, TN is all you want!
In case you’re itching for an unforgettable escape into the guts of the Smoky Mountains, look no additional than Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Nestled amidst the breathtaking great thing about the Smokies, this charming city is a treasure trove of experiences ready to be found.
On this journey weblog submit, we’re diving deep into all of the unbelievable issues to do in Gatlinburg TN, from exploring iconic Gatlinburg sights to embarking on epic adventures like a go to to Ober Gatlinburg and a scenic drive alongside the Cades Cove Loop Highway.
Gatlinburg is the type of place that beckons each nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. It’s a city the place you can begin your day surrounded by the serene great thing about the Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park and finish it with an exciting trip down a mountain coaster at Ober Gatlinburg.
Whether or not you’re an out of doors fanatic seeking to conquer mountaineering trails or a fan of arts and crafts able to discover the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Neighborhood, there’s one thing right here for everybody.
So, fasten your seatbelts (or mountaineering boots!), as a result of we’re about to take you on a whirlwind tour of the most effective that Gatlinburg has to supply.
The Greatest Issues to Do in Gatlinburg
These are 21 of the top-recommended issues to do in Gatlinburg, TN!
One of the simplest ways to get round is to hire a automobile and discover by yourself! We suggest Rental Automobiles, which has the most important vary of autos for the most effective worth in the marketplace.
1. Discover Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park
Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park, nestled within the coronary heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a fascinating haven for nature lovers and outside lovers alike. As probably the most visited nationwide park in america, it boasts a spectacular tapestry of pure wonders, from lush forests and cascading waterfalls to ample wildlife and panoramic vistas.
Guests can embark on a myriad of adventures, together with mountaineering alongside a community of pristine trails, picnicking in serene meadows, and capturing the ethereal great thing about dawn and sundown over mist-shrouded peaks. With its wealthy biodiversity, the park additionally provides alternatives for wildlife recognizing, equivalent to black bears, deer, and a various array of chook species.
Whether or not you’re searching for an invigorating outside expertise or a serene escape into the tranquility of the Smokies, this iconic nationwide park provides a timeless retreat for all who wander its breathtaking landscapes.
2. Take a Scenic Drive Via Cades Cove
Cades Cove, a fascinating gem inside the Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park, is a must-visit attraction for these searching for the quintessential issues to do in Gatlinburg expertise. This scenic valley, surrounded by rolling mountains, lures guests with its lush meadows, historic buildings, and an abundance of wildlife.
Whether or not you embark on a leisurely drive or go for a motorbike trip alongside the 11-mile loop highway, you’re certain to come across white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and maybe even a glimpse of an impressive black bear. The Cove additionally provides quite a few mountaineering trails, permitting vacationers to immerse themselves within the park’s pure magnificence.
It’s a spot the place historical past, nature, and tranquility converge, making it a cherished vacation spot for these searching for an genuine Gatlinburg expertise within the coronary heart of the Smokies.
Learn Subsequent: Try all of those enjoyable issues to do in close by Pigeon Forge!
3. Benefit from the Thrill of Anakeesta Journey Park
Anakeesta, perched atop a mountain in Gatlinburg, is a fascinating journey park that invitations guests to embark on a journey into the guts of the Nice Smoky Mountains. Accessible through an aerial tramway or a scenic chairlift, this mountaintop oasis provides a big selection of sights and actions for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Guests can discover the treetop cover stroll, referred to as the “Treetop Skywalk,” and stroll among the many lush forest cover on suspension bridges. The park additionally boasts a mountain coaster, ziplining adventures, a botanical backyard, and scenic eating choices with mountain vistas.
With its fascinating mix of pure magnificence and thrilling outside experiences, Anakeesta gives a memorable and immersive mountain journey for all who enterprise to this lofty retreat in Gatlinburg.
4. Go Mountain climbing
Whether or not you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice adventurer, Gatlinburg’s mountaineering trails cater to all ranges of expertise and supply a fascinating approach to join with the pure splendor of the Smokies.
