travel guide for gatlinburg tennessee

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Amid the splendor of the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg Tennessee embodies the simple goodness of small town life. This is where we gather together and stand in awe of nature’s glory. Here, we fill our spirits, seek inspiration, and continue the journey toward what we know is right. In Gatlinburg, we strive to “Reach Higher Ground.”

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5 of the Best Reasons to Come Visit Gatlinburg TN

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Surrounded by the Smokies, the small community of Gatlinburg, TN is only two miles long by five miles wide, with just over 3,500 people who call the mountain burg home.  Great Smoky Mountains National Park , celebrating its 85th anniversary in 2019, surrounds Gatlinburg on three sides and has transformed it over time into a mountain resort destination, packed with numerous local-to-national restaurants and attractions galore! Search our extensive list of  Gatlinburg cabins  and experience the inspirational community feel for yourself!

Things to do in Gatlinburg TN

With so many things to do in Gatlinburg TN, your vacation will be filled with lots of fun! Take a look at all of the best  things to do in Gatlinburg TN  to start planning your vacation!

Travel to Gatlinburg to Entertain your Senses

In addition to the National Park, Gatlinburg’s largest attractions include  Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies ; the phenomenal 1.3 million gallon saltwater aquarium was recently voted “#1 Aquarium in the U.S.” by customers of TripAdvisor.  Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park  provides year-round ice skating and outdoor family fun in addition to great winter snow sports once the 120-person Aerial Tramway takes you to the summit. Gatlinburg vacations are action-packed and fun for the whole family!

Places to Stay in Gatlinburg TN

One of the most important parts of planning a Smoky Mountain vacation is choosing where to stay. Gatlinburg is home to a variety of places to stay that can accommodate any type of vacationers, from couples, to families, to large groups. Take a look at some of the best places to stay in Gatlinburg TN below!

Memorable Meals in Gatlinburg TN Once the sun sets, select from the numerous fine and  family restaurants and entertainment! Then, take a trip to the base of the Gatlinburg Space Needle to grab a bite to eat at Slice Pizza Bakery and watch the Impossibilities magic show!

Delicious Restaurants in Gatlinburg TN

From Italian, to BBQ, to steakhouses — Gatlinburg is home to so many delicious restaurants. Whatever you're in the mood for, you can find it at one of the Gatlinburg restaurants. Take a look at some of our favorite restaurants in Gatlinburg TN below!

Little House Of Pancakes

Gatlinburg places to eat / breakfast / pancake house.

No Way Jose's Cantina Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg places to eat / mexican.

Smoky Mountain Shakes N Dawgs

Casual dining / ice cream / snacks / treats.

Slice Pizza Bakery

Gatlinburg places to eat / italian / pizza.

Smoky Mountain Memories

Gatlinburg, Tennessee takes great pride in its mountain heritage, and the  arts, crafts  and  retail shops  reflect that heritage to a large extent. Gatlinburg is a walking community, with the Downtown Parkway offering literally hundreds of things to see and do. If you prefer, get around town on one of the city’s  trolleys , where you can ride unlimited times with the new All Day Trolley Pass. Stroll the river walk along River Road as it echoes the wistful sounds of the Little Pigeon River, with gazebos and benches along the walkway.

At the corner of East Parkway and Glades Road, you’ll find  Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community . Home to over one hundred craftspeople and artists along the eight-mile loop, it’s the largest gathering of its kind in North America. Inevitably, you’ll find a one-of-a-kind craft or work of art being crafted during your visit.

Get Married in the Smoky Mountains

Ah, romance . There’s nothing quite like being in love. And of all the romantic places to get married, there’s no better place to express your vows than Gatlinburg.  Choose from local chapels or other hideaways . It’s truly the perfect location for a scenic wedding.

Gatlinburg Events

In Gatlinburg, Tennessee we celebrate throughout the seasons with parties, craft fairs, concerts and festivals. The Gatlinburg calendar of events is jam-packed with seasonal special events like Gatlinburg Winter Magic, the nation’s first 4th of July Parade, Gatlinburg’s Fine Arts Festival, and Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales.

Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales

Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales returns this summer to entertain Gatlinburg visitors! Tunes & Tales is a summer-long street performance festival featuring costumed musical performers, dancers, ...

