tourist map of gatlinburg

Map of Gatlinburg — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Gatlinburg, Tennessee for travelers! Check out Gatlinburg’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Gatlinburg? See our Gatlinburg Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Gatlinburg. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Gatlinburg map:

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Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
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Top 18 attractions in Gatlinburg

Ripley's aquarium of the smokies, gatlinburg space needle.

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Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Days inn & suites by wyndham downtown gatlinburg parkway, the village shops, sugarlands distilling company, ole smoky distillery "the holler", tennessee shine co, ole smoky distillery "the barrelhouse", fowler's clay works, ripley's mountain coaster, sugarland cellars, gatlinburg scenic overlook, hollywood star cars museum, moonshine mountain coaster, gatlinburg skypark, ober mountain, tennessee cider company, top 10 restaurants in gatlinburg, the peddler steakhouse.

Wild Plum Tea Room

Pancake pantry, cherokee grill and steakhouse, smoky mountain brewery in gatlinburg, no way jose’s mexican cantina, best italian cafe & pizzeria in elks plaza, crockett's breakfast camp, log cabin pancake house, bennett's pit bar-b-que, transportation in gatlinburg, nearby airports, mcghee tyson airport, highways and major roads.

US Route 441
Parkway (US 441/321/73)
Great Smoky Mountains Expressway (TN 66)
Newfound Gap Road (US 441)
Little River Road (TN 73)
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (TN 73)
Ski Mountain Road
Cherokee Orchard Road
Historic Nature Trail
Upper Middle Creek Road

All road trips from Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg to New York City drive
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Gatlinburg to Cincinnati drive
Gatlinburg to Miami Beach drive
Gatlinburg to Williamsburg drive
Gatlinburg to Pittsburgh drive
Gatlinburg to Cleveland drive
Gatlinburg to Greenville drive

Explore nearby places

Pigeon Forge
the Wears Valley
the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Sevierville
Chestnut Hill
Bryson City
Fontana Dam
Strawberry Plains
Nantahala Township
the Maggie Valley

All related maps of Gatlinburg

Map of Pigeon Forge
Map of the Wears Valley
Map of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Map of Tremont
Map of Sevierville
Map of Townsend
Map of Cosby
Map of Walland
Map of Chestnut Hill
Map of Kodak
Map of Seymour
Map of Cherokee
Map of Bryson City
Map of Whittier
Map of Dandridge
Map of Hartford
Map of Almond
Map of Fontana Dam
Map of Rockford
Map of Newport
Map of Maryville
Map of Strawberry Plains
Map of Alcoa
Map of Baneberry
Map of Nantahala Township
Map of the Maggie Valley
Map of New Market
Map of Dillsboro
Map of Knoxville

Gatlinburg throughout the year

Gatlinburg in January
Gatlinburg in February
Gatlinburg in March
Gatlinburg in April
Gatlinburg in May
Gatlinburg in June
Gatlinburg in July
Gatlinburg in August
Gatlinburg in September
Gatlinburg in October
Gatlinburg in November
Gatlinburg in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Gatlinburg?

Get inspired for your trip to Gatlinburg with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

1-Day Gatlinburg Itinerary
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12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN

Written by Colin J. McMechan Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Arriving in Gatlinburg, you might wonder how a place so small could become so big. Gatlinburg is a popular tourist destination, and it's easy to figure out why. This town is the main point of entry to the most visited national park in the United States. Even with more than 12 million park visitors each year, the little town of Gatlinburg does everything possible to make you feel welcome.

Gatlinburg attracts many different types of tourists. If you like to shop and make the scene in a carnival-like atmosphere, get your kicks on the Gatlinburg Strip and ride the Space Needle for an eagle's view of the activity below.

Want more space with a broader perspective? Take a lift to Anakeesta, Ober Gatlinburg, or SkyLift Park and be dazzled by world-class theme parks way up in the sky. Move on up a little higher to the Top of Old Smoky on Clingmans Dome in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and you might decide that there's no need for heaven to wait!

Gatlinburg is a perfect escape for romantic couples, families seeking things to do, and individuals needing gear and supplies to prolong mountain adventures. It might come as a surprise that you become a different type of visitor than when you first arrived. Choose from our list of attractions and things to do in Gatlinburg.

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2. clingmans dome observation tower, 3. drive the cades cove loop road, 4. ripley's aquarium of the smokies, 5. anakeesta, 6. ober gatlinburg, 7. walk the gatlinburg strip and ride the space needle, 8. gatlinburg skylift and skybridge, 9. roaring fork motor nature trail, 10. visit the great smoky arts and craft community, 11. book an adventure at nantahala outdoor center, 12. hollywood star cars museum, where to stay in gatlinburg for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to gatlinburg and the smoky mountains, gatlinburg, tn - climate chart.

The Sugarlands Visitor Center of Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a creekside walk or shuttle bus ride away from Gatlinburg. This center and its attentive rangers will help you scout out all the things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park . If you are arriving from North Carolina, make a pitstop at the Oconoluftee Visitor Center, and watch for herds of elk who might be foraging.

With a map and directions, head out on a trail that is right for you. If driving is more your style, choose a scenic auto route. Some of the highest Smoky Mountain views are within an hour's drive of downtown.

Hiking on 900 miles of trails is the most popular activity in the park. Walk beside spring-fed creeks under the canopy of mixed deciduous and conifer trees. The park is home to more than 1,400 species of flowering plants, including mountain magnolias, wild azaleas, mountain laurels, orchids, and rhododendrons.

Wherever you go to set up camp, picnic, or fly fish, be sure to stop, look, and listen. These moments atop a mountain peak or beside a whitewater river will remain with you for the rest of your days.

Address: 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm

Clingmans Dome is the highest point in Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At 6,643 feet, the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower is a one-hour ascent by car from downtown. Sunrise and sunset on clear days are the best times to see views that span 100 miles over the misty mountains.

The observation tower rises 45 feet above Old Smoky to behold the panorama of Tennessee and neighboring Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Once you arrive at the Clingmans Dome parking lot, take the half-mile paved walkway to the base of the tower and follow the concrete ramp to the top. On the way up, you cross the world-renowned Appalachian Trail, which meanders all the way to Maine. Interpretation signs at the tower inform you about the peaks and towns below, including Gatlinburg.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/clingmansdome.htm

Head to Cades Cove Loop Road for a scenic drive or bicycle tour into the pastoral countryside of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Depending on the slow-moving traffic and number of stops you make, it can take two to four hours to complete the 11-mile journey . With more than two million visitors each year, plan to arrive early in the morning. The lineup can stretch for many miles, especially during the season of autumn leaves.

Once home to a community of settlers, the area draws tourists with its picturesque rural meadows, pioneer homesteads, churches, and mountain views. It's well-known for a hike to Abrams Falls. In addition to grazing horses, you are likely to see browsing deer and black bears.

Official site: https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/cadescove.htm

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies submerges you in a marine world where having fun is the focus of your underwater experience. Throughout your tour, you are surrounded by massive exhibits containing swimming creatures large and small. Ripley's Glass Bottom Boat Adventure presents sea life from a different perspective.

Many exhibits are interactive to enhance learning opportunities. This includes stepping into a see-through glass tunnel that provides a 360-degree view of sharks and other ocean predators swimming by. At the large shallow lagoon that is home to three species of stingrays, you can safely touch their backs as they swim close to the edge of the tank.

Visitors love to gather in the Penguin Playhouse for wildlife interactions. In the playhouse, go nose to beak with the curious residents of this penguin colony. Whether you connect with them above or below the water, it's a treat to gawk at each other!

Address: 88 River Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Official site: www.ripleyaquariums.com/gatlinburg

Anakeesta–the Cherokee word for "high ground"–is an award-winning theme park where you can spend a couple of hours or a whole day. Top attractions include the treetop skywalk and 880-foot skybridge hovering 50 feet above the 70-acre rainforest. Grab your partner and duke it out on the dueling zipline tour . Descend 1,600 feet on the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster.

Half the adventure is riding the Chondola to the 600-foot summit , where you disembark into a variety show of things to do. Throughout your visit, stop to admire the best view of the Smoky Mountains from downtown Gatlinburg. A cornucopia of nine food and drink outlets keeps you fueled for what's around the next bend.

Take a few moments in the Memorial Forest Walk to view photographs and read testimonials of residents who survived the Gatlinburg fire storm in 2016. Wander through the lush botanical Vista Gardens before climbing the AnaVista Tower . The tower's commanding view of Mount Le Conte in the Smoky Mountains is one of the rewards for reaching the highest point above downtown.

Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Official site: https://anakeesta.com/

Ober Gatlinburg is a ski resort and amusement park offering year-round recreation. The complex features a 30-minute chairlift to a scenic lookout, indoor ice-skating rink, ski runs, an alpine slide, mini golf, and Kiddie Land. Instead of driving the steep and twisty road to the top, hop aboard the two-mile Aerial Tramway to Ober Gatlinburg from downtown Gatlinburg.

The Wildlife Encounter area at Ober Gatlinburg provides viewing opportunities of black bears, river otters, and bobcats within habitat enclosures. A short trail leads to alpine meadows, wildflowers, and lookouts from Mount Harrison. At speeds up to 25 miles per hour, the Ski Mountain Coaster plummets through a half-mile of tight turns and rollercoaster dips.

Ober Gatlinburg needs no enhancements but here they are: seven restaurants and a multilevel concourse featuring 15 stores.

Address: 1339 Ski Mountain Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Official site: https://obergatlinburg.com/

Gatlinburg Strip and the Gatlinburg Space Needle

The Gatlinburg Strip is a mini version of the Las Vegas Strip that packs the mile-long corridor with amusements. In addition to places to stay, the strip is a crazy quilt of wax museums, escape games, arcades, axe-throwing competitions, craft demonstrations, candy workshops, carnival rides, and a gazillion stores in back alleyways. Every year, countless pizza slices and scoops of ice cream are consumed, and the upturned hats of music-making buskers are filled with dollar bills.

At any point along the strip, you'll spot the 407-foot Gatlinburg Space Needle piercing blue skies and starry nights. This is where the New Year's Eve Ball drops and the Pyrotechnics Show explodes. Two glass elevators lift visitors to the observation deck for unforgettable views.

Skylift Park includes the most thrilling walk in Gatlinburg, the Skybridge. The renowned Skylift is an open-air chairlift that transports you from the Gatlinburg Strip to the park atop Crockett Mountain. Skylift Park includes feats of engineering that place you in the sky above the gorgeous landscape that surrounds Gatlinburg.

SkyTrail combines three types of footpaths into one. From the SkyDeck , a cantilevered boardwalk is suspended off a cliff. The boardwalk ends where two rope bridges start, creating a gateway to four viewing platforms of the Tulip Tower. From here, a path follows the ridge to SkyPark's jewel in the crown: SkyBridge.

Vertigo-defying visitors step onto the SkyBridge to cross a 700-foot single span that is 500 feet above Gatlinburg . A 30-foot section of transparent glass in the middle of the bridge is all that separates you from the depths below. The bridge completes the loop that returns you to the SkyDeck.

Once you've caught your breath, re-fuel at the SkyCenter with its spectacular view of downtown and the Smoky Mountains beyond. Time your visit to celebrate the year-end Lights Over Gatlinburg event. Skylift staff string 60,000 bulbs to illuminate the park and create a 200-foot tunnel of light on the SkyBridge.

Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Official site: https://www.gatlinburgskylift.com/

Follow Old Cherokee Road out of downtown Gatlinburg to reach the start of the one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This loop road is one of the most popular drives when visitors come to the Smoky Mountains. With trailheads and historical pitstops along the narrow windy road, plan to spend hours completing the 5.5-mile loop.

Before heading out on the trail, pick up a copy of a booklet to the park's motor trails. Information about turn-of-the-century pioneer cabins, small-scale farming, and grist mills provide an intriguing historical backdrop to the glorious waterfalls, creeks, and old-growth you'll see along the way. Two of the most popular waterfalls in the park are accessed by hiking trails from the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: Rainbow Falls and Grotto Falls .

During your visit to Gatlinburg, you will notice many references to its community of artisans. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community represents the largest collection of independent artists in North America .

In an eight-mile loop east of Gatlinburg, you can connect with artists in their workshops and galleries and inspect their creations. Browse more than 100 shops if you're looking for gifts. Hop aboard the Gatlinburg Trolley and follow the yellow route. It covers the eight-mile Glades and Buckhorn Road loop, with stops at places to eat.

Official site: https://greatsmokyartsandcrafts.com/

White water rafting on the Ocoee River in Tennessee

The 18,000-square-foot Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is the largest and closest outfitter to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at the south end of the Gatlinburg Strip. Before heading out for a hike, check trail conditions at the front door.

Dating back to 1972, NOC is a pioneer in white water rafting tours and wilderness skills training. Consult with its outdoor guides for professional advice about your next outdoor adventure. All guides are certified in rescue and wilderness survival. While visiting NOC, receive a discount when you book a river adventure on one of six celebrated white water routes in the Smokies.

Participate in on-site activities, such as scaling the inside 25-foot climbing wall. Get the kids balancing on the swinging rope bridge or crawling through the bear cave. Relax beside the fireplace before plotting your next move.

Address: 1138 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Official site: https://noc.com/retail-locations/noc-gatlinburg

The Hollywood Star Cars Museum is a fun diversion for young and old walking the Gatlinburg Strip. Featuring more than 45 cars used in Hollywood movies, the collection includes vehicles from Gone in 60 Seconds , The Fast and the Furious, and Days of Thunder . Other famous favorites include the original Batmobile from the 1960s TV show, Batman (as well as a Batmobile from 1992's Batman Returns ), and Herbie from the Disney movie franchise of the same name.

Vehicles on show were owned or driven by Michael Jackson; Elvis Presley; James Dean; and local legend, Dolly Parton. If you can't tour the whole museum, admire the fins and chrome from the sidewalk.

Address: 914 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Official site: https://www.starcarstn.com/

To help you find the perfect place to stay at a rate that works for you, we recommend these highly rated hotels in Gatlinburg, each with easy access to downtown attractions and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

Luxury Hotels :

For those seeking a luxurious stay that's close to a variety of things to see and do in and around Gatlinburg, The Lodge at Buckberry Creek is an excellent choice. This luxury mountain retreat offers spacious accommodations with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs, relaxing in-room massages, and easy access to hiking trails.
Other great luxury options in the heart of the action are the Mountain Village Inn and Baskins Creek Condominiums , both particularly popular with larger groups and families for their well-appointed, modern condo-style units (complete with kitchens).

Mid-Range Hotels :

Good centrally located choices in the mid-range category include Courtyard Gatlinburg , which features well-appointed rooms plus great amenities, including a fun log-cabin-style restaurant, an outdoor pool, and a large hot tub.
Another mid-range option with a convenient location worth considering is the Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg Downtown , a three-star hotel near the main street, which features comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, a hot tub, and fire pit.

Budget Hotels :

A great option for the budget conscious is the Quality Inn & Suites Gatlinburg , which offers comfortable rooms (hot breakfast included) and a good-sized seasonal outdoor pool.
Other budget options worthy of consideration include Clarion Pointe Downtown , a two-star hotel offering free Wi-Fi and breakfast, plus an outdoor pool (seasonal), and Econo Lodge Inn & Suites on the River , which offers a number of larger suites with kitchenettes (breakfast is included).

Waterfalls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

See the Waterfalls : The Smoky Mountains are home to more waterfalls than you could ever hope to see in a single visit. This is thanks to the extreme rainfall (an average of 85 inches a year) and the spectacularly steep mountains. A convenient way to see some of the most beautiful falls is an organized tour.
Sights of the Smokies : For those seeking a more immersive, day-long experience – and all under the watchful eye of a knowledgeable, dedicated guide – you may want to consider the Sights of the Smokies All Day Tour . Highlights of this eight-hour adventure include learning about the history of the region through visits to historic sites including the mill at Pigeon Forge, dating back to 1830, plus Wears Valley, which played an important role in the Civil War. Other stops include historic Townsend, followed by a drive along the scenic Foothills Parkway West. (The tour includes bus transportation, and an optional lunch is available as an upgrade.)
Hit the Road in Great Smoky Mountain National Park : Few regions of the US offer so much stunning scenery in a destination as easy to reach as Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With three entrances, it's easy to plot a route through the park that will have you drive through the most scenic parts, and still have you back at the hotel in plenty of time for a late lunch or dinner. Better still, take a picnic, and take your time. Starting along the Newfound Gap Road, you'll find plenty of good excuses to stop, be it at the Sugarlands Visitor Center or somewhere along the beautiful Greenbrier, a stretch of road that will lead you to some of the park's most beautiful wildflowers. Be sure to grab a park map.

More on Tennessee

29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Gatlinburg (Tennessee)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: September 12, 2019 - Last updated: October 16, 2023

With a mix of sweeping landscapes and quirky attractions, Gatlinburg is one of the major tourist towns of Tennessee.

Visitors come from all around the world to visit its malls, museums and mountains.

If you’re planning a trip to Gatlinburg, you’re probably wondering where to start.

Should you visit the big stuff to cross it off your bucket list?

Should you look for local, lesser-known hot spots where you can escape the crowds but still have a good time?

Should you do both?

Here are just a few cool things to do in Gatlinburg to maximize your vacation experience.

You’ll find both popular and obscure attractions on the list, so there’s a little something for everyone.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. Gatlinburg Trolley

Miro Vrlik Photography / Shutterstock

If you’re not sure where to get started with your sightseeing, hop aboard the Gatlinburg trolley .

It’s a charming, old-fashioned transit bus that can take you on multiple color-coded routes throughout the city:

The red route will send you down the River Road and through the liveliest parts of downtown Gatlinburg.

You’ll pass all kinds of malls, museums, hotels, restaurants and other points of interest.

Yellow Route

The yellow route snakes through the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community, so if you’re into galleries, theaters and other creative pursuits, follow the sunshine shade.

The tan route is for nature lovers.

It winds through a series of parks and campgrounds before coming to a stop at the famous Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

There are also green, pink, blue and purple routes, but we’ll let you discover those paths on your own.

The best things to do in Gatlinburg are fun and spontaneous!

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Weidman Photography / Shutterstock

With mountains, valleys, hills, rivers and flowers that bloom all year long, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the United States .

It sees more visitors than any other national park in the country, and it’s an absolute must-do when you’re in Gatlinburg.

Visitors to Great Smoky Mountains National Park will have their choice of outdoor activities.

You can hike, bike, backpack, camp and fish. You can go water tubing and horseback riding.

From every angle, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of mountains rising in the distance and animals peeking their heads through the brush.

Another great thing about the park is that it’s free!

It’s one of the only national parks in the U.S. that doesn’t charge for admission.

Whether you’re camping for the entire weekend or just climbing a summit for the sunrise, you won’t want to miss the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Its beauty, majesty and tranquility make it one of the biggest points of interest in all of Gatlinburg.

Check out these awesome tours & activities around the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Address: Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

3. Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre

Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre

Laugh until your sides are sore at the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre .

It’s the only live comedy theater in Gatlinburg, and it’ll offer all of the songs, dances, jokes and poofy skirts that you’d expect from a vaudeville-style performance.

This isn’t the kind of theater where you sit in a respectful silence at the tearjerker tale being depicted in front of you.

Instead, you’ll be dragged right into the fun with audience participation segments in various skits and musical numbers.

The actors will be loud. The crowd will be even louder.

The comedy routines will vary, but they’ll always show you a good time.

Maybe you’re planning a unique date night.

Maybe you’ve always wanted to catch a show at a real vaudeville theater.

Whatever your reasons for looking into the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre, it’ll definitely provide top-tier entertainment in Gatlinburg.

Address: 461 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

4. Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg

Nicole S Glass / Shutterstock

Gatlinburg has a spooky history.

As one of the long-standing settlements of Tennessee, it’s had more than its fair share of murders and mysterious disappearances, so it’s become something of a hot spot for hauntings.

The Ghost Walk will take you on a tour of the most dreaded locations in the city, including a 19th-century cemetery that’s famous for its eerie nighttime noises.

You’ll be able to watch, listen and observe as the tour guide fills you in on local folklore.

EMF readers are handed out at the beginning of every tour so that you can monitor the energy readings of everything around you.

If you’re looking for fun things to do near and around Gatlinburg, consider the Ghost Walk.

It’ll raise the hair on your arms for sure!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address: 520 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

5. Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen

Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a trip to the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen .

It’s one of the best places in Gatlinburg to enjoy mouthwatering chocolates and freshly-spun sugar treats, and it might even turn into an educational experience to boot!

You see, one of the unique things about the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen is that you can watch the candies as they’re being made.

While you’re munching on saltwater taffy, you can watch the newest batch of taffy being pulled by the old-fashioned machine.

Other treats include jellies, fudge squares, candied applies, pecan bark, peanut brittle and chocolate-covered pretzels.

There are also specialty desserts like “moonshine taffy” that have to be tasted to be believed.

There’s a lot of cool stuff to do in Gatlinburg, but the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen will let you fill your belly and learn something new, so it’s a high-quality attraction from every angle.

Loosen your belt and get to snacking!

Address: 744 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Planning a trip to other parts of Tennessee soon? You’ll love our lists detailing the best things to do in Memphis, TN and things to do in Nashville, TN !

6. Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

Ekkachai Kesanthia / Shutterstock

You’ve been on regular roller coasters, but have you ever experienced an alpine coaster?

It’s basically a thrill ride down the side of a mountain where you strap into an individual caboose and control your own speed with hand-held brakes.

It’s just as exciting as it sounds, especially if you’re looking for far-out things to do on vacation!

The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster isn’t the only alpine coaster in the city, but it’s one of the best.

The views are incredible as they rush past, and you can reach maximum speeds of up to 35 miles per hour.

You can also customize your experience to a certain degree.