Mountain climbing in Gatlinburg is a cherished pastime, and the area boasts a plethora of exceptional trails for outside lovers to discover. Amongst these, the Alum Cave Path, resulting in the beautiful Alum Cave Bluffs, stands out for its breathtaking surroundings.
One other favourite, the Laurel Falls Path, provides an accessible hike culminating in views of the picturesque Laurel Falls, making it a fantastic alternative for households. For these searching for a tougher trek, the Clingmans Dome Path results in the best level within the Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park, rewarding hikers with unparalleled panoramic vistas.
Proper inside Gatlinburg itself, the aptly named Gatlinburg Path provides a scenic, leisurely hike alongside the river, offering a handy and delightful escape into nature proper from the guts of city.
Learn Subsequent: Don’t miss out on our listing of superior issues to do in Knoxville!
5. Go to Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is a fascinating mountain resort and amusement park nestled within the coronary heart of the Nice Smoky Mountains, providing an array of year-round actions and sights.
Throughout the winter season, it transforms right into a winter wonderland with alternatives for snowboarding and snowboarding, whereas the remainder of the yr, guests can take pleasure in an aerial tramway trip that provides panoramic views of the encompassing mountains. The resort additionally boasts an indoor ice skating rink, an alpine slide, a wildlife encounter, and quite a few retailers and eating places.
Ober Gatlinburg gives not solely thrilling outside adventures but additionally a comfy mountain retreat environment, making it a flexible vacation spot for vacationers searching for each pleasure and rest within the scenic setting of Gatlinburg.
6. Go to the Prime of Gatlinburg Area Needle
The Gatlinburg Area Needle is an iconic attraction that stands tall within the coronary heart of Gatlinburg, providing guests breathtaking panoramic views of the encompassing Nice Smoky Mountains and the charming city itself.
This 407-foot tall commentary tower gives an unparalleled vantage level from its enclosed glass commentary deck, making it a must-visit vacation spot for these searching for a chook’s-eye perspective of Gatlinburg’s beautiful panorama.
Whether or not you select to go to through the day to admire the plush greenery or choose for a night go to to witness the city’s glowing lights, the Gatlinburg Area Needle gives a memorable expertise and a singular alternative to understand the pure magnificence and vibrant environment of this beloved mountain city.
7. Discover Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a mesmerizing aquatic wonderland that beckons guests to discover the mysteries of the deep within the coronary heart of Gatlinburg. Dwelling to a various array of marine life, this world-class attraction options interactive reveals, underwater tunnels, and fascinating shows that showcase the wonder and variety of ocean ecosystems.
From the colourful coral reefs to the mesmerizing jellyfish and the awe-inspiring shark tunnel, the aquarium provides a fascinating academic expertise for guests of all ages.
It’s not simply a chance to watch marine life up shut but additionally an opportunity to study conservation efforts and the significance of preserving these fragile ecosystems. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-visit attraction in Gatlinburg TN, promising a memorable and immersive journey into the underwater world.
8. Be Amazed at Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook
The Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is a wide ranging spot that encapsulates the pure great thing about the Nice Smoky Mountains. Perched excessive above town, this vantage level provides guests sweeping, panoramic views of the majestic mountains, lush forests, and the charming city of Gatlinburg under.
It’s a picture-perfect location for capturing beautiful pictures, significantly throughout dawn and sundown when the surroundings is bathed in comfortable, golden gentle.
Whether or not you’re an out of doors fanatic, a nature lover, or just searching for a serene place to absorb the awe-inspiring vistas, the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is a must-visit vacation spot that may depart you with a deep appreciation for the beautiful landscapes of the Smoky Mountains area.
Associated: Spend a couple of days in Nashville with our listing of all the finest issues to do in Nashville!
9. Discover Downtown Gatlinburg
Downtown Gatlinburg is the guts and soul of this charming mountain city, providing a pleasant array of issues to do in Gatlinburg. As you wander by means of its bustling streets, you’ll discover a vibrant tapestry of outlets, eating places, and sights that cater to each traveler’s pursuits.
