Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Gatlinburg, Tennessee. #Top Attractions

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Gatlinburg is an amazing travel destination in Tennessee. Here is our hand-picked list of the top activities and attractions in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, so you can make the most of your time there. Scroll down for the best things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and the best places to visit in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Anakeesta

Making time to visit Anakeesta when you’re in Gatlinburg is a must-try. It will all be worth it, and you won’t get disappointed!

The outdoor adventure park Anakeesta in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, enables families to create lasting memories.

It will also allow you to take in the natural splendor of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg.

Whether you are with your family, friends, kids, or someone special, Anakeesta got it all for you!

The chondola ride to the summit of Anakeesta in Gatlinburg is the first activity you get to do there. You will see impressive mountain views once you take a scenic ride to your desired destinations.

In the Firefly Village, you can explore many food hubs and shops you need in one place. You can grab a snack or even buy some souvenirs to take home.

In addition, you can challenge your friends in the most famous Anakeesta’s Dueling Zipline Adventure. The ziplines’ entertaining feature is that two individuals can ride them simultaneously, side by side.

The mountain coaster will whirl you around the trees and the natural bends of the mountainside as it takes you on rapid turns and twists. This is another outdoor adventure you must try!

Another thing, don’t miss out on exploring the Treetop Skywalk and Treehouse Village Playground. Have fun!

Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Clingmans Dome Observation Tower

High above Gatlinburg, visiting Clingmans Dome Observation Tower can be a wonderful way to enjoy the natural beauty.

The concrete observation tower at Clingmans Dome is renowned for providing visitors with a magnificent 360-degree view of the Smokies. 

The planning for the ascent to the observation tower is the key to enjoying a trip to Clingmans Dome. To your knowledge, the famous tower sits at 6,643 feet above sea level!

Longtime tourists to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park love Clingmans Dome. The views from the parking lot are magnificent, even if you don’t have time to trek the quick 1/2 mile to the peak.

Wondering how to get there? Drive to the location (7 miles on the Newfound Gap Road), park your car, and then hike in (about a half-mile stroll on a paved trail) to climb the observation tower. 

A successful visit requires careful planning. Even in the heat, layer your clothing and bring a jacket.

The paved trail leading to the observation tower and all other nearby trails are off-limits to bicycles and pets. Near the start of the paved trail is a bike rack where riders can leave their bikes while hiking.

Meanwhile, if you don’t want to hike and you just want to appreciate the scenic views, don’t worry. For relaxing, there are numerous seats along the trail. Enjoy your trip!

Address: Gatlinburg, Tennessee, United States

Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

As you race down the hillside in a sled-like cart, the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster will excite you!

You’re being pulled up the mountain in your sled by a mechanism like a pulley system, so sit back and unwind. Grab your handles and head out once you reach the top!

Either push forward or let go of your handles to manage your speed. Don’t worry about the sleds tipping over or flying off because they are linked to the track. 

Feel free as you fast descend the mountain and the wind whips through your hair. Ride with a friend if you don’t want to travel by yourself!

Don’t be afraid to ask their friendly staff there if you have any questions or concerns; they will be more than delighted to help you with anything you require. 

Meanwhile, prepare for a short wait if you visit this site during a busy season, such as the summer. 

If you’re searching for something to do, this exhilarating coaster is available year-round, rain, shine, or snow. Try doing it at night if zooming down a mountain on a sled isn’t thrilling enough.

Gather all your excitement and prepare for an extraordinary ride in Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster!

Address: 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Gatlinburg Skylift Park

The SkyLift Park might be the ideal way to round off your Gatlinburg visit if you’re feeling adventurous. 

The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is a must-see, even though it is not for the faint of heart. It offers the greatest perspective of the Smoky Mountains.

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park offers a variety of activities, including a lift ride, a sizable deck, and the longest SkyBridge in the South. 

Make a note of some time on your vacation schedule because you might easily spend the entire day visiting this park.

The safest and simplest way to climb the Smoky Mountains is with the SkyLift.

Furthermore, don’t worry about wasting time with your phone or camera. Photographers from the park will snap pictures of you or if you are with a companion at the mountain’s summit.

