gatlinburg tennessee tourist attractions

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/

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/

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).

• 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.

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Tennessee's Musical Roots : The state of Tennessee offers no end of fun things to see and do. A must-visit for music fans is the state capital of Nashville , home to such landmarks as Music Row, widely considered to be the heart and soul of America's music industry. Other related attractions here include the Country Music Hall of Fame, The Grand Ole Opry, and the Ryman Auditorium, where so many great artists have performed through the decades.

Music fans will also want to include Memphis in their Tennessee itinerary. Here, you'll be able to visit the Graceland home of Elvis Presley, and enjoy countless museums dedicated to musical icons of blues to country and rock and roll, including the excellent Memphis Rock 'n' Soul Museum.

Chattanooga (Choo! Choo!) : The delightful, small city of Chattanooga makes a great base from which to explore Tennessee. The city is famous for its connection to the railway, and visitors are always pleased to find the city's original 1909 railroad station intact (it's now a lovely hotel, including some old carriages for rooms). And thanks to a great preservation effort, it's possible to take a rail journey on a historic steam train run by the Tennessee Valley Railroad.

More on Tennessee

The Top 15 Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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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• Post author: Ashley Hubbard
• Post published: April 28, 2022

From the outdoor adventures of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the unique attractions in downtown Gatlinburg the number of things to do in Gatlinburg TN is astounding and incredibly diverse. 

Walk across the longest pedestrian bridge in North America, taste test moonshine at Ole Smoky, and go whitewater rafting all in the same weekend. Or day, if you’re feeling ambitious.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure .

Gatlinburg is a great location for a romantic getaway , a group of friends, and families with small kids. Or all three, but we’re not sure how that would 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 .

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. 

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.

24. Rafting in the Smokies

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

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.

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.

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.

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 – 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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The 25 Best Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

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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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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About the Author:

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.

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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!

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!

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Gatlinburg   Travel Guide

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12 Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee (2024)

No matter the season, Gatlinburg offers a wide variety of family-friendly attractions and activities. In the summer and fall, adventurers can hike, bike and horseback ride through Great Smoky Mountains National Park . There are also other

• All Things To Do

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're looking for quick, less-crowded trails, keep an eye out for "quiet walkways" along the park's main roads, noted with simple wooden signs. These paths are relatively easy strolls that offer a peaceful slice of nature. – Korrin Bishop

One of the few national parks that does not charge an admission fee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also the most visited, welcoming more than 10 million travelers annually. The 522,427-acre park is shared by Tennessee and North Carolina, with the border running through the center. In addition to hiking and horseback riding trails, the park offers historical exhibits, original Appalachian cabins, special biking events and scenic drives to popular spots like Cades Cove and the rushing mountain streams of Roaring Fork Motor Trail. If you love seeing wildlife in its natural habitat, Cades Cove is a great place to spot deer and black bears. Start your trip at the Sugarlands Visitor Center (4 miles southwest of Gatlinburg) to get an overview of the area's history and pick up trail maps. Alternatively, head to "the locals' entrance" at Greenbrier about 6 miles east of downtown. Trailheads to Ramsey Cascades, Porters Creek and Grapeyard Ridge start here, and it's often less crowded than nearby areas of the park.

Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make a reservation at the Austrian-inspired Wild Plum Tea Room for a whimsical lunch with elegant decor and natural surroundings. Enjoy a lobster pie worth writing home about and bottomless wild plum tea. – Korrin Bishop

If you're interested in art and authentic Appalachian crafts, you'll want to spend a day exploring the 8-mile loop through Gatlinburg's Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. This scenic drive passes more than 100 artists and crafters, as well as eateries, shops and boutique lodging. Watch as mountain crafters make brooms, baskets and pottery in their studios. Peruse their paintings, hand-blown glass and photography in quaint galleries. You can even join hands-on workshops with select local artists to learn everything from silk marbling and wire wrapping to fusing glass and soap making.

Anakeesta Anakeesta

U.S. News Insider Tip : Sit for a spell at the Tap House's infinity bar to enjoy some of Gatlinburg's most beautiful mountain views along with a refreshing drink. This nook of the theme park feels otherworldly and delightfully tucked away. – Korrin Bishop

In the Cherokee language, Anakeesta means "the place of high ground," which is fitting for this nature-centered, 70-acre mountaintop theme park. Situated 600 feet above downtown, visitors can either take the park's scenic Chondola chairlift up the hillside or ride its Ridge Rambler shuttle to the top (a good option if you're scared of heights). Once at the park, visitors will find a peaceful atmosphere with many shopping and dining options set against a gorgeous Smoky Mountains backdrop. They can also enjoy 360-degree views from the AnaVista observation tower, explore a bird-themed adventure area, walk 880 feet of suspended bridges that hang up to 60 feet in the air or ride the Hellbender Smoky Mountain Coaster. Add-on activities like the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster and gem mining are also available.

Popular Tours

The "Classic" National Park Tour

(80 reviews)

from $ 85.00

Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour

(127 reviews)

from $ 30.00

Thundering Streams and Falls of the Smokies Guided Hiking Tour

(107 reviews)

from $ 76.00

Moonshine Mountain Coaster Moonshine Mountain Coaster

Mountain coasters are constructed on hillsides to use the elevation of the surrounding landscape to fuel the ride. These unique attractions can fit one or two people in a sled that's pulled up the mountainside by a cable. Once at the top, riders control their downhill speed by pushing levers forward to go and pulling them back to brake. Gatlinburg is home to several mountain coasters, including the Moonshine Mountain Coaster (formerly Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster), which pulls riders up through a lush forest before they zip down the mountain through a series of fast curves and a 360-degree loop. The ride reaches a maximum speed of 30 mph, is set to upbeat pop jams and is thoughtfully decorated with colorful laser lights.

Recent visitors remarked that it was a good mountain coaster for first-timers. Riders also shared that experiencing the mountain coaster at night is a fun experience thanks to the lighting. Travelers appreciated that the track was made for a smooth ride. While some were able to walk right onto the ride with no wait, others noted long lines.

Gatlinburg SkyPark Gatlinburg SkyPark

This mountainside park is all about the views. Its yellow SkyLift carries guests from downtown Gatlinburg up to the top of Crockett Mountain at 1,800 feet elevation. After the thrill of this chairlift ride, visitors can take on the SkyBridge – the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America. Spanning nearly 700 feet across a mountain holler, the bridge features 30 feet of glass across the halfway point for a knee-shaking view down. After that adrenaline rush, head to the SkyTrail for a peaceful stroll, which includes an observation tower for viewing panoramic scenery, or to the SkyDeck for a relaxing meal with a view.

Recent travelers called the trek across the SkyBridge a bucket list adventure and a "must-do" activity. They appreciated the park provides educational background on the region's devastating 2016 wildfire and how Gatlinburg has rebuilt in its aftermath. Some visitors noted that the bridge can get busy and may feel a little disorienting when it sways slightly with greater numbers of people on it.

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

One of the most popular attractions for children, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies offers unique opportunities to get up close to a wide variety of marine life. You can pet a penguin, run your fingers along a smooth stingray in Touch a Ray Bay or take an indoor glass-bottom boat tour where you'll stand directly above more than 8,500 underwater creatures (including 12-foot sharks!). Sign up for Turtle Time to feed lettuce to Sally, the resident sea turtle, and get a behind-the-scenes view of aquarium staff training her.

According to recent visitors, the penguin area and many amazing fish were a hit with kids. However, more than one reviewer noted that the aquarium is somewhat pricey for its size. Still, many families who visited said they enjoyed the multitude of fun, educational activities and considered the excursion one of the best things they did during their trip to Gatlinburg.

Sugarlands Distillery Sugarlands Distillery

Sugarlands Distillery launched in 2014 with five moonshine flavors. Today, it offers more than 20 different moonshines and ready-to-drink cocktails. It also bottles High Rock Vodka, Appalachian Sippin' Cream and Roaming Man Whiskey.

While visiting the barn-themed distillery in downtown Gatlinburg, visitors can take a behind-the-scenes tour, sample award-winning products and order a specialty cocktail to enjoy on the back porch. The spot is known for its Maple Bacon Moonshine Bloody Mary. It's family- and dog-friendly, though patrons must be 21 or older to imbibe.

Ole Smoky Distillery Ole Smoky Distillery

Ole Smoky works from a century-old moonshine recipe that adds a dash of modern flair, which has led to the distillery racking up many awards for its flavorful concoctions like peanut butter whiskey and white chocolate strawberry moonshine. The moonshine maker's Gatlinburg location, known as "The Holler," is where the company began and is hailed as America's most-visited distillery. At The Holler, visitors can tour the facility to see how the stills operate, listen to a bluegrass band and taste some of Ole Smoky's delicious drinks.

Recent travelers came to know their bartenders by name and loved the way they created a fun, memorable experience. Visitors enjoyed doing the distillery's tasting, as it let them sample new drink flavors like banana pudding.