You can ride solo or double; you can travel down the mountain as quickly or as slowly as you want.

You can even ride during the day or night; when it’s dark outside, the coaster tracks are illuminated with dozens of tiny lights.

The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is one of the most fun things to do when you’re in this part of Tennessee.

If you’re looking for Gatlinburg attractions that are worth the money, climb onto the coaster and get to flying.

Address: 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

7. Mountain Mall

Mountain Mall

With its wooden architecture and kitschy, country-style shops, the Mountain Mall isn’t your average shopping mall.

It would be more accurate to describe it as a tourist attraction rather than your typical retail space.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Gatlinburg, however, the Mountain Mall offers a charming kind of entertainment.

From the homemade goods in its specialty stores to the Appalachian folk music that will play as you shop, it will give you a genuine “mountain” feeling that lives up to its name.

Located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, the Mountain Mall is definitely one of the best things to do in the city.

If your money is burning a hole in your pocket, drop some cash on candles, quilts, spices, books or wood carvings at this quaint shopping complex.

Address: 611 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

8. Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium

Christopher Forker / Shutterstock

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium lives up to its name by being a truly odd place.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Gatlinburg, however, it’s hard to beat an attraction that’s all about the unique and the bizarre.

You’re probably most familiar with the museum portion of Ripley’s, and it’s true that you can find everything from shrunken heads to deformed animal skeletons in its grotesquerie.

But there are other activities to enjoy as well, including a mirror maze, mini-golf course, haunted house and “5D” movie theater.

The last one is known for having seats that actually shake when you’re watching a film.

You might also like the aquarium at Ripley’s.

It boasts everything from a stingray petting zoo to an underwater penguin exhibit where you peer at the animals through glass tunnels.

Don’t expect a “normal” zoo experience at a place like Ripley’s!

If you have this weekend free, buy a ticket for Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium.

You could spend days lost in its labyrinthine halls without actually seeing everything, so it’s a great way to fill an empty schedule.

Address: 800 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

9. Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort and Spa

Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa

Choosing good accommodation is one of the most important parts of planning a Gatlinburg vacation.

Fortunately, the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort and Spa makes it an easy choice.

When you stay at Westgate, you’ll enjoy luxury lodgings that include everything from a concierge service to on-site amenities like a spa and mini-golf course.

Heated pools will keep you warm in the winter; a nearby zipline attraction will get you out of your room in the summer.

Another amazing thing about Westgate is that it boasts its own indoor water park.

Covering 60,000 square feet, it offers slides, pools and waterfall features to keep the whole family splashing.

It even has a retractable glass roof!

If you need a place to stay in Gatlinburg, reserve a villa at the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort and Spa.

It’s one of the best resorts near the Gatlinburg area, and it’ll keep you refreshed, recharged and ready for the next adventure.

Address: 915 Westgate Resorts Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

10. Wild Plum Tea Room

Wild Plum Tea Room

With small round tables cozily arranged in a wooden log cabin, the Wild Plum Tea Room is the very picture of an old-world teahouse.

It will take you back to the days when teas were steeped with whatever ingredients were on hand and customers chatted with each other without their smartphones to distract them.

You might not be able to resist Instagramming, however, when you see some of the refreshments that you can order with your tea.

From chicken salad to hot turkey pie, it’s the kind of finger-licking fare that you’d expect from a southern U.S. restaurant, but it’s accompanied by tea that spans the reaches of Asia, Africa and Europe.

The coolest things to do in Gatlinburg are the experiences that you can’t find anywhere else in the city.

They’re unique, enduring things that you’ll always remember about your time here.

Order a cup of chai at the Wild Plum Tea Room and start making vacation memories that will last a lifetime!

Address: 555 Buckhorn Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

11. Ober Gatlinburg

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock

You might be surprised to learn that Tennessee gets snow, but when you climb high enough on the mountains, the slopes are just right for things like skiing, snow tubing and ice skating.

Ober Gatlinburg isn’t the only resort to take advantage of them, but it’s one of the best!

Visitors to Ober Gatlinburg can enjoy everything from scenic chairlifts to bumper cars on ice.

You don’t have to wait for cold weather, either; they offer entertainment for every season.

You can play in the arcade, splash on water slides, climb the rock wall, take a wildlife tour or let the wind flow through your hair on an alpine roller coaster ride.

The possibilities are endless.

Ober Gatlinburg is definitely on the list of good vacation spots in Tennessee.

Whether you’re traveling in the blazing days of summer or the chilly cold of winter, you’ll find fun and exciting activities to keep you busy.

There’s a reason why it’s one of the most popular destinations near Gatlinburg.

Address: 1310 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

12. Hillbilly Golf

Hillbilly Golf

You’ve probably realized by now that many Gatlinburg attractions are centered around the mountains.

But did you know that you can even find golf courses on the side of the cliffs?

Hillbilly Golf offers a fun, one-of-a-kind experience for people who enjoy swinging a club.

You’ll take a tram up the local mountain before being presented with 18 holes that are deliberately designed to be exciting, challenging or just plain mind-boggling.

Don’t worry if your putting skills could use some work.

The delightful thing about these “redneck” courses is that they even the playing field for people of all skill levels, so the whole family can get in on the action.

Who knows? Your kids might even whoop you!

Hillbilly Golf isn’t like regular golf.

It’s a strange course in an even stranger location, but that’s what makes it memorable.

If you’re looking for fun stuff to do near Gatlinburg, be a hillbilly for the weekend.

Address: 340 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

13. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

MarkVanDykePhotography / Shutterstock

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a scenic drive that will take you through some of the most stunning natural wonders of Tennessee.

Not only does it offer beautiful views along the main road, but it can also be used as an access point for hidden gems that are only accessible if you park and hike.

The biggest attraction is Rainbow Falls.

It’s a gorgeous vertical waterfall that you can only reach after pushing your way through an hour’s worth of leaves and ferns in the surrounding woodlands.

You’ll work up a sweat, but the view will be worth it.

Another popular destination is the Place of a Thousand Drips.

It’s a horizontal, low-flow waterfall that slinks over an incredible rock formation, and depending on the weather when you go, it might be tinkling quietly or roaring in an overflow.

If you’re wondering what to do on a beautiful day in Gatlinburg, consider a drive down the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.

It’s a true sightseeing experience, and there’s a good chance that it will become one of your favorite memories of Gatlinburg.

Address: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

14. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Chansak Joe / Shutterstock

There are three ways to enjoy Gatlinburg SkyLift Park , and all of them will provide gorgeous views and photo ops:

The SkyLift will take you on a gentle ride to the top of Crockett Mountain. At its peak, your legs will be dangling at 1,800 feet!

The SkyBridge will let you literally walk across air. It’s a suspension bridge that stretches across the entire valley, making it the longest and most dizzying walkway in Tennessee.

The SkyDeck will let you take a break from all of the death-defying heights. Grab a snack, shop for souvenirs or just enjoy the view from the safety of flat ground.

If you’re looking for memorable tourist attractions in Tennessee, make sure to check out Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.

You’ll never forget the tableaus here because you’ll definitely fill up your camera roll!

Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

15. Gatlinburg Pinball Museum

Gilmanshin / Shutterstock

You’ve never seen an interactive museum quite like this.

Not only does the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum take you on a nostalgic journey through the retro arcade and pinball games of yesteryear, but it also lets you play them.

You can race cars, shoot baskets and kill aliens on genuine vintage machines that have been buffed and restored to their former glory.

You don’t have to mess with coins or tokens, either.

For a single all-day admission fee, you can play as many games as you want.

You can even come and go to your heart’s content since you’ll have a hand stamp as identification.

If you’re looking for the top things to do in Gatlinburg, you won’t want to miss the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum.

It isn’t anything like the dull, dry museums that you might have experienced on other vacations.

It’s retro fun ’til the sun goes down.

Address: 205 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

16. Sugarlands Riding Stables

Sugarlands Riding Stables

Sugarlands Riding Stables offers a sweet experience for riders of all ages and skill levels.

You don’t have to be experienced with horses; in fact, you can saddle up even if you’ve only ever seen horses on TV.

The guides at Sugarlands are top-notch, and they can take you on a gentle, rambling journey through the idyllic countryside without any horseback riding knowledge whatsoever.

There are four tours that you can choose from, and they range from a basic, one-hour walk down a paved nature trail to a four-hour and fifteen-mile adventure through wild woodlands.

The best tour for you will depend on your comfort in the saddle.

Regardless of your skill level, you’ll enjoy incredible views from atop your horse.

The mountains will rise on the horizon; the streams will flow over rocks and cliffs.

You might spot some wildlife through the trees if the weather is right.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Gatlinburg, drop by the Sugarlands Riding Stables.

Nothing will make you feel like a real Tennessee cowboy more than a horseback ride through Appalachia.

Address: 1409 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Going for a road trip around Tennessee? Check out our list of things to do in Tennessee !

17. Gatlinburg Farmers Market

The Gatlinburg Farmers Market

Gatlinburg Farmers Market is one of the largest in Tennessee.

Held every weekend from May to October, it’s the place to find organic, locally-grown foodstuffs when you’re in the city.

Are you looking for fresh fruits and veggies to cook your own meals while on vacation?

You can find them at the farmers market.

Do you like to snack on fruits, nuts, cheeses, jams and pickled desserts while shopping for homemade soaps and pillows?

The farmers market can provide.

There are also fun events held at the farmers market.

Enter a raffle; get your face painted; go on a scavenger hunt.

There are all kinds of activities for both kids and adults.

If you’re wondering what to do in Gatlinburg this weekend, check out the Gatlinburg Farmers Market.

Everyone wins when you support local farmers and vendors!

Address: 1222 East Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

18. Historic Ogle Log Cabin

Scott Prokop / Shutterstock

The Historic Ogle Log Cabin was built in the early 1800s by a woman named Martha Jane Huskey Ogle.

Her husband was a traveler from South Carolina who found the eastern Tennessee landscape to be so beautiful that he called it a “paradise,” and he cut and notched a collection of logs in preparation for building a cabin there.

Unfortunately, he died of malaria before he could move his family from South Carolina to Tennessee .

But his wife took the lumber and finished the cabin, and it became the very first settlement in what is now Gatlinburg.

Visitors today can explore the carefully-preserved log cabin and the grounds surrounding it.

There’s a nature trail for hiking or a scenic driving route if you’d prefer to stay behind the wheel.

If you’re a sucker for history, you’ll love the Historic Ogle Log Cabin.

It’s one of the major points of interest of the city, and it will allow you to step back in time and look at the world as a real 19th-century settler.

Thanks to Martha Jane Huskey Ogle for being the first resident of Gatlinburg!

Address: Cherokee Orchard Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

19. Gatlinburg Space Needle

Eat Cheeseonastick / flickr

If you can’t get enough of the scenery in Gatlinburg, you won’t want to miss the Gatlinburg Space Needle .

It rises more than 400 feet in the air and provides 360° aerial views of both the city skyline and the mountains looming beyond it, so it’s definitely one of the top 10 things to do in the area.

You’ll start by entering the Gatlinburg Space Needle through the downstairs lobby.

From there, you can hit up arcades, pizza joints, souvenir shops and many other tourist attractions.

When you’re ready to ascend, take the glass elevator to the very top of the observation deck and enjoy the landscapes stretching before you.

You’ll be able to see for miles on a clear day!

The viewfinders are free of charge, too, so you won’t even need to buy a pair of binoculars.

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Gatlinburg, consider the Gatlinburg Space Needle.

It’s a sight for sore eyes, and it’ll give you a vacation experience that you won’t soon forget.

Address: 115 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

20. Anakeesta

Jason Sanderford / Shutterstock

Anakeesta is a family-friendly theme park located near the Smoky Mountains.

It’s one of our top Gatlinburg attractions because of its convenient location, affordable prices and wide range of events and activities.

For example, if you’re planning a peaceful retreat into the mountains, Anakeesta offers botanical gardens and treetop observation decks.

If you’re a thrillseeker, there are ziplines and a single-rail roller coaster.

If you’re hungry, a smokehouse barbecue joint is right on-site to deliver rib platters and craft beer.

Plan your trip at the right time and you’ll also enjoy special events at Anakeesta.

They build haunted houses for Halloween; they string up elaborate light displays at Christmas.

They want to make sure that their visitors don’t miss a thing even when they’re high in the mountains.

Regardless of the type of vacation that you want to have, Anakeesta is one of the best places to visit in Gatlinburg.

It offers a little something for everyone, so kids, teens and adults can all have fun.

Zip through the trees and see for yourself!

Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

21. Gatlinburg Trail

Cucumber Images / Shutterstock

Escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Gatlinburg when you visit the Gatlinburg Trail .

It’s close enough to the action that you won’t have to drive for hours to reach it, but it’s far enough that you can breathe fresh air, enjoy scenic views and admire a wealth of stars on a clear night.

Another nice thing about the Gatlinburg Trail is that it allows both dogs and bicycles, so if you want to bring Fido along on a family bike ride, you won’t be breaking any rules.

Tennessee can be fiercely protective of its untouched, unpolluted mountains, but this particular location welcomes your furry friends.

Just remember to clean up after them.

Explore the Gatlinburg Trail if you’re wondering what to do on a beautiful day in the city.

It’ll take you past fields, forests and waterfalls, so there will always be something to admire, and it isn’t that far from downtown Gatlinburg if you don’t have a lot of time to go sightseeing.

It’s the best of both worlds.

22. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Get fast and furious with a trip to the Hollywood Star Cars Museum .

It’s one of the coolest things to see in Gatlinburg, and you won’t find anything else like it anywhere else in Tennessee.

Prized vehicles include the Batmobile from Batman Returns, the DeLorean from Back to the Future and the Ecto-1 van from Ghostbusters.

The museum is also home to several vintage cars owned by celebrities like Paul McCartney and the Beach Boys.

There’s a guided tour if you don’t want to miss anything, or you can explore on your own and pose for commemorative photos behind the wheel of your favorite Hollywood vehicle.

Souvenirs are available at the gift shop.

When you step outside, you’ll find the museum conveniently located by several other tourist attractions, so the fun never has to stop.

Visit the Hollywood Star Cars Museum if you’re looking for unique things to do around Gatlinburg.

Car museums are rare enough, but this is one of the only ones in the entire state of Tennessee, so it’s worth checking out while you have the chance.

Address: 914 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

23. Ole Smoky Moonshine

ehrlif / Shutterstock

You can’t visit Tennessee without trying some authentic Tennessee moonshine!

The good news is that you don’t have to brew your own in a wooden shack with a bag of cornmeal.

You can just visit a distillery like Ole Smoky Moonshine.

Offering tours and tastings, Ole Smoky Moonshine will let you sip on the good stuff as you observe the stills and see how moonshine is actually made.

You can ask questions and take pictures to prove that you were part of this time-honored tradition of the south.

There’s also an on-site bar where you can eat, drink, listen to live music and buy some bottles to take back home with you.

Fun things to do in Gatlinburg are usually family-friendly, but if you’re craving some adult time without the kids, stop by Ole Smoky Moonshine.

You can get buzzed on the best Appalachian alcohol this side of the Smoky Mountains!

Address: 903 Parkway #128, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

24. Nantahala Outdoor Center

Ammit Jack / Shutterstock

Places like Chattanooga are famous for their proximity to the Tennessee River, but what if you want to go kayaking or canoeing without traveling hundreds of miles to another part of the state?

That’s when you pick up the phone and make a reservation at the Nantahala Outdoor Center .

Though it offers other activities like camping and ziplining, the Nantahala Outdoor Center is most famous for its whitewater rafting adventures near the outskirts of Gatlinburg.

You can strap in, grab an oar and have the time of your life as you speed down the river.

You don’t have to be an experienced outdoorsman.

In fact, kids as young as three years old are welcome on the rafts.

Trained tour guides will be with you every step of the way.

Schedule a trip to the Nantahala Outdoor Center if you’re in Gatlinburg and looking for cool things to do near the water.

You haven’t truly lived until you’ve gone bouncing down the currents with the wind in your hair and the spray on your face!

Address: 1138 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

25. Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

Located between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is one of the most beautiful observation points in Tennessee.

You can see for miles when you gaze over the cliffs and treetops, and you won’t be able to resist taking deep breaths of crisp, country air.

Getting to the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is just as enjoyable as being there.

You’ll drive through all kinds of natural scenery to reach the observation point at the top, and the mountains will slowly come into view as you rise higher and higher.

By the time that you officially reach the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, you’ll be in awe of your surroundings.

A mist often hangs over the mountains to give them a picturesque look.

In the autumn, multicolored leaves are scattered everywhere.

If you’re lucky, you might spot bears rumbling in the distance or deer darting through the trees.

Take a drive to Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook if you want to enjoy some of the best views in all of Tennessee.

It’s a mesmerizing place, and it won’t even cost you anything.

That’s right: It’s completely free!

Address: Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Planning a road trip around Tennessee? Be sure to check out our lists of things to do in Pigeon Forge & things to do in Knoxville !

26. Parrot Mountain and Gardens

Parrot Mountain and Garden of Eden

Parrot Mountain and Gardens offers one of the most unique experiences in Tennessee.

Rather than being a typical zoo filled with bird cages, it’s a free-flying sanctuary where hundreds of parrots are allowed to soar, socialize and chat with both visitors and each other.

Take a walk through the picturesque gardens as you observe the birds in their natural habitat.

Learn how to crook your arm so that the parrots will land on you like butterflies.

Stop by the baby bird nursery to pet and feed the tiny hatchlings.

There’s no limit to the fun things that you can do at Parrot Mountain, especially if you’re willing to step outside of your comfort zone and fully embrace the one-of-a-kind encounters that you can have there.

Parrots are some of the most intelligent creatures on earth, and this is your chance to interact with them in a positive, meaningful way.

Visit Parrot Mountain if you want a nifty experience during your Gatlinburg vacation.

Located a little north of the city limits, you’ll need to take a drive to get there, but it’s worth the extra gas.

When you’re surrounded on all sides by the colors, noises and catchphrases of hundreds of parrots, you’ll understand why it’s one of the best attractions near the Smoky Mountains.

Address: 1471 McCarter Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37862, USA

27. Cataract Falls

Larry Knupp / Shutterstock

Cataract Falls is one of the best-kept secrets of Gatlinburg.

It’s only a few miles from downtown, but it’s tucked so deeply into the forest that all noise will be muffled by the thick green canopies of the trees.

It’s perfect for dates, hikes, honeymoons and anything else that could use the finishing touch of a beautiful waterfall pouring over the rocks.

Nature is everywhere when you visit this beautiful, tranquil landscape.

The streams will cascade over the rocks; the leaves will crunch underfoot.

It’s one of the best sightseeing spots in Tennessee, and most people don’t even know about it!

Another nice thing about Cataract Falls is that its trail is less than a mile long.

You don’t have to block out an entire weekend to complete it; you can take your time on a leisurely stroll and still be done in time for lunch.

When choosing what to do in a place like Gatlinburg, you have to consider your schedule.

How can you fit in the most attractions in the least amount of time?

With Cataract Falls, you can cross “visit a waterfall” off your vacation itinerary in no time at all, so it’s worth a trip for that reason alone.

Address: Cove Mountain Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

28. Mysterious Mansion

Mysterious Mansion of Gatlinburg

If you’re looking for thrills and chills in Gatlinburg, you won’t want to miss the Mysterious Mansion .

It’s one of the oldest and spookiest tourist attractions in Tennessee, and it’ll provide a hair-raising experience for the whole family.

The tour takes place in a real-life Victorian mansion with multiple stories to explore.

Zombies and monsters are around every corner to frighten you; cobwebs are just waiting to get tangled in your hair.

Eerie music will follow you down the haunted corridors as you test your bravery against the night.

Are you afraid of the dark?

Parts of the tour take place in pitch-black conditions; you’ll have to find your way out through sound, smell and touch.

Hopefully, you won’t be lost forever in the maze of secret passageways and trick mirrors.

You don’t have to wait until Halloween to have spooky fun in Gatlinburg.

You can put the Mysterious Mansion on your list when planning your trip for any time of year, and it’ll be just as awesome in April as October.

Count on it.

Address: 424 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

29. CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains

Mike_O / Shutterstock

It can be hard to say goodbye to Gatlinburg, but if you’re looking for a world-class sendoff, CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains is the way to do it.

You’ll start with an ATV trip to the top of the local mountain.

Once you’re nestled among the ferns and forests of the clifftops, you’ll have your choice of exciting outdoor activities like ziplining or walking across a genuine rope bridge.

No matter what you decide on, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views from hundreds of feet high.

Anyone can walk around the streets of Gatlinburg.

It takes a stronger stomach to plummet down a Gatlinburg mountain while strapped to a zipline.

If you want to say goodbye to the city in an unforgettable way, make a visit to CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains!

Address: 155 Branam Hollow Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA

Going on a road trip around Tennessee? Why not check out some of the things to do in Franklin ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Gatlinburg

There’s a lot more to Gatlinburg than the stuff that you see in brochures.

If you want to have a fun, authentic vacation experience at both major attractions and little-known locales, use this list to start your planning.

The mountains are waiting for you!

The 25 Best Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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Fun Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Often referred to as the “Gateway to the Smokies”, Gatlinburg is a town of just 4,200 residents set in the Appalachian Mountains of East Tennessee . But don’t be fooled by its small population, Gatlinburg is one of the most visited towns in America. You’ll be amazed by all of the fun things to do in Gatlinburg and the nearby Smoky Mountains. From whitewater rafting to skiing to sipping craft beer and moonshine, there is truly something for everyone in Gatlinburg.

I actually grew up in Sevierville, Tennessee, and spent many of my weekends hiking in the Smokies. I used to ride at Dollywood, play miniature golf, and beg my parents to let me go to the Mysterious Mansion. I worked as a bartender at Cherokee Grill and No Way Jose’s during my summers home from college. And, I learned to snowboard at Ober Gatlinburg.