Additionally, your first sight upon exiting the SkyLift will be the breathtaking SkyDeck. You can grab food or a beer and enjoy the spectacular scenery.

The main draw of SkyLift Park is SkyBridge. It offers a breathtaking walking tour of the highest points of the Smoky Mountains.

Meanwhile, in the Sky Center, you may enjoy the spectacular view of the mountains from the cozy inside bar.

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park has a lot of fun experiences you will enjoy. So don’t miss out!

Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the top attractions in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

Outdoor enthusiasts go to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park has a lot of wildflowers and wildlife, and along its woodland walks, it has lovely waterfalls.

In the Clingmans Dome or Chimney Tops which you can find in the same area, you can experience different climbing activities.

Meanwhile, if you are looking for a worthy scenic drive, there is an excellent spot. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail got it all that you want!

You can also appreciate a variety of educational exhibits that are available in the area. This includes the old buildings from early settlers like those in Cades Cove.

For information on the park’s past, to pick up trail maps, or to make reservations for ranger-led programs, head to the Sugarlands Visitor Center.

In addition, you will be amazed by the spectacular color of the famous park during its fall season. It will make you want to return to the place repeatedly!

The park is ideally situated close to Gatlinburg, a larger tourist destination just south of Pigeon Forge in the mountains.

You can rent a car from McGhee Tyson Airport to the impressive park hassle-free. Don’t miss out on your chance to visit this lovely place!

Address: Gatlinburg, Tennessee, United States

Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Suppose this is your first time visiting Gatlinburg. In that case, the Hollywood Star Cars Museum is a fascinating destination to start your vacation.

Here, you will have the chance to see Hollywood’s top TV and movie automobiles in authentic surroundings. Mind you, and they are complete with music, lighting, and action! 

As additional knowledge, George Barris has designed more renowned Hollywood movie & television cars than anybody else. He is the creator of many vehicles in this place!

In addition, you must see this place if you are a fan of some international movies with cars. The Fast and the Furious vehicles, “Eleanor” from Gone in 60 Seconds, and other automobiles are also featured in this museum.

Assuring you, you’ll adore the Hollywood Star Cars Museum. Whether you’re a car lover or you’re just searching for something entertaining to do in downtown Gatlinburg.

When you visit these automobiles, you are close to everything since they are located in the center of Gatlinburg. 

You can also grab a tasty meal at the Park Grill or Crockett’s Breakfast Camp before or after you go out on the downtown strip.

Hollywood Star Cars Museum offers lots of fun adventures for you to enjoy. Have a wonderful trip!

Address: 914 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Mountain Mall

Mountain Mall is the place to go if you’re in the mood to go shopping. You may find it here, including clothing, footwear, and everyday necessities.

Mountain Mall is located in Gatlinburg. Surely, you will love to explore this haven for shoppers before going to one or two more nearby interesting places.

Once you explore the place, you will find some rooms with historical exhibits. The displays include “then and now” photographs of the town.

The ancient family store’s authentic 1934 Ford Model A delivery truck is on exhibit. Enjoy your chance to get close and see this historical thing!

The shopping complex is decorated with mountain-themed details, from the cedar walls to the whiskey barrel trash cans.

Additionally, you can hear local artists playing Appalachian mountain music as you leisurely stroll through the Mountain Mall.

You can try several other adventures if you have already bought all the souvenirs you need. You can go skiing at Ober Gatlinburg and have a good time with your loved ones!

You can study nature’s oddities at Ripley’s Believe It or Not for fun activities. Experience fear at Haunted Adventure, or surround yourself with sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies while you’re there.

Address: 611 Parkway Ste F15, Gatlinburg, United States

Nantahala Outdoor Center

If you are an adventure enthusiast, consider including Nantahala Outdoor Center in your bucket list of places to visit. Not to mention, this impressive spot is a popular summer destination!

Every stage of your Smokies adventure can be assisted by NOC Gatlinburg, including equipment for day hikes.

You will also experience preparing for overnight camping trips, organizing a Class IV whitewater rafting trip, or even assisting with kayaking instruction.

Whitewater Rafting in the Pigeon River is definitely a must-try. For groups seeking some watery excitement, this tour is perfect.