Mountaintop Zipline 2-Hours Activity

(397 reviews)

from $ 123.42

High Points Driving Tour

(26 reviews)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour

(198 reviews)

from $ 16.99

Hollywood Star Cars Museum Hollywood Star Cars Museum

This quirky museum hosts a wide collection of noteworthy cars once owned by a variety of celebrities, used in movies or showcased in television shows. The museum displays the cars with accompanying props and effects to set the scene. Some of the most popular vehicles in the museum include the Batmobile from the 1966 "Batman" television show, Dolly Parton's Cadillac D'Elegance, the 1982 truck from "Twister" and a special collection of vehicles from the "Fast & Furious" movie series.

Visitors said the museum packed a punch and had some exciting cars in the collection. They appreciated the fun movie, show and newscast clips playing throughout that showed the cars in their original roles. Museumgoers noted that it's a great stop with kids and for movie buffs.

Ober Mountain Adventure Park & Ski Area Ober Mountain Adventure Park & Ski Area

The Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area is open 365 days a year. From mid-December to mid-March, skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes and nonskiers enjoy snow tubing. The amusement park, which offers a mountain coaster, an indoor ice-skating rink, a carousel, shops, restaurants and a small zoo, is open year-round. Although the resort itself does not offer accommodations, its location less than 5 miles west of Gatlinburg makes it easy to find lodging. You can drive up to the resort (parking is $20) or take the aerial tram from downtown Gatlinburg. The aerial tramway, one of the country's largest tramways, offers a bird's-eye view of the area along a 2.1-mile ride up to the mountain's 2,813-foot peak.

Visitors raved about the ice skating, bumper cars and the overall variety of entertainment choices, but bemoaned the long lines for activities. They also mentioned that the experience felt overpriced. Recent travelers loved the views from the aerial tram but said that it could get crowded during peak season. Some recommended only purchasing a ticket for the aerial tram to save money and enjoy the park's most unique experience.

Gatlinburg Space Needle Gatlinburg Space Needle

This 407-foot tower overlooks Gatlinburg and offers 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains. The observation deck is equipped with viewfinders and educational exhibits that detail the history of the town and the surrounding landscape. Arcadia, a 25,000-square-foot arcade with video games and a playground is also located here, as are the Iris Theater and Slice Pizza.

While most visitors agreed that the view from the observation deck was breathtaking, many noted it can feel a little scary being up that high. Other bemoaned the slow elevators to get to the top. Several mentioned finding coupons to make that attraction more affordable.

Gatlinburg's Mysterious Mansion Gatlinburg's Mysterious Mansion

This haunted house has been scaring Gatlinburg tourists for more than 40 years. It hosts regular shows in October on weekdays and special Halloween performances during the month's weekends, as well as special Christmas-themed presentations in the winter. But visitors can also go on unguided tours through the mansion's winding staircases, secret passageways, and dark chambers, where zombies and other frights may be hiding.

Recent visitors praised the lengths that the haunted mansion's actors went to so they remained in character and noted that their roles (which include a werewolf and a clown) prompted some true screams and jumps from tour groups walking through. Some travelers mentioned, however, that lines to get in can be long during the peak season and the experience once inside can feel rushed.

Explore More of Gatlinburg

Best Hotels

When To Visit

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• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Gatlinburg Events
• Gatlinburg Webcam
• Downtown Map
• Distilleries
• LIVE WEBCAM

DOWNTOWN gatlinburg ATTRACTIONS

The downtown Gatlinburg attractions are one of the main events of your Smoky Mountain vacation. The attractions are your entertainment during your trip to Gatlinburg. And you’re in luck, because the attractions in downtown Gatlinburg are some of the most exciting, interesting, and just all around fun attractions that you’ll find anywhere. No wonder 1 million people visit Gatlinburg every year.

LET THE FUN BEGIN

When you’re roaming around in downtown Gatlinburg soaking in the ambience of this gorgeous mountain town, you’ll notice that it’s more than a Smoky Mountain experience; it’s one heck of a good time. That’s because the downtown Gatlinburg attractions are so varied and unique that it’s extremely hard to get bored when you’re in downtown Gatlinburg – fun is around every corner.

From the most-visited aquarium in the United States to a 407’ observation deck overlooking the beautiful Smoky Mountains, the downtown Gatlinburg attractions are going to thrill you and take your breath away. So, hold on and get ready for a blast of a Smoky Mountain good time … in downtown Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg Pinball Museum

The best kind of museum is one where you can play with the exhibits. Our goal is to give our guests a fun, informative experience by sharing our love and passion for pinball. Our collection includes mostly Limited Editions from both modern times and dating back to the 1960’s! Some of our pinballs include: Medieval […]

The Gatlinburg Space Needle

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 […]

IRIS Theater

Located in the heart of Downtown Gatlinburg, the Iris Theater is the place to go for shows and entertainment in Gatlinburg. At the Iris Theater, we have the best performers, the funniest shows, the most eye-popping performances, and most importantly, the biggest fun in Gatlinburg. The Iris Theater brings a different brand of show to […]

The Captured

The captured is an interactive live escape game. Located at the base of the Gatlinburg Space Needle. You have to use your wits, skill and every bit of courage to escape being captured. The Craft family have a twisted tradition that dates back to the Civil War. Simon Craft, the family patriarch, was a colonel […]

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore the Amazing Aquatic World Up-Close at America’s #1 Aquarium & Top Destination to See Penguins! Experience Splashing With the Stingrays, Penguin Encounter & Painting programs! Marvel at sharks, a giant sea turtle & thousands of exotic sea creatures as you enjoy Spectacular Underwater Tunnels throughout! Dive/Feeding Shows & More! Visit our FaceBook page

Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf

Play Gatlinburg’s Most Entertaining Mini-Golf! 36 times the Fun for the Entire Family!  Two Amazing 18-hole State-of-the-Art golf courses with interactive displays and animated animals. Free parking or ride the Trolley.  Visit our FaceBook page 

Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze & Ripley’s Candy Factory

Being Lost has Never Been So Fun! Find your way out through surprising corners, dead ends, continuous circles & rotating mirrors! Strike your pose and See infinite reflections of yourself in every direction in the Infinity Room!  Never the same experience twice! Visit our FaceBook page

Ripley’s Haunted Adventure

You’re Never Alone in the Dark! Frights, Fun and Screams for Everyone! Enjoy this multi-million, state-of-the-art World-class Haunted Attraction & Gatlinburg’s #1 Haunted House! New hauntings, special effects and live actors! Bring all your family and friends…there’s safety in numbers!  Visit our FaceBook page 

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium

Visit the Strangest Place in Gatlinburg! Experience the Odd & Weird World of Robert L. Ripley, Adventurer & Cartoonist, that inspired the hit TV show! Explore 13 huge galleries, over 500 Unusual & Incredible Artifacts from around the World! Bizarre curiosities, cool interactives, and new videos for hours of Fun! Visit our FaceBook page 

Guinness World Records Museum

See the Amazing Book come to Life through incredible displays, cool interactive games, trivia, themed galleries and new videos!  Compare your height to the Tallest Man, take the Challenge and attempt to Break a World Record! Hundreds of Unbelievable Exhibits and Authentic Memorabilia from celebrity record-holders and Much More. Visit Our FaceBook page

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

Places to stay, places to eat, places to drink.

The 10 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN (2023-2024)

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial & privacy policies .

Tucked in a gap in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Gatlinburg is a tourist-driven  mountain town with two different levels.

The heart of Downtown Gatlinburg is chock full of restaurants , shops, and fun attractions.

But there are also an array of mountaintop attractions that can be accessed by a short chair lift, gondola, or bus ride.

When you’re on Gatlinburg’s Main Street (which is vaguely reminiscent of a coastal boardwalk), you’ll be fascinated by the massive mountains that encircle the city.

And when you visit the mountaintop attractions, you’ll see panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the neon signs of Main Street below.

Most Gatlinburg restaurants are designed to take full advantage of the stellar views, with balcony and rooftop seating. The mountaintop attractions offer treehouses , a Sky Bridge, ziplines , and a Bar at the Top of the World.

You’ll likely spend your time here not knowing whether to look up or look down. We highly recommend doing both!

Read on for our in-depth guide to the best things to do in Gatlinburg TN, including popular favorites such as the Anakeesta theme park, Ober Mountain, Sky Park, the Space Needle, and more.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Smoky Mountains Hotels to Visit in NC & TN

Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN Guide

(Arranged Alphabetically)

• Gatlinburg SkyPark
• Gatlinburg Space Needle
• Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Main Street Gatlinburg
• Ober Mountain
• Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery
• Ripley’s Believe It or Not
• Sample Gatlinburg Restaurants

READ MORE: The 10 Best Places to See Christmas Lights in Tennessee

1. Anakeesta

576 Parkway, Gatlinburg TN • (865) 325-2400 •  Official Website  

Anakeesta (“place of high ground” in the Cherokee language ) is an award-winning Gatlinburg theme park.

To reach Anakeesta Mountain, take a chairlift or the Ridge Rambler Shuttle Bus to the summit. There you’ll enter the Firefly Village, where there are shops and restaurants with stunning views of the Smoky Mountains. 

One of our favorite experiences was AnaVista, an observation tower at Downtown Gatlinburg’s highest point. We enjoyed wandering the lush botanical garden , with walking trails that surround the base of AnaVista.