Gatlinburg Fireworks Finale

Join the celebration in downtown Gatlinburg to go out with a bang on Independence Day with a spectacular 20-minute firework show starting at 11:00 p.m. from the Gatlinburg Space Needle. Spec...

Gatlinburg River Raft Regatta

Come out to enjoy Gatlinburg's most exciting race of the summer as unmanned floatables speed down along the Little Pigeon River. Registration starts at 11 a.m. and the race begins at 1 p.m. ...

Don’t miss your chance to plan the perfect vacation in Gatlinburg and enjoy everything this mountain town has to offer.

Coupons | Cabins | Condos | Restaurants

Coupons & Deals

Restaurant coupons, fun things to do.

The perfect vacation to Gatlinburg, TN starts here! Discover the very best places to stay such as in one of the many cabin rentals or condos . Find all sorts of things to do including Ober Gatlinburg or zooming through the Smokies on ziplines ! Get tips on the best restaurants for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. See what’s going on all year-long in our calendar of events . There is so much to experience in the Great Smoky Mountains…and we can’t wait to show you!

Gatlinburg Coupons and Discounts

Save money on your Smoky Mountain vacation with our massive guide of Gatlinburg coupons and deals which reveals the biggest discounts for attractions such as Ripley’s Aquarium , Ripley’s Believe It Or Not , white water rafting , ziplines , and more! Also discover the best cabin deals , hotel coupons , restaurant coupons , and so many more ways to save money in the Smokies!

Gatlinburg Christmas Parade

Over 100 parade entries of marching bands, floats, performers, and more!

New Years Eve Gatlinburg TN

27th annual celebration of this event in Gatlinburg, TN

Find the perfect cabin rental

Live Webcams

See the Smokies right now!

Wedding Packages

The best venues and wedding packages in the Smokies!

RECENT NEWS

Find out what’s new including upcoming events, new restaurants & attractions, and so much more.

Gatlinburg 4th of July Fireworks and Parade

Gatlinburg, TN will once again have to “First July Fourth Parade in the Nation” with the return of the...

A Complete Guide to the Best Museums in Gatlinburg

Nothing is better than a walk through a museum– whether you’re avoiding the rain or snow, or simply need...

Where to Eat Lunch in Gatlinburg: Top 5 Restaurants

If you’re anything like us, you start fantasizing about what you’re going to eat during your vacation long before...

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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, Gatlinburg is your basecamp for adventure in every season.

Things to Do

Arts & crafts, outdoor adventures, food & drink, plan your next adventure places to stay.

Find your perfect place to stay in Gatlinburg, with options ranging from cozy cabins and chalets to full service hotels and campgrounds.

Cabins & Chalets

Campgrounds, explore all options, mark your calendar.

We’re always looking for a reason to celebrate yearound. Gatlinburg has something for every season, including parades, craft fairs, concerts, food festivals and special seasonal events.

4th of July Fireworks and Drone Show

• Gatlinburg Space Needle
• The Mountain Music Festival

Enjoy Lunch at the Melting Pot

• The Melting Pot
• Jul 4, 2024 - Aug 20, 2024

Festival of Flags

• Gatlinburg SkyPark
• Jul 4, 2024 - Jul 7, 2024

Fourth Of July Celebration at Gatlinburg SkyPark

Gatlinburg's river raft regatta, savor summer at cherokee grill steakhouse.

• Cherokee Grill & Steakhouse
• Jul 4, 2024 - Sep 23, 2024

SkyPark 70th Anniversary

• Jul 4, 2024 - Aug 31, 2024

Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales

• Jul 4, 2024 - Jul 31, 2024

United Tastes of America

• Jul 4, 2024 - Aug 11, 2024

The Gatlinburg Farmers Market

• Jul 6, 2024 - Oct 19, 2024

Live Music on the Pepsi Stage at Ober Mountain

• Ober Mountain Adventure Park and Ski Area
• Jul 8, 2024 - Sep 2, 2024

Live Music at Ober Mountain – The Zink Trio

• Jul 9, 2024 - Aug 27, 2024

Todd & Friends

• Ole Red Gatlinburg
• Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair
• Jul 12, 2024 - Jul 21, 2024