Val and I still take trips to Sevierville to visit my parents. We get to check out the newest attractions in Gatlinburg as well as hike our favorite trails in the Smokies . So if you want a local’s take on what to do in Gatlinburg you have come to the right place – read on for my top 25 favorite Gatlinburg attractions and activities!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 25 Best Things to do in Gatlinburg !

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Getting Around Gatlinburg

Best Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Gatlinburg is squeezed into a small mountain valley just at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is quite easy to navigate as there are just two main roads running through town – the Parkway (aka Highway 441) and River Road. You’ll find pretty much all of Gatlinburg’s main attractions along these two thoroughfares.

Unfortunately, Gatlinburg traffic can be horrendous, especially on holiday weekends or during the fall when the leaves are changing in the Smokies. But Gatlinburg is a very walkable town so you’re best off just parking your car and exploring on foot.

Also, if you’re coming from Pigeon Forge and want to head directly to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you should take the Gatlinburg Bypass . True to its name this road takes you around downtown Gatlinburg. It brings you right to the Sugarlands entrance to the national park. As an added bonus, it also has a scenic viewpoint where you’ll get a panoramic view of Gatlinburg in the valley below.

Parking in Gatlinburg

While there is plenty of parking in Gatlinburg, free parking in town is quite limited. There is some free street parking along River Road, and you may find an available parking spot if you circle around a couple of times (but don’t count on it). There are also several paid lots around Gatlinburg with rates generally ranging from $5-10 per day.

You’ll find two large Park & Ride parking lots located at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center and Gatlinburg City Hall on Highway 321. You can park for free. However, you’ll need to pay to ride the Gatlinburg Trolley to town and back which costs $0.50 per person each way.

If you venture into the Smoky Mountains you’ll need to have a valid parking tag (daily, weekly, and annual tags available). You can buy them online or onsite.

Where to Stay in Gatlinburg

When deciding where to stay in Gatlinburg, there are two types of accommodations to choose from. Your first option is one of the many hotels in downtown Gatlinburg. This is probably the best option if you are traveling as a couple or small group. The best hotel in Gatlinburg is the Park Vista (more on that below). But, if the Park Vista is unavailable for your dates then try the Old Creek Lodge or the Bearskin Lodge on the River .

You should also read about our other recommended hotels near the Smoky Mountains .

On the other hand, if you are traveling with a family or as a large group, you’ll be better off renting a mountain cabin. You’ll have more space and likely save some money. You’ll also get to enjoy staying out in nature in the Smokies. The downside is you’ll almost certainly have to drive into Gatlinburg and parking can be difficult to find and expensive.

The easiest way to find mountain cabins around Gatlinburg is on Airbnb or VRBO . Make sure you check out our list of the best Airbnbs in the Smoky Mountains !

25 Fun Things to do in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains

1. bike through cades cove.

Best Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennesse: Cades Cove

Of all the things to do around Gatlinburg, the most popular is a visit to Cades Cove . This beautiful little mountain valley is tucked in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and was once a thriving community. A number of rustic log cabins, cantilever barns, and grist mills are still preserved which gives Cades Cove a quaint air of times past.

An 11-mile one-way loop runs through Cades Cove allowing you to tour it by car, bicycle, or on foot. Because Cades Cove is so popular, you can expect there to be lots of traffic during the summer months and in the fall when the leaves are changing color around Gatlinburg.

The best way to see Cades Cove is, without a doubt, by bicycle. The Cades Cove loop road allows only bicycles (and foot traffic) before 10 am on Saturday mornings and Wednesday mornings from May to September.

So wake up early, rent a bicycle, and enjoy a peaceful ride through this beautiful mountain valley before the hoards of tourists begin descending in their gas-guzzling, exhaust-spewing vehicles. It’s definitely the best thing to do in Gatlinburg!

Book a Guided Tour of Cades Cove

2. Drive to Newfound Gap

Top Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Newfound Gap

Another popular activity in Gatlinburg is to drive through the national park to Newfound Gap . Just like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Newfound Gap is split in two with half in Tennessee and half in North Carolina. And at Newfound Gap you can stand with one foot on each side of the Tennessee-North Carolina state line.

Newfound Gap sits at an elevation of 5,046 feet so you’ll have fabulous views of the foothills below. The Appalachian Trail also runs right through Newfound Gap. So, if you have ever dreamed of hiking part of the AT, now is your opportunity. If you start hiking northeast on the Appalachian Trail you’ll reach Charles Bunion in ~4 miles (remember that’s an 8-mile roundtrip hike). Or if you head southwest on the AT for 7.5 miles you’ll reach Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in the state of Tennessee.

The tiered stone platform at Newfound Gap is the Rockefeller Memorial. This monument was built to commemorate the Rockefeller family’s donation of $5 million. The donation was crucial in completing the federal government’s land acquisition for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In fact, it was at this very spot that President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the National Park in 1934!

Book a Jeep Tour of Newfound Gap

3. See the View from Clingman’s Dome

What to do in Gatlinburg, Tennsee: Clingmans Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

From Newfound Gap, you can continue heading up the windy mountain road to the aforementioned Clingman’s Dome . At 6,643 feet, Clingman’s Dome is the highest point in Tennessee and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi River.

From the Clingman’s Dome parking lot, it’s a half-mile walk on a paved trail to the top of the mountain where a long spiraling concrete ramp leads up to an observation deck. Given that there are only two higher places in the eastern USA, you can be sure that the views are quite spectacular. In fact, on a perfectly clear day, there is theoretically 100 miles of visibility from the top of Clingman’s Dome. But under normal conditions, you can expect to be able to see ~20 miles.

The 23-mile drive to Clingman’s Dome from downtown Gatlinburg can take over an hour with traffic so make sure you plan accordingly. There is also limited parking at the top. It’s best to arrive early in the day so you’re not stuck waiting for a parking spot. Also note that you now need to pay to park in the Smoky Mountains.

Clingman’s Dome Winter Road Closure: The final 7-mile stretch of road to Clingman’s Dome is closed from December 1st until March 31st. It may also be closed if there has been recent snowfall or cold temperatures. In the winter, there is significantly more snow at this elevation than there is in Gatlinburg.

4. Take a Hike

Best Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Hiking in the Smokies

Our favorite thing to do in Gatlinburg is to get out in nature and take a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Smokies have over 600 miles of trails offering sweeping panoramic views, cascading waterfalls, and more. Some of the best day hikes in the Smoky Mountains include the following:

Laurel Falls (2.6 miles roundtrip): The hike to Laurel Falls is one of the most popular in the park. The entire trail is paved so you’ll find it’s possible even for those with limited mobility. This hike does have a tendency to be quite crowded. It’s best to do it early in the morning or right before sunset.

Grotto Falls (2.8 miles roundtrip): Grotto Falls is one of the most popular hikes on the Roaring Fork Motor Trail. It’s a relatively short and easy hike on a well-maintained trail. Grotto Falls also has the distinction of being the only waterfall in the Smokies that you can walk behind.

Chimney Tops (3.3 miles roundtrip): The Chimney Tops trail is one of the Smokies’ most iconic hikes. It’s a short hike and offers amazing views at the top, but don’t be fooled by the relatively short distance this hike covers. The last mile has an elevation gain of over 800 feet making it a strenuous climb to the top. The Chimney Tops themselves were closed after the huge Gatlinburg fire of 2016 , but a new viewing platform has been built where the trail currently ends. Hopefully, the final section of the trail will be re-opened in the future.

Alum Cave (4.4 miles roundtrip): One of our favorite hikes in the Smokies, the Alum Cave trail starts on Newfound Gap Road and follows Alum Cave Creek before heading up towards Mount LeConte. You’ll hike through a rock tunnel known as Arch Rock and at the end of your hike, you’ll reach Alum Cave which is actually an 80-foot tall concaved bluff you can rest under before heading back down.

Charles Bunion (8 miles roundtrip): As mentioned previously, the hike starts at the Newfound Gap parking lot. From there, it follows the Appalachian Trail east for four miles to a rocky outcrop known as Charles Bunion. It’s a somewhat strenuous hike so make sure you’re in good shape and well prepared with water and snacks. Your reward will be spectacular views at Charles Bunion as well as at several other points along your hike.

5. Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Trail

Gatlinburg - Things to do in the Smokies: Roaring Fork Motor Trail

The Roaring Fork Motor Trail is one of the most popular drives through the national park. This one-way loop is only 5.5 miles long but it’s a narrow winding road with lots of places you’ll want to stop to explore and take pictures. So plan on this drive taking at least two hours.

For the best experience, it’s best to stop at one of the park’s visitor centers beforehand to pick up the NPS’s guidebook to the Roaring Fork Motor Trail. It contains information on the flora and fauna of this area. It also contains the history of the community that existed here before it was displaced by the creation of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Towards the second half of the drive, you’ll encounter log cabins, grist mills, and a church that are all very well-preserved and quite interesting to visit. You’ll also drive past the Place of a Thousand Drips which is one of only two waterfalls in the national park that you can drive to.

If you have time, there are also several great day hikes along the Roaring Fork Motor Trail, including Rainbow Falls, Grotto Falls, and Baskin Falls.

Book a Jeep Tour of the Roaring Fork Motor Trail

6. Stay at The Park Vista

Of all the lovely hotels in Gatlinburg , The Park Vista is our favorite! It’s situated high on a hill right at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’ll have lovely views of both Gatlinburg and the Appalachian Mountains. Every room in the hotel has a balcony so you’ll have the perfect spot to watch the sunset. Plus, it’s on the Gatlinburg trolley route so you’re just minutes away from downtown Gatlinburg.

If you’re not able to stay at the Park Vista, you should at least drop by their onsite bar, Firefly’s Patio Lounge. Grab a beer and pull up a seat at the outdoor fire pit while enjoying the panoramic view of Mt. LeConte, the 3rd highest peak in the Smokies.

Check Prices on Booking.com

Check Prices on Hotels.com

7. See the Fireflies

Best Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Fireflies

Once a relatively unknown natural phenomenon, seeing the Smoky Mountain’s synchronous fireflies has now become a major bucket list item for many visitors to Gatlinburg. The Smoky Mountains just happen to be home to the Western Hemisphere’s largest population of synchronous fireflies ( Photinus Carolinus ).

It’s hard to do this unique experience justice with either words or pictures, but you can imagine thousands of tiny lightning bugs all lighting up simultaneously in a visually stunning mating ritual. You can only see them for about 2-3 weeks each summer, typically from the end of May to the beginning of June.

The best way to see them is to book a campsite at Elkmont Campground , just a 25-minute drive from downtown Gatlinburg. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance online at www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777. It’s impossible to predict the exact time that the fireflies will put on their show so you’ll just have to reserve a campsite at Elkmont around the first day of June and hope for the best!

If the Elkmont campground is already fully booked or you don’t want to bother with camping, you can also attempt to purchase a parking pass for the event. Parking passes are awarded via a lottery system but you can choose two dates you would like to attend for an extra chance to win.

8. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Pigeon River

Gatlinburg - Things to do in the Smoky Mountains: White Water Rafting

If you’re looking to get your adrenaline fix during your trip to Gatlinburg then how about a little whitewater rafting? In fact, rafting the nearby Pigeon River is considered one of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains. Most rafting outfitters in town offer two different trips on the Pigeon River.

The Upper Pigeon River is the more exciting (and more popular) of the two trips. Over the course of ~5.5 miles, you’ll raft through 60+ rapids, including twelve class III rapids and three heart-pounding class IV rapids. Kids generally need to be at least 8 years old and weigh over 70 lbs to raft this section of the Pigeon River.

The Lower Pigeon River is a much more mellow 5.5-mile float. It is geared towards families with young children or anyone that prefers taking in the beautiful mountain scenery over navigating class IV rapids.

The best white water rafting companies in Gatlinburg are Smoky Mountain Outdoors , Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) , and Rafting in the Smokies . Rafting trips actually start in Hartford which is about a 40-minute drive from Gatlinburg so confirm your meeting point with whichever rafting company you choose.

9. Go Fishin’

Sport fishermen rejoice! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has almost 2,900 miles of rivers and streams. Plus, it is home to one of the USA’s last wild trout populations. Fishing is permitted year-round in all of the national park’s waterways.

You’ll need a fishing license for either Tennessee or North Carolina and both are valid in the national park. Fishing licenses are not available at the park headquarters, but you can purchase a Tennessee fishing license at lots of stores around Gatlinburg. You can also buy one online at https://www.gooutdoorstennessee.com/ and have it emailed to you in a matter of minutes.

If you didn’t bring your fishing tackle with you on your trip to East Tennessee or if you just prefer to have a local guide, there are several shops that offer fishing tours in Gatlinburg. The Smoky Mountain Angler or Fly Fishing the Smokies are a couple of good options.

10. Go Trail Riding

Love the idea of hiking in the mountains but don’t want to be bothered with actually exercising? Then a horseback trail ride is the perfect Gatlinburg activity for you!

Located right at the entrance to the Smoky Mountains National Park, Sugarlands Riding Stables is just two miles from the Sugarlands Visitor Center. They have trail rides ranging from four miles to 15 miles (1-4 hours in duration) through the national park.

Smoky Mountain Riding Stables is located about ~4 miles east of Gatlinburg. They offer a 45-minute horseback ride over three miles of wooded trails and mountain streams.

Even if you have never ridden a horse before, you can participate in a trail ride in the Smokies. Both stables have gentle horses that require almost no guidance so you can just sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

11. Drink a Super Mug at the Smoky Mountain Brewery

Best Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Smoky Mountain Brewery

The Smoky Mountain Brewery is a Gatlinburg mainstay. It is the oldest craft brewery in East Tennesee and it used to be one of the only places you could get a decent beer in Gatlinburg. Everywhere around town, they just served generic mass-produced domestic beers like Coors Light and Budweiser.

Luckily, times have changed and now you’ll find craft beer all over Gatlinburg, but the beers from “The Brewery” (as it is affectionately known) are still local favorites. The Cherokee Red Ale and Black Bear Ale are both quite popular. Or if you want something lighter try the Velas Hellas, an easy-drinking German-style lager.

The Smoky Mountain Brewery is located just a few blocks from the entrance to the national park. It is the perfect place to stop for a beer after a long hike. And if you really need to unwind you can get a “super mug” – 33.8 ounces of beer (almost the equivalent of half a six-pack) – for just $6.75.

The Smoky Mountain Brewery also has live music, trivia nights, and karaoke ( check the events schedule ) so there is almost always something going on. That’s one of the reasons why it’s always been my favorite bar in Gatlinburg. I actually bartended at the Cherokee Grill right next door to the Smoky Mountain Brewery back in 2000-2003. After work, I would head to the brewery just in time to catch the last call!

12. Sample Moonshine

Gatlinburg Attractions: Moonshine Distillery

As you walk around Gatlinburg, you’ll no doubt start to notice several establishments selling moonshine. You’ll probably be thinking to yourself, “isn’t moonshine illegal? Has the town of Gatlinburg totally forsaken the rule of law for a quick tourist dollar?”.

Well, the only thing that ever really made moonshine illegal was that no one paid taxes on it to the federal government. There is nothing actually illegal about distilling grain alcohol, known as “white dog”, which is then aged in oak barrels to make whiskey.

In fact, the generic grain alcohol is often sold to college students as “ Everclear “. All of these, “Moonshine” distilleries are essentially just selling Everclear in mason jars – very clever marketing!

That being said, Gatlinburg’s moonshine distilleries are fun to visit and typically offer free samples of their hooch. Plus, you can see the distilling process and pick up a unique boozy gift for your friends back home.

The ‘shine is infused with dozens of different flavors you can choose from ranging from the ever-popular apple pie to stranger choices like maple bacon or peanut butter and jelly. I always think the best way to consume moonshine is when it has been soaked into fruit so be sure to try the moonshine cherries or moonshine peaches.

The 3 moonshine distilleries in Gatlinburg are Sugerlands Distilling Co. , Ole Smoky Moonshine , and Doc Collier Moonshine .

13. Walk Across the SkyBridge

Cool Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Skybridge

Among its numerous other attractions, Gatlinburg is now home to North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge. The Gatlinburg Skybridge spans 680 feet and is 140 feet high at its highest point. From here, you’ll have unparalleled views of the Smoky Mountains and of Gatlinburg far below. There is also a glass panel at the highest point along the Skybridge so you can look straight down 140 feet and scare yourself silly.

The suspension bridge is part of the SkyLift Park and to reach it, you’ll need to first ride the SkyLift from downtown Gatlinburg to the SkyDeck 500 feet above the town. This chairlift was first opened in 1954 making it one of Gatlinburg’s oldest attractions, but it got a major revamp after the Gatlinburg fire in 2016 . Both the SkyDeck and SkyBridge are new additions.

14. Be Skeptical at Ripley’s Believe it or Not

Gatlinburg - Best Things To Do: Ripley's Believe it or not Odditorium

Probably the quirkiest thing you can do in Gatlinburg is to visit Ripley’s Believe it or Not Odditorium . Cartoonist and anthropologist LeRoy Robert Ripley worked with the fact researcher Norbert Pearlroth to create the famous cartoon panel, Ripley’s Believe it or Not . This grew into a media empire that included books, radio, television, and an ever-growing chain of museums and attractions.

Ripley’s first odditorium was opened in 1933 at the Chicago World’s Fair. Now there are 32 Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditoriums around the world in far-flung locations like Bangalore, India, and Jeju Island, South Korea.

Gatlinburg’s original Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium was built in 1970 but unfortunately, it was completely destroyed by a fire in 1992. Many prized pieces from the Ripley collection were also lost in this disaster, but the museum was rebuilt in 1994 with twice as much exhibition space.

Thanks to the extensive fact-checking by Norbert Pearlroth, most of Ripley’s outlandish claims are actually trustworthy. But I’ll leave it up to you to decide whether you believe them… or not!

Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Flex Pass

If you’re planning on visiting a lot of attractions in Nashville, make sure you check out the Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Flex Pass. It gives you access to 30 of the top-rated tours and attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, including the Space Needle, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster, and more.

Buy the Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Flex Pass

15. See the Sea Life at the Aquarium

What to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies has been voted the best aquarium in the USA. It is home to ~10,000 exotic sea creatures spread over 10 themed exhibits. Crowd favorites include the penguin encounter, the touch-a-ray stingray bay, and, of course, the underwater shark tunnel.

Make sure you check the schedule for the live dive shows before planning your visit to the Aquarium of the Smokies so you can see the penguins or stingrays being fed. And if you’re traveling with young kids, you won’t want to miss seeing one of the aquarium’s mermaid shows.

There are also lots of fun add-on experiences (at extra cost) that really make a day at the Aquarium of the Smokies one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg. You can swim with stingrays, paint with a penguin, or even have a sleepover in the shark tunnel!

16. Get an Old-Timey Photo

Probably the most touristy thing you can do in Gatlinburg, but also one of the most entertaining, is to take an “ old-timey photo “. You find dozens of old-timey photo studios lining the main strip of Gatlinburg.

Your group will get to dress up in hoop skirts, waistcoats, trench coats, gun belts, garter belts, feather boas, and anything else you can find in the costume closet. You’ll then have your photos taken with a period-appropriate backdrop and developed in sepia for that old-timey look! It’s great fun for the whole family and makes for a great souvenir from your trip to Gatlinburg!

A word of warning : Make sure you are very clear on the pricing ahead of time. Clarify whether the sitting fee is for the whole group or per person, how many different poses you can choose, how many prints you’ll get, and whether you can have digital copies of the photos. These old-timey photo studios have a tendency to advertise at a very reasonable rate. Then, they hit you with a bunch of extra charges when it comes time to pay for your photos.

17. See Artwork at Arrowmont

The historic Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts has been educating artists and artisans for over 70 years. Here you will find classes and workshops on jewelry making, weaving, woodworking, ceramics, and more! If you really want to get a feel for Appalachia, then taking a class at Arrowmont is a great place to start.

Of course, if you don’t have time for a workshop, seeing their art collection is reason enough to visit Arrowmont. The school runs five art galleries that are open to the public with pieces from local and international artists. Arrowmont has a permanent collection of over 1,000 works of art as well as rotating exhibits. You can also visit the studio of the current artist in residence.

Arrowmont’s Art Galleries are open from 8:30 am – 5 pm Monday – Friday and from 10 am – 4 pm on Saturday. They are closed on Sunday.

18. Play Putt-Putt Golf

What to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Putt Putt Golf (Miniature Golf)

There are seven miniature golf courses in Gatlinburg which is actually quite impressive when you consider the town has a population of just 4,150 people. That’s one putt-putt golf course for every 600 residents!

The most unique miniature golf course in Gatlinburg is definitely Hillbilly Golf . It was built right onto the side of a steep hill and has been open for almost 50 years! Before beginning your game of putt-putt, you’ll head 300 vertical feet straight up the hillside on Hillbilly Golf’s inclined railcar. Then you’ll play a true Appalachian-themed game of miniature golf by putting your way down the mountain through tractors, moonshine stills, and outhouses.

And if you’re trying to figure out what to do on a rainy day in Gatlinburg, miniature golf is also an option! Head to Blindshot Barnaby’s Circus Golf or Gatlin’s which both offer indoor blacklight golf courses.

Other options for a round of putt-putt golf include Davy Crockett Mini-Golf , Cooter’s Place (if you’re a fan of The Duke’s of Hazard), Treasure Quest (another indoor minigolf course), and a small miniature golf course at Ober Gatlinburg.

19. Ride the Tram to Ober Gatlinburg

Unique Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Tram

Another long-standing institution of Gatlinburg is the Aerial Tramway. Carrying up to 120 passengers at a time, the Gatlinburg Tram departs downtown and travels 2.1-miles to the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort high in the Smokies.