Anakeesta also boasts several thrilling rides . The Rail Runner Smoky Mountains  Coaster is a unique single-rail ride with 1,500+ feet of downhill fun. For the ultimate rollercoaster experience, check out the Hellbender Mountain Coaster.

For a quieter way to enjoy the area, try the Canopy Treetop Skywalk, the longest in North America. Bears are common here, but we didn’t see any. Still, we saw plenty of other Tennessee wildlife from our 60-foot-high vantage point!

For a romantic end to a busy day, try Astra Lumina, an unforgettable walking tour with  magical lights and sound.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in the Smoky Mountains

2. Gatlinburg SkyPark

765 Parkway, Gatlinburg TN • (865) 436-4307 • Official Website

The excitement of Gatlinburg SkyPark begins with a 10-minute chairlift ride up Crockett Mountain. Once you reach the SkyDeck amphitheater, you’ll get stunning 360º views of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains.

The SkyCenter is nearby if you need a souvenir, a snack, or a sit-down meal with a bird ’s eye view of the town.

Our goal at SkyPark was to conquer the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian cable bridge  in North America. At 700 feet long and 500 feet high, this is truly a walk like no other!

Keep an eye out for the occasional Black Bear in the valley below. At the halfway point, there’s a 30-foot section of glass to heighten the experience of walking on air.

We enjoyed the SkyTrail as we continued to look for Tennessee wildlife , and finished our visit with a cold beer at the SkyCenter while drinking in the views.

SkyPark is one of the more relaxing attractions in Gatlinburg, so we made a point to return in the evening for a wondrous night sky full of stars and  dazzling lights shimmering in the town below.

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Places to See Fall in Tennessee

3. Gatlinburg Space Needle

115 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg TN • (865) 436-4629 • Official Website  

The Gatlinburg Space Needle is an iconic downtown attraction. Wherever we went in the ever-popular mountain town , this towering landmark beckoned to us, so we had to fit it into our Tennessee road trip.

After a quick ride up in a glass elevator, we were on the observation deck, with a panoramic view of Gatlinburg below.

At 407 feet above Main Street, we were able to see almost all the places we’d been that morning, not to mention getting sensational views of the Great Smokies in all their glory.

On the ground level, kids will love Arcadia . This 25,000 square-foot arcade has video games, simulators, and ticket redemption games that will entertain children and teens for hours.

If you want to catch a magic show or other live entertainment, the Iris Theater  at the base of the Space Needle features unique acts sure to please the entire family.

We finished our time at the “Needle” by sharing a calzone from Slice Pizza Bakery , which serves up traditional Italian favorites and appetizers that bring a little taste of New York City to Tennessee.

READ MORE:   The 15 Best Great Smoky Mountains Campgrounds to Visit

4. Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Official Website

The day we departed Gatlinburg, we visited the nearby Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, an 8-mile loop that features more than 90 artists , craftsmen, and restaurants .

The loop offers woodcrafts, basket makers, leatherwork, pottery, as well as hands-on workshops and three seasonal shows at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. 

Our first stop was at Smoky Mountains Dulcimers , which offered handcrafted dulcimers, banjos, books, CDs, DVDs, and even a free banjo lesson!

While Heather got a lesson from Marilyn (she can now play a halting rendition of “You Are My Sunshine”), I talked to Victor about their careers as live entertainers.

Our next stop was the  Jim Gray Gallery , which is located in a 125-year-old church building and spotlights Jim’s gorgeous paintings, which capture the beautiful essence of the Great Smoky Mountains .

Lastly, we had a fine lunch at Split Rail Eats , which specializes in signature tater bowls, sandwiches, ice cream, and boozy milkshakes.

READ MORE:  What is Bluegrass? The History & Evolution of Appalachian Music

5. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Official Website  

The Tennessee mountain town of Gatlinburg is filled with fun attractions, but the area’s biggest draw is two miles away. 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is America’s most visited National Park, with hiking trails , beautiful Smoky Mountain waterfalls , unspoiled forest, historic mills , and seemingly endless mountain vistas.

Our tour of the park, provided by Smoky Mountain Guides , was an all-day adventure with myriad majestic views. Our guide, Phil, was part historian, part storyteller, and very knowledgeable about the winding Smoky Mountain roads. 

Newfound Gap is one of the most popular scenic destinations in the park, with a section of the Appalachian Trail accessible from the parking lot. 

Next we hiked to Clingmans Dome, a peak that towers at 6,643 feet, the highest point in the Smoky Mountains and the third tallest mountain east of the Mississippi.

Heather’s favorite spot was Cades Cove, an 11-mile loop through a glade with a history going back to the Cherokee Indians. 

The company provides drinks and snacks to sustain you, and also takes visitors to a lesser-known spot called “The Wye,” a favorite swimming hole among locals in the Great Smoky Mountains!

READ MORE:  The 15 Best Things to Do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

6. Main Street Gatlinburg (a.k.a. Parkway)

Main Street Gatlinburg (a.k.a. the Parkway ) is a man-made thoroughfare that’s bustling with pedestrians and cars. It’s also an increasingly popular gateway to the Smokies.

Mountaintop attractions will draw your eyes upward, but take some time to explore shops selling souvenirs, pop culture museums , a Davy Crockett mini golf course, and an aquarium.

Like Tennessee moonshine, Gatlinburg’s Main Street really packs a punch, and we spent two days trying to experience all there was to offer.

Highlights included a sampling of a moonshine truffle from a chocolatier at the Village Shops , and a hard apple cider tasting at the Tennessee Cider Company .

At just over 2.5 square miles, Gatlinburg TN is quite walkable, but you can also hop on the free Gatlinburg Trolley .

Like any small  resort town, parking spaces here are at a premium. While you may find street parking available, the plentiful paid ($20 per day) parking lots usually are the easiest option.

READ MORE:  20 Ways to Celebrate Christmas in the Smoky Mountains (NC & TN)

7. Ober Mountain

1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg TN • (865) 436-5423 • Official Website  

Originally known as the Gatlinburg Ski Resort , Ober Mountain is a winter playground for snow tubing , snow skiing , and snowboarding .

German for “upper mountain,” Ober Mountain (which is perched atop Mount Harrison) offers 4-season fun, which you can access via a 2.1-mile gondola ride that offers exceptional Smoky Mountains scenery.

The Aerial Tramway leaves regularly from the station on Gatlinburg’s Main Street. With room for 120 passengers, the climb to 300+ feet above the town was smooth and enjoyable.

Once you reach the top, you’re greeted with shopping, restaurants, and fun activities for the entire family. From mini-golf to thrilling rides , the mountaintop park offers a full day of excitement.

On the Tennessee Flyer Mountain Coaster, you can control your speed (up to 25 MPH) for an exhilarating ride. For a year-round treat, try their ice bumper cars or go ice skating at Ober Mountain’s indoor arena.

They also have a wildlife habitat with owls , otters, bears, and more. Although the bears are hidden when hibernating, all the other animals (including bobcats) can be seen year-round.

READ MORE:  The 10 Best Fairs in Tennessee to Visit

8. Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

903 Parkway, Gatlinburg TN • (865) 436-6995 • Official Website

Moonshine typically conjures up images, songs, and stories of Appalachia .

Some enterprising Gatlinburg residents have turned what use to be an illegal craft into a celebration of local Appalachian history and flavors.

We loved our private tour of the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, whose founders turned a 200-year-old family moonshine recipe into a multimillion dollar business (and the most visited distillery in the world)! 

After the guided tour , we got to try small samples of ‘shine. They were dispensed in tiny thimble-size cups, which our guide Johnny Baker called “Hillbilly Communion.”

In the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee , legendary moonshiners like Popcorn Sutton are as iconic as outlaws like Billy the Kid and Jesse James are out west.

This regional pride in history and heritage is one of the many charms that makes Gatlinburg TN an ideal destination.

READ MORE:  30 Fun Facts About Appalachian Scots-Irish History & Culture

9. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

800 Parkway, Gatlinburg TN • (865) 436-5096 • Official Website

Several of the most eye-catching attractions on Gatlinburg’s Main Street are from Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Much to Heather’s chagrin, I have a fascination with trivia and odd facts , so the Ripley’s Museum was a must-see for me. It cost me $29 and some gentle ribbing from my wife.

Ripley’s “Odditorium” has over 600 exhibits that range from the informative to the bizarre. Heather, a Harry Potter fan, loved their Matchstick Hogwarts exhibit, a 600,000-matchstick recreation of the famous school for wizards. 

In addition to the museum, you can also visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Mirror Maze , Moving Theater, and Super Fun Zone, which are all on Main Street.

If you visit Gatlinburg in October, check out Ripley’s Haunted Adventure, whose special effects, animatronics, and live actors make it one of the most popular haunted houses in Tennessee . 

Be sure to check out their combo passes, which can save you a lot of money!

READ MORE: The Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol TN/VA

10. Sample Gatlinburg Restaurants

Fried chicken, southern barbecue, cornbread, and pecan pie all come to mind when dreaming of southern cuisine. If you enjoy traditional Souther cuisine, the restaurants in Gatlinburg TN are an attraction all on their own.