From memento retailers and artwork galleries to mouthwatering eateries serving up Southern delicacies and candy treats, there’s one thing for everybody to take pleasure in.
Whether or not you’re searching for distinctive items, scrumptious meals, or just a stroll to soak within the environment, downtown Gatlinburg is the proper place to start out your journey on this picturesque nook of the Nice Smoky Mountains.
The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Neighborhood is a singular and charming vacation spot that showcases the skills of native artisans and craftsmen. Spanning an 8-mile loop highway, this historic neighborhood is the most important group of unbiased artisans in North America.
Guests can discover all kinds of galleries, studios, and retailers, every providing a various vary of handmade and one-of-a-kind creations. From pottery and jewellery to work and woodwork, the Arts & Crafts Neighborhood gives a chance to find and buy genuine Appalachian arts and crafts.
The neighborhood’s wealthy historical past and dedication to preserving conventional craftsmanship make it a fascinating and culturally enriching expertise for these searching for domestically made treasures and a glimpse into the inventive heritage of Gatlinburg.
11. Go Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting close to Gatlinburg provides adventurers the thrilling expertise of conquering the wild rapids of the Pigeon River whereas surrounded by the beautiful great thing about the mountains.
Whether or not you’re a novice searching for a leisurely float or an skilled rafter on the lookout for an adrenaline rush, the Pigeon River provides a spread of rafting choices appropriate for all ability ranges. Skilled guides lead expeditions by means of the river’s exhilarating twists and turns, offering each security and leisure with their data of the world’s historical past and ecology.
The mix of dashing waters and picturesque mountain surroundings makes whitewater rafting in Gatlinburg an unforgettable outside journey for anybody searching for a refreshing and adrenaline-pumping expertise within the coronary heart of the Smokies.
12. Go to the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum
The Gatlinburg Pinball Museum is a unbelievable vacation spot for each pinball lovers and informal avid gamers searching for nostalgic enjoyable. This interactive museum permits guests to step again in time and luxuriate in a big selection of classic and fashionable pinball machines, all set to free play.
The gathering spans a long time and contains machines that showcase the evolution of pinball artwork, design, and gameplay. Whether or not you’re a seasoned pinball wizard or a novice seeking to strive your hand at this traditional arcade sport, the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum provides a singular and entertaining expertise.
It’s a spot the place you possibly can relive the nostalgia of arcades whereas appreciating the craftsmanship and historical past behind these iconic machines.
13. Expertise a Thrilling Trip Down Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster
The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is an exciting trip that provides an additional dose of pleasure to the listing of issues to do in Gatlinburg. This distinctive coaster is ready amidst the picturesque east Tennessee mountains, permitting riders to regulate their velocity as they twist and switch down the mountain.
The coaster’s monitor is fantastically illuminated at night time, making a mesmerizing spectacle as you zoom by means of the forested slopes. Whether or not you’re searching for an adrenaline rush or a memorable household journey, the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster gives an unforgettable expertise that mixes the joys of a curler coaster with the scenic great thing about the encompassing panorama, making it a must-visit attraction for guests of all ages.
14. Go to the Hollywood Star Automobiles Museum
The Hollywood Star Automobiles Museum in Gatlinburg is an absolute must-visit for movie lovers and automobile aficionados alike. This fascinating museum boasts a powerful assortment of iconic automobiles from the world of cinema and tv, making it a memorable attraction in Gatlinburg.
From the Batmobile to the DeLorean from “Again to the Future” and the long-lasting Common Lee from “The Dukes of Hazzard,” guests can rise up shut to those well-known autos, taking photographs and marveling at their cinematic historical past.
It’s not only a deal with for the eyes but additionally a nostalgic journey by means of the memorable moments of Hollywood, making the Hollywood Star Automobiles Museum an enticing and entertaining cease for vacationers exploring the Gatlinburg space.
15. Take a Scenic Chairlift Trip at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is a fascinating and scenic attraction that ranks excessive on the listing of issues to do in Gatlinburg. Providing a wide ranging perspective of the Smoky Mountains, this park is famend for its iconic chairlift trip, which carries guests to the summit for unparalleled panoramic views.