You’ll have great views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains both during your tram ride and when you arrive at the top. Plus, there are lots of fun things to do at Ober Gatlinburg all year round! You can go skiing in the winter, ride the Mountain Coaster or Alpine Slide in the summer, and go ice skating regardless of what season you’re visiting Gatlinburg.

20. Go Skiing

Ober Gatlinburg is Tennessee’s only ski resort and if you are visiting in the winter, skiing or snowboarding is definitely one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg. I first learned to snowboard at Ober Gatlinburg before moving out west to Portland, Oregon .

The ski area at Ober Gatlinburg is actually rather small, especially in comparison to many proper ski resorts in the Western part of the USA or Canada. Ober claims to have ten ski trails, but, in reality, it’s more like five. They’re counting each individual section of a ski run as its own trail.

Lift tickets are significantly cheaper on weekdays than on weekends. So if you’ll be visiting Gatlinburg for several days, you should plan your skiing for a weekday as the slopes will also be much less crowded midweek. If you’ve never skied before, Ober offers both ski rentals and lessons. They also have snow tubing which is quite popular with families visiting Gatlinburg in the winter.

Ober’s ski season generally lasts from mid-December until early March, but it is dependent on the weather so there is no way of saying for sure. If you definitely want to ski during your trip to Gatlinburg then you should plan on visiting in January or February.

21. Go Ice Skating

Top Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Ice Staking at Ober Gatlinburg

Another one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg in the Winter is to go ice skating at Ober . Actually, the skating rink is open year round so if you’re visiting in the summer, it’s also a great way to beat the heat in Tennessee. Plus, there are lots of health benefits to ice skating – like improving your balance and overall fitness!

It’s quite cold in the ice skating rink so if you’re heading to Ober Gatlinburg in the summer and want to go ice skating, make sure you bring a jacket or sweater.

Ober Gatlinburg’s ice skating rink has been there for as long as I can remember. It’s even home to Tennessee’s annual Special Olympics ice skating competition. At only $8 per person (including ice skate rentals) it is also one of the most affordable things to do in Gatlinburg.

22. Ride the Mountain Coaster

If you’re visiting Gatlinburg in the summer, you’ll miss out on the skiing, but luckily you can ride one of Ober Gatlinburg’s newest attractions, the Mountain Coaster . You’ll sail down 2,750 feet of winding track reaching top speeds of 25MPH. You control the speed of your car with a hand brake so you can choose whether to make your descent a leisurely ride or an all-out adrenaline rush!

I also recommend the Alpine Slide which is basically an older, less safe version of the Mountain Coaster. It’s the same concept as the Mountain Coaster as you’ll be descending a steep winding track down the mountain in a small vehicle that you control with a hand brake. The biggest difference is that your car is not attached to the track. And although the top speed on the Alpine Slide is slower, I can personally attest to the fact that wipeouts are possible, especially if you’re racing a friend and you both neglect to use the hand brake.

23. Be Terrified at the Mysterious Mansion

Best Things to do in Gatlinburg: Mysterious Mansion

Of all the things you can do in Gatlinburg, the one that is most nostalgic for me is the Mysterious Mansion . As kids, we were always obsessed with this haunted house. From the outside, it looks like a very creepy Victorian-era mansion and through the windows, you’ll spot shadowy figures moving around in the interior. It’s no wonder this Gatlinburg attraction always piqued our interest.

The Mysterious Mansion has been a Gatlinburg mainstay for quite some time but it went through a major renovation in 2012. It made it scarier and more realistic than ever. Many of the cheesy animatronics that was entertaining but not very frightening were replaced with live actors.

You can expect three floors of secret passageways, creepy special effects, and a legitimately scary haunted house. No refunds are given if you get too scared and have to leave early so make sure your whole group knows what they’re getting themselves into before you buy your tickets.

And if you really love haunted houses then make sure to also check out Ripley’s Haunted Adventure just a few blocks away on Gatlinburg’s main strip.

Book a Gatlinburg Ghost Tour

24. Visit the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum

If you’re looking for something weird to do in Gatlinburg then look no further than the world’s only salt and pepper shaker museum ! Here you’ll find a completely overwhelming collection of over 20,000 salt and pepper shakers plus an equally impressive assortment of 1,500 pepper mills.

This eclectic museum is the brainchild of Andrea Ludden, a Belgian archaeologist who wanted to showcase the variety and creativity of everyday items as mundane as salt and pepper shakers. You’ll find her ever-growing collection of salt and pepper shakers stacked 3-4 rows deep on dozens of wooden shelves and in glass cases.

The Museum of Salt and Pepper Shakers is open daily from 10 am – 4 pm, though you may want to check their Facebook page for current hours before heading over. Admission is $3 per adult and if you purchase something in the gift shop, your cost of admission will be refunded!

25. See the View from the Space Needle

Gatlinburg Attractions: The Space Needle

If you’re looking down on Gatlinburg from the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook or from the SkyLift Park you’ll quickly spot the Space Needle towering high over everything else in town. At 407 feet tall the Space Needle is the tallest structure in Gatlinburg. When it was built in 1969, it was the second tallest building in Tennessee.

Entrance to the Space Needle is rather steep at $12.95 per adult for a quick ride up the elevator. The views from the observation deck at the top are impressive, but it’s unlikely you’ll spend more than 15-20 minutes at this Gatlinburg attraction.

There you have it… 25 of the best things to do in Gatlinburg! Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.

Planning a trip to East Tennessee? Make sure you check out our favorite books and resources!

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The Best Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Nick took his first solo trip abroad to Ireland and Scotland when he was just 19. Since then he has visited over 70 countries around the world (plus 45 states in the USA). He coupled his passion for travel photography with Val’s passion for writing and thus Wandering Wheatleys was born. He now lives in Asheville with his two rambunctious kids, Humphrey and Wilhelminha. Besides photography, Nick loves eating the weirdest food he can find in a country (sheep’s brain currently sits in first place) and making Val get up an hour before sunrise to make sure he gets “the good light”.

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5 thoughts on “the 25 best things to do in gatlinburg, tennessee”.

Thank you so much for this list and description. I wasn’t too convinced (I thought the only thing to do was visit Dollywood which would be fabulous no matter what) but there is so much my young kids would enjoy too. thanks

Dollywood wow haven’t thought about that in a long time. Havent been since I was 14 don’t care for it. So much more to do! The only free national park it’s amazing!!! But Dollywood is also in pigeon forge. And personal love to stay in Gatlinburg. But there are so many beautiful things to do in the park and walking downtowm Gatlinburg is the best! It’s my fav place in the world

You forgot about going to the village downtown. And eating at all the restaurants and shopping and all of the unique stores not the T-shirt ones but all of the different ones and eating edible cookie dough and all the candy places and watching the Smoky mountain Taffy be made and going to the glades with all the arts and crafts stores. So much to do!😁

This post is amazing!!! Thank you so much, I’m sure it was a lot of work.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Tourist Attractions in Gatlinburg

There are plenty of things to do that are not “touristy” but if that’s your thing, Gatlinburg’s got it. There’s everything from an aerial tramway to a see-through bridge, there are plenty of activities for kids and kid-like adults.

1. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take the tram to the top of the overlook with views of the Smoky Mountains. You can explore the observation deck to take in views or walk across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge .

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Gatlinburg Skylift Park

2. Pedestrian Bridge

Want to walk across the top of Gatlinburg? It’s 680 feet across and you can look 140 feet down through the glass floor halfway through.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Skybridge

3. Ober Gatlinburg

Ober Gatlinburg is an amusement park with ice skating, skiing, and more. Did someone say snow tubing?!

4. Gatlinburg Space Needle

The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 407 feet tall observation tower. The tower has an outdoor observation level that provides a 360-degree view of the Great Smoky Mountains and the city of Gatlinburg.

5. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Museum with kitschy oddities on display, including shrunken human heads & rare animal skeletons.

6. Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

Enjoy spectacular views year-round from aboard 120-passenger Aerial Tramway. Departs regularly from downtown Gatlinburg to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area and Amusement Park.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Unusual and Unique Things to Do

We like weird things so much, we even created a second site all about it . But if you want the quick and easy list of the most bizarre things to do in Gatlinburg, welcome!

7. Ripley’s Haunted Adventure

Ripley’s Haunted Adventure takes haunted houses to the next level. Live actors lurk behind every corner of this creepy renovated mansion, just waiting to “welcome” you to their home.

8. Guinness World Record Adventures

The attraction with displays about sports, science & architecture records & interactive challenges.

9. Amazing Mirror Maze

10. headcase escape adventures.

Seems escape rooms are all the rage everywhere you go these days, Gatlinburg included!

11. Treasure Quest Golf

Something else you won’t find a shortage of is a good round of hillbilly golf.

12. Christ in the Smokies

While putt-putt golf, ziplining, and escape rooms may be found in many places, this is a unique one! Religious attraction featuring life-size recreations of Biblical events & a tranquil garden area.

13. World of Illusions

14. the captured escape experience, 15. outdoor gravity park.

At Outdoor Gravity Park, you’ll zorb down a 1,000 ft. hill for an incredible ride you’ll never forget.

16. Mysterious Mansion

Victorian-style haunted house featuring year-round self-guided tours & spooky surprises.

17. Gatlin’s Mini Golf

18. amazing gatlinburg race.

If you’ve ever found yourself laying on the couch binge-watching The Amazing Race, here’s your chance to step up and play, but without the cameras in your face

19. Earthquake the Ride

20. ripley’s super funzone.

An epic arcade.

21. Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf

22. hillbilly golf.

If you’ve ever found yourself laying on the couch binge-watching The Amazing Race, here’s your chance to step up and play, but without the cameras in your face

20. Ripley’s Super Funzone

21. ripley’s davy crockett mini-golf, things to do in gatlinburg tn – outdoor activities & hikes.

The reason I really love Gatlinburg – is the proximity to nature. I get a little upset when people go here and only stay in town.

You’re literally on the front steps of one of the best national parks (and the most visited and it’s free!). Make sure to take advantage of that and enjoy all of the amazing outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg.

23. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park sits on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. The sprawling landscape includes incredible lush forests and an abundance of wildflowers that bloom year-round.

Streams, rivers, and waterfalls appear along hiking routes that include a segment of the Appalachian Trail. As someone who regularly visits the Smoky Mountains, I still haven’t explored all the vastness that there is here.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Great Smoky Mountains National Park

24. Rafting in the Smokies

Veteran outpost offering guided white-water rafting & float tours, plus zip lining & a ropes course.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – White Water Rafting

25. Smoky Mountain Outdoors

Rafting & kayak excursions on the Pigeon River during the summer.

26. Gatlinburg Golf Course

This golf course features hilly greens, a clubhouse & a picturesque mountain setting.

27. Rainbow Falls

The Rainbow Falls Trail is an American hiking trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail ascends Mount Le Conte, the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River, and passes Rainbow Falls before absorbing the Alum Cave Trail and terminating near the LeConte Lodge.

28. Mt. LeConte

Mount Le Conte is a mountain in Tennessee located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At 6,593 ft it is the third highest peak in the national park, behind Clingmans Dome and Mount Guyot. It is also the highest peak that is completely within Tennessee. You can hike via the Alum Cave Trail which is roughly a 10.5 in and out hike.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Mt Leconte

29. Grotto Falls

A 3-mile trail runs through the forest & behind this 25-foot waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains.

30. Chimney Tops

Chimney Tops Trail is a 3.6-mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee that features a river and is rated as difficult.

31. Roaring Fork Motor Trail

The 5.5-mile-long, one-way, loop road is a favorite side trip for many people who frequently visit the Smokies. It offers rushing mountain streams, glimpses of old-growth forest, and a number of well-preserved log cabins, grist mills, and other historic buildings.

Please note that the road is closed in winter. This is located right off the main road in Gatlinburg.

32. Cades Cove

The Cades Cove Loop winds for 11 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a picturesque drive with a backdrop of the mountain peaks. When traveling the scenic loop road, plan to get out and visit the restored buildings that include three churches, log homes, cantilevered barns, and a working mill.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Cades Cove

I highly suggest visiting at sunrise for the best chance of seeing wildlife as well as the best place to see black bears in the smoky mountains.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Black Bears

33. Gatlinburg Trail

The trail travels 1.9 miles one-way from the Sugarlands Visitor Center to the outskirts of the city of Gatlinburg, TN. It is relatively flat and runs through the forest alongside the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River.

The trail offers beautiful views of the river, which at one point is crossed by a pedestrian footbridge.

34. Synchronous Fireflies

Synchronous fireflies ( Photinus carolinus ) are one of at least 19 species of fireflies that live in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. They are the only species in America that can synchronize their flashing light patterns and this only happens one time a year – usually a two-week window – so this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Here’s everything you need to know about seeing the fireflies .

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Synchronous Fireflies

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Museums in Gatlinburg

35. pinball museum.

The largest collection of pinballs and retro games in the Smokies.

36. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Automobile archive featuring famous film & TV cars including the General Lee & 1966 Batmobile.

37. Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum

Quirky museum featuring salt & pepper shakers from various eras made from a range of materials.

38. Cooter’s Place in the Smokies

Museum of the “Dukes of Hazzard” TV show with indoor go-kart & mini-golf, run by actor Ben Jones.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Food & Drink

39. ole red gatlinburg.

Ole Red Gatlinburg is a restaurant, live music venue, and retail space in Gatlinburg, Tennessee inspired by Blake Shelton’s chart-topping hit, “Ol’ Red.”

They have several vegan options and there’s also one in Nashville .

40. Wild Plum Tea Room

An old-world-style teahouse serving tea, sandwiches & muffins in a rustic mountain setting.

41. Coffee & Company

Quaint coffee shop offering traditional beverages along with pastries & a variety of gifts for sale.

42. The Melting Pot

If you’re looking for something a bit fancier in Gatlinburg, The Melting Pot now has a vegan menu including vegan cheese and vegan chocolate.

43. Mellow Mushroom

Funky, art-filled chain pizzeria featuring craft beer, calzones & creative stone-baked pizzas. They have amazing vegan options.

44. Ben & Jerry’s

Make sure to grab some dessert from Ben & Jerry’s – they have several vegan flavors!

45. Smoky Mountain Brewery

Smoky Mountain Brewery is a local establishment that is supposed to have some vegan options and, of course, their own brews.

46. Hunt down vegan candy

There’s a lot of handmade candy – taffy especially – so taking some time to find some vegan candy may be worthwhile.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Distilleries & Breweries

Gatlinburg definitely does not have a shortage of distilleries, wineries, and breweries. You can walk up and down the strip and take all the free tastings and have plenty of alcohol, I promise.

47. Sugarlands Distilling Company

Rustic, industrial-chic moonshine maker offering indoor & outdoor tours, tastings & live music.

48. Ole Smoky Moonshine

Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine is a corn whiskey distillery in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Their downtown Gatlinburg facility features two working copper stills.

Visitors are able to see the distilling process up close while learning about the history of moonshine production in the Smoky Mountains.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Ole Smoky Moonshine

49. Tennessee Homemade Wines

Homemade wines from their Grandfather’s recipes are made from the finest local ingredients in the town of Gatlinburg.

50. Doc Collier Moonshine Distillery

Old-fashioned country store featuring housemade liquor varieties & a tasting room.

51. Sugarland Cellars

Local winery featuring a convivial tasting bar, free tours & a store for regional souvenirs.

52. Tennessee Cider Company

If wine, moonshine, or beer aren’t your thing, don’t worry – there’s cider too!

53. Bootleggers Homemade Wine

Wine homemade from a variety of fruits offered in a rustic, country-style space with tastings.

54. Gatlinburg Brewing Company

A locally-owned brewery, in the heart of Gatlinburg Tennessee, and the breathtaking Smoky mountains. Specializing in craft beer, brewed right on site.

55. Smoky Mountain Winery

Unique, prominent winery featuring a range of award-winning varietals, a tasting room & a gift shop.

56. Little Bear Winery

Little Bear Winery features favorites such as two berries wine which is the perfect blend of blueberry and blackberries as well as their rhubarb wine.

57. Gatlinburg Wine Trail

A brand new wine trail just opened in Gatlinburg. The Gatlinburg Wine Trail includes 4 different wineries where visitors can taste local wines for free!

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Nightlife & Live Music

58. blaine’s bar & grill.

Brick-walled, artifact-filled pub offering American chow, sports TV & a balcony with mountain views.

59. Puckers Sports Grill

No-frills sports bar known for drinks and karaoke.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Best Gatlinburg Tours

60. ghost and haunt tours.

Walking night tours of local attractions thought to be haunted, including a 19th-century cemetery.

61. Appalachian Ghost Walks

Lantern-led walking tours in Southwest Virginia and Eastern Tennessee operate daily and/or nightly throughout Southern Appalachia from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Southwest Virginia Highlands.

62. A Walk in the Woods

A Walk in the Woods has been around since 1998 and is known for their expertise in leave no trace ethics, botany, wildlife, geology, culture, and history of the Great Smoky Mountains.

They lead different walks, backpacking trips, and more.

63. Mystic Mountain Witch Tours

The majestic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, settled by the Scots-Irish and steeped in history, intrigue, and tales of witchcraft . From secret abodes hidden deep in the hills to the infamous Bell witch .

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Amusement Parks & Thrill Attractions

64. gatlinburg mountain coaster.

Roller coaster curves and winds through the woods and mountains forest terrain where you can control your own speed.

65. Dollywood

An amazing theme park located in Pigeon Forge and co-owned by Dolly Parton, Dollywood is definitely worth a visit.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Dollywood

66. Wild Bear Falls Water Park

An indoor and outdoor water park with a mountain theme [of course!] including a lazy river and heated pools.

67. Zip Gatlinburg

A trip to the mountains isn’t complete without ziplining.

68. Gatlin’s Rugged Ropes Adventure Course

Adventurers will be able to climb three stories in the air to face thirty-eight challenges including rickety bridges, suspended ropes, and other balancing obstacles.

69. Smoky Mountain Adventures

70. rowdy bear mountain.

Rowdy Bear Mountain is home to two amazing thrill rides including the First Mountain Glider in the world. The Glider combines free falling and hang gliding into a safe fun experience. The Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster allows you to experience the Great Smoky Mountains in a fun, fast, and unique way, reaching speeds up to 35 mph.

71. Anakeesta

Big outdoor adventure hub offering zip lining, gondola rides, a treetop play area and more.

72. Rent an ATV

73. rent a slingshot or another on-road vehicle.

Riding in these utvs gives you the opportunity to view the National park in a fun new way.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Shopping

74. the village shops.

Here you will find a collection of 27 unique boutiques, eateries, galleries and clothiers set in a quaint, European-themed village atmosphere.

75. Mountain Mall

An indoor shopping center with 36 uniquely themed shops located in the heart of Gatlinburg.

76. Smoky Mountain Art Gallery

The Smoky Mountain Art Gallery supports local artists practicing and living in the Great Smoky Mountains.

77. Gatlinburg Farmers’ Market

Now in its tenth season [mid-May to mid-October], the market provides Tennessee grown produce, local products, and foods in a friendly social environment. Patrons will find a variety of in-season goods that may include fruits, nuts, berries, jellies and jams, and vegetables. Also available are plants, baked goods and natural health and wellness products.

78. NOC Gatlinburg

Nantahala Outdoor Center is your one-stop-shop for everything outdoors – kind of like a local’s REI.

79. The Day Hiker

Outdoors store providing quality and affordable outdoor supplies to the 11 million annual visitors of The Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

80. Celtic Heritage Company

Fine gifts imported from Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the Celtic Heritage Company is the perfect spot for Celtic music, foods, jewelry, accessories, kilts, and more.

81. Alewine Pottery

Family-run pottery studio & store selling handcrafted mugs, plates, pitchers, vases & bakeware.

82. Whole Earth Grocery

Probably one of the healthiest stores and restaurants in Gatlinburg, this is a natural foods store with a cafe focusing on vegetarian & vegan fare such as salads & sandwiches.

83. Santa’s Claus-et

If shopping and Christmas are your things then a visit to the largest Christmas store in Gatlinburg is necessary.

Short Day Trips from Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is situated in east Nashville practically on the border of western North Carolina and is a fantastic base for exploring other places in the region on day trips from Gatlinburg.

84. Asheville

Only 1.5 hours away, Asheville is a place that everyone should visit at least once. Asheville is the coolest little mountain town that is equal parts progressive, outdoorsy, and hip.

The vegan scene is one of the best in the country, there are an immeasurable amount of amazing hiking opportunities and the whole town practically lives by a support local practice.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Asheville

85. Knoxville

A little over an hour away, Knoxville is an easy drive to Gatlinburg. Knoxville is one of the bigger cities in Tennessee but still has a very small-town feel.

It’s a little spread out, but downtown Knoxville, especially Market Square, is a great place to explore. The University of Tennessee campus is also impressive and beautiful.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Knoxville

86. Cataloochee Valley

An hour and a half away, Cataloochee Valley is worth a visit if you have the time, especially at sunrise or sunset. You’ll be blown away by the number of elk and beautiful scenery.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Cataloochee Valley

87. Sevierville

Only 30 minutes away, Sevierville is an easy side trip from Gatlinburg. Sevierville is famous for high-end outlet shopping, cool places to stay in the Smoky Mountains and hometown girl, Dolly Parton.

88. Bristol

A little over two hours away, Bristol is best known for the legendary NASCAR short-track Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol has come into its own by embracing its rich vein of musical heritage [the actual birthplace of country music], beautiful natural elements, and a big revitalization scene.

89. Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is just a few minutes away and is great for families and outlet shopping.