Among the array of fabulous Gatlinburg restaurants , we chose Crockett’s Breakfast Camp  for breakfast and enjoyed the charming  Appalachian Mountain interior, which was full of rustic antique decor.

Heather enjoyed their famous Fried Cinnamon Roll with caramel sauce and fresh whipped cream. I chose the massive, savory Crockett’s Mountain Omelet with cheese, bacon, sausage, and jalapenos.

We enjoyed our favorite lunch on the rooftop of Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina . They won us over with their Baja Fish Tacos, sweet Grilled Mexican Street Corn , and refreshing Margaritas and Mojitos.

For a dinner that delivers a real Smoky Mountain experience, try the Park Grill , which is located just a stone ’s throw from the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

We chose the perfectly grilled Fresh Rainbow Trout, which was honestly the best trout we’ve ever had. Their massive salad bar is also beloved by locals and tourists alike.

READ MORE:  10 Best Caverns and Underground Caves in Tennessee

Best Places to Stay in Gatlinburg

For lodging in Gatlinburg TN we chose the Park Vista Hotel, a towering cylindrical building where every room has a view of the stunning mountains  that surround it.

Our suite had two balconies with floor-to-ceiling glass doors, affording us exceptional views of the mysterious blue smoke on the mountains, a full moon , and sparkling morning sunshine.

The Park Vista is one of several full-service Gatlinburg hotels , offering a buffet breakfast, bar, restaurant, indoor water park, and other amenities to make your stay memorable. Free parking and a free shuttle service were added perks.

If you’re looking for the best places to stay on Main Street, check out the Hilton Garden Inn and the Margaritaville Resort , with are within easy walking distance of everything Downtown Gatlinburg has to offer.

For a historic option, check out the Historic Gatlinburg Inn , which has been designated a Tennessee Music Pathways destination for its role in TN music history.

The legendary TN state song, “Rocky Top,” was written at the Inn by Felice and Boudleaux Bryant in 1967. You can even reserve the Rocky Top Room for your own stay!  – by Heather Taylor and Jon Weaver; all photos by Jon Weaver & Heather Taylor unless otherwise noted; lead image via Canva

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the  Leave No Trace   principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

Heather and Jon

The universities brought Jon and Heather to Harrisonburg Virginia in the 1980s and the beauty of the Shenandoah Valley has kept them there to this day. Heather has a Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education and 10 years of experience as an editor and technical writer for online training sites. After college, Jon worked several years at a weekly newspaper before joining his family business which he ran until retirement. Jon and Heather enjoy traveling and sharing their stories with others. Locally, they love exploring the towns and mountains of the Blue Ridge near their hometown of Harrisonburg VA.

• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

12 Top Gatlinburg Attractions — Best Tourist Spots!

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 2024

• 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

• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Wedding Chapels
• National Park

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Gatlinburg Attractions

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg , Tennessee, is a vibrant town brimming with enchanting natural beauty and a plethora of attractions that cater to all ages and interests. From the thrill of exploring the majestic mountains through hiking trails and scenic chairlift rides, to the charm of its bustling downtown with unique shops, exquisite local eateries, and captivating art galleries, Gatlinburg offers an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re seeking adventure in the great outdoors, a peaceful retreat in nature, or a family-friendly journey through an array of amusement parks and cultural sites, Gatlinburg promises a blend of excitement, relaxation, and memorable moments. Dive into this guide to discover the magic of Gatlinburg and why it’s a must-visit destination for travelers around the world.

Alcatraz East Crime Museum A must-visit for true crime fans, featuring exhibits on notorious scandals in history. Alcatraz East Crime Museum

Amazing Mirror Maze 719 Parkway (865) 430-9991 website

Anakeesta An outdoor mountaintop adventure with a single-rail mountain coaster, skywalk, and more. 576 Parkway (865) 325-2400 Anakeesta

Christ in the Smokies Museum & Gardens 154 Historical Nature Trail (865) 430-4752 website

Cooter’s Place Dukes of Hazzard Museum 2652 Parkway (865) 430-2282 website

Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park 3171 Rena Street, Gatlinburg (865) 325-8828 website

Gatlin’s Laser Tag and More 711 Parkway (865) 325-0055 website

Gatlinburg Art Gallery 120 Wears Valley Road (865) 436-5860 website

Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community 849 Glades Road (865) 436-5860 website

Gatlinburg Convention Center 234 Historic Nature Trail (865) 436-4178 website

Gatlinburg Golf Course 520 Dollywood Lane (865) 436-5445 website

Gatlinburg Pinball Museum Play with a collection of pinball machines dating back to the 1960s. 234 Historic Nature Trail (865) 325-5092 Gatlinburg Pinball Museum

Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook 300 Scenic Overlook Road

Gatlinburg SkyBridge 1131 Sky Bridge Way (865) 325-2710 website

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park Features the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. 765 Parkway (865) 436-4307 Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Gatlinburg Space Needle A 407-foot tall observation tower offering panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains. 775 Parkway (865) 436-4629 Gatlinburg Space Needle

Gatlinburg Trail A scenic hiking trail along the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River

Gatlinburg Zipline Canopy Adventures 175 Branam Hollow Road (865) 325-9477 website

Gatlinburg Welcome Center 1011 Banner Road (865) 436-4178

Gatlinburg Winter Magic Downtown Gatlinburg November-February website

Guinness World Records Museum Interactive games and exhibits based on the famous record book. 100 Music Road (865) 430-4263 Guinness World Records Museum

Hillbilly Golf 1801 Parkway (865) 436-5867 website

Hollywood Stars Car Museum Features cars from famous movies and TV shows, including Ghostbusters and Back to the Future . 914 Parkway (865) 430-9991 Hollywood Stars Car Museum

Hollywood Wax Museum 3030 Parkway (865) 430-5101 website

IRIS Theater 2137 Parkway (865) 436-5860 website

Mountain Wildlife Museum Focuses on wildlife education and features a taxidermy experience Mountain Wildlife Museum

Mysterious Mansion 105 Historic Nature Trail (865) 430-9991 website

Ober Gatlinburg 1001 Parkway (865) 436-5423 website

Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway Scenic tram ride up to the ski area

Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler 903 Parkway #128 (865) 436-6995 website

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies Known as America’s #1 Aquarium , it’s a top destination for viewing penguins , stingrays , and a vast array of sea creatures. 88 River Road (865) 430-8808 Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium Houses 500 exhibits and artifacts in 16 themed galleries. 800 Parkway (865) 436-5096 Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium

Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini Golf 790 Parkway (865) 430-7888 website

Ripley’s Haunted Adventure 717 Parkway (865) 430-9991 website

Ripley’s Marvelous Mirror Maze 88 River Road (865) 430-9991 website

Ripley’s Moving Theater 88 River Road (865) 430-8808 website

Ripley’s Old MacDonald’s Farm Mini Golf 717 Parkway (865) 430-9991 website

River Edge Motor Nature Trail 656 Parkway

Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum Showcases over 20,000 sets of salt and pepper shakers from around the world. Winery Square (865) 430-4223 Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum

Smoky Mountain Brewery 1004 Parkway #F1 (865) 436-4200 website

Smoky Mountain Deer Farm 223 Cherokee Orchard Road (865) 436-3669 website

Star Cars Museum 800 Parkway (865) 430-8808 website

Sugarlands Distilling Company 805 Parkway #2 (865) 325-1355 website

Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre 777 Parkway Suite 2 (865) 436-4039 website

Tennessee Museum of Aviation 170 Airport Road (865) 453-6256 website

Tennessee Treetop Adventure Park 2400 Fish Hatchery Rd (865) 325-2428 website

The Captured Escape Rooms 1011 Parkway #107 (865) 325-0100 website

Twin Creeks Picnic Area Picnic area in the national park

Westgate Wild Bear Falls Water Park 915 Westgate Road (865) 430-4800 website

This list is just a glimpse of the variety of attractions available in Gatlinburg. Each website provides more information about the attractions, including addresses and contact details.

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33 Top Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg (TN)

Gatlinburg is a mountain hotel metropolis in Sevier County, Tennessee , United States. It is positioned 39 miles (sixty-three km) southeast of Knoxville.

This modern metropolis creates a nostalgic feeling with a mixture of sweeping landscapes and quirky sights. Gatlinburg is one of the main traveler cities of Tennessee.

Bordering Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a crucial vacationer vacation spot in Tennessee, with many man-made points of interest.

Visitors come from everywhere around the globe to experience the homely nature of its malls, museums, and mountains. One favorite tourist attraction is the Ober Gatlinburg that is the best ski inn within Sevier County.

It has eight ski trails, three chair lifts, and many other exciting features. If you’re making plans to experience a holiday in Gatlinburg, you would likely find yourself thinking hard about how to begin.

To keep away from this sort of confusion, here is a listing of 33 excellent activities in Gatlinburg to maximize your holiday experience.

You’ll discover various popular and exciting places on the list, so there’s a bit of something for everyone.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg

1. explore roaring fork motor nature trail.

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a scenic drive that offers a golden opportunity to see some of Tennessee’s most incredible natural wonders.

This trail is also an access point for many fantastic locations that are only accessible if you hike the distance.