The spotlight of the park is the SkyBridge, one of many longest pedestrian suspension bridges in North America, offering an exhilarating stroll amid the treetops.
With alternatives for mountaineering, photograph ops, and an enthralling mountain-top café, Gatlinburg SkyLift Park guarantees an entire mountain expertise that immerses vacationers within the pure great thing about the Smokies whereas providing a style of journey and serenity concurrently.
16. Discover the Mysterious Mansion
The Mysterious Mansion in Gatlinburg is a spine-tingling attraction that beckons to those that search an exciting and spooky journey. This haunted home provides a suspenseful and eerie expertise as guests navigate its dimly lit corridors and encounter a myriad of surprises and mysteries alongside the way in which.
With its atmospheric setting, creepy particular results, and surprising scares, the Mysterious Mansion creates an unforgettable journey into the realm of the supernatural. Whether or not you’re a fan of horror or simply seeking to check your bravery, a go to to this mysterious mansion is certain to supply a hair-raising expertise that provides an additional layer of pleasure to your Gatlinburg itinerary.
17. Pattern Moonshine
Moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg Tn is a pleasant and flavorful journey that introduces guests to the wealthy historical past of this iconic Appalachian spirit. Gatlinburg is residence to a number of famend moonshine distilleries, equivalent to Ole Smoky Moonshine and Sugarlands Distilling Firm, the place friends can pattern a big selection of moonshine flavors and conventional Appalachian spirits.
From candy and fruity concoctions to traditional corn whiskey, the tastings supply an opportunity to savor the distinct flavors and craftsmanship behind every batch. Past the tastings, guests can discover the distilleries, be taught concerning the moonshining course of, and even buy bottles of their favourite moonshine to take residence as souvenirs.
Moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg not solely gives a memorable tasting expertise but additionally provides a glimpse into the area’s historical past and the enduring Appalachian custom of distilling spirits.
Learn Subsequent: Try these different nice issues to do in Tennessee!
18. Play Hillbilly Golf
Hillbilly Golf is a one-of-a-kind attraction in Gatlinburg that provides a pleasant and quirky tackle mini golf. Located on a mountainside, this distinctive course is a standout among the many many sights in Gatlinburg.
Gamers can navigate two distinct and difficult programs adorned with inventive obstacles that pay homage to the Appalachian heritage of the area.
Surrounded by lush greenery and boasting scenic mountain views, guests can experience a spherical of mini golf that mixes leisure and hillbilly allure, making it a memorable and entertaining choice for these on the lookout for issues to do in Gatlinburg.
Whether or not you’re a seasoned mini-golfer or a first-timer, Hillbilly Golf guarantees a enjoyable and kooky expertise that units it aside from the same old vacationer actions within the space.
19. Hop on the Gatlinburg Trolley
Whether or not you’re seeking to discover the city with out the effort of parking or just need to take pleasure in a soothing trip by means of the mountains, the Gatlinburg Trolley system gives a handy and fulfilling approach to expertise the world’s magnificence and sights.
The Gatlinburg Trolley system is a handy and scenic approach to discover the charming city of Gatlinburg and its surrounding sights. With a number of trolley routes out there, guests can simply navigate the city and attain numerous factors of curiosity, together with well-liked locations just like the Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park and Ober Gatlinburg.
The trolleys usually are not solely a sensible technique of transportation but additionally supply a leisurely manner to absorb the picturesque mountain surroundings and the bustling streets of Gatlinburg.
20. Take Some Scenic Drives
Scenic drives are an integral part of the Gatlinburg expertise, and the area provides a number of the most breathtaking routes for vacationers to discover. The Newfound Hole Highway, traversing by means of the guts of the Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park, is a beloved route, offering beautiful vistas and entry to quite a few mountaineering trails.
One other gem is the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Path, which winds by means of lush forests and provides the possibility to watch the park’s various natural world up shut. These scenic drives usually are not simply concerning the vacation spot but additionally the journey, permitting guests to soak within the pure great thing about the Smokies at a leisurely tempo.