Learning new things while having fun is also possible at Nantahala Outdoor Center. You can have yourself enrolled in their famous River Kayaking Course.

In this one-day beginner lesson on the Pigeon River, you will learn proper paddle technique, a variety of strokes, boat handling, and more.

The 1,000ft North Face Summit Shop will also be found in the same area. The North Face’s most recent gear, clothing, and accessories are available here.

If you are with your family or friends, activities are available to challenge them. A 25-foot climbing wall at NOC Gatlinburg offers difficult routes for climbers of all levels. 

You may experience several adventures at Nantahala Outdoor Center!

Address: 1138 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Ober Gatlinburg

The entire family can find plenty of entertainment in Ober Gatlinburg! 

You may go on many rides at once, take in stunning mountain views, and even get up close and personal with the local wildlife.

Everyone with you will want to do something, regardless of age!

Get on the aerial tram. With this vehicle, you may travel 11,000 feet above Gatlinburg and enjoy breathtaking views of the city’s strip and the Smoky Mountains.

In addition, summer tubing is one of the newest activities available at Ober Gatlinburg. Your inner tube transports you up the hill from the bottom to the top on a conveyor known as the Magic Carpet.

The Ober Gatlinburg ice bumper cars are yet another fantastic attraction. As soon as they notice the ice-bumper cars, your kids will want to go on and collide with one another.

Without riding the mountain coaster in Ober Gatlinburg, you can’t truly experience the Smoky Mountains! From the moment you board until you exit, this exhilarating coaster will have you screaming with excitement!

This place is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts. Visit Ober Gatlinburg’s Wildlife Encounter. In a secure setting, you may come close to black bears and watch them interact.

Have fun at Ober Gatlinburg!

Address: 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Ole Smoky Moonshine

If you are thirsty and looking for something impeccable, visiting Ole Smoky Moonshine is the best option.

The most popular distillery in the United States, Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine, is located in the same region in Gatlinburg.

Sure, it’s simply flavored vodka offered in jars filled with grain alcohol infused with flavors like Apple Pie, Sweet Tea, and Peach.

You must cast the first drink if you are a first-timer who has never experienced whipped cream, blood orange, or glazed donut vodka flavors.

Add a splash of this cream liquor to your morning coffee to spice it up! All coffee enthusiasts agree that The Mountain Java is one of their favorites!

White Lightning is another tasty flavor you must try. You can replace it with standard mixers like gin or vodka to give your beverage a fresh taste.

The Ole Smoky Blackberry taste is for you if you want your booze on the sweeter side. This drink is wonderful when combined with lemonade on a steamy summer afternoon.

Meanwhile, there are several activities you can do other than tasting different beverages.

After trying the shine and choosing your favorites, stop by the Ole Smoky gift shop. You can pick up some goods and Smoky Mountain trinkets to bring back.

Have fun!

Address: 903 Parkway #128, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Parrot Mountain and Gardens

This is your chance to get a close-up view of hundreds of gorgeous birds in a magnificent setting with countless plants and flowers. Visit the four-acre bird habitat and garden instead!

Parrot Mountain & Gardens visitors can meander around a beautifully landscaped, four-acre bird habitat. At the same time, it is only a short drive from Dollywood and Pigeon Forge. 

Hundreds of birds, from colorful toucans to hornbills and everything in between, may be seen at the site.

You will have the chance to appreciate many things in the place. It includes a 200-foot-long Irish wall made of stacked stones, lovely garden paths, birdhouses, cascading waterfalls, and statues of gods. 

The presence of peacocks, butterflies, and dragonflies heightens the sense that you are in stunning artwork.

The bird garden is the treasure of Parrot Mountain and Gardens. This amazing location has a closed-off area with approximately 70 birds perched freely!

You can wander about and see exotic birds in their natural habitat, hand-feed them, or take pictures. 

You will adore this opportunity to go up close to colorful birds, whether with your family or kids.

In addition, you can see the young birds being fed and even pet them in the nursery for newborn birds. This experience is guaranteed to delight any animal lovers in your life!

Address: 1471 McCarter Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37862, United States

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

A popular Gatlinburg activity that the whole family may enjoy is Ripley’s Aquarium!