One of the major attractions along this trail is the Rainbow Falls. It’s a gorgeous vertical waterfall that you can only reach after hiking an hour, bustling through many young plants and trees in the forest.

This activity can be a little bit tiring sometimes, but the fantastic view is worth the stress at the end of it all. There are other great tourist locations like the Place of a Thousand Drips.

This nature’s masterpiece is best described as a horizontal, low-flow waterfall that slinks over the beautiful rock formations, and the sound it produces is always a good source of inspiration, whether it’s tinkling quietly or roaring in an overflow.

For a blissful day at Gatlinburg, consider driving down the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail with your digital camera close to you.

It is a great experience and is sure to create a lovely and exciting memory that will most likely become one of your favorite memories of Gatlinburg.

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

2. See Cataract Falls

Cataract Falls is one of the well-hidden gems of Gatlinburg.

It’s a great place for dates, hikes, honeymoons, and something else that would need the final touch of a mesmerizing waterfall.

It is not very far from downtown, although it’s tucked so profoundly into the wooded area that every single noise can be muffled through the thick beautiful forest of trees.

Nature’s beauty is practically everywhere you look at this lovely and peaceful landscape. The waterfall is natural and is gently created by streams continually cascading over the rocks.

It’s one of the great sightseeing spots which will leave anyone standing in awe of nature’s beauty while in Tennessee, and maximum human beings don’t even recognize its existence.

Another exceptional attribute of Cataract Falls is its multi-purpose trail that is not up to a mile long. You don’t have to waste a long time finishing it; though it could take a while if you walk casually, rest assured you will be completed in time for lunch.

When selecting what to do in an area like Gatlinburg, you need to recollect your schedule. You can stay healthy and still maximize your opportunities for great sightseeing within a short period.

With a visit to Cataract Falls, you may as well cross “go to a waterfall” off your bucket list very quickly at all, so it’s well worth a ride because of this alone.

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

3. A View at Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

The Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is situated just in between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. The fantastic topography and landscape allow you to see beautiful scenes, especially when you look over the treetops and cliffs.

You would not be able to resist taking deep breaths of crisp, country air while at the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, which has proven to be one of the most beautiful observation points in Tennessee.

You will have to drive through much stunning natural scenery to reach the observation point, and the mountains slowly comes into view as you keep moving. In essence, the journey to Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is as much fun as being there.

Once you get to the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook, you’ll be mesmerized by the environment around you.

A layer of thick mist beautifully crowns the mountains.

Multicolored leaves are scattered everywhere, especially in the autumn season.

The wildlife is also awe-inspiring. You can often see deer darting through the trees or bears rumbling in the distance.

The Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is a place that will always keep your eyes shining in awe of the beauty, and it won’t even cost you a dime.

Address: Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, USA

4. Ole Smoky Moonshine

Gatlinburg is well known for its natural beauty, which attracts many tourists from all over the world. Ole Smoky Moonshine is not one of the numerous beauty-related attractions. Instead, it is a place where you can get buzzed on some of the best brewed and distilled beers in existence.

You can visit a distillery like Ole Smoky Moonshine with your friends and be sure of having a great time.

Ole Smoky Moonshine offers its Visitors an opportunity to taste their fantastic product while taking them on tour to see how moonshine is made.

You can take pictures to save the memory of this lovely and ancient tradition in Gatlinburg.

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

There are many fun things to do in Gatlinburg which are family-friendly, but if you’re craving some adult time with friends, stop by Ole Smoky Moonshine.

You really can’t complete your Tennessee experience without trying some authentic Tennessee moonshine! The best Appalachian alcohol this side of the Smoky Mountains.

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

5. Fun with CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains

The smoky mountains is one area in Gatlinburg that expresses a mystical feeling of nature all around you.

A perfect way to beginning your Gatlinburg tour is by visiting this world of elegance popularly known as CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains .

Here, you can begin your fun day with an ATV ride to the pinnacle of the nearby Mountain. Once you find yourself around the ferns and forest on the mountain top, you’ll have your preference for thrilling outdoor sports like zip-lining, hiking, mountain cycling, or just walking on a proper rope bridge.

It doesn’t matter what your decision is. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views from a mountain top perspective.

It is pretty easy to stroll across the streets of Gatlinburg and still feel strong, but it takes a person with great endurance to plummet down a Gatlinburg mountain while strapped to a zip line. A few may even call this enjoyable adventure an excellent exercise for both the body and soul. If you need a grand and unforgettable time in this city, make sure to visit CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains.

Address: 155 Branam Hollow Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738, USA

6. Explore Gatlinburg Trail

You can find quiet away from downtown Gatlinburg when you visit the Gatlinburg Trail .

It’s pretty close to the metropolis; hence you do not need to drive for hours to get there though it is well away from the more rowdy parts of Gatlinburg.

While on the trail, you can take in a deep breath of fresh air, enjoy scenic views in the day, and admire a wealth of stars on a clear night.

One great attribute of the Gatlinburg Trail is that it allows bicycles and tricycles, but it is dog friendly. So you can bring your lovely dog along as you enjoy the thrills of the trail.

You have to note that Tennessee has stringent laws that protect its untouched, unpolluted mountains. Even though dogs are welcome on the Gatlinburg trail, it is safer if you remember to clean up after them.

Exploring the Gatlinburg Trail is one fun activity that will always beat a beautiful day in the city.

This extensive trail will take you past beautiful fields, waterfalls, and forests, so there will always be something unique to see while experiencing the adventures of the Gatlinburg trail.

7. Things to See in Gatlinburg: Gatlinburg Space Needle

The Gatlinburg Space Needle is one architectural enchantment that attracts many tourists from different places worldwide to Gatlinburg.

This structure rises above 400 feet in the air and provides 360° aerial views of both the city horizons and the mountains looming beyond it. The view gotten at this high monument creates a new and beautiful perspective of Gatlinburg.

The Gatlinburg Space Needle is easily accessed through the perfectly structured downstairs lobby.

If you are up for a jolly little time with your friends, you can spend some time at the arcades, pizza joints, souvenir shops, and many other tourist attractions, which are all located on the next floor.

However, suppose you want to more elevated grounds for a better view. In that case, you can easily take the glass elevator to the very top of the observation platform and catch a glimpse of beautiful landscapes stretching to the horizon.

You might not see very far on foggy days, but there is a great view to catch on good days with fine weather.

You do not need to buy binoculars to enjoy your sightseeing, besides this experience costs nothing.

The Gatlinburg Space Needle I considered to be one of the best places to have fun in Gatlinburg.

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

8. Gatlinburg Farmers Market

Gatlinburg Farmers Market is one of the biggest markets in Tennessee.

Organized each weekend from the early mots of summer to more severe months of autumn. Here you can get organic, locally-grown groceries while still within the city.

You can purchase some of the best fruits and vegetables for cooking specially made meals while on vacation.

If you have cravings for lovely fruits, nuts, cheeses, jams, and pickled desserts while shopping for homemade craftsmanship, this market will indeed satisfy that craving

There are many fun events held at the farmer’s market. Those visitors who want a firsthand hospitality experience in Gatlinburg should visit this market because you get to meet many locals at the market.

Some fun activities include entering a raffle draw, getting your face painted, or just going on a scavenger hunt.

There are many fun activities for both kids and adults. Therefore visitors should check out the Gatlinburg Farmers Market.

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

9. Pinball Museum is a Must Visit

The pinball museum in Gatlinburg is one of the most interactive museums you have ever seen, exploring this museum is one of the fun things to do in Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg Pinball Museum is well known for taking its guests on a nostalgic journey through time as they enjoy some of the best arcade pinball games.

Guests can also race cars, kill aliens and shoot baskets on restored vintage machines.

The entry fee is also accessible for one whole day, allowing you to play games till you drop.

The best part is that you can attend to other activities outside the museum and return undisturbed as you will have a hand stamp as identification.

The Gatlinburg Pinball Museum is one place where the whole family can gather and have a fun time. However, if you prefer to have more of a reunion with old friends, this is the perfect place.

Are you looking for the top things to do in Gatlinburg, then try visiting the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum.

The feeling of excitement you get at this museum is nothing like the feeling experienced at other museums you might have experienced on further travels.

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

10. Ride Ober Gatlinburg

Tennessee is not known for winter sports, but there are a few places where there is enough snow to have a fun snowy day.

Usually, the snowy regions are found on very high grounds. When you climb high enough on the mountains, you get snow and slopes, which are the perfect skiing, snow tubing, and ice skating requirements.

One of the resorts in Gatlinburg which make good use of this natural feature is the Ober Gatlinburg .

Guests at Ober Gatlinburg can start their fun day with a ride on a chair lift that offers Scenic views and then rides bumper cars on ice.

One outstanding attribute of Ober Gatlinburg is that you need not wait for the winter season; they entertain for every season.

Ober Gatlinburg is worthy of being on any bucket list of good vacation spots in Tennessee because the possibilities of having a fun time are endless.

Are you traveling in the blazing days of summer or chilly cold of the winter, you’ll find fun and cool activities to keep you busy here.

When you visit Ober Gatlinburg, you will understand why it’s one of the most popular destinations around Gatlinburg.