No matter whether or not you’re chasing autumn foliage, hoping to catch glimpses of wildlife, or just searching for tranquility amidst nature, these drives in Gatlinburg promise a memorable and immersive expertise within the coronary heart of the Smoky Mountains.
21. Store at Gatlinburg Mountain Mall
The Gatlinburg Mountain Mall is a client’s paradise within the coronary heart of downtown Gatlinburg, providing a various and enchanting retail expertise that ranks excessive among the many many issues to do in Gatlinburg.
This multi-level purchasing advanced is a treasure trove of souvenirs, artisanal crafts, jewellery, attire, and extra. With its rustic Appalachian ambiance and over 30 distinctive retailers, the Mountain Mall is a haven for these searching for mementos of their Tennessee journey.
Guests can peruse an array of domestically made items, artwork, and collectibles whereas soaking within the mountain-inspired environment, making it a must-visit vacation spot for anybody exploring Gatlinburg’s charming streets.
The place to Keep in Gatlinburg, TN
Listed below are a couple of of our top-recommended locations to remain in Gatlinburg, TN.
Excessive-Finish Luxurious Resort: The Park Vista – a DoubleTree by Hilton Resort Gatlinburg
Positioned on a hill overlooking the city of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains, The Park Vista provides each luxurious and comfort. The resort options modern rooms with panoramic mountain views, an indoor pool with a water slide, a health middle, and an on-site restaurant.
It’s a superb alternative for vacationers searching for upscale lodging close to Gatlinburg’s sights.
Mid-Vary Household Lodging: Hilton Backyard Inn Gatlinburg
Positioned within the coronary heart of Gatlinburg, this mid-range resort provides fashionable and comfy lodging appropriate for households. The resort gives spacious rooms with mini-fridges and microwaves, making it handy for households. Facilities embrace an indoor pool, a health middle, and an on-site restaurant.
Its central location gives easy accessibility to Gatlinburg’s sights, retailers, and eating choices.
Finances Hostel/Resort: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Gatlinburg
This budget-friendly resort provides comfy rooms with fashionable facilities, together with flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Visitors can take pleasure in a complimentary continental breakfast to start out their day. The resort is situated close to Gatlinburg’s downtown space, offering easy accessibility to sights, eating places, and retailers.
Wrapping Up
As we wrap up this journey by means of the charming city of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, it’s clear that this place is a real gem for vacationers searching for an ideal mix of nature, pleasure, and distinctive experiences. We’ve lined an array of Gatlinburg sights, from the awe-inspiring great thing about Cades Cove Loop Highway to the exhilarating adventures at Ober Gatlinburg.
However Gatlinburg additionally surprises with its quirky aspect, providing guests an opportunity to bask in some uncommon mini-golf, like on the Hillbilly Golf course, experiences which might be positive to depart you smiling.
So, whether or not you’re a nature fanatic exploring the wonders of the Nice Smoky Mountains, a thrill-seeker driving the Gatlinburg Area Needle, or just seeking to unwind with some eccentric mini-golf, Gatlinburg has one thing particular in retailer for you.
It’s a city that effortlessly combines the grandeur of the nice outdoor with the joy of distinctive sights, making it an unforgettable vacation spot for anybody seeking enjoyable, journey, and a contact of the surprising. So, pack your baggage, carry your sense of surprise, and prepare to discover all of the unimaginable issues to do in Gatlinburg, TN – a spot the place the extraordinary meets the extraordinary!
DISCLAIMER: A number of the hyperlinks on this article are affiliate hyperlinks, which implies when you ebook lodging, excursions or purchase a product, we’ll obtain a small fee at no further price to you. These commissions assist us maintain creating extra free journey content material to assist folks plan their holidays and adventures. We solely suggest the most effective lodging, excursions and merchandise that ourselves or our unbelievable editorial workforce have personally skilled, and commonly evaluation these. Thanks to your assist, type pal!