Dueling Pianos at Ole Red ft. Shake, Rattle and Roll

• Jul 18, 2024 - Aug 8, 2024

Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference

• Gatlinburg Convention Center

Gatlinburg Songwriter's Festival

• Historic Gatlinburg Inn
• Aug 16, 2024 - Aug 18, 2024

Bear-Varian Beer Festival

• Sep 15, 2024 - Oct 31, 2024

Boo Bash at Gatlinburg SkyPark

• Oct 1, 2024 - Oct 31, 2024

Fall Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair

• Oct 3, 2024 - Oct 20, 2024

Ripley’s Fright Nights

• Ripley's Haunted Adventure
• Oct 4, 2024 - Oct 27, 2024

Gatlinburg & Smoky Mountain

Experiences, great smoky mountains, parking tags, black bears, scenic drives, hiking trails, wildflowers, wildlife viewing, arts & culture, history & culture, great smoky arts & crafts community, theaters & live shows, arts and crafts, attractions, free gatlinburg trolley, free things to do, nightlife and live entertainment, outdoor activities, things to do with kids, restaurants, distilleries, coffee & tea shops, sweets & treats, featured reads.

Find inspiration for your next adventure! Get the inside knowledge about all things Gatlinburg. The Gatlinburg Blog highlights exclusive knowledge about hidden gems, upcoming events as well as unique things to do, places to stay, hiking trails, restaurants and more in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains.

Tune In to Gatlinburg’s Music Scene

10 ways to cool off in gatlinburg, fun things to do for the whole family in gatlinburg, 10 fun indoor (rainy day) activities in gatlinburg, 5 budget-friendly summer fun ideas in gatlinburg, explore more inspiring reads to plan your next adventure, know before you go travel tips.

Whether you come for an afternoon, a weekend, or a longer stay, we have tips to make your visit all the more enjoyable!

Travel Tip Bear In Mind That Our Bears Run Wild

Black Bears are an iconic symbol of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and a treasure to our…

Take the Trolley To Get Around Town for Free

Enjoy the many views of gatlinburg with our webcams, let us answer your most frequently asked questions, share your adventures, #themountainsarecalling.

Gatlinburg   Travel Guide

Courtesy of SeanPavonePhoto | Getty Images

Why Go To Gatlinburg

With downtown Gatlinburg's main street leading directly into Great Smoky Mountains National Park , and a 1.9-mile hiking trail that begins at the edge of the city's development, it's no surprise that visiting the Smokies is the most popular attraction in this eastern Tennessee town. In fact, it's such a hit that the park has seen record visitation since 2021, when it reached its highest level of 14 million visits — more than Yellowstone, Yosemite and Grand Canyon national parks combined. This interest makes Gatlinburg, with a year-round population of less than 4,000 residents, balloon with activity during peak tourist season. With miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding, special events for biking and opportunities to view historical sites and wildlife like black bears and elk in their natural habitat, it's easy to see why the park is such a hot spot. When you're not in the park enjoying its natural wonders, you'll likely spend time admiring it from several of Gatlinburg's top attractions , including the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Ober Mountain Aerial Tramway .

But Gatlinburg isn't just a gateway to the Smokies. This small mountain town is a destination in its own right, and one that's particularly popular with families, thanks to kid-friendly diversions like Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and Gatlin's Fun Center. To get a taste of local Gatlinburg culture, skip the kitschy souvenir shops and visit one of several local galleries in the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community to watch local artists and crafters create everything from paintings and pottery to handmade brooms and jewelry.

Find Flight and Hotel Deals

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• # 2 in Best Places to Visit in Tennessee
• # 5 in Best Relaxing Vacation Spots in the USA
• # 5 in Best Winter Family Vacations

See All 12 Rankings

Best of Gatlinburg

Best hotels in gatlinburg.

• # 1 in Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
• # 2 in Hemlock Hills Resort
• # 3 in Baskins Creek Condos by Wyndham Vacation Rentals

Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg

• # 1 in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• # 2 in Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
• # 3 in Anakeesta

Popular Tours

Mountaintop Zipline 2-Hours Activity

(428 reviews)

from $ 112.19

The "Classic" National Park Tour

(110 reviews)

from $ 85.00

Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg

(1023 reviews)

from $ 30.00

Gatlinburg Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Gatlinburg is between September and mid-October for cooler temperatures, fewer crowds and the beginning of fall festivities. The two peak seasons in Gatlinburg are June to August and mid-October through mid-November, when fall foliage is at its zenith. July is the busiest month of the summer season, while weekends in late October draw the largest fall crowds.