Address: 1310 Ski Mountain Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, USA

11. Visit Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort

The Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort is the perfect place to spend your holiday while you tour the beautiful city of Gatlinburg.

Accommodation is one factor that cannot be over-emphasized when planning a vacation, especially when visiting Gatlinburg.

A reasonable accommodation plan will boost the level of fun you experience on your vacation.

At Gatlinburg, Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort offers its guests all sorts of luxury services, including a concierge service and many on-site amenities like a massive spa and a mini-golf course.

Heated pools are also available at the resort, which is a plus during the winter season.

Westgate resorts are also surrounded by many outdoor tourist attractions like a zip line for your summer pleasure.

One fascinating feature of Westgate resorts that is well flaunted is the Westgate watermark.

This park’s beauty covers more than 60,000 square feet and features slides, pools, and a waterfall. The water park is a family-friendly park.

If you are determined to have a great time at Gatlinburg, reserve a room at the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort

This resort is one of the best resorts around the Gatlinburg area, and it’ll keep you recharged, revitalized, and set for all adventures to come.

Address: 915 Westgate Resorts Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, USA.

12. Shop at Mountain Mall

The Mountain Mall is a unique shopping mall with strange wooden architecture and a kitschy, country-style look.

It would be less accurate to describe it as a shopping mall. Instead, you can best describe it as a tourist attraction.

At Gatlinburg, you will be mesmerized at how much a shopping mall will have the ability to grant you so much excitement.

The mountain Mall has a great collection of homemade products in its specialty stores with the sound of Appalachian folk music playing as you enjoy your shopping. The music will also serve in granting you an uplifting feeling that makes your day feel bright.

Visiting the Mountain Mall is one of the best things to do in the city, and one great thing about visiting this mall is that it is situated right in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg.

Address: 611 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, USA

Do not fail to explore Lancaster , Erie , and Hershey which are worth every minute spent in Pennsylvania, add to your bucket list of places to visit in your lifetime.

13. Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen

One of the best things to do in Gatlinburg is to Satisfy your sweet teeth with a day out to the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen.

The Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen is one of the pleasant locations in Gatlinburg to experience mouthwatering candies and freshly-spun sugar treats,

Visiting the ole smoky candy kitchen can genuinely educate you on the matters of the candy world. One unique thing about the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen is that you can watch the sweets as they’re being produced.

You can watch the most up-to-date batch of taffy being pulled tight across you as you enjoy the brilliant taste of saltwater taffy.

Some other treats consist of pecan bark, chocolate-covered pretzels, candied apples, peanut brittle, jellies, and fudge squares.

There are so many great things to do at Gatlinburg. However, the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen will let you fill you as you try out various candy combinations.

There are additionally unique muffins like “moonshine taffy” that have to be tasted to be believed.

Address: 744 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, USA

14. Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre is one of the Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg

The Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre Is the only live comedy theater in Gatlinburg. However, guests can also enjoy the musical performances, dance performances, and crazy skits that you will expect from every professional

This theatre is not your everyday kind of theatre. The atmosphere here can become so frantic with joy as guests’ ribs are cracked by laughter in utter response to funny moments experienced here.

The theatre guests are never left out of the fun, instead brought in by the fantastic audience participation segments in various musicals and skits performances

There are many variations in the comedy routines performed at this theatre, but you are always assured of having a great time.

Even if you are planning the perfect date night for you and your loved one, or be it any other reason

It doesn’t matter why you visit the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre. You will surely get a good time for your money when it comes to entertainment in this theatre.

This makes what to do in Gatlinburg for a fun time, consider an addition to your list of places to visit in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Address: 461 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738, USA

15. Ride Gatlinburg Trolley

Getting started on your tour of Gatlinburg may be very tricky, though riding the Gatlinburg Trolley is a great way to start.

The trolley is an old-fashioned transit bus that can take you around the city. However, this is done in a unique pattern

Multiple color-coded routes throughout the city guide tourists on places to visited.

The red route will take you through the River Road and lively areas of the metropolis, downtown Gatlinburg.

There are various malls, museums, hotels, restaurants, and a multitude of side attractions

The yellow route meanders through the great Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community. Therefore, this route offers an array of galleries, theaters, and other creative locations that follow the sunshine shade if you love arts.

The tan route brings you closer to nature with many beautiful and natural scenes. This route takes you through many parks and campgrounds before coming to a stop at the famous Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

There are many other color-coded routes like green, pink, blue, and purple routes, but it is best to discover those paths on your own when you visit Gatlinburg.

16. Get Scared at The Mysterious Mansion

Get ready for the spooky thrills and chills at Gatlinburg, Mysterious Mansion .

The Mysterious Mansion is one of the most ancient tourist attractions in Tennessee, and visiting this Mansion is sure to send chills down your spine. Hair-raising experience for the whole family.

This family-friendly tour takes place at Victorian Mansion, which has multiple stories to explore.

There are strange occurrences on every side that will frighten you. Scary and weird cobwebs are hanging around, just waiting to get stuck on your body.

The mansions are more ominous as eerie music drowns the entire house and puts your courage to test

If you are scared of the dark, your courage will be put to the further test when the tour occurs in pitch-black conditions.

At this point, the only way out is to use your other senses to find your way out through sound, smell, and touch.

The amazing maze of secret passageways and trick mirrors will put the strength of your mind and will to test as you hope not to get lost forever

At this tourist attraction, the feeling of Halloween is felt in great measure.

The Mysterious Mansion should be at the top of your bucket list when planning your trip for any time of year. The experience is precisely the same throughout the year.

Address: 424 River Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738, USA

17. Parrot Mountain and Gardens

Parrot Mountain and Gardens is one place you can feel a great deal of joy. Here, every visitor is offered a wonderful and unique experience.

You can walk through the beautiful and well-trimmed gardens as you watch stunning birds fly from one branch to the other.

The Parrot Mountain and Gardens, rather than being your everyday kind of zoo filled with birdcages at every corner, the birds are allowed to fly without restrictions.

At this free-flying sanctuary, the birds that majorly consist of parrots are allowed to socialize and relate with both visitors and each other.

Guests are also welcome to stop by the baby bird nursery and feed the tiny hatchlings.

There is no end to the fun you can enjoy at Parrot Mountain, especially if you’re willing to embrace nature’s comfort zone.

Parrots makes one of the most intelligent creatures on earth, and here you have a chance to interact with them meaningful way.

Visit Parrot Mountain if you are looking forward to a blissful experience on your Gatlinburg vacation.

The Parrot Mountain and Gardens is situated just outside the city borders. However, the drive is worth the experience.

You might be surprised at how many magnificent colors flying around might prove to be, this is beside the beautiful noises and funny catchphrases of hundreds of parrots, and you’ll understand why it’s one of the best attractions around the Smoky Mountains.

Address: 1471 McCarter Hollow Road, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 37862, USA

18. Outdoor time with Nantahala Outdoor Center

Nantahala Outdoor Center is a very famous resort known for offering its guests a wide variety of fun activities to take part in as they enjoy their day.

This resort features activities like zip-lining, camping and is most famous for its whitewater rafting adventures.

White water rafting at the Nantahala Outdoor Center is so safe and secure that even kids as young as four years old are allowed on the rafts.

Well-trained tour guides are always available to keep you safe every step of the way.

Whenever you want to have mad fun with friends or family, pick up the phone and make a reservation now at the Nantahala Outdoor Center.

Your vacation in Gatlinburg can never be complete if gone white water kayaking at the Nantahala Outdoor Center, where you can enjoy the thrills of bouncing down the river currents with the wind blowing in your hair

Address: 1138 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, USA

19. Museum time at Hollywood Star Cars Museum

One of the most extraordinary things you will ever see in Gatlinburg is a fleet of unique automobiles arranged perfectly in this museum, and you won’t find anything of this sort anywhere else in Tennessee.

Car museums are scarce to find, but this is one of the very few located within the borders of the state of Tennessee.

Here, you can see very special automobiles like the DeLorean from Back to the Future, the Ecto-1 van from Ghostbusters, and the Batman Returns.

The museum has a vast collection of vintage cars owned by many celebrities, including Paul McCartney and the Beach Boys.

Tours are offered at the museum by professional tour guides so that guests do not miss a single thing even as they explore the museum

Even better, visitors are allowed to take photos behind the wheel of your favorite Hollywood vehicle and even buy souvenirs at the gift shop.

The museum is conveniently situated close to many other tourist attractions. Once visitors have had their fill of fun at the Hollywood Star Cars Museum , they can quickly move on to the next tourist attraction on their bucket list.

This makes what to do in Gatlinburg for museum lovers, one of the unique things to do in Gatlinburg to consider for your checklist.

Address: 914 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738, USA

20. Anakeesta

Anakeesta is a magnificent theme park situated near the Smoky Mountains.

This family-friendly park is one of the top Gatlinburg tourist attractions due to its affordable prices, convenient location, and wide range of social events and fun activities.

Anakeesta is one of the only parks in Tennessee that can offer its guests a peaceful retreat into the mountains. This park also features several botanical gardens and treetop observatories.