90. Chattanooga

A little less than three hours away, Chattanooga is the furthest day trip but worthwhile if you’re in Gatlinburg for a while.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN – Chattanooga

Gatlinburg Attractions – Seasonal Events & Festivals

91. smoky mountain music festival.

The Smoky Mountain Music Festival [April] continues its dedication to excellence by offering school musicians an opportunity to demonstrate their talents before prestigious adjudicators in a beautiful setting.

92. Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Festival

The name speaks for itself and this is held the first week of December.

93. Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair

The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair hosts Artisans and Craftsmen from all over the nation. There is a fair held in July and October.

94. Oktoberfest at Ober

Held the month of October at Ober Gatlinburg.

95. Gatlinburg Trolley Ride of Lights

From the end of November to the end of January, the specially designated trolleys carry their guests on a memorable journey through downtown and adjacent East Parkway, allowing everyone to experience the magical wonder of Gatlinburg Winter Magic.

Best Time to Go to Gatlinburg

The best time to visit Gatlinburg sincerely depends on your goal of visiting.

For fall foliage and beautiful weather visit from September to October. For synchronous fireflies, the beginning of June. For Christmas lights and festivities, November and December.

The busiest peak time of the year is June and July so plan accordingly.

Where to Stay in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg resorts.

WESTGATE SMOKY MOUNTAIN RESORT & SPA

Providing beautiful cabin-style luxury accommodations, Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort offers a convenient location and scenic views. You’ll also find fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, private balconies, and large screen TVs in your rooms. In addition to your in-room amenities, you’ll have easy access to hiking trails, three heated outdoor pools, a world-class spa, and a year-round water park.

See Reviews Here | Book Now (free cancellation!)

HOLIDAY INN CLUB VACATIONS SMOKY MOUNTAIN RESORT

This resort is located off Highway 441 and the suites are large and comfortably decorated. You can enjoy either a one or two-bedroom suite that comes with full kitchens, dining space, living rooms with sleeper sofas, and a balcony. The rooms are also equipped with TVs, Wi-Fi, and some have a fireplace. Outside of the rooms, you’ll be able to enjoy both indoor and outdoor pools, grills, fire pits, a fitness center, and a kids’ club.

HOTELS IN GATLINBURG TN WITH INDOOR POOL

There are lots of hotels in Gatlinburg TN with indoor pool to choose from so if getting in some pool time is important to you, you’re definitely in luck!

BLACK BEAR INN & SUITES

The Black Bear Inn & Suites offers beautiful views of the Great Smoky Mountains which you can enjoy from your own private balcony. They’re located in downtown Gatlinburg and are very close to the entrance to the most popular national park in the country!

THE APPY LODGE

The Appy Lodge is located at the entrance of Gatlinburg and includes free parking, free breakfast, a laundry facility, an indoor and outdoor pool and much more!

HOTELS IN GATLINBURG ON THE RIVER

THE GREYSTONE LODGE ON THE RIVER

The Greystone Lodge is family-owned and located in a very convenient location downtown. All of their rooms feature private balconies (most of which overlook the river).

OLD CREEK LODGE

The Old Creek Lodge is in walking distance to most of downtown Gatlinburg while also being situated on the river making it seem both remote and centrally located.

BED AND BREAKFAST GATLINBURG TN

LAUREL SPRINGS LODGE BED AND BREAKFAST

If staying in a historic 1930s Smoky Mountain Bed and Breakfast is your type of thing than Laurel Springs Lodge is perfect for you. They’re located two blocks off the main parkway, free on-site Parkway, and walking distance to a trolley stop. All rooms have comfortable bedding, Wi-Fi, TVs and DVD players, and more.

See Reviews Here

PLANNING A TRIP TO GATLINBURG?

Find accommodation , read accommodation reviews , and check flight prices. Book attractions, tickets, or guides in advance. Research using this guide or read my other Gatlinburg posts. See my packing list .

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ULTIMATE Guide to Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN | Attractions, Restaurants, & Lodging

Are you planning to visit the Smokies? Check out all the things to do in Gatlinburg TN !

Forget picture-perfect postcards — Gatlinburg Tennessee hugs the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains, providing epic views at every turn.

On one side, the excitement of the parkway beckons with a Space Needle and record-breaking SkyBridge. On the other is the vastness of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. In between? A host of Southern food, sensational museums, and — quite frankly — some of the best people-watching you can find.

Gatlinburg is a four-season free-for-all with activities, festivals, and entertainment of all kinds. Also, you’ll have really good odds of seeing a bear. Chase waterfalls, climb mountains, and eat pancakes the size of a pizza — Gatlinburg goes big.

Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, family vacation, or holiday trip, we’re here to help you plan the perfect Gatlinburg getaway itinerary.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, USA town skyline in the Smoky Mountains.

Getting to Know Gatlinburg Tennessee

Long before bustling streets and twinkling lights graced the valley, the Cherokee called these fertile lands “Kelelu,” meaning “Place of Many Waters.” For centuries, they hunted, fished, and thrived amidst the Smokies’ verdant embrace, their spirits woven into the very fabric of the mountains.

European settlers arrived around 1770, captivated by its abundant beauty. By the early 1800s, cabins dotted the landscape, and the name “Gatlinburg” arose, honoring Revolutionary War officer and local landowner Radford Gatlin. Life revolved around farming, logging, and harnessing the power of the rushing streams.

The railroad arrived in 1875, sparking the tourism industry. The quaint charm was eventually replaced with major attractions, mostly prompted by the creation of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1934.

The Seasons & Weather

Every season loves to show off in Gatlinburg and the Smokies, so here’s what you can expect no matter when you choose to visit the city.

Gatlinburg bursts into life with wildfires and roaring waterfalls during spring as the city wakes up from a sleepy off-season. Expect early spring to have a chill in the air in the high 50s and low 30s at night, but through May, temps slowly increase to the upper 70s with lows near 50 degrees.

NOTE: Spring is also “Tornado Season,” and the South is known as Dixie Alley for the severe weather that rolls through. Sign up for CodeRED notifications from Sevier County to stay updated on storms.

Temperatures rise from the low 70s to the 80s with a sticky humidity level during summer. Look for the heat index as it mixes humidity and temperatures to give you a “feels like” temperature. It’s a good thing that there’s a water park around every corner here! But, be careful in July — it gets the most rain.

Gatlinburg glows with fall colors at higher elevations starting in September and then through early November in the foothills. The humidity (and mosquitoes) back off while a crisp fall air is perfect for scenic drives or fall foliage hikes . Just bring layers for the first frost, which usually happens in November.

Winters are relatively mild, with the best hope of snow in January. Lows will be at or below freezing, but daytime highs usually get into the 40s or low 50s. Always check road conditions before you head out because rain in Gatlinburg means snow in the Smokies!

Outdoor Things to Do in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Tennessee goes big on outdoor activities, and that’s before you get to the national park. Let’s see what’s waiting for you.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

East from the Parkway in the center of Gatlinburg, you can see the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park — one of the most beautiful national parks in the country . However, that’s just one of three main entrances — a second is in Townsend Tennessee, and a third is in Cherokee North Carolina.

NOTE: The park covers more than 500,000 acres with the state line splitting right through the middle.

West from the Parkway is Newfound Gap Road, weaving for 31 miles through the park. A few “must-see” stops in the park include:

Clingmans Dome : Stand atop the park’s (and Tennessee’s) highest point at 6,643 feet. On a clear day, witness breathtaking 360-degree views across seven states!
Cades Cove : Take a step back in time in this 6,800-acre valley. Follow the 11-mile scenic loop road past historic homesteads, spot grazing deer and wild turkeys, and soak in the serene beauty of untouched nature.
Alum Cave Trail : Experienced hikers shouldn’t miss a chance to hike up Mt. LeCotne via the Alum Cave Trail — plan for this 6-mile trail to take a full eight hours. The hike isn’t hard, but it’s long, and you shouldn’t be afraid of heights. Take your stay to the next level by reserving a room at the LeConte Lodge , which is only accessible by hiking there.
Waterfalls : With so many to choose from, pick a waterfall that suits your experience level. The most popular are Grotto, Laurel, Abrams, and Rainbow. If you don’t want to leave the car, visit the Place of a Thousand Drips, which is best seen after heavy rain.

Gatlinburg Space Needle

Gatlinburg’s Space Needle, towering 400 feet above the town, delivers breathtaking Smoky Mountain panoramas. Built in 1967, its observation deck offers 360-degree views that stretch for miles with information kiosks to learn the history and point out special places on the horizon. An arcade and theater for the Impossibilities Magic Show are also on-site.

Gatlinburg SkyPark

Crowned by the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America, the SkyPark promises thrilling adventures and breathtaking 360-degree panoramas. You’ll need to be okay with heights since the ski lift is the only way up. Several viewing platforms await up top, and you can walk the bridge, climb even higher in a tower, or just enjoy the sights.

Ober Mountain

Any snow that doesn’t come to the Smokies naturally is made at Ober Mountain. This winter getaway offers snowboarding, skiing, tubing, and a snow play area for kids. That’s just the start of a year-long activity hub. When the weather warms up, mountain biking, a mountain coaster, an alpine slide, and amusement rides offer additional thrills.

TRAVEL TIP: If you want to stay closer to Ober Mountain, look for a rental in Chalet Village.

Gatlinburg’s Anakeesta takes you on a sky-high mountain adventure! The name means “The Place of High Ground” in Cherokee language. Once you’re up here, you have zip lines, a tree-top ropes course, two mountain coasters, and the Anavista observation tower overlooking it all.

For more chill activities, roam the shops or eat at one of the restaurants. Stay for the sunset or look for night activities like laser light shows and stargazing.

What is a Mountain Coaster? A mountain coaster blends a thrilling, controllable downhill ride with stunning scenery — like a roller coaster meets bobsled on a scenic track. You’ll be able to adjust the brakes to go faster or slower.

View from the trail to the summit of Whiteside Mountain near Highlands and Cashiers in North Carolina

Nantahala Outdoor Center

The Nantahala Outdoor Center is your gateway to Smoky Mountain thrills. Kayak roaring rapids, raft churning rivers , or tube down gentle waters with friends and family. Skilled guides help conquer your chosen adventure — from whitewater newbies to seasoned paddlers.

Rent gear, book your trip, and get ready for an adrenaline-pumping dose of mountain water — all within easy reach of Gatlinburg’s charm.

Sugarlands Riding Stables - Gatlinburg, Tennessee - Horseback Riding

Sugarlands Riding Center

Saddle up for Smoky Mountain vistas at Sugarlands Riding Center! Guided horseback rides — from gentle strolls to challenging climbs — wind through emerald forests and past cascading waterfalls. Explore the heart of Great Smoky Mountains National Park on trusted steeds, suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike. You’ll be paired with a horse that meets your skill level.

Ripley’s Mountain Coaster

Ripley’s brand has many attractions in Gatlinburg Tennessee , but those aren’t all in the same location. This mountain coaster location offers two options — slow and steady or fast and furious. Either way, you control the tempo.

Ghostwalk of Gatlinburg

This walking tour takes you through the streets of Gatlinburg at night, with local lore, true crime stories, and possible paranormal activity. It’s located right in the heart of Gatlinburg, making it a great after-dinner activity.

RELATED: Ghost Towns in Tennessee & North Carolina

Indoor Things to Do in Gatlinburg

Pigeon Forge doesn’t get all the cool museums and attractions. Wait until you see what Gatlinburg Tennessee has going on inside.

Ripley’s Odditorium

If two-headed animals or vampire-killing kits are your thing, you’ll want to see the 500+ exhibits and artifacts waiting at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! “Odditorium.” The wacky, wild, and weird world unfolds through the namesake that’s been baffling people for almost a century.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Dive down to the depths of the ocean to explore some fascinating marine animals. Touch a stingray or watch the penguins play. Whether you’re looking for a colorful coral reef or a shark sighting, this underwater paradise is mesmerizing. Expand the adventure by sleeping overnight under the shark tank, taking a glass-bottom boat ride, or petting a penguin.

Wild Bear Falls Water Park

One thing to know about resorts in the Smokies is that there are many water parks. This one, inside the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort, is open to the public. Every day is water play day inside this domed adventure, with a lazy river, mid-pool playground, and water slide. Each water park attraction is named after a location in the Smokies, so it’s as educational as it is fun.

The Salt And Pepper Shaker Museum

You’ll never think this much about salt and pepper shakers again, and it’s the only museum of its kind in the world! More than 20,000 sets await exploration — from the odd to the creative. Also, you’ll learn fun facts, such as which shaker has the most (or least) amount of holes.

Mysterious Mansion

Most haunted house attractions come to life in the fall, but the Mysterious Mansion spooks visitors year-round. You’ll guide yourself through three stories and never know what’s waiting around the corner. The mansion goes to the next level during Halloween and the holidays.

Hollywood Star Car Museum

See some of your favorite automobiles in Hollywood history, including the Batmobile, the “Back to the Future” DeLorean, and the General Lee from “The Dukes of Hazzard.” More than 40 vehicles are on display with a special tribute to the “Fast & Furious” franchise.

Annual Gatlinburg TN Festivals & Events

There’s always something going on in Gatlinburg. So, consider planning a trip around one of these events.

Synchronous Fireflies

When a perfect set of outdoor conditions happens, the fireflies in Great Smoky Mountains National Park synchronize their flashes of lights. Photos and video don’t do it justice, and there’s something so wonderful about sitting in the darkness with pulses of light around you. Tickets are available by lottery only through the National Park Service.

Fourth of July Midnight Parade

Independence Day kicks off with a midnight parade through Gatlinburg, a tradition dating back to 1975. Then, the party heads to the Raft River Regatta in the daytime, which is followed by fireworks from the Space Needle at night.

Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair

In July and October, the best crafters of all genres display their process and work to adoring crowds. Watch pottery being formed, or sneak a peek at candy creation — more than 200 vendors are hard at work each year. The best part? You can buy some of the art!

Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival

From mid-September through late November, fall brings the biggest crowds of the year to the Smokies, and all the towns go big for the colorful season. Schedules change each year, but you’re guaranteed pumpkin-spiced sensational experiences.

Smoky Mountain Christmas

From the height of Skypark to the depths of Dollywood, Christmas is displayed in a way that would make Clark Griswold proud. Each attraction and restaurant sports its own holiday flair. Gatlinburg Tennessee loves a good parade and the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade illuminates the Parkway in early December.

Additional Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains

If you’re looking for one of the many popular shows, those are in Pigeon Forge . The bulk are dinner theaters , so plan your meals of the day around that. That’s also where Dollywood is located, with Dollywood Splash Country next door.

Wears Valley is known as the “Quiet Side of the Smokies,” and it’s just a short drive away. You can explore outdoor activities, enter the park through one of the less busy entrances, or go underground to the Tuckaleechee Caverns (open seasonally).

Crockett's Breakfast Camp - Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Casual to Upscale Restaurants in Gatlinburg

Get ready for good eatin’ in Gatlinburg Tennessee. Famous breakfasts and the city’s oldest restaurant fill the list of top options.

Crockett’s Breakfast Camp

This is one place that doesn’t specialize in anything because it has everything. Heaping portions of breakfast food await with giant cinnamon rolls that you might need two people to finish. Heck, it even serves fried cinnamon rolls here.

Seafood Benedicts, hungry hunters’ super-sized stacks, and Aretha Franklin’s “Waffle of Insane Greatness” make this menu — one of the most mouth-watering we’ve seen.

The Pancake Pantry

Ask anyone in town where the best breakfast is in Gatlinburg, and they’ll likely respond “The Pancake Pantry” before you can finish the question. Nearly two dozen flavors of pancakes await, and we love the shareable sides option. Expect to wait in line, but the restaurant keeps it going quickly.

Crawdaddy’s

If you know that “pinch the tail and suck the head” is a way to eat crawfish and not innuendo, Crawdaddy’s is the place for you. This joint specializes in crawfish, shrimp, and oysters. It’s so Cajun that you’ll forget you’re in the Smokes for a hot second.

Big Daddy’s Pizzeria

If Crawdaddy’s isn’t your thing, try Big Daddy’s for the best pizza in town. The team here throws down the gauntlet by stating, “We’re so committed to that freshness that there isn’t a freezer on the premises.”

All pizzas come hot out of a wood-fired oven. Salads, sandwiches, and desserts round out the menu. Better yet? There’s a Big Daddy’s in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville .

Burg Steakhouse

When you’ve worked up an appetite, reward your palate with Burg Steakhouse. In addition to a fine cut of meat, you’ll get an all-you-can-eat soup, salad, and sides buffet. The bar breaks the mold with several drinks served in a smoky cloche.

Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar

Grab your cowboy boots and enjoy a night on the town at Jason Aldean’s Kitchen & Rooftop Bar, one of the newest spots in the city. A versatile menu covers chicken, steak, and seafood with Southern staples, like pot roast and beer-can chicken. Stay for the views on the rooftop or the live performances inside.

Howard’s Restaurant

Try the oldest restaurant in Gatlinburg, and see if you can score a seat on the back patio. While it shows as a fancy steakhouse, it’s still down-home enough to have catfish on the menu. Even though it’s right off the Parkway, the vibe is chill and secluded, with a creek running along the outdoor patio edge.

New Year's Eve - Gatlinburg Space Needle - Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg TN Hotels & Rentals

Gatlinburg offers major resorts, chain hotels, campsites, and RV parks near the Parkway. However, this is also a great spot to find a cabin nestled in the woods just a few minutes from Ober Mountain or Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Hotels in Gatlinburg

The historic gatlinburg inn.

When you want the true Gatlinburg experience, this is where you stay. The Historic Gatlinburg Inn has seen so much since it opened in 1937. Room sizes accommodate any travelers with standard rooms, family suites, parlor rooms, and presidential suites. The place is so old-school — it even has a “breakfast room” where hot breakfast is free for guests.

Edgewater Hotel & Conference Center

Just about every room at the Edgewater Hotel comes with a view, and you can choose a mountain or city view. An indoor/outdoor pool combo makes swimming a staple in any season. The free hot breakfast offers great value, and you’re right on the pulse of the Parkway when it’s time to venture out.

Marshall’s Creek Rest Motel

In all honesty, it looks like a place where the Griswold family would’ve stayed on the Holiday Road. In even more honesty, this place is a gem hidden in plain sight.

It’s small enough to be cozy, offers rustic interiors to match the Smokies vibe, and has one of the best locations you’ll find close to Gatlinburg and the park. You’ll feel like you’re staying in a cabin but still getting budget accommodations.

Gatlinburg overlook during brilliant sunset

Rentals in Gatlinburg

Lover’s loft.

Antique meets rustic chic at Lover’s Loft — a one-bedroom, one-bath cozy retreat with a hot tub and a bear that stops by now and again. The road dead ends near this getaway, offering less traffic and more seclusion for honeymooners.

Peace of Mind

For mid-sized groups, look for options like Peace of Mind. This remote retreat is just 3 miles from Gatlinburg Tennessee while offering great deck views. Games, toys, and a stocked kitchen await the end of a long day of exploring. You’ll have summer access to the community pool too.

Big Buck Lodge

When traveling with a large group, look for an expansive option like Big Buck Lodge. This behemoth house holds eight bedrooms and bathrooms, with double appliances in the kitchen to feed the whole bunch. Every bedroom has a deck, and the rooms are spaced throughout three levels.

NOTE: You will see listings for cabins, chalets, and cottages, and there isn’t a huge distinction between the three. It’s just personal preference. A cabin will be made of wood, a chalet will have an A-frame roof, and a cottage could have siding or stone walls.

FAQs About Gatlinburg Tennessee

Is gatlinburg tn nicer than pigeon forge or sevierville.

Each city brings its own charm. You’ll find newer rentals across a large swath of Gatlinburg because of the 2016 wildfire that leveled homes. That will also explain why some newer homes don’t have a lot of trees around.

Pigeon Forge is the busiest part of the area, so it comes down to whether you want to be in the center of the activity or tucked away in the woods.

Do I need a car in Gatlinburg Tennessee?

You should bring a car with you if you want to explore the expanse of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. On the North Carolina side, you’ll have cities to explore as well.

To avoid moving your car or wearing out your legs, download the Gatlinburg Trolley app to see if those schedules and routes work for you.

When is Gatlinburg Tennessee the least busy?

For those who don’t mind the shoulder season, March through early May is a great time to visit Gatlinburg Tennessee.

The water parks won’t be open and the weather can fluctuate day-to-day, but Dollywood opens in early March and the crowds won’t be nearly as robust.

January through March marks the slowest season for Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Plan Your Itinerary for Exploring Gatlinburg TN & the Smokies

Gatlinburg Tennessee marries a blend of natural wonders and some of the most dynamic tourist attractions in the country. If you have to choose between Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg, you should know there’s not a bad option.

Gatlinburg gives you the front door to the national park, with some major attractions, as noted above. Pigeon Forge is packed with things to do in the most touristy part of the region. And, Sevierville sits in the foothills with enough to do to keep you busy but with much smaller crowds.

Honeymooners might like the respite of Gatlinburg or Sevierville , while bachelor/ette parties will love the vibe of Pigeon Forge. Outdoor adventurers prefer Gatlinburg too so that they are closer to the park and farther away from the tourist schtick.

One last note: I f you’re visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you’ll need a parking pass .

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21 of the Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN (2024 Guide)

Last Updated: January 9, 2024

Looking for all the best attractions in Jewel of the Smokies? Our guide to all the best things to do in Gatlinburg, TN is all you need!

If you’re itching for an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Smoky Mountains, look no further than Gatlinburg, Tennessee . Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Smokies, this charming town is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.

In this travel blog post, we’re diving deep into all the fantastic things to do in Gatlinburg TN, from exploring iconic Gatlinburg attractions to embarking on epic adventures like a visit to Ober Gatlinburg and a scenic drive along the Cades Cove Loop Road.