Summer is hot and humid with average temperatures in the upper 80s and low 90s. However, the city's slightly higher elevation can make it cooler than surrounding areas, and a quick trek up to the park's 5,046-foot Newfound Gap can drop the temperature by 10 or more degrees compared to downtown. Keep in mind that elevation is also responsible for rapid changes in the weather pattern, meaning you should pack layers no matter when you visit.

Fall foliage begins to appear in mid-September at higher elevations. That, coupled with moderate temperatures, offseason rates and fewer crowds, make September a great month to visit. Crisp fall days in late October – when the foliage reaches its flaming peak – draw huge crowds, and visitors can expect traffic delays, especially on holiday weekends. Meanwhile, Ober Mountain Adventure Park & Ski Area draws aficionados during the winter months, with January and February being Gatlinburg's low season. March to May welcomes spring break travel to Gatlinburg, and you'll likely catch the season's explosion of wildflowers.

Weather in Gatlinburg

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Beware of bears It is illegal to intentionally approach within 150 feet of a bear in the park. For tips on what to do if you encounter a bear, visit the National Park Service website .

Watch the weather Many secondary roads close during inclement weather, especially in the winter months. Check with NPS for the most up-to-date road conditions.

Avoid the park crowds You can avoid large crowds during the peak summer months by visiting on weekdays early in the morning or in the evening (most travelers tour the park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.). You can also stick to off-the-beaten-path trails and attractions, such as along the Foothills Parkway or in the Greenbrier and Cosby areas of the park.

How to Save Money in Gatlinburg

Hoof it around town Downtown Gatlinburg is walkable and there are park trails accessible from the city. If your feet get tired, take the free trolley to explore locally.

Visit in the offseason You'll find the lowest rates on accommodations in January, February, March and September.

Book online Some attractions, such as the Gatlinburg SkyPark and Hollywood Star Cars Museum , offer discounts for tickets purchased in advance online.

What to Eat

True to its reputation as a family destination, Gatlinburg offers a bevy of casual dining options like breweries, pizza joints and barbecue eateries to satisfy even the pickiest of diners. In the downtown area, you'll find many regional and national chain restaurants if you're looking for something easy and familiar, including kitschy spots like LandShark Bar & Grill. However, you'll also find plenty of mom and pop spots tucked throughout the main parkway's several shopping plazas if you're looking for unique dishes like New Orleans-style gumbo or fresh grilled rainbow trout. If you're a fan of Mexican food, you're in luck, as multiple well-rated options are near the main strip.

Breakfast is where the town's culinary prowess truly shines, with long-standing staples like Crockett's Breakfast Camp , Pancake Pantry and The Donut Friar serving up brunch favorites and sweet treats from sunrise into the afternoon. Recent visitors praised the breakfast platter at Crockett's Breakfast Camp, which comes served in a cast iron skillet, but others didn't find the food worth the sometimes long wait for a table. However, other travelers pointed out that the wait may be just as long at Pancake Pantry, though worth the delicious breakfast. If you stop by The Donut Friar, make sure to bring cash, as the establishment doesn't accept cards.

This mountain town also boasts a few fine dining establishments downtown, but for a real upscale treat, head to the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community for a lobster pie lunch, quiet tapas dinner, or romantic steak supper by the creek. Your taste buds will thank you.

Another tip? If you're traveling during the winter months, check the restaurants' hours, as some close seasonally or limit the days they're open.

Getting Around Gatlinburg

The best way to get around Gatlinburg is on foot and by trolley. Downtown Gatlinburg is easily walkable and the town's trolley operates 365 days a year with free service to nearby attractions, including a connection to the inexpensive Pigeon Forge, Tennessee , trolley system at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. However, you'll need a car to take advantage of the scenic driving loops or to access areas of the national park that aren't within walking distance. McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) outside of Knoxville, Tennessee , is about 45 miles west of Gatlinburg and offers several rental car options. Taxi, shuttle or limo service to and from the airport will be pricey because of the distance. Uber and Lyft service the airport, but a ride to Gatlinburg can be expensive. 

Fall (particularly October) is a popular time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park . To avoid the rush of crowds, plan to visit the park in the morning.

Explore More of Gatlinburg

Things To Do

Best hotels.

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

# 1 in  Best Places to Visit in Tennessee

# 7 in  Best Places to Visit in Tennessee

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