10 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg
Hi, I’m Emily and I recently visited Gatlinburg, Tennessee. I had an amazing time exploring this charming mountain town and experiencing all it has to offer. In this article, I’ll share with you the 10 best things to do in Gatlinburg, based on my personal experiences and research. Let’s get started!
Curiosities and Interesting Information about Gatlinburg
- Gatlinburg is located at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- The town has a population of just over 4,000 people but attracts millions of visitors each year.
- Gatlinburg is home to the largest aerial tramway in the United States, which takes visitors up to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park.
- The town has a rich history, dating back to the early 1800s when it was first settled by European immigrants. Today, it is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions.
The 10 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg
1. Hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Gatlinburg. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, there’s something for everyone, from easy strolls to challenging backcountry treks. I personally hiked the Alum Cave Trail, which led me to stunning views of Mount LeConte and the surrounding mountains. It was a challenging hike, but the views were worth it!
2. Visit Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park
If you’re visiting Gatlinburg during the winter months, a trip to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park is a must. The aerial tramway takes visitors up to the top of the mountain, where they can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. During the summer months, the amusement park offers a variety of attractions, including a mountain coaster, alpine slide, and mini-golf.
3. Explore the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community
The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community is a group of over 100 artists and craftsmen who create and sell their work in the area. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the community, which includes studios, galleries, and shops. I loved exploring the community and seeing all the unique and beautiful artwork.
4. Visit the Gatlinburg SkyBridge
The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, stretching 680 feet across a deep valley in the mountains. Walking across the bridge is a thrilling experience, with stunning views of the surrounding area. I was a little nervous at first, but the views were worth it!
5. Take a Scenic Drive on the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a scenic drive that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The trail is a one-way loop that features historic buildings, waterfalls, and stunning views of the mountains. I loved taking a leisurely drive and stopping to take in the views.
6. Visit the Gatlinburg Space Needle
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 407-foot observation tower that offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the tower, where they can enjoy the views and learn about the history of the area. I loved seeing the town from such a unique perspective!
7. Go Ziplining at CLIMB Works
CLIMB Works is an adventure park that offers ziplining tours through the mountains. The tours are led by experienced guides who will take you on a thrilling ride through the trees. I’m afraid of heights, but I faced my fear and had an amazing time!
8. Visit the Gatlinburg Aquarium
The Gatlinburg Aquarium is home to over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. Visitors can walk through underwater tunnels and see the animals up close. I loved learning about the different species and seeing them in their natural habitats.
9. Ride the Gatlinburg Trolley
The Gatlinburg Trolley is a fun and affordable way to explore the town. The trolley has multiple routes that take visitors to popular destinations like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, downtown Gatlinburg, and the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community. I loved taking a relaxing ride and seeing the sights.
10. Enjoy a Moonshine Tasting
Moonshine has a rich history in the Gatlinburg area, and visitors can learn about it and taste it at one of the many moonshine distilleries in town. I visited the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery and had a great time learning about the distilling process and trying different flavors. It was a unique and fun experience!
FAQs About Gatlinburg
What is the best time of year to visit Gatlinburg?
Gatlinburg is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. If you love winter sports, visit during the winter months. If you prefer hiking and outdoor activities, visit in the spring or fall. Summer is a popular time to visit, but it can be crowded.
What are some other popular attractions in Gatlinburg?
Other popular attractions in Gatlinburg include the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster, and the Hollywood Star Cars Museum.
What are some good restaurants in Gatlinburg?
Some popular restaurants in Gatlinburg include The Peddler Steakhouse, The Pancake Pantry, and The Greenbrier Restaurant.
Is Gatlinburg family-friendly?
Yes, Gatlinburg is a great destination for families. There are plenty of family-friendly attractions, including amusement parks, aquariums, and outdoor activities.
What is the closest airport to Gatlinburg?
The closest airport to Gatlinburg is McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville, Tennessee, which is about an hour’s drive away.
I hope this article has given you some inspiration for your next trip to Gatlinburg. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a fan of family-friendly attractions, there’s something for everyone in this charming mountain town. Happy travels!