Gatlinburg is the kind of place that beckons both nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. It’s a town where you can start your day surrounded by the serene beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and end it with a thrilling ride down a mountain coaster at Ober Gatlinburg.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast looking to conquer hiking trails or a fan of arts and crafts ready to explore the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community, there’s something here for everyone.

So, fasten your seatbelts (or hiking boots!), because we’re about to take you on a whirlwind tour of the best that Gatlinburg has to offer.

Table of Contents

1. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2. take a scenic drive through cades cove, 3. enjoy the thrill of anakeesta adventure park, 4. go hiking, 5. visit ober gatlinburg, 6. go to the top of gatlinburg space needle, 7. explore ripley’s aquarium of the smokies, 8. be amazed at gatlinburg scenic overlook, 9. explore downtown gatlinburg, 10. explore the gatlinburg arts & crafts community, 11. go whitewater rafting, 12. visit the gatlinburg pinball museum, 13. experience a thrilling ride down gatlinburg mountain coaster, 14. visit the hollywood star cars museum, 15. take a scenic chairlift ride at gatlinburg skylift park, 16. explore the mysterious mansion, 17. sample moonshine, 18. play hillbilly golf, 19. hop on the gatlinburg trolley, 20. take some scenic drives, 21. shop at gatlinburg mountain mall, high-end luxury hotel: the park vista – a doubletree by hilton hotel gatlinburg , mid-range family accommodation: hilton garden inn gatlinburg , budget hostel/hotel: microtel inn & suites by wyndham gatlinburg , wrapping up, the best things to do in gatlinburg.

These are 21 of the top-recommended things to do in Gatlinburg, TN!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park , nestled in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is an enchanting haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. As the most visited national park in the United States, it boasts a spectacular tapestry of natural wonders, from lush forests and cascading waterfalls to abundant wildlife and panoramic vistas.

Visitors can embark on a myriad of adventures, including hiking along a network of pristine trails, picnicking in serene meadows, and capturing the ethereal beauty of sunrise and sunset over mist-shrouded peaks. With its rich biodiversity, the park also offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, such as black bears, deer, and a diverse array of bird species.

Whether you’re seeking an invigorating outdoor experience or a serene escape into the tranquility of the Smokies, this iconic national park offers a timeless retreat for all who wander its breathtaking landscapes.

Cades Cove, a captivating gem within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a must-visit attraction for those seeking the quintessential things to do in Gatlinburg experience. This scenic valley, surrounded by rolling mountains, lures visitors with its lush meadows, historic buildings, and an abundance of wildlife.

Whether you embark on a leisurely drive or opt for a bike ride along the 11-mile loop road, you’re bound to encounter white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and perhaps even a glimpse of a majestic black bear. The Cove also offers numerous hiking trails, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty.

It’s a place where history, nature, and tranquility converge, making it a cherished destination for those seeking an authentic Gatlinburg experience in the heart of the Smokies.

Read Next: Check out all of these fun things to do in nearby Pigeon Forge!

Anakeesta , perched atop a mountain in Gatlinburg, is an enchanting adventure park that invites visitors to embark on a journey into the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. Accessible via an aerial tramway or a scenic chairlift, this mountaintop oasis offers a wide array of attractions and activities for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

Visitors can explore the treetop canopy walk, known as the “Treetop Skywalk,” and stroll among the lush forest canopy on suspension bridges. The park also boasts a mountain coaster, ziplining adventures, a botanical garden, and scenic dining options with mountain vistas.

With its captivating blend of natural beauty and exciting outdoor experiences, Anakeesta provides a memorable and immersive mountain adventure for all who venture to this lofty retreat in Gatlinburg.

Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a novice adventurer, Gatlinburg’s hiking trails cater to all levels of experience and offer a captivating way to connect with the natural splendor of the Smokies.

Hiking in Gatlinburg is a cherished pastime, and the region boasts a plethora of remarkable trails for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Among these, the Alum Cave Trail, leading to the stunning Alum Cave Bluffs, stands out for its breathtaking scenery.

Another favorite, the Laurel Falls Trail, offers an accessible hike culminating in views of the picturesque Laurel Falls, making it a great choice for families. For those seeking a more challenging trek, the Clingmans Dome Trail leads to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, rewarding hikers with unparalleled panoramic vistas.

Right within Gatlinburg itself, the aptly named Gatlinburg Trail offers a scenic, leisurely hike along the river, providing a convenient and beautiful escape into nature right from the heart of town.

Read Next: Don’t miss out on our list of awesome things to do in Knoxville!

Ober Gatlinburg is a captivating mountain resort and amusement park nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, offering an array of year-round activities and attractions.

During the winter season, it transforms into a winter wonderland with opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, while the rest of the year, visitors can enjoy an aerial tramway ride that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The resort also boasts an indoor ice skating rink, an alpine slide, a wildlife encounter, and numerous shops and restaurants.

Ober Gatlinburg provides not only thrilling outdoor adventures but also a cozy mountain retreat atmosphere, making it a versatile destination for travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation in the scenic setting of Gatlinburg.

The Gatlinburg Space Needle is an iconic attraction that stands tall in the heart of Gatlinburg, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains and the charming town itself.

This 407-foot tall observation tower provides an unparalleled vantage point from its enclosed glass observation deck, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a bird’s-eye perspective of Gatlinburg’s stunning landscape.

Whether you choose to visit during the day to admire the lush greenery or opt for an evening visit to witness the town’s sparkling lights, the Gatlinburg Space Needle provides a memorable experience and a unique opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of this beloved mountain town.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a mesmerizing aquatic wonderland that beckons visitors to explore the mysteries of the deep in the heart of Gatlinburg. Home to a diverse array of marine life, this world-class attraction features interactive exhibits, underwater tunnels, and captivating displays that showcase the beauty and diversity of ocean ecosystems.

From the colorful coral reefs to the mesmerizing jellyfish and the awe-inspiring shark tunnel, the aquarium offers a captivating educational experience for visitors of all ages.

It’s not just an opportunity to observe marine life up close but also a chance to learn about conservation efforts and the importance 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.

The Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is a breathtaking spot that encapsulates the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Perched high above the city, this vantage point offers visitors sweeping, panoramic views of the majestic mountains, lush forests, and the charming town of Gatlinburg below.

It’s a picture-perfect location for capturing stunning photographs, particularly during sunrise and sunset when the scenery is bathed in soft, golden light.

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a serene place to take in the awe-inspiring vistas, the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is a must-visit destination that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the stunning landscapes of the Smoky Mountains region.

Related: Spend a few days in Nashville with our list of all of the best things to do in Nashville !

Downtown Gatlinburg is the heart and soul of this charming mountain town, offering a delightful array of things to do in Gatlinburg. As you wander through its bustling streets, you’ll find a vibrant tapestry of shops, restaurants, and attractions that cater to every traveler’s interests.

From souvenir shops and art galleries to mouthwatering eateries serving up Southern cuisine and sweet treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re seeking unique gifts, delicious food, or simply a stroll to soak in the atmosphere, downtown Gatlinburg is the perfect place to start your adventure in this picturesque corner of the Great Smoky Mountains.

The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community is a unique and charming destination that showcases the talents of local artisans and craftsmen. Spanning an 8-mile loop road, this historic community is the largest group of independent artisans in North America.

Visitors can explore a wide variety of galleries, studios, and shops, each offering a diverse range of handmade and one-of-a-kind creations. From pottery and jewelry to paintings and woodwork, the Arts & Crafts Community provides an opportunity to discover and purchase authentic Appalachian arts and crafts.

The community’s rich history and dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship make it a captivating and culturally enriching experience for those seeking locally made treasures and a glimpse into the artistic heritage of Gatlinburg.

Whitewater rafting near Gatlinburg offers adventurers the thrilling experience of conquering the wild rapids of the Pigeon River while surrounded by the stunning beauty of the mountains.

Whether you’re a novice seeking a leisurely float or an experienced rafter looking for an adrenaline rush, the Pigeon River offers a range of rafting options suitable for all skill levels. Experienced guides lead expeditions through the river’s exhilarating twists and turns, providing both safety and entertainment with their knowledge of the area’s history and ecology.

The combination of rushing waters and picturesque mountain scenery makes whitewater rafting in Gatlinburg an unforgettable outdoor adventure for anyone seeking a refreshing and adrenaline-pumping experience in the heart of the Smokies.

The Gatlinburg Pinball Museum is a fantastic destination for both pinball enthusiasts and casual gamers seeking nostalgic fun. This interactive museum allows visitors to step back in time and enjoy a wide array of vintage and modern pinball machines, all set to free play.

The collection spans decades and includes machines that showcase the evolution of pinball art, design, and gameplay. Whether you’re a seasoned pinball wizard or a novice looking to try your hand at this classic arcade game, the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum offers a unique and entertaining experience.

It’s a place where you can relive the nostalgia of arcades while appreciating the craftsmanship and history behind these iconic machines.

The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is a thrilling ride that adds an extra dose of excitement to the list of things to do in Gatlinburg. This unique coaster is set amidst the picturesque east Tennessee mountains, allowing riders to control their speed as they twist and turn down the mountain.

The coaster’s track is beautifully illuminated at night, creating a mesmerizing spectacle as you zoom through the forested slopes. Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or a memorable family adventure, the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster provides an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of a roller coaster with the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape, making it a must-visit attraction for visitors of all ages.

The Hollywood Star Cars Museum in Gatlinburg is an absolute must-visit for film enthusiasts and car aficionados alike. This captivating museum boasts an impressive collection of iconic cars from the world of cinema and television, making it a memorable attraction in Gatlinburg.

From the Batmobile to the DeLorean from “Back to the Future” and the iconic General Lee from “The Dukes of Hazzard,” visitors can get up close to these famous vehicles, taking photos and marveling at their cinematic history.

It’s not just a treat for the eyes but also a nostalgic journey through the memorable moments of Hollywood, making the Hollywood Star Cars Museum an engaging and entertaining stop for travelers exploring the Gatlinburg area.

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is a captivating and scenic attraction that ranks high on the list of things to do in Gatlinburg. Offering a breathtaking perspective of the Smoky Mountains, this park is renowned for its iconic chairlift ride, which carries visitors to the summit for unparalleled panoramic views.

The highlight of the park is the SkyBridge, one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in North America, providing an exhilarating stroll amid the treetops.

With opportunities for hiking, photo ops, and a charming mountain-top café, Gatlinburg SkyLift Park promises a complete mountain experience that immerses travelers in the natural beauty of the Smokies while offering a taste of adventure and serenity simultaneously.

The Mysterious Mansion in Gatlinburg is a spine-tingling attraction that beckons to those who seek a thrilling and spooky adventure. This haunted house offers a suspenseful and eerie experience as visitors navigate its dimly lit corridors and encounter a myriad of surprises and mysteries along the way.

With its atmospheric setting, creepy special effects, and unexpected scares, the Mysterious Mansion creates an unforgettable journey into the realm of the supernatural. Whether you’re a fan of horror or just looking to test your bravery, a visit to this mysterious mansion is sure to provide a hair-raising experience that adds an extra layer of excitement to your Gatlinburg itinerary.

Moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg Tn is a delightful and flavorful adventure that introduces visitors to the rich history of this iconic Appalachian spirit. Gatlinburg is home to several renowned moonshine distilleries, such as Ole Smoky Moonshine and Sugarlands Distilling Company, where guests can sample a wide array of moonshine flavors and traditional Appalachian spirits.

From sweet and fruity concoctions to classic corn whiskey, the tastings offer a chance to savor the distinct flavors and craftsmanship behind each batch. Beyond the tastings, visitors can explore the distilleries, learn about the moonshining process, and even purchase bottles of their favorite moonshine to take home as souvenirs.

Moonshine tasting in Gatlinburg not only provides a memorable tasting experience but also offers a glimpse into the region’s history and the enduring Appalachian tradition of distilling spirits.

Read Next: Check out these other great things to do in Tennessee !

Hillbilly Golf is a one-of-a-kind attraction in Gatlinburg that offers a delightful and quirky take on mini golf. Situated on a mountainside, this unique course is a standout among the many attractions in Gatlinburg.

Players can navigate two distinct and challenging courses adorned with creative obstacles that pay homage to the Appalachian heritage of the region.

Surrounded by lush greenery and boasting scenic mountain views, visitors can revel in a round of mini golf that combines entertainment and hillbilly charm, making it a memorable and entertaining option for those looking for things to do in Gatlinburg.

Whether you’re a seasoned mini-golfer or a first-timer, Hillbilly Golf promises a fun and whimsical experience that sets it apart from the usual tourist activities in the area.

Whether you’re looking to explore the town without the hassle of parking or simply want to enjoy a relaxing ride through the mountains, the Gatlinburg Trolley system provides a convenient and enjoyable way to experience the area’s beauty and attractions.

The Gatlinburg Trolley system is a convenient and scenic way to explore the charming town of Gatlinburg and its surrounding attractions. With multiple trolley routes available, visitors can easily navigate the town and reach various points of interest, including popular destinations like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Ober Gatlinburg.

The trolleys are not only a practical means of transportation but also offer a leisurely way to take in the picturesque mountain scenery and the bustling streets of Gatlinburg.

Scenic drives are an essential component of the Gatlinburg experience, and the region offers some of the most breathtaking routes for travelers to explore. The Newfound Gap Road , traversing through the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a beloved route, providing stunning vistas and access to numerous hiking trails.

Another gem is the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail , which winds through lush forests and offers the chance to observe the park’s diverse flora and fauna up close. These scenic drives are not just about the destination but also the journey, allowing visitors to soak in the natural beauty of the Smokies at a leisurely pace.

Regardless of whether you’re chasing autumn foliage, hoping to catch glimpses of wildlife, or simply seeking tranquility amidst nature, these drives in Gatlinburg promise a memorable and immersive experience in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.

The Gatlinburg Mountain Mall is a shopper’s paradise in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, offering a diverse and enchanting retail experience that ranks high among the many things to do in Gatlinburg.

This multi-level shopping complex is a treasure trove of souvenirs, artisanal crafts, jewelry, apparel, and more. With its rustic Appalachian ambiance and over 30 unique shops, the Mountain Mall is a haven for those seeking mementos of their Tennessee adventure.

Visitors can peruse an array of locally made goods, art, and collectibles while soaking in the mountain-inspired atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Gatlinburg’s charming streets.

Where to Stay in Gatlinburg, TN

Here are a few of our top-recommended places to stay in Gatlinburg, TN.

Located on a hill overlooking the town of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains, The Park Vista offers both luxury and convenience. The hotel features contemporary rooms with panoramic mountain views, an indoor pool with a water slide, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking upscale accommodations near Gatlinburg’s attractions.

Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, this mid-range hotel offers modern and comfortable accommodations suitable for families. The hotel provides spacious rooms with mini-fridges and microwaves, making it convenient for families. Amenities include an indoor pool, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.

Its central location provides easy access to Gatlinburg’s attractions, shops, and dining options.

This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast to start their day. The hotel is located near Gatlinburg’s downtown area, providing easy access to attractions, restaurants, and shops.

As we wrap up this adventure through the charming town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, it’s clear that this place is a true gem for travelers seeking a perfect blend of nature, excitement, and unique experiences. We’ve covered an array of Gatlinburg attractions, from the awe-inspiring beauty of Cades Cove Loop Road to the exhilarating adventures at Ober Gatlinburg.

But Gatlinburg also surprises with its quirky side, offering visitors a chance to indulge in some unusual mini-golf, like at the Hillbilly Golf course, experiences that are sure to leave you smiling.

So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast exploring the wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains, a thrill-seeker riding the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or simply looking to unwind with some eccentric mini-golf, Gatlinburg has something special in store for you.

It’s a town that effortlessly combines the grandeur of the great outdoors with the excitement of unique attractions, making it an unforgettable destination for anyone in search of fun, adventure, and a touch of the unexpected. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of wonder, and get ready to explore all the incredible things to do in Gatlinburg, TN – a place where the extraordinary meets the extraordinary!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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The Top 15 Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Jonathan Ross / Getty Images

Gatlinburg may be well known as the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park —America’s busiest national park—but you don't have to leave town to experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. You'll find more things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, than can be squeezed into a weekend trip. Gatlinburg boasts many opportunities to enjoy Appalachian culture beyond moonshine tastings and the many kitschy, family-friendly activities. If you're planning a trip, here's what to have on your list.

Shop for Local Art and Handicrafts

Gatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau

A seemingly endless amount of shopping is available right on Gatlinburg's main strip, but for authentic, locally produced Appalachian artwork, head out to the nearby Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community . The 8-mile driving loop is home to more than 100 artists and independent craftspeople selling their creations. Cliff Dwellers , one of the shops, dates back to 1933! Wares are authentic and handmade; imports aren’t allowed. Food, workshops, and demonstrations are available along the route.

To reach the artists’ loop, take Glades Road at Light #3 or jump on a trolley (Yellow Route).

Walk Across the SkyBridge

wbritten / Getty Images

Suspended 150 feet above town, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. The chairlift to the observation deck has been in operation since 1954. Once on top, you’ll enjoy some beautiful photo opportunities of Gatlinburg with the Smoky Mountains as a backdrop. Perhaps the most thrilling part of the 680-foot-long SkyBridge is walking across the 30 feet of glass panels at its midpoint.

Look for the SkyLift next to the historic Gatlinburg Inn ; the legendary song “Rocky Top” was written there in 1967.

See Sharks Up Close

There are plenty of indoor things to do along the strip, but one of the most memorable ways to spend a rainy afternoon is by visiting Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies . The popular attraction opened in 1997 and is home to the marvelous marine life you would expect at a world-class aquarium, along with some other exotic surprises.

Hike in the Great Smoky Mountains

Dan Reynolds Photography / Getty Images

Gatlinburg serves as a perfect base for exploring the most visited national park in the United States. Entrance to the park is free, and roads and facilities are very well maintained. Stop in at the Sugarlands Visitor Center (10 minutes into the national park on US-441) to enjoy exhibits and grab a map. Quite a few scenic trails to overlooks and waterfalls are available to suit your time and energy.

You can also walk into the national park via the Gatlinburg Trail; look for the trailhead at the south end of town. The leisurely Gatlinburg Trail is dog friendly (most in the national park are not) and follows a river 1.9 miles past the remains of old homesites to the Sugarlands Visitor Center.

Spend a Day at Anakeesta

Perched atop a mountain 600 feet above town, Anakeesta is a 70-acre theme park that quickly became one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg after opening in 2017. The beautifully manicured grounds feel like one big botanical garden set high in the mountains.

Along with food, drinks, and activities, Anakeesta is home to a unique observation tower that offers 360-degree views of the national park. The Treetop Skywalk (the longest in the United States) is over 880 feet of connected bridges suspended above the forest floor. Lucky guests can sometimes spot bears from the aerial vantage point.

Reach Anakeesta from the center of Gatlinburg by riding a Chondola chair lift or taking the “Ridge Rambler” to the summit.

Ride the Aerial Tramway to Ober

Jan Butchofsky / Getty Images

Ober is one of very few ski destinations in the southeastern U.S., but the 10 slopes, three chairlifts, and advanced snow-making capabilities draw a crowd. Indoor ice skating and a mountain coaster, alpine slide, maze, miniature golf, rock climbing, and other entertainment keep non-skiers busy. The massive lodge pleasantly held onto its 1970s vibe and hosts live music. A small wildlife area at Ober is home to black bears and other rescued creatures found in the region.

Ober is approximately 3 miles southwest of Gatlinburg. Get there by driving for 10 minutes on Ski Mountain Road. For more excitement, take the aerial tramway to the top.

Tour and Support Arrowmont

Greg Rodgers

Located downtown, the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts began as a settler’s school founded by a women’s fraternity in 1912. The operation was instrumental in Gatlinburg’s early success and was home to the first electric generator, telephone, newspaper, and health clinic in the area.

Today, Arrowmont offers residencies, classes, and workshops. Visitors can visit the galleries and explore the grounds on foot; check the calendar for special events that support Arrowmont's philanthropic causes.

Sample Moonshine at a Distillery

miromiro / Getty Images

No list of things to do in Gatlinburg seems complete without a mention of moonshine. Legal moonshine has become big business in Gatlinburg; now, there’s wine, cider, and whiskey, too. The flavor spectrum leans toward fruity, but a few exceptions are available. Even if you don't partake in a tasting with free samples, you can still hear live Bluegrass music and learn a little about the operations. Ole Smoky Moonshine and Sugarlands Distilling Company are the most popular options, but you’ll see plenty of other places offering free tastings throughout Gatlinburg. Cheers!

Check Out Quirky Museums

csfotoimages / Getty Images

Gatlinburg boasts several unique museums that will fit travelers of all kinds. Car and car-movie enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the collection of iconic cars featured in hit movies such as "Ghostbusters" and "Back to the Future" found at the Hollywood Star Cars Museum . The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is home to 20,000 sets of shakers that were collected by its owners over 35 years. Visitors are encouraged to play the large collection of rare pinball machines and retro arcade games at the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum , a must-see for any arcade lover. And Ripley’s Believe It or Not is a one-stop-shop for oddities ranging from shrunken heads to Zoltar machines in a sideshow atmosphere.

Drive to Newfound Gap

Dean Taplin / Getty Images

With an elevation of 5,048 feet, Newfound Gap is arguably the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. President Franklin D. Roosevelt dedicated the national park there in 1940. The 16-mile drive from Gatlinburg offers plenty of scenic overlooks and beautiful views of Mount LeConte.

If you’ve ever wanted to take a short walk on the famous Appalachian Trail , you can do so at Newfound Gap. You may even see thru-hikers bound for Katahdin, Maine, a grueling 1,972 miles away! Along with enjoying the views, you can straddle the state line and stand with one foot in Tennessee and the other in North Carolina.