Even guests who are not looking for a peaceful retreat , but rather thrilling activities to get their adrenaline pumping, are welcome to enjoy a heart racing experience on various zip lines or ride the single-rail roller coaster.

The thrills at Anakeesta can leave you tired and hungry. When this happens, a smokehouse barbecue joint right on-site serves you delicious rib platters and craft beer.

If you visit during the Halloween season, you will see well-built spooky houses that are sure to scare you out of your pants.

While during the Christmas season, the atmosphere is filled with decorations and elaborate light displays.

This family-friendly park makes sure that its visitors do not need to worry about missing out on anything, even when they’re high in the mountains.

Anakeesta park offers a little bit of something for everyone so that everyone in the family can fun.

Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738, USA

21. Visit a Historic Home: Historic Ogle Log Cabin

Here history lovers feel at home. A visit to the Historic Ogle Log Cabin is better described as a blast to the past.

Martha Jane Huskey Ogle built The Historic Ogle Log Cabin in the early 1800s in honor of her then-late husband.

Her husband was from South Carolina though he found the eastern Tennessee landscape to be so lovely, and he decided to start preparing well-seasoned logs with a plan of building a cabin there.

Although, he couldn’t complete his plan of relocating his family from South Carolina to Tennessee.

However, his wife took up the mantle, completed the cabin, relocated, and created the first Tennessee settlement. This historic settlement founded the roots for what is now known as the city of Gatlinburg.

Today, visitors can visit and explore the well-preserved log cabin and get a feeling of what it felt like living in those times

Visitors can partake in Other activities like hiking a nature trail or driving by a scenic driveway if you’d prefer to stay behind the wheel.

The Historic Ogle Log Cabin is one of the historical highlights of Gatlinburg, and it will allow you to experience the world as an actual 19th-century settler

If you love the vibes of historical stories, you will love your time at the Historic Ogle Log Cabin.

Address: Cherokee Orchard Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738, USA

22. Horse Riding with Sugarlands Riding Stables

Sugarlands Riding Stables offers its guests a wonderful experience regardless of the age and ability of the rider, a horse ride is a cool add to your list of things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

You don’t need to be skilled with horses; in fact, you could saddle up even though you’ve only ever seen horses on TV.

Here the guides are well experienced, and they can take you on a gentle, rambling adventure as you ride through the idyllic countryside without any horseback riding expertise whatsoever.

There are over four tour packages that you could select from, and they range from an essential, one-hour stroll down a paved nature path to a four-hour and fifteen-mile journey through wild woodlands.

The most suitable tour for you may rely upon your comfort in the saddle. Regardless of your ability level, you’ll enjoy fantastic views from atop your horse.

Mountains rise on the horizon; the streams flow over rocks and cliffs. You will possibly spot a few wildlife through the bushes if the weather is right.

At Gatlinburg, you could visit the Sugarlands Riding Stables and make yourself feel like a real Tennessee cowboy by riding on horseback through Appalachia.

Address: 1409 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738, USA

23. Above Sea Level with SkyLift Park

Located in Gatlinburg is one of the most exciting technological parks in existence. The SkyLift Park is an enjoyable place to visit with quite strange features but offers you a thrilling experience.

There are various ways to enjoy the best Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, and all options offer great picturesque views and photo opportunity

First, there is the SkyLift which offers a gentle ride to the Peak of Crockett Mountain. At its peak, you will learn to conquer your fear of heights as your legs will be dangling from about 1,800 feet off the ground. The view at this height is just sensational.

Second, there is the Sky Bridge which will offer visitors an opportunity to walk across the air.

This bridge is a well-constructed suspension bridge that covers the entire length of the valley, making it the longest and also the most dizzying walkway in Tennessee. However, it is safe.

There is also the Sky Deck which will give you a blissful break from mind-blowing and terrifying heights.

There also are available shops where you can purchase a quick snack, get souvenirs or enjoy the view from the safety of the flat ground.

The SkyLift Park is one of Tennessee’s most memorable tourist attractions; make sure to check out Gatlinburg SkyLift Park.

Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738, USA

Planning a road trip in Tennessee? Pigeon Forge holds some of the top Tennessee attractions and activities, here we have put together a list of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge for a memorable trip.

24. Golfing at Hillbilly Golf

Gatlinburg is a city with a beautiful landscape filled with mountains, but there is still a provision for a golf course in the strangest of places.

Bet did you know that you could ever find golf courses on the edges of the cliffs? Here is where Hillbilly Gol f is located.

Hillbilly Golf offers a special kind of experience for people who love playing golf on a very breezy day.

This 18 holes golf course seats on a mountain and is well designed to be an exciting challenge. However, to get there, visitors have to ride a team up the Mountain.

It doesn’t matter if your skills are significant or not. Everyone is welcome here.

Hillbilly Golf course even the playing field for everyone, whether masters or matures, so that the whole family can also get in on the action.

This unique tourist attraction has a bizarre course and is even situated in a more weird location, but these are the attributes that make the memory of your time here more remarkable.

This makes what to do in Gatlinburg for some tee time, consider an addition to your bucket list of fun things to do in Gatlinburg, TN.

Address: 340 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, USA .

25. Wild Plum Tea Room

The Wild Plum Tea Room brings the very picture of an ancient teahouse with beautiful, petite, and round tables well organized in a wooden log cabin,

Here you can relive times in the 1900s where teas were prepared with whatever ingredients were available, and customers talked cheerfully with one another without technological devices to distract them.

The Wild Plum Tea Room also offers a wide variety of tasty meals and snacks which visitors can enjoy before starting their tour of Gatlinburg.

Here you can enjoy delicacies like chicken salad and hot turkey pie. In addition, the meals are accompanied by the best blends of tea that have their roots in the far ends of Asia, Africa, and Europe.

Visiting the Wild Plum Tea Room is one activity that improves your social relationship with locals in Gatlinburg. The experience gotten here is impressive as you are sure to meet a new friend. You really cannot find a place like this elsewhere in the city of Gatlinburg.

However, there are some unique and memorable things that you will never forget about Gatlinburg.

Address: 555 Buckhorn Road, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, USA

26. Visit Ripley’s Museum

Ripley’s museum, popularly known as Ripley’s Believe It or Not Auditorium, is one strange place in Gatlinburg that never fails to impress its guests.

You can never get tired of the fun which this excellent facility offers, even if this tourist attraction is about unique and bizarre things.

The Ripley’s museum is best described as a fun indoor park. You can find many things like animal skeletons and funny-looking shuriken heads.

The Ripley’s Believe It or Not Auditorium features fun amenities like a mini-golf course, mirror maze, “5D” Movie Theater, and a haunted house.

One highlight of thems fun spot is the “5D” movie theater. Seeing a movie here might just be the best experience you have ever had. The seats vibrate as you get thrilled by the film.

Some other features of the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Auditorium include a stingray petting zoo, an underwater penguin exhibit, and an array of beautiful fishes, all located at the aquarium section of this museum

This facility is so big that you can spend days lost in its halls, similar to a labyrinth. But it is pretty fun trying to find your way out

It would be best if you tried not to miss this opportunity to visit this bizarre fun spot during your time at Gatlinburg. Hence, buy a ticket for Ripley’s Believe It or Not Auditorium before leaving.

Address: 800 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738, USA

27. A Coaster Ride with Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is simply a thrill ride down the mountain side where you strap into an individual caboose, controlling your speed with hand-held brakes.

The coaster ride offers beautiful scenery as it slides along its rail. In addition, you get up to 35 miles per hour

The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is also one of the best alpine roller coasters in the city of Gatlinburg.

Visitors are offered the privileged to customize their rides. Going lowly or at top speed, it is all up to you.

The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster makes one of the fun things to do when you’re in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and the best part is that

Address: 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, USA

28. Water Fun at Wild Bear Falls Water Park

Whenever the sun refuses to stop heating the earth, the indoor Wild Bear Falls Water Park is the answer for a more relaxed feeling.

The Wild Bear Falls Water Park features many amenities like the lazy river, a pair of water slides, kid-friendly pools, and splash zones. This park is the perfect place to free the kids to have a bit of fun.

The Wild Bear waters are always warm and comfortable throughout the year, so there is no time that is a wrong time to visit this water park.

This is one of the top fun things to do in Gatlinburg, TN, for a water fun time, add to your list of places to visit in Gatlinburg, TN.

Address: 915 Westgate Resorts Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

29. Take an Old-time Photo

Gatlinburg is regarded as a bustling metropolis or a massive tourist magnet, but it has a unique historical presence that emits a vibrant atmosphere of past eras.

A visit to places like Old Town Photos or Miss Sadie’s in Gatlinburg would create an opportunity to capture that essence of Gatlinburg with a timeless photo by dressing up as a cowboy or cowgirl or even bring your pets along to capture these blissful moments with your furry friends.

Your vacation to Gatlinburg is not truly complete this essential souvenir. So do not miss this opportunity.

30. Be Amazed at Iris Theater’s Magic Show

Seeing a magic show is always a great way to end a busy day of visiting tourist attractions.

Here at Iris Theater’s Magic Show, you will be blown away by the fantastic performance of the well-known magician Erik Dobell!

