Ten Fun Things to Do During Your Vacation in Gatlinburg

The gorgeous city of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a favorite spot for travelers and adventure lovers. With beautiful natural landscapes and plenty of fun things to do, this charming mountain town is perfect for everyone. 

If you enjoy nature and exciting experiences or want to explore local culture and history, Gatlinburg offers it all. 

Get your hiking boots ready, pack your bags, and get set for an unforgettable adventure in this lovely mountain paradise.

Visit the Great Smoky Mountains, National Park:

Gatlinburg bursts with a natural charm that leaves a lasting impression – and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the star attraction! It’s considered one of the best places to visit in the US, and it boasts 800+ miles of trails, cascading waterfalls, and amazingly diverse plant life. 

The adventurous souls can test their limits by climbing to Clingmans Dome summit, which offers breathtaking vistas. No wonder so many people keep returning to admire its beauty and embrace nature. Make sure to check it out!

Spend a Weekend in Gatlinburg Chalets:

To make your Gatlinburg visit unforgettable, consider staying in Gatlinburg chalets for the weekend. These snug, quaint cabins serve as an ideal haven after spending the day discovering the region’s numerous attractions. 

These chalets offer amenities such as hot tubs, game rooms, and well-appointed kitchens while offering an authentic mountain escape. Picking a chalet for your visit lets you truly be near nature, enjoying the stunning sights of the Smoky Mountains.

Relax in a Luxurious Hotel: 

If you’re planning a visit to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and looking for accommodations, consider staying at a luxurious hotel in Gatlinburg TN. At these hotels, you have access to indoor and outdoor pools, continental breakfasts, and much more. So, when your day of exploring the city ends, unwind in your cozy hotel, rejuvenating for the next day’s adventures.

Head to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park:

To see Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains from above, visit Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Hop on the SkyLift, a scenic chairlift that will take you up 1,800 feet to Crockett Mountain, where you can marvel at the stunning vistas from the SkyDeck. 

Don’t miss the SkyBridge, one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges you’ll ever get to walk on, stretching 680 feet across a deep valley. As you walk across the bridge, stop at the glass-floor panels in the middle to take in the breathtaking view of the valley below.

Don’t Miss Ober Gatlinburg:

Ober Gatlinburg serves as an all-season amusement park and ski resort, providing boundless enjoyment for family members of all ages. In the colder months, take to the slopes on skis or a snowboard, or experience an exhilarating descent down the mountain on a snow tube. 

When the weather turns warmer, venture onto the Alpine Slide, an impressive course that meanders through the forest. 

Additional attractions at the park include a picturesque aerial tramway, an indoor ice-skating rink, a wildlife encounter, and various stores and dining options.

Check out Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community:

Delve into Gatlinburg’s lively art scene by taking a trip to the historic Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, an area showcasing the talents of over 100 artists and artisans. 

You’ll encounter a wide assortment of handcrafted items within this area, ranging from pottery and paintings to jewelry and beyond. This is an ideal opportunity to acquire a unique keepsake while backing the local artistic community.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies  – A Must-Visit with the Family

Recognized as one of the top aquariums in the nation, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies delivers an engaging experience suitable for all age groups. Discover the extensive collection of aquatic displays showcasing more than 10,000 rare marine creatures from across the globe. 

Attractions range from the captivating jellyfish exhibit to the hands-on touch pool, ensuring an exciting experience for every visitor. 

Be sure to venture into the Shark Lagoon, a remarkable 340-foot-long underwater passage where you’ll be surrounded by sharks, sea turtles, and an assortment of vibrant fish.

Up Towards the Gatlinburg Space Needle:

At a height of 407 feet, the Gatlinburg Space Needle presents awe-inspiring 360-degree panoramas of the Great Smoky Mountains and the neighboring city. 

Ascend the glass elevator to the top of this emblematic observation tower, and take in the sweeping scenery from the outdoor viewing platform. 

Alongside the impressive vistas, the Space Needle houses an arcade, a virtual reality adventure, and a souvenir store, establishing it as an essential attraction for family members of all ages.

Adventures and Anakeesta:

Anakeesta serves as an open-air adventure park, blending excitement and leisure in the core of the Smoky Mountains. Embark on your journey with a picturesque Chondola ascent to Anakeesta Mountain’s peak, where a hilltop village awaits, brimming with stores, eateries, and entertainment options. 

Experience exhilarating zip lines, treetop canopy strolls, and the Rail Runner Mountain coaster. Be sure to visit the meticulously designed Vista Gardens, a stunning botanical garden that affords remarkable panoramas of the encompassing mountain ranges.

Shop at the Gatlinburg Farmers Market:

Explore the abundant selections at the Gatlinburg Farmers Market, a seasonal event every Saturday from May to October. Driven by the community, the market presents a diverse range of locally grown produce, farm-fresh eggs, meats, artisan cheeses, and homemade baked treats. 

Beyond the irresistible food options, the market also displays the creations of local artisans, such as handmade jewelry, pottery, and fabrics. 

By visiting the Gatlinburg Farmers Market, you’ll support regional farmers and craftspeople and indulge in the freshest and most delectable products the area offers. 

Remember to carry a reusable shopping bag and come prepared to uncover the finest of Gatlinburg’s local tastes and craftsmanship.

Also Read: 6 Reasons to Take a Trip to Gatlinburg

Conclusion

Gatlinburg is the ideal location for adventure and leisure, boasting a storied past, remarkable natural scenery, and various attractions and pursuits. 

So, if you’re organizing a couples’ retreat or browsing through the Farmer’s Market with the family, Gatlinburg promises to foster enduring memories and entice you to visit again.

We hope this article helped you plan the perfect vacation.