Walk and Play on the Strip

Gatlinburg’s main strip is pleasantly pedestrianized with lots to see and do. You’ll find galleries, arcades, candy shops, and kitschy attractions tucked between eateries and souvenir shops. The options for family-friendly entertainment are many, or you can simply stroll and people watch.

The main strip gets chaotic on summer weekends. For some tranquility, duck into the Village Shops , a cobblestone nook with a fountain and benches reminiscent of Europe.

Enjoy Live Country Music

Jason Kempin / Staff / Getty Images

Gatlinburg has never really been known for its nightlife, but some exciting new options are popping up. Country music star Blake Shelton’s Ole Red is a two-story bar and restaurant wrapped around a large stage. Daily live music from well-known performers keeps the new venue packed. Big acts regularly take the stage—most are planned, but some are unexpected, so keep your eyes peeled.

Celebrate Holidays Differently

Although July is the busiest month in Gatlinburg, it’s also when you can see the first Independence Day parade held in the United States each year. Gatlinburg’s award-winning parade begins at 12:01 a.m. every July 4 and features patriotic floats along with an Army band.

Summer isn't the only time to celebrate. Gatlinburg is lit up and especially festive for Christmas. Even Oktoberfest gets observed in a big way at Ober.

Experience Appalachian History at Ely’s Mill

Located less than 10 minutes outside of town along Roaring Fork Road, Ely’s Mill was built in 1925. Today, it’s an outdoor event space that backs up to the national park. You can see the historic mill, enjoy a unique 100-year-old shop, or just relax in the clean air by the rushing river. Cabin rentals are also available.

Sleep Somewhere Unique

You could stay at a regular hotel in town—there are plenty— or rent a cabin , but why not stay somewhere unforgettable? Gatlinburg boasts some incredible lodging options, including Treehouse Grove , which was designed by the star of the television series "Treehouse Masters," retro campers and safari tents at Camp LeConte , and Appy Lodge , featuring an Appalachian Trail décor and theme that easily makes it one of the most unique hotel choices in town.

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14 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN

By Mike Kaplan · Last updated on June 16, 2024

Gatlinburg is a small town in Tennessee. It has a population of about 3,750. It is a popular tourist destination as it sits nestled in a picturesque valley, just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The town is the perfect destination for those looking to get out into the wild in comfort. You can explore nature without needing to worry about packing a big bag. There are plenty of day hikes from the town, and lots of different routes. You’re sure to find something that suits your level. There are also plenty of things to do in Gatlinburg itself if hiking and the outdoors aren’t your thing.

14. Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

The Gatlinburg Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is the only museum of its kind in the world! Although they do admit to having now opened a sister museum in Spain. The museum has more than 20,000 sets of salt and pepper shakers and a large collection of pepper mills.

At the museum you can explore the different materials used to make salt and pepper shakers around the world and take a close look at the intricate ornamentation. The museum is on Brookside Village Way, close to lots of restaurants and accommodation.

They are open every day of the week to visitors for a small admission fee. If you buy a salt and pepper shaker set at their gift shop your admission fee goes towards your purchase!

13. Wild Bear Falls Waterpark

If you’ve come to Gatlinburg on a family vacation, the Wild Bear Falls Waterpark is a great option for a fun family day out! The waterpark is attached to a resort; it could be a possibility for your accommodation needs too.

There are slides, swimming pools, a café, and lots of places to lounge. If you’re tired of running around, but the kids are still full of energy, you can watch them from your deck chair. The waterpark provides the perfect balance of relaxation and play!

Wild Bear Falls Waterpark is open seven days a week, for most of the day. The waterpark is indoors and heated, so you can have fun splashing about even on a rainy day.

12. Gatlinburg Space Needle

The Gatlinburg Space Needle opened in 1970. The observation tower is 407 feet tall! From that high up you can enjoy the views of Gatlinburg below and the Great Smoky Mountains in the distance. The observation deck surrounds the needle, offering 360 degrees worth of magnificent, panoramic mountain scenes.

Attached to the Gatlinburg Space Needle, there is an amusement center with all kinds of arcade games, a theater that does magic shows and a restaurant where you can stop for a quick bite before continuing your adventures!

Whether you’re looking to spend the afternoon taking in Gatlinburg’s stunning views, or you’re looking for activities to keep the kids happy, the Gatlinburg Space Needle is the ideal destination.

11. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum is right next to the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle. The museum is just one of 8 entertainment centers in town run by Ripley’s. The museum has 12 themed galleries and is a place for the curious.

With over 500 weird and wonderful artifacts from around the world on display, there’s enough to keep the whole family entertained. There are cars made of crystal, mummified heads that have been shrunk down, and so much more!

Ripley’s Believe It or Not displays are sure to spark curiosity, disbelief, and awe in its visitors. It’s also surrounded by lots of Gatlinburg’s other tourist destinations, so you can easily combine your visit to the museum with other popular activities and stops in town!

10. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Do you love TV and cinema culture? Are you a car fanatic, captivated by old classics and speedy sports cars? This is the holiday destination for you!

The museum transports the visitor into the movie scene by using special lighting and sound effects at each car display. Most of their cars were built by George Barris. The most iconic car on display is the 1966 TV Show Batmobile.

They also have cars from the Ghostbusters, Sir Paul McCartney’s Cadillac, and lots more famous cars from TV and cinema classics! You can save some money by booking your tickets online in advance.

9. Tennessee Cider Company

A more recent addition to Gatlinburg is the bustling cider bar. The Tennessee Cider Company was the first cidery to open in town and it’s proving to be quite popular!

They serve locally crafted ciders every day from 10am until 11pm, so you can fit a quick drink in between activities or go and spend the evening sipping on your favorite cider. They have a variety of ciders, from mulled ciders to fruity summer flavors and meads, there’s a drink for all tastes.

The cidery is on Gatlinburg’s Downtown Parkway Street, so it’s easy to find. They offer free tasters all day long. The Tennessee Cider Company is definitely worth a visit!

8. The Village Shops

Are you tired of being out in the hills and looking for something a bit more glamorous? Is there something you forgot to pack that you desperately need for your trip? The Village Shops has you covered!

Made up of nearly 30 boutiques, restaurants, clothes shops and galleries, the Village Shops offer a unique shopping and dining experience. The surroundings are designed to transport you into the past, with stone cottage and Tudor style buildings and narrow cobbled streets.

The Village Shops sits in Downtown Gatlinburg, on Parkway Street. It’s the perfect place to buy lots of lovely souvenirs from your trip to take home or give to family and friends!

7. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park & Ski Area

One of the top tourist destinations of Gatlinburg! The Ober in Gatlinburg is famous for being the only skiing and snowboarding facility in the local area. They also have fun winter sports like snow tubing that the whole family can do!

But this big outdoor amusement park isn’t just great in the winter, there’s lots to do all year round. There is a wildlife center where you can visit a family of black bears, bobcats, and otters among other local fauna. There are rollercoasters, alpine slides, ice-skating and much more!

The most popular attraction at the Ober Gatlinburg is the Aerial Tramway that runs 2.7 miles from Downtown Gatlinburg and reaches up to 300 feet of the ground during its trajectory into the scenic mountains!

6. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park offers lots of great ways to get into the outdoors with the whole family. The SkyLink yellow ski lift sweeps you up into the air, lifting you up above the treetops.

You can walk on the SkyBridge, the longest suspension bridge in North America. It’s 680 feet long and hangs over the picturesque valley. At its highest point it is 140 feet above the forest floor! There’s another bridge at the center that has a 30 foot long glass floor in the middle. The bridges at SkyLink Park aren’t for the faint of heart!

If you want to visit the center to soak up the scenery and get into the outdoors, but you aren’t looking for something extreme (or high up) then you can take a stroll on the SkyTrail and admire the views of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg in the distance.

5. Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

Gatlinburg is full of fantastic indoor and outdoor amusement parks, shopping centers, and countless adventure experiences. But the town’s biggest appeal is its proximity to the Smoky Mountain range, a short drive away.

The Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is a viewpoint on the Gatlinburg Bypass that runs between Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a great place to stop off on your way to or from Gatlinburg. The views are stunning, offering panoramic views of the distant mountain ranges and the town below.

There is plenty of parking at the viewpoint, and there is no admission fee! Cheap and easy, why wouldn’t you visit the viewpoint during your Gatlinburg holiday?

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Fishing, hiking, swimming, wildlife watching – the Smoky Mountains National Park has it all. The area is known for its outstanding beauty and exceptional nature. The National Park is a hotspot for nature and wildlife enthusiasts from around the world.

The Park is home to a variety of native species, such as salamanders, coyotes, deer, black bears, bobcats, and elk. If you’re lucky, you might even spot one on your hike! But be careful, they’re not all the kind of animals you want to bump into unprepared.

There are 2,900 miles of streams within the National Park, and anyone with a valid fishing license is permitted to fish in any of the streams half an hour before sunrise until half an hour after sunset.

3. Ole Smoky

Gatlinburg’s Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery is famously America’s most visited distillery. The Ole Smoky distillery is in the hills above the town of Gatlinburg. The distillery produces and sells all of the brand’s signature whiskey flavors. If you like whiskey and being in the hills, the Ole Smoky is the perfect day trip for you!

You can take a tour around the distillery with a local who will talk you through the process of how the whiskey is made. The smell of whiskey in the air is strong, luckily there are lots of free tasters available to visitors.

Tours of the distillery are accompanied by tasters, a great and affordable day out for couples and friends who want to try something different.

2. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

The Ripley’s Aquarium is one of eight Ripley’s venues in town. It has displays of local and exotic fish, crustaceans, and aquatic mammals. The aquarium is a great family day out, fun and educational all at once!

There are unique opportunities like sleepovers with sharks offered to scout groups, and lots of educational day and overnight activities for kids.

The Aquarium is great for families but has also found a clever way of appealing to young students and groups of friends on holiday. The Aquarium hosts the “Sips and Sharks” and “Pints and Penguins”, two 21+ all night events.

1. Sugarland’s Distilling Company

Another of Gatlinburg’s famous distilleries is the Sugarland’s Distilling Company. The distillery is more accessible than the Ole Smoky as it’s in Downtown Gatlinburg, on Parkway.

If you want to visit a distillery or buy local whiskey but you can’t make it into the hills, then the Sugarland’s Distillery is perfect for you! There are also plenty of options of things to do at the distillery.

There is a bar that makes unique cocktails created by the company, a gift shop where you can buy your favorite bottle of whiskey to take home, and the distillery itself. The company offers tours of the distillery, and the chance to meet the local distillers.

Map of Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN

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12 Top Gatlinburg Attractions — Best Tourist Spots!

By: Author William Cooper

Posted on Published: May 10, 2021 - Last updated: June 24, 2023

Gatlinburg is filled with tantalizing historical, natural, and cultural attractions.

Known for exquisite scenery and kid-friendly diversions, this mountain town truly has the recipe for a memorable vacation.

And, we’re helping you experience a rocking vacation here by rounding up the top Gatlinburg attractions.

Furthermore, we’re throwing some expert tips to make your trip planning experience a breeze.

1. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

88 River Rd Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 430-8808

Ripley’s Aquarium has 10 fantastic themed galleries housing more than 9,000 exotic sea creatures.

Why We Recommend This Tourist Attraction

Searching for family-friendly Gatlinburg tourist spots and sites?

Then, don’t forget to put this aquarium on your list of the best tourist attractions in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Here, you’ll have ample opportunities to encounter a wide range of marine life.

In its Touch a Ray Bay exhibit, visitors may splash around with stingrays or pet penguins.

Don’t miss the opportunity to see live shows of the aquarium.

We really love the shows where divers interact with exotic sea animals in the Shark Lagoon Dive.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Greystone Lodge on the River

Related: Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg

2. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area

1339 Ski Mountain Rd Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 436-5423

Founded in 1962, this year-round amusement park offers a ton of exciting activities for everyone.

Ober Gatlinburg is home to some of the most popular attractions in Gatlinburg.

Although it’s famous for its ski and snowboarding facilities, the park has plenty of other attractions.

There’s a small zoo, a children’s park, a mountain coaster and numerous rides.

When the weather is favorable, you can easily and quickly drive up to this resort.

But, we recommend taking the aerial tram ride from downtown Gatlinburg.

As you soar like a bird above the town on this ride, you’ll enjoy striking bird’s eye vistas of the Smokies.

To me, it’s a terrific way to do some Gatlinburg sightseeing.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Park Vista – A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel – Gatlinburg

Related: Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg with Kids

3. Gatlinburg Space Needle

115 Historic Nature Trail Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 436-4629

Opened originally in 1970, this 407-foot-tall tower is one of the best places to visit in Gatlinburg.

Sitting in the downtown area, this tower overlooks Gatlinburg, offering enthralling views of the town and the Smokies.

What’s more, its observation deck is equipped with educational displays and viewfinders detailing the history, key landmarks and highlights in Gatlinburg.

Maximize your pit stop to this tower by playing the state-of-the-art video games at its 25,000-square-foot indoor arcade.

You can also check out its playground, Slice Pizza and Iris Theater here.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

Related: Best Restaurants in Gatlinburg

4. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

107 Park Headquarters Rd Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 436-1200

See Ticket Price for Tour that Includes This Attraction

Over 9 million travelers visit this 522,427-acre park, shared by North Carolina and Tennessee, annually.

There’s nothing quite like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Open to the public for free, this sprawling and majestic park features a plethora of natural wonders, wildlife and historical points of interest.

What’s more, it’s packed with activities for intrepid travelers, including ice skiing, mountain biking and hiking.

Explore the park early in the morning.

Not only are the crowds fewer, but it also increases your odds of spotting wildlife.

Keep in mind that most animals are active at dawn or dusk.

And, don’t worry about the opening times as most of the park’s roads are open 24 hours a day.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts

5. Anakeesta

576 Parkway Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 325-2400

Set on 70-acre forested lands, this theme park is perfect for anyone looking for family-friendly places to go in Gatlinburg.

While it’s relatively new, this theme park has become one of the famous tourist places in Gatlinburg.

At this theme park, visitors may enjoy an assortment of exciting activities, including ziplines and 60-foot-high canopy walks.

And, did we mention that it has a kiddie treehouse playground?

If you want to make the most out of your visit, get an all-day ticket, and start early.

Trust me, 2 hours may not be enough at this theme park, especially if you’re traveling with kids.

And, while there, sample the best BBQ and wraps in town at the Anakeesta Smokehouse.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Gatlinburg Mountain Inn

6. Gatlinburg Pinball Museum

205 Historic Nature Trail Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 430-9947

Nestled along the Historic Nature Trail, this unique museum is home to over 100 retro arcade games and pinball machines.

If you’re looking for cool attractions near you, visit this one-of-a-kind interactive museum.

Through its pinball games and retro arcade, this museum will take you on a wondrous nostalgic journey.

And, guess what?

You can also play the games featured at this museum.

Start early and play to your heart’s content with an all-day admission fee.

You can also take a break to grab some lunch, after hours of non-stop games.

And, if you return to the museum later in the day, your admission will still be honored.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Gatlinburg, TN

Related: Free Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN

7. Wild Bear Falls Waterpark

915 Westgate Resorts Rd Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 430-4800

Nestled inside the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort, this indoor waterpark offers 60,000 square feet of splashy fun.

Wild Bear is one of the highlights for most families visiting Gatlinburg today.

With a variety of slides, water features and pools, this indoor attraction will keep the gang splashing for the entire day.

You can buy a 1-day admission ticket to access this lively waterpark.

If you want to get the best value, though, stay at the resort and get a ticket bundle to the water park for a low price.

Guests of some room types may also access the water park for free.

8. Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

Gatlinburg, TN 37738

Sandwiched between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, this irresistible is open for free to everyone.

Traveling on a budget?

Do yourself a favor and drive your way up to the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook.

For everyone’s favorite price of zero dollars, you can spend a ton of time here just admiring the picture-perfect scenery.

Plus, you’ll have a swell time taking deep breaths of fresh and crisp country air.

The Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is stunning at any time of the year.

Autumn, however, is our favorite season, with the fiery fall colors dotting the area’s landscapes.

As a bonus, autumn sees fewer crowds than summer and winter.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Edgewater Hotel and Conference Center

9. Mysterious Mansion

424 River Rd Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 436-7007

Set inside a genuine Victorian Mansion, this unique attraction has been spooking guests since 1980.

In the mood for some chills and thrills?

Why not venture into the bizarre Mysterious Mansion in Gatlinburg?

Through its eerie music and costumed actors, this mansion will make you feel like you’re in a horror flick.

And, some parts of this tour also happen in pitch-black conditions.

Want the scariest experience possible?

Visit the mansion in October when the staff amps up the gore and intensity of their performance.

And, by the way, this attraction is also not ideal for disabled or less mobile guests.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Gatlinburg Downtown, an IHG Hotel

10. Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster

386 Parkway Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 409-5045

You’ll find this alpine coaster on the main Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg.

Rowdy Bear Mountain will give you a shot of adrenaline with its gravity-propelled coaster that can reach speeds up to 35 miles per hour.

And, unlike your typical roller coaster, this ride takes you to straightaways and forests instead of gravity-defying loops.

Moreover, this coaster allows you to travel at your own comfortable pace.

With its dazzling lights, this coaster is truly visually exciting at night.

So, try to experience this ride in the morning and at night on the same day.

And, don’t worry about the cost since the park gives discounts on the 2nd rides.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: River Terrace Resort & Convention Center

11. Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium

800 Parkway Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 436-5096

Featuring 500 one-of-a-kind exhibits, this 3-storey, 12,500-square-foot attraction is one of the town’s main attractions.

No list of the best places to see in Gatlinburg is complete without this “odditorium”.

Although a little odd, the museum has several exhibits that are sure to fascinate you, like the shrunken heads.

Even better, it has amazing activities for those who aren’t into bizarre stuff, such as the 5D movie theater.

If you’re planning to visit the city’s other Ripley’s attractions, get a combo pass to save some cash.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail, Tn

12. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

765 Parkway Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 436-4307

Since 1954, this park has been wowing visitors with its mesmerizing views and fantastic activities.

From the iconic Skylift to the Skydeck, this park boasts some of the top Gatlinburg attractions.

In fact, it’s home to the longest suspension pedestrian bridge in America, the SkyBridge.

At 140 feet high and 680 feet long, it’s a thrilling experience that you’ll remember for years to come.

Late in the day and early morning are the best times to visit the park.

Crowds are fewer and the weather is more favorable during these times.

Also, opening time for the ticket booth is 9 AM, but you may arrive earlier if you want to be ahead in the line.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg

Related: Things to Do Near Gatlinburg

Map of Gatlinburg Attractions

Gatlinburg Tourist Attractions: The 12 Best Tourism Spots for [currentyear]

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area
Gatlinburg Space Needle
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Gatlinburg Pinball Museum
Wild Bear Falls Waterpark
Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook
Mysterious Mansion
Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster
Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

21 Best & Fun Things to Do In Downtown Gatlinburg, TN

You must have heard much about what Tennessee’s capital and Nashville, the home of country music, has in stock.

However, you cannot compare it with the combination of scenery and fun you will find in Gatlinburg in the east. It is a mountain resort town and is among the most popular in the country.

Though a small city, Gatlinburg is where you will find popular attractions, such as Sugarland Visitor Center, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Space Needle, Sweet Fanny’s Adams Theater, Hollywood Star Cars Museum, Village Shops, etc.

Gatlinburg will give you a lifetime of travel memories, and this article will show you some of the best and fun things to do in Downtown Gatlinburg!

Where is Downtown Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is a well-known city in Tennessee for its outdoor provisions and cultural thrills.

Most commonly called the “Gateway to the Smokies,” Gatlinburg is a lively city filled with fun and recreational activities, museums, festive events, and natural wonders that can entertain you for a few days or weeks.

In Gatlinburg, you don’t have to worry about where to stay, as there are numerous accommodations, including Greystone Lodge on the River (4-star near lots of nature), Bearskin Lodge on the River (featuring a big pool), Gatlinburg Mountain Condo (complete apartment), and Love Nest Chalet.

You can join hundreds of tourists who visit yearly to explore its beautiful mountains and enjoy a comfortable holiday in Gatlinburg. The following are some of the best things to do in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Read Also: 21 Best & Fun Things to Do In Bozeman, MT

Fun Things to Do In Downtown Gatlinburg, TN

1. visit the great smoky mountains national park.

Each year, Gatlinburg city welcomes millions of visitors to its 522,427-acre facility, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

It will give you an entertaining and fantastic nature trip with numerous features like crisp, clean air, scenic mountains, and many other outdoor experiences.

Some of its fascinating outdoor entertainments include wildlife viewing, riding on horseback, hiking, and biking. The most exciting part of it is its free admission.

You can begin your entertainment tour with a pit stop at the Sugarland Visitor Center, where you can get maps and an overview of the area.

After that, you can proceed towards hitting the trails and catching some of the park’s historical exhibits. The best among them here should be the Roaring Fork Motor Trail, which offers incredible scenery.

You can stop at the Park Vista (a Doubletree by Hilton Hotel) for rest or a meal.

Address: 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738-4102, US

2. Go to Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

Founded in 1973, the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway was established to offer a safer and cozier way to get to the ski area.

And it has become one of the best fun things you can’t afford to miss out on in Gatlinburg. It has also considered today one of the largest tramways in America.

Apart from being the safest and most enjoyable mode of transportation, this aerial tramway is also popular for its outstanding views.

During your enjoyable aerial tramway tour, you can soak up the incredible bird’s-eye vista of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg area.

When you reach the 11,088-foot high summit, explore its small zoo, skating rink, an amusement park. There are hotels nearby for you to stop and relax while tasting good meals.