Ripley’s provides a range of activities that will make your trip to Gatlinburg unforgettable, including shark sleepovers and summer camps.

For all age groups, Ripley’s Aquarium offers three different sleepovers! The first caters to families and includes a tasty late-night snack, a scavenger hunt, and other enjoyable activities.

Throughout the summer, Ripley’s Aquarium hosts several camps! The Jr. Kids may learn about marine science and conservation at Aquarist Camp. 

Additionally, the stingrays can be fed by children, the water quality can be checked, and even a squid may be dissected.

You can also get up and personal with some of Ripley’s largest residents by participating in the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure. 

The sharks, turtles, and other marine creatures can be seen swimming beneath the boat as it enters Shark Lagoon. You can have fun adventures here!

If you are looking for other adventures, there’s more! Participate in Ripley’s Penguin Painting Experience to make a penguin friend. 

In addition to being adorable, the penguins at Ripley’s are also skilled performers. You will learn a lot from the cute penguins in the area.

These entertaining events ensure you and your family will have a memorable time at Ripley’s!

Address: 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a fantastic choice if you’re searching for a colorful perspective of the Smokies without hiking.

The vehicular nature route leads to several hiking trails, and many picturesque overlooks exist.

Meanwhile, you can pull over and enjoy the breathtaking fall foliage without ever having to leave your car.

The Noah “Bud” Ogle Self-Guiding Nature Trail, which passes by farmland and a tub mill along a creek, is accessible in the same area.

One of the most well-liked waterfalls walks is to Rainbow Falls. You must see this worthy thing on The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail!

After hiking the Trillium Gap Trail, bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic pullouts or near the waterfall.

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a 6-mile, one-way scenic loop. The brief journey will offer numerous views of the mountains, streams, mills, and other old structures.

Just a tip, there aren’t any visitor centers along the motor route, and you can’t go back once you start. So it’s a good idea to bring a cooler with food and water.

Book your trip to The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail today!

Address: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Sweet Fanny Adams Theater

The ideal way to round off a day spent discovering the historic town of Gatlinburg is with an evening at the theater.

The Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre is only one of the many attractions in Gatlinburg that attracts tourists.

Along with the area’s abundance of chances for outdoor adventure, hip boutiques, and scenic views, you will all find these in the same location!

Just an additional knowledge, the longest-running production in Gatlinburg is Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre. The fantastic theater opened its doors in 1977.

Seeing a performance at the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre is a must if you are a fan of comedy and drama.

You can also enjoy a variety of presentations, including dancing, singing, magic, and interaction with the audience.

Meanwhile, wheelchair users can access the theater. The shows are family-friendly and engaging for all ages. Fantastic!

Recent vacationers praised the local theater as excellent for children and a reasonably priced family entertainment.

The Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre is conveniently situated in Gatlinburg, just off the main parkway. 

Wondering how to get there? We can guide you! If you’re coming from the south, take Highway 144; if you’re from the east, take the East Parkway.

Have a fun theater bonding with your loved ones!

Address: 461 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, 37738, United States

Wild Plum Tea Room

Do you want to learn more about a side of Gatlinburg that most people wouldn’t anticipate? 

A unique and delightful place for tea and lunch, The Wild Plum Tea Room is situated along the Arts & Crafts Community Trail on Buckhorn Road.

Here, the focus is on seasonal and local ingredients in an inventive and unique cuisine.

You will have a lot of options to choose from in this place. Sandwiches and house salads are available, and the selections are updated daily. 

Desserts are a necessity at this establishment. You can taste their most famous Brownie Delight, Coconut Cheesecake, Sour Cream Lime Pie, and Hummingbird Cake.

Meanwhile, Pumpkin Pie and Amaretto Bread Pudding are two sweets popular in the fall. Give it a try too!

If you ask for their best sellers, these include delicious gourmet chicken salad, wild plum tea, and wild plum cakes. 

Overlooking the dining area is a nice tiny gift shop. You can buy tasty souvenirs from there so you can have something to bring home!

When the weather is suitable for fur, parents, dogs, and their owners are welcome on our porch deck. You just have to ensure your pets are on their proper leashes.

Enjoy and have a great day at The Wild Plum Tea Room!

Address: 555 Buckhorn Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

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