Imagine being nestled at the base of the Great Smoky Mountains, exploring a town steeped in charm and filled with adventures. For over 50 years, Gatlinburg, TN, has been a beloved family vacation spot that promises fun for everyone, namely my family. Whether it evokes childhood memories or it’s your first visit, Gatlinburg has something for everyone.
Here are 21 things to do in Gatlinburg, TN, that will make your next mountain getaway unforgettable.
Helpful Hint: You’ll find parking at several lots for $20. While this may seem steep, there is one way in and one way out of town, and it’s a hugely popular tourist area. Save your time and energy for exploring and walking around, and splurge on the parking at the first available lot you find.
Check the Gatlinburg App for coupons, maps, events, and festivals.
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Take Flight at Anakeesta
Anakeesta is a family adventure destination that offers a bird’s eye view of the Smoky Mountains. Ride to the summit via Chondola or Ridge Rambler, then enjoy the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster and the TreeVenture Challenge Course. The panoramic views alone are worth the trip.
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains
Gatlinburg offers breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains, one of the most visited national parks. Whether you take vigorous hikes or simply drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a 16 mile round trip option that will take about an hour of your time to complete, the park offers something for every type of wanderer.
Keep your eyes open and always look up. On my 2021 fall visit, I saw a mama bear with her three bear cubs. It was surreal since I wasn’t expecting it. I totally froze, but did get some pictures with my cell phone. It was truly one of the most special moments in my 53 years of traveling.
Pro Tip: Get your National Park passport stamped!
Indulge at Pancake Pantry
The Pancake Pantry is a must-visit for breakfast lovers. Whether it’s your first visit or your 50th, the delectable breakfast options here will more than please your palate. Try the Pecan Pancakes or the Marvelous Blintz dish. Just remember to arrive early; this place is popular for a reason!
Sip Tennessee Moonshine
Cut your teeth on some delicious Tennessee moonshine at Ole Smoky, the region’s most beloved brand, featuring flavors like Blackberry, Lemon Drop, and Apple Pie. Tennessee Shine Co. also offers seasonal flavors like Butterscotch Moonshine and Strawberry Cream Moon Pie.
Celebrity-Endorsed Dining Spots
Gatlinburg is becoming one big celebrity endorsement after another, and I am there for it. From Paula Deen’s restaurant chain to Blake Shelton’s Ole Red and Guy Fieri’s Chicken Guy (a place we fell in love with at Disney Springs), Gatlinburg is buzzing with celebrity owned eateries.
Each spot offers its unique twist on Southern cuisine that you won’t want to miss.
Dine at Iconic Eateries
Don’t miss The Melting Pot for a memorable and superb fondue feast, Howard’s Steakhouse for a classic steak dinner (since 1946), and Ruby Sunshine for an unforgettable breakfast. Try the Pig-Candy Bacon Bites, the Migas, and the Peacemaker (combo of two different Benedicts) at Ruby Sunshine.
Pro Tip: Join the waitlist from Ruby Sunshine’s website; a great timesaver.
Visit the Hollywood Star Cars Museum
This museum houses dozens of famous cars used in movies and videos. Some of the star attractions are the Fast & Furious collection (cars from 2001 to 2015), Batmobiles, and Michael Jackson’s Mercedes-Benz 500. Star Cars Museum a must-visit for car and movie enthusiasts. My favorite was the 1977 Trans AM from Smokey and the Bandit.
Wander Through Unique Shops
Spend hours wandering through the shops along Gatlinburg’s main drag. From sampling chocolate and taffy to moonshine, home decor, clothing, and fried goodies, you’ll find an arsenal of things to buy. Favorites include Misty Mountain Soap Company, Paula Deen Store, and Candle Cottage.
Shop at the Mountain Mall
Mountain Mall, the premier indoor downtown Gatlinburg mall, is perfect for rainy days or those with limited walking abilities. Located in downtown Gatlinburg, it features shops like Pepper Palace, TN Cider Company, and Gatlin-Burlier Tobacconist. Shout out to the super cool whiskey barrel trashcans.