Hotels like Margaritaville Resort are highly recommended for their tasty meals and relaxing provisions.

Address: 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738-4102

3. Gatlinburg Space Needle

In 1970, Gatlinburg Space Needle was created as an observation tower of over 407-foot. It is widely considered the most iconic attraction in Gatlinburg.

It is situated in a great position with a high elevation, making it an exciting place to enjoy an overlooking view of Gatlinburg.

This space needle is full of exhibits and activities that will fill your pit stop with enjoyable moments. You can take in the excellent panoramas and explore the educational exhibits and maps that detail the area’s history.

Video games are also available at the 25,000-square-foot Arcadia for game enthusiasts. Have a relaxing moment at Greystone Lodge on the river.

Address: 115 Historic Nature Trail Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

4. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

One of the most exciting things about Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is that it is always open to visitors 365 days a year. It is an award-winning aquarium that provides educational programs and interactive experiences.

You will be doing a lot of good by including this aquarium in your list of things to do in Gatlinburg.

The aquarium also houses many different sea animals and impresses them with its incredible animal experience and shows. You can enjoy a tour through the area, splash around with stingrays, and pet penguins.

Remember to see the underwater tunnel, where you’ll see sharks, tarpons, snappers, and sea turtles. River Terrace Resort & Convention Center is nearby for relaxing.

Address: 88 River Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

5. Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community

Gatlinburg’s arts and crafts community is an 8-mile-long loop in Sevier County featuring over 100 shops and galleries. It forever stands as a living memory of the arts of Tennessee State.

If you are one of crafts and art enthusiasts, you can spare a few moments to explore the city’s arts and crafts community.

It displays different incredible pieces of handcrafted glass, pottery, and paintings skillfully crafted by international, national, and local artists.

You can see how craftsmen produce baskets and pottery or peruse photography and paintings at the Arrowmont School. Souvenirs are available for you to pick up during your tour around the place.

Address: 668 Glades Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

6. Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre

The Sweet Fanny Adams Theater has been a great source of entertainment for visitors with its outstanding musical comedies since its inception in 1977.

Because of its world-class displays, it is always regarded among Gatlinburg’s most innovative professional theater firms.

It was considered a National Historical Treasure and has shown to be a trusted entertainment center for visitors with its outrageous comedy, hilarious fun, and rib-cracking laughter. It features a 2-hour variety of displays, including magic and dancing.

They also present skits that often need small audience participation.

Address: 461 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

7. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park & Ski Area

This amusement park and the ski area have existed as far back as 1962 and are in service every day of the year.

The Ober Gatlinburg is filled with action-packed activities that will have you book more trips to the city. It is not just a place for an amusement park but is also home to a ski area.

You will find a ski mountain coaster, mini golf, kiddie rides, and an in-house ice skating rink featuring snack bars and ice bumper cars .

If you’re visiting during the winter season, you can enjoy a snow tubing activity or go on a snowboarding or ski adventure.

Take part in the park’s four-season activities, such as a small zoo, kiddie park, and mountain coaster.

Address: 1339 Ski Mountain Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

8. Old Smoky Moonshine Distillery

Located in downtown Gatlinburg, Old Smoky Moonshine Distillery is the first federally legalized distillery in East Tennessee.

It features live bluegrass music and authentic moonshine and is an exciting relaxation center after a hectic exploring activity in Gatlinburg.

Apart from being a great relaxation place, with just a small fee, you can gain access to its museum, where you can get more knowledge about moonshine.

A moonshine store is available where you can sample a few great flavors, including the White Lightnin’, Original Moonshine, and Apple Pie Moonshine. You can book a room at Edgewater Hotel for rest.

Address: 903 Parkway #128, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

9. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Established in 1996, the Hollywood Star Cars Museum is a fantastic museum with a selection of movie, celebrity-owned, and television vehicles.

You will find a more outstanding museum in East Tennessee than the Hollywood Star Cars. It houses over 40 popular Hollywood vehicles and is a bit of a paradise for car connoisseurs.

You are welcome to explore an extensive collection of Hollywood’s most popular cars, including the General Lee Dodge Charger in Duke of Hazard and the Ecto-1 in the Ghostbusters, amongst others.

Access is granted for visitors to take amazing photos in the driver’s seat. You will find it fun around here, as several other visitors are in attendance.

Address: 914 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

10. Sugarlands Distilling Company

Established as recently as 2014, Sugarlands Distilling Company is a popular place in downtown Gatlinburg and Tennessee that is worth visiting on any of your vacations in the city.

It greets visitors with its incredible cocktails and moonshine. It is a famous center for travelers and residents to gather and showcase their incredible spirits.

In addition, it provides exceptional souvenirs, glassware, and mountain apparel. You are free to access the place and witness how their spirits are being produced to perfection.

Apart from that, you can take a private and premium tour to learn how to make Tennessee whiskey and moonshine.

Address: 805 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

11. The Village Shops

The village shops in downtown Gatlinburg are a strip that features a selection of 27 restaurants and shops for foodies and shop enthusiasts, respectively.

A tour through the village shops is undoubtedly among the list of top things to do in the city, especially for couples. Apart from its many shops, it also features a romantic Old World European atmosphere.

You can explore the magical European touches of the strip, such as the heavy-carved indoors, homemade bricks, and gas lighting fixtures.

For a memorable Gatlinburg tour, you can experience a piece of its quaint shopping haven, where you will discover tons of unique crafts.

Address: 634 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

See Also: 23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Denton (TX)

12. Gatlinburg Sky Bridge

This magnificent Gatlinburg’s Sky Bridge is a 680-foot-long man-made structure sitting just on the renowned SkyLift Park and is widely considered North America’s longest suspension bridge.

You can stroll over the pedestrian bridge and feel yourself journeying through the clouds. The bridge has a 150-foot high midpoint, where you will discover a fantastic view.

Crossing the bridge will enjoy an incredible view of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

You can see the landscape below at the midpoint via the bridge’s transparent glass-floor panels.

Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

13. Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

You will find this fantastic mountain coaster along the Parkway of Gatlinburg. It is an enjoyable ride that can reach a speed of over 30 miles per hour. It will give you an incredible ride as you journey down the mountain on a sled-like cart.

Because the sled is firmly glued to the track, there is nothing to fear about flying off or flipping over, as it won’t even happen. Enjoy the wind flying through your hair as you speedily drive down the mountain on the sled.

If you are worried about doing it alone, you can go with a company in a double-rider car. After riding, you can head to the gift shop for your favorite souvenir photos.

Address: 360 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

14. Wild Bear Falls Indoor Water Park

Located within the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort, the Wild Bear Falls Indoor Water Park is 60,000 square feet of splashy indoor fun.

It isn’t considered among the best family-friendly attractions in Gatlinburg for nothing as it features heated indoor pools and unique slides. It provides hours of extreme fun.

Please find time to be here this weekend, as you will be offered a chance to float through the slow water and glide down one of its giant water slides.

You can come with your kids as you can leave them to have fun in the waterpark’s stunning interactive treehouse.

A relaxing center is nearby for accommodation at Westgate Resorts in Gatlinburg City.

Address: 915 Westgate Resorts Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

15. Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

Situated on the Gatlinburg Bypass, the Scenic Overlook is an attraction center that visitors and residents of Gatlinburg find amazing, as it features an incredible overlooking view.

The most exciting part is that there is no fee attached to this stunning view spot, as visitors of all nooks and corners are welcome to take an unrestricted view of it.

From your standpoint on the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, you’ll view the entire city from a bird’s angle.

The views are great at any period of the year. But the best time to visit is in the autumn when the leaves have changed into a palette of gold, orange, and red.

Address: Gatlinburg By-pass, Gatlinburg, TN, US

16. Mount Leconte

Indeed, you wouldn’t want to miss out on a tour to the 3rd tallest mountain in the Great Smoky Mountains Park, otherwise known as Mount Leconte.

Standing at a staggering 2,010 meters, the hill, though not the tallest in the national park, is undoubtedly the most popular.

Mount LeConte has a vibrant history, different geological features, and incredible panoramas and is an excellent option for a memorable outdoor experience.

Enjoy hiking the Alum Cave Trail to the peak of Mount LeConte . While walking the trail, you will find several great viewpoints and incredible rocks, which create an interesting debacle.

Address: 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

17. Tennessee Homemade Wines

Situated in downtown Gatlinburg, the Homemade wines call for oenophiles with their exceptional handmade vinos.

This wine center shows that great wines are not only handcrafted on the West Coast. With this wine haven, you will have a great feel of different tasty crafted vinos with a touch of Southern Hospitality.

Each wine is also produced with local fruits, such as strawberry, blueberry, and blackberry. Feel free to take a few sips of wine varieties on your visit to Tennessee homemade wines.

You can also purchase one bottle of its most popular types like Old Apple Recipe, Blueberry Bammer, and White Knuckle grape.

Address: 643 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

18. Pancake Pantry

Pancake Pantry was the first pancake expert restaurant during its establishment in Tennessee in the 1960s.

For over 60 years now, it has remained as satisfying as ever with its array of culinary goodies. The pantry provides visitors with different waffles and 24 different kinds of pancakes.

Begin your day on the right note with a bunch of the pantry’s famous buttermilk pancakes. Apart from pancakes, the restaurant also offers delicious Georgia Peach Crepes, Pecan Pancakes, and Sweet Potato Pancakes .

Address: 628 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

19. Gatlinburg SkyLift

The historic Gatlinburg SkyLift has been in service of soaring visitors to the peak of Crockett Mountain since its establishment in 1954.

And since then, it has been nothing short of a fantastic experience for visitors of every nook and corner of the world that uses it.

It is considered the longest-running tourist attraction in Gatlinburg to date.

This ride was established as a look-alike ski lift to provide visitors with a scenic and relaxing way of reaching even a 1,800-foot high mountain. You can take photos of the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains during the 6-minute ride.

You won’t lack thrilling Instagram views along the way, from blue hills to attractive rivers. There’s an observation deck, a gift shop, and a resting place at the peak.

20. Gatlinburg Pinball Museum

The Pinball Museum is an incredible museum from ancient times and boasts over 100 limited-edition arcade games and pinball machines. It is worth something to do on your weekends in downtown Gatlinburg.

Contrary to other museums, you can play with your prized exhibits here.

Even though it is termed a museum, it operates as a live arcade where visitors from every part of the world are free to test out their machines. You can explore their limited-edition pinball machines like the Gottlieb Sky-Line.

Friendly workers are available for those looking for fun tidbits about specific games and pinball machines.

Address: 205 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

See Also: 30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Yuma (AZ)

21. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium

Even though you will find it the most unusual and weirdest place in downtown Gatlinburg, you cannot see Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Without being drawn to enter and see what is happening inside it.

That’s how attractive it is! It is a center that wows visitors with its oddities.

This center will give you a strange but most awesome viewing experience, as it features up to 600 displays that interest both kids and adults. It is a treasure trove of weird facts and unusual collections featuring informal tidbits to quirky exhibits.

You can enjoy the different ranges of visual displays and odd exhibits of the Odditorium. Among its bests are the 1800s vampire mauling kit and shrunken heads. In the end, you will be attracted to the show and the mysterious mirror mazes.

Even though it is a horror show, you wouldn’t want to miss out on it on your next visit to Gatlinburg.

Address: 800 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US

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Welcome to Downtown Gatlinburg! Tucked away at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a bustling little tourist town that provides some of the best restaurants, shopping, attractions, and hotels of anywhere in the Southeast.

why choose gatlinburg?

You will feel right at home strolling along the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg. Feel the fresh, cool mountain breeze whistling in from the Smokies, smell the fresh air, and relax; you’re in the Smokies. There’s plenty to see here and even more things to do.

Ways to Play

If you’re looking for a magical Smoky Mountain vacation, downtown Gatlinburg is the place to be. Explore the downtown shops and have a ball at the downtown Gatlinburg attractions.

PLACES TO STAY

Of course, to complete the Smoky Mountain experience, you’re going to want to stay in one of the many hotels in downtown Gatlinburg. They will put you conveniently in the center of the action and only minutes from the entrance to the Smoky Mountain National Park.

Jack Huff’s Motor Lodge

Jack Huff’s is one of the more traditional downtown Gatlinburg hotels. Stay here, and you’ll see why they have such a loyal following among Gatlinburg regulars.

Bearskin Lodge

The Bearskin Lodge is another traditional favorite downtown Gatlinburg hotel. Their hotel offers their guests rustic elegance and modern furnishings.

Hampton Inn Gatlinburg

The Hampton Inn Gatlinburg offers 97 rooms with private balconies. Some rooms overlook LeConte Creek while others have both fireplaces and Jacuzzi tubs.

SIP and relax

Come and explore the local distilleries that showcase the art of superior, mountain-made, (and legal) moonshine. Their recipes are the product of the hard work and experience of local families who have made moonshine in the mountains for the last two hundred years.

We promise you’ll fall in love with the great food at the downtown Gatlinburg restaurants. Whether you like seafood, steak, pizza, or fine Italian cuisine, downtown Gatlinburg has the restaurant to satisfy any taste.

CONNECT WITH US

You’re going to love it here in downtown Gatlinburg. Come to the Smoky Mountains and make unforgettable memories when you stay, eat, and play … in downtown Gatlinburg.Like Us on Facebook for real-time updates on downtown Gatlinburg. Check back with us often to see what’s new in downtown Gatlinburg and get updates on downtown Gatlinburg hotels, attractions, and restaurants.

PLACES TO PLAY

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What's there to do in Gatlinburg? We're so glad you asked. With adventures abounding around every turn, there's easily something for everyone found at the gateway to the Smokies . Just a quick stroll along the infamous Parkway offers more opportunities for fun with friends and family than you can complete in a day.

Within just a short walk, you can explore the depths of the ocean at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies or get a hole-in-one at Gatlin's Mini Golf . Thrill seekers will love Anakeesta's Rail Runner Mountain Coaster, gazing through the glass bottom of the Gatlinburg SkyBridge , or riding the Aerial Tramway to Ober Mountain . From museums and arcades to white water rafting and guided hikes, Gatlinburg is the perfect destination for a family-friendly trip to a couples retreat. Look below to begin planning your next fun-filled getaway.

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Find Your Way Around in Gatlinburg
261. St. Louis, MO. 8 Hours - 23 min. 327. Tampa, FL. 10 Hours - 39 min. 698. PLAN YOUR TRIP. Gatlinburg is nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Attractions Map
With so many great family fun attractions, there's no place quite like Gatlinburg, Tennessee!
Download Gatlinburg Travel Guide
Gatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau. 811 East Parkway, P.O. Box 527 Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 436-4178 / [email protected]
Map of Gatlinburg
The 407-foot tall Gatlinburg Space Needle is an awe-inspiring tourist attraction that offers 360 degrees views of the Smoky Mountains from its observation deck. The structure is a major draw for visitors to the downtown area in Gatlinburg, Tennessee and can easily be seen from any part of town.
Downtown Gatlinburg Map
It will be the most detailed map you will find of the downtown area in Gatlinburg. Easily printable, our Gatlinburg map is a pocket-sized tour guide as you're exploring the downtown Gatlinburg Parkway. With our map, you'll be able to easily locate all the downtown Gatlinburg hotels, attractions and restaurants with ease. Get there.
Gatlinburg Vacation Planning
Plan Your Gatlinburg Vacation. Explore Gatlinburg. Discover a destination. Come for an afternoon, a weekend, or as long as you like. These mountains are calling you. Come see how wild our wildlife is. Come experience how eye-opening our endless rolling mountain views are. Come with family and friends to one of the most-visited vacation spots in ...
12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN
10. Visit the Great Smoky Arts and Craft Community. 11. Book an Adventure at Nantahala Outdoor Center. 12. Hollywood Star Cars Museum. Where to Stay in Gatlinburg for Sightseeing. Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Gatlinburg, TN - Climate Chart.
29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Gatlinburg (Tennessee)
The best things to do in Gatlinburg are fun and spontaneous! 2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Weidman Photography / Shutterstock. With mountains, valleys, hills, rivers and flowers that bloom all year long, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the United States.
The 25 Best Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
The best white water rafting companies in Gatlinburg are Smoky Mountain Outdoors, Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC), and Rafting in the Smokies. Rafting trips actually start in Hartford which is about a 40-minute drive from Gatlinburg so confirm your meeting point with whichever rafting company you choose. 9. Go Fishin'.
95 Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN
Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN - Shopping. 74. The Village Shops. Here you will find a collection of 27 unique boutiques, eateries, galleries and clothiers set in a quaint, European-themed village atmosphere. 75. Mountain Mall. An indoor shopping center with 36 uniquely themed shops located in the heart of Gatlinburg.
2024 ULTIMATE Guide To Things To Do In Gatlinburg TN
By the early 1800s, cabins dotted the landscape, and the name "Gatlinburg" arose, honoring Revolutionary War officer and local landowner Radford Gatlin. Life revolved around farming, logging, and harnessing the power of the rushing streams. The railroad arrived in 1875, sparking the tourism industry.
These Are the 12 Absolute Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg
General admission is $37.95 per adult, $23.95 for kids 6-11 at the time of this writing. SkyPark is located at 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a 5.5-mile one-way road in the Smoky Mountains (photo by Tim Mainiero/shutterstock.com) 7. Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
22 of the Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN (2024 Guide)
12. Visit the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum. The Gatlinburg Pinball Museum is a fantastic destination for both pinball enthusiasts and casual gamers seeking nostalgic fun. This interactive museum allows visitors to step back in time and enjoy a wide array of vintage and modern pinball machines, all set to free play.
The Top 15 Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Address. 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. Phone +1 865-325-2400. Web Visit website. Perched atop a mountain 600 feet above town, Anakeesta is a 70-acre theme park that quickly became one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg after opening in 2017.
Gatlinburg Attractions
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a Gatlinburg attraction smorgasbord. Their claim to fame is their 407' observation deck that provides stunning 360 degree views of the Smokies and downtown Gatlinburg. But, at the base of the Needle (as the locals call it), is an entire day's worth of fun. First, this Gatlinburg attraction boasts the ...
14 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN (+Map)
Gatlinburg is a small town in Tennessee. It has a population of about 3,750. It is a popular tourist destination as it sits nestled in a picturesque valley, just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town is the perfect destination for those looking to get out into the w
Explore Gatlinburg, TN
Experience Gatlinburg & The Smoky Mountain Adventure. The mountains are calling! Gatlinburg is perfectly suited for big adventures in the great outdoors. Experience your own mountaintop adventure right from downtown. With miles of hiking trails in the mountains and tons of dining options, attractions, shopping, and arts and crafts in town ...
12 Top Gatlinburg Attractions
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Greystone Lodge on the River. Related: Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg. 2. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area. 1339 Ski Mountain Rd. Gatlinburg, TN 37738. (865) 436-5423. Founded in 1962, this year-round amusement park offers a ton of exciting activities for everyone.
21 Best & Fun Things to Do In Downtown Gatlinburg, TN
Address: 634 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, US. See Also: 23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Denton (TX) 12. Gatlinburg Sky Bridge. This magnificent Gatlinburg's Sky Bridge is a 680-foot-long man-made structure sitting just on the renowned SkyLift Park and is widely considered North America's longest suspension bridge.
Map of Gatlinburg
If you can't find what you're looking for on our Gatlinburg map, just give us a call and we'll be glad to help. Choose the Area you wish to filter by: Apply Filter Clear: Attractions: Hotels: Shows: View Map. 515 Historic Nature Trail • Gatlinburg, TN 37738. 79 20 + tax. $79.20. 88 River Road • Gatlinburg, TN 37738 ...
Downtown Gatlinburg
Welcome to Downtown Gatlinburg! Tucked away at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a bustling little tourist town that provides some of the best restaurants, shopping, attractions, and hotels of anywhere in the Southeast. START HERE.
Attractions In Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau. 811 East Parkway, P.O. Box 527 Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (865) 436-4178 / [email protected]

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12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Gatlinburg (Tennessee)

1. Gatlinburg Trolley

2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

3. Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre

4. Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg

5. Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen

6. Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

7. Mountain Mall

8. Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium

9. Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort and Spa

10. Wild Plum Tea Room

11. Ober Gatlinburg

12. Hillbilly Golf

13. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

14. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

15. Gatlinburg Pinball Museum

16. Sugarlands Riding Stables

17. Gatlinburg Farmers Market

18. Historic Ogle Log Cabin

19. Gatlinburg Space Needle

20. Anakeesta

21. Gatlinburg Trail

22. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

23. Ole Smoky Moonshine

24. Nantahala Outdoor Center

25. Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

26. Parrot Mountain and Gardens

27. Cataract Falls

28. Mysterious Mansion

29. CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains

Start Planning Your Trip To Gatlinburg

The 25 Best Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Getting Around Gatlinburg

Parking in Gatlinburg

Where to Stay in Gatlinburg

25 Fun Things to do in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains

2. Drive to Newfound Gap

3. See the View from Clingman’s Dome

4. Take a Hike

5. Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Trail

6. Stay at The Park Vista

7. See the Fireflies

8. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Pigeon River

9. Go Fishin’

10. Go Trail Riding

11. Drink a Super Mug at the Smoky Mountain Brewery

12. Sample Moonshine

13. Walk Across the SkyBridge

14. Be Skeptical at Ripley’s Believe it or Not

Smoky Mountains Sightseeing Flex Pass

15. See the Sea Life at the Aquarium

16. Get an Old-Timey Photo

17. See Artwork at Arrowmont

18. Play Putt-Putt Golf

19. Ride the Tram to Ober Gatlinburg

20. Go Skiing

21. Go Ice Skating

22. Ride the Mountain Coaster

23. Be Terrified at the Mysterious Mansion

24. Visit the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum

25. See the View from the Space Needle

There you have it… 25 of the best things to do in Gatlinburg! Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.

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