10 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN
Hi, I’m Emily Johnson and I recently visited Gatlinburg TN. I had an amazing time exploring this beautiful city and I’m excited to share with you the top 10 things to do in Gatlinburg.
Curiosities and Facts
- Gatlinburg is located at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
- The city has a population of just over 4,000 people.
- Gatlinburg is known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions.
1. Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. I personally went on a hike and it led to the most breathtaking view of the mountains.
2. Take a Walk on the Gatlinburg SkyBridge
The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. It offers amazing views of the mountains and the city. I prefer going at night when the bridge is lit up with beautiful lights.
3. Explore the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community
The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community is the largest group of independent artisans in North America. You can find handmade crafts, pottery, and artwork. I bought a beautiful piece of pottery to bring home as a souvenir.
4. Visit the Gatlinburg Space Needle
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 407-foot observation tower that offers 360-degree views of the city and the mountains. It’s a great place to take pictures and enjoy the view.
5. Go on a Moonshine Distillery Tour
Gatlinburg is known for its moonshine and there are several distilleries that offer tours and tastings. I went on a tour at the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery and learned about the history of moonshine in the area.
6. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a popular attraction in Gatlinburg. It features interactive exhibits and over 10,000 sea creatures. I loved seeing the sharks and the penguins.
7. Ride the Aerial Tramway to Ober Gatlinburg
The Aerial Tramway takes you from downtown Gatlinburg to Ober Gatlinburg, a ski resort and amusement park. The ride offers stunning views of the mountains and the city. I went in the winter and enjoyed skiing and ice skating at Ober Gatlinburg.
8. Go Ziplining
There are several companies in Gatlinburg that offer ziplining adventures. It’s a great way to see the mountains and have an adrenaline-filled experience. I went with Smoky Mountain Ziplines and had a blast.
9. Visit the Gatlinburg Farmers Market
The Gatlinburg Farmers Market is open from May to October and offers fresh produce, handmade crafts, and live music. It’s a great place to get a taste of the local culture. I bought some delicious homemade jam.
10. Explore the Sugarlands Distilling Company
The Sugarlands Distilling Company offers tours and tastings of their moonshine and whiskey. They also have a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs. I enjoyed learning about the distilling process and trying some of their flavored moonshine.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Gatlinburg?
The best time to visit Gatlinburg is in the fall when the leaves are changing colors. The city is also beautiful in the winter when it’s covered in snow.
What is the Gatlinburg SkyBridge?
The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. It offers amazing views of the mountains and the city.
What is there to do in Gatlinburg for families?
There are several family-friendly attractions in Gatlinburg, including Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and Ober Gatlinburg.
Is Gatlinburg expensive?
Gatlinburg can be expensive, but there are also plenty of free and low-cost activities to enjoy, such as hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or visiting the Gatlinburg Farmers Market.