Plus, it’s only a two-minute walk from Anakeesta.
Ride the Gatlinburg Space Needle
Seattle has their space needle, and Gatlinburg has theirs —ride to the top of the 407-feet-tall all-glass Gatlinburg Space Needle for $15.95 adults or $9.95 children. Get 360° views and the best photo ops from the observation deck. Don’t miss the 30,000+ square foot arcade and amusement area.
Pro Tip: Buy the Family Pass, $36.95, a real money saver, which gets two adults and two children in on two visits—day and night.
Enjoy Homemade Taffy Treats and Donuts
Homemade taffy is a regional Gatlinburg specialty. Visit Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen for fresh-pulled taffy in 33 flavors, including peanut butter, banana, wild cherry, and peppermint. They even offer sugar-free options! Watch the taffy being pulled and wrapped, or shop from other tasty treats like fudge, pecan logs, divinity, and chocolates.
Dine at Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina
Enjoy tasty Mexican eats at Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina. Savor chips, queso, and salsa while sipping a refreshing margarita or cold beer. The two-story stylish restaurant offers excellent photo ops and outdoor patio seating.
Explore Ripley’s Attractions
From Ripley’s Haunted Adventure (tour the creepiest mansion in town) to Ripley’s Believe It Or Not (12,500 sq-ft of odd and weird stuff), Gatlinburg has a plethora of Ripley’s attractions. Enjoy mini-golf, go-kart tracks, a mountain coaster, and a mirror maze for endless fun.
Explore Reagan Terrace Mall
Reagan Terrace Mall offers a wide variety for the whole family, including a chicken hut restaurant, mini-golf options, escape games, and laser tag. Don’t forget to check the Gatlinburg App for coupons and events.
Go Trout Fishing
Trout fishing in Gatlinburg is a delightful experience; in fact, it is ultimate in this area and city streams are stocked year-round. Popular spots include the main section of the Little River and Middle Prong Little Pigeon River. A license is required, and you can keep a total of five fish daily.
Stroll Through the Village Shops
Step back in time through Old World Europe at the Village Shops, a Gatlinburg classic. Pick up treats for your pooch at Bonediggity Bakery and Gifts, or take home cheese and wine from Cheese Cupboard. Don’t miss The Donut Friar for some cash-only deliciousness.
Visit Sugarlands Distilling
Experience award-winning whiskey and moonshine at Sugarlands Distilling. Take a blended cocktails tour or a $5 tasting led by an expert TasteMaker. Sugarlands Distilling Co. proudly partners with Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners Legends to bring their traditional recipes to you online, the strawberry & cream pops is quite delicious.
Follow the TN Music Pathways
The TN Music Pathways trail has roots in Gatlinburg and meanders through the Volunteer State. Visit The Gatlinburg Inn, where the iconic “Rocky Top” song was written. Now the official Tennessee state song, that’s a big claim to fame and a piece of Tennessee history you won’t want to miss.
Walk the SkyBridge
For an adventurous outing, walk the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America. On a different note, the retro Gatlinburg SkyLift offers an open-air chairlift ride to the overlook, providing amazing views of the Smoky Mountains. I think this is the prettiest part of the Gatlinburg Strip.
Shop at Alpine Terrace Mall
Alpine Terrace Mall is picturesque with plenty of benches for people-watching. Shop at the Jerky store, pick up wine at Little Bear Winery, and grab a bite at New Orleans Sandwich Company.
Capture Memories at Somewhere in Time
Dress up in vintage clothing and props for an old-timey photo shoot at Somewhere in Time. It’s a fun way to capture and savor your Smoky Mountain memories for a lifetime.
Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a family favorite and top attraction in Gatlinburg. It features coral reef fish, lionfish, jellies, sharks, octopus, and darling penguins. Kids will love special events like Breakfast with a Mermaid and Sleep with the Sharks family overnights.
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