This Magic Show showcase a great combination of hilarious mayhem and optical illusions, which creates an intimate theatre with a great deal of interaction with the audience.

31. The Amazing Mirror Maze

Gatlinburg Is filled with many fairytale tourist attractions, and the Amazing Mirror Maze, one of the most popular.

This family-friendly attraction is a fun sport that offers a lot of immersive activities. However, the fantastic mirror maze provides its guests a delightfully disorientating mirror maze experience and a black light mini-golf course alongside it.

You can purchase a combo ticket for both activities to enjoy the best of both worlds.

32. Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg

Are you in for some scary-fun time when in Gatlinburg?

The Ghost Walk will expose you to some of the most dreaded places in Gatlinburg, including a 19th-century cemetery which is a place rumored to be haunted by ghosts.

EMF readers, which help search for paranormal activities, are made available to everyone before the tour so that you can monitor energy readings of the area.

The ghost walk of Gatlinburg makes what to do in Gatlinburg for fun, consider an addition to your bucket list of activities in Gatlinburg to take to during a visit.

Address: 520 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, USA

33. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the biggest tourist attraction in Gatlinburg, with various Mountains, valleys, hills, rivers, and flowers well endowed with nature’s beauty.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is regarded as one of the most stunning places in the United States of America

Visitors can choose to enjoy their day engaging in various activities like hiking, biking, backpacking, camping, or fishing.

Exploring this park should not be missing in your list of things to do in Gatlinburg during a visit.

Address: Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738, USA

Map of Top Gatlinburg Attractions and Activities

To get around during your trip to Gatlinburg, here is a map of the top things to do in Gatlinburg with markers of top Gatlinburg attractions and activities.

Have more time in Tennessee, check out our guide on things to do in Memphis , and  things to do in Chattanooga  for a fun time in Tennesee.

Plan a Trip to Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a must-visit travel destination in the United States that should be on any traveler’s bucket list.

Here you will experience the abundant natural beauty of its numerous parks and its vibrant metropolitan atmosphere.

If you love the natural beauty of mountains and valleys with all of their geographical landforms, then Gatlinburg is the right place for you to spend a holiday.

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:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Gatlinburg by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• 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
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 18 attractions in Gatlinburg

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

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Days inn & suites by wyndham downtown gatlinburg parkway, the village shoppes.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

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.

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Gatlinburg SkyPark

Ober mountain, tennessee cider company, top 10 restaurants in gatlinburg, the peddler steakhouse.

Smoky Mountain Brewery in Gatlinburg

Pancake pantry, no way jose’s mexican cantina, wild plum tea room, cherokee grill and steakhouse, the park grill, log cabin pancake house, bennett's pit bar-b-que, best italian cafe & pizzeria in elks plaza, 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

Top searches in Gatlinburg

Popular road trips from gatlinburg, what's the weather like in gatlinburg.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Gatlinburg for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Gatlinburg in January
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• Weather in Gatlinburg in May
• Weather in Gatlinburg in June
• Weather in Gatlinburg in July
• Weather in Gatlinburg in August
• Weather in Gatlinburg in September
• Weather in Gatlinburg in October
• Weather in Gatlinburg in November
• Weather in Gatlinburg in December

All road trips from Gatlinburg

• Gatlinburg to New York City drive
• Gatlinburg to Orlando drive
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• 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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• 3-Day Gatlinburg Itinerary
• 4-Day Gatlinburg Itinerary
• 5-Day Gatlinburg Itinerary

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3 great days in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg

Head to the sister cities for the thrills of Dollywood, moonshine tastings, family hikes and flashy fun—all in a beautiful Smoky Mountain setting

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Ages 0 to 17

The Great Smoky Mountains are the gem of East Tennessee : An ancient misty mountain range with hundreds of miles of woodsy wilderness teeming with streams, waterfalls, wildflower blooms, and cozy Vrbo cabin rentals to call home for a long weekend.   To fully experience the area’s natural beauty—as well as enough kitschy-cool attractions to match any of the world’s top tourist hubs—most visitors book a stay near the lively gateway cities of Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg (the latter tends to be more walkable, and a good choice for first-time visitors).

The Smoky Mountains’ coziest cabins

Find your dream rental near to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

Both mountain towns have evolved into attractions in their own right, thanks in part to the establishment of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1934, and then, in the mid-1980s, the efforts of Tennessee native Dolly Parton, who grew up nearby and staked her claim on the region with her namesake theme park, Dollywood.   Since then, the towns—which are as fun as they are hokey—have become popular destinations for families, with plentiful gift shops, colorful attractions, and over-the-top mini golf courses vying for attention with excellent restaurants, live bluegrass, and moonshine distilleries—all in a beautiful mountain setting.  

Start the day the hearty way

Whatever you choose at Sawyer’s Farmhouse —from the kid-friendly M&M-stuffed pancakes to the hand-breaded chicken and waffles—expect it to be filling, so stop here for breakfast and you’ll likely be set until dinner time.  

Shop—then ship out to the Titanic

Stock up on super-fresh groceries at the Friday Sevierville Farmers Market ( pictured ), open from 7 a.m.–noon, and local wine at the Smoky Mountain Winery , which offers free tastings. Then, get your fill of history at the Titanic Museum , a somewhat unexpected find in a landlocked mountain town. Founded by a Hollywood producer turned undersea explorer, the museum houses more than 400 exhibits, making it the largest permanent collection of Titanic artifacts. You’ll experience what it felt like to walk the halls and cabins of the ship, descend a life-sized replica of the grand staircase, and test how well you’d manage walking on a sloping deck. 

Spend the afternoon at The Island , a shopping and entertainment hub where highlights include a 200-foot-tall observation wheel, thrill rides, restaurants, and about 40 shops. Plus, just outside the complex is Stages West , a top spot for cowboy boots and Western wear.

Sample some moonshine

Afterward, head to Ole Smoky Tennessee Distillery’s moonshine tasting room,  The Barn , in Pigeon Forge. Tours are available, too, at the brand’s Gatlinburg distillery, The Holler , and include live bluegrass. Despite being booze-focused, the whole experience is both family and dog-friendly. 

Marvel at mountain views

Jaw dropping vistas are everywhere in the Smokies, and there are many ways to enjoy them. Hop on the Swiss-style Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster for a ride through thick forests with twisting turns, or for something more serene, stroll across Gatlinburg’s glass-paneled pedestrian Skybridge, which spans a steep valley. Alternatively, whiz to the top of the mountain in one of the area’s many gondola rides, like Anakeesta adventure park’s Chondola. 

Seek out local flavors

Pick up something for dinner at Whole Earth Grocery & Cafe, or head back into town to Timberwood Grill at The Island, where you can indulge in Southern classics like brisket sandwiches and fried chicken. Finish on a sweet note at the Old Mill Creamery , with a scoop of whiskey ribbon ice cream. 

Hit the mountain trails

With 800 miles of trails, bike paths, and sightseeing stop-offs, the Smokies have something for everyone. The hike to Abrams Falls is a favorite, rewarding trekkers with a postcard-perfect scene at the waterfall. The five-mile round trip hike is accessed via the trailhead at Cades Cove, reached with a scenic drive along Cades Cove Loop Road. For an easier and shorter hike, try the 1.3-mile round trip to Lynn Camp Prong Cascades where the path was once a logging railroad, making it easy to traverse.  

Stop for lunch

By now, you’ll have worked up an appetite, so follow your nose to Lil Black Bear Café for lunch. Choose from favorites like chicken salad, a scrumptious Reuben with piled-high corned beef, or the popular fried bologna sandwich.  

Golf, but not as you know it

One thing you’ll see a lot of in Pigeon Forge is miniature golf, with each course’s theme more fantastical than the next (think pirates and colorful candylands). Fantasy Golf or Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Golf are two great options.  

Dinner and a show

Tonight’s entertainment is Dolly Parton’s Stampede . This over-the-top dinner theater features a four-course feast, horse-riding stunts, pyrotechnics, and musical performances. Afterwards, commemorate your trip with a souvenir that’s just as cheesy and fun as Pigeon Forge itself: sepia-toned old-timey photos of your whole crew, complete with Wild West costumes. You’ll spot these studios all over town but Old Time Photos stays open late and is less than five minutes away.  

Brunch on Benedicts

Grab breakfast at locals favorite Brick & Spoon . Their specialty is Benedicts, with a full menu dedicated to the decadent breakfast, as well as a “build your own Bloody Mary” option. 

Dollywood thrills

Finish your long weekend with a bang, at Dolly Parton’s Appalachia-inspired Dollywood ( pictured ), open March through December. Spend your time on exhilarating rides, learning from local craftsmen, or checking out one of the many festivals hosted there. In summer, save time for the adjoining water park, Dollywood Splash Country. Dollywood is known for surprisingly good dining options—notably Aunt Granny’s, the Front Porch Café, and Till & Harvest—so you truly won’t have to leave… until it’s time to head home.  

Compass + Twine

Sarah Driggs and Lindsay Ridenour are the creatives behind Compass + Twine, a luxury family travel blog based in Minneapolis and Houston. Their photos and content have been featured in Travel + Leisure and on CNN Travel, and they regularly contribute to Elevated magazines. 

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