Things to do In Gatlinburg TN

21 Jun 2024    National Park

Gatlinburg, Tennessee is like a secret jewel box hidden inside the base of towering, blue peaks. The air here is as pure as a new born baby, you will be able to listen to the beautiful sounds of the rushing rivers and winds chirming their way through the leaves.

You will be able to find cozy log cabins that are centred between shops that overflow with local crafts, and the sweet aroma of fudge cooking down the street. Gatlinburg is a place where you can find yourself surrounded by adventures, but also a place where you can find serenity taking over the entire place.

If you are wondering about what to do upon your visit, worry not, because today we will be talking about the several amazing things to do in Gatlinburg TN for you and your friends and family. Keep reading to know what's in store for you...

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

Things to do In Gatlinburg TN

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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is like a giant, wild green playground. The sprawling forests are thick that you can practically smell the clean air, and trails that are passing through the waterfalls that is music to the ears.

When you hike up at the peak, you will witness the never-ending layers of blude ridges that are right in front of you.

The pine needle scent along with wildflowers will make you want to take some of it back home!

It doesn't matter whether or not you are an experienced hiker, the Smokies have something for everyone, making it one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg TN.

You will be left feeling invigorated, humbled by what nature has to offer, and a heart full of Smoky Mountain magic.

2. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Things to do In Gatlinburg TN

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Ripley's Aquarium is like diving into the ocean without getting wet. You can walk through clear tunnels surrounded by all sorts of sea creatures, from playful sea turtles to stingrays that glide past your fingertips. There's even a section where you can touch gentle jellyfish, their bodies pulsing softly in your hand, making it one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg TN for a fun day out with your friends and family.

The aquarium isn't just tanks, though. There's a fascinating moving walkway that takes you under a giant tank filled with colorful fish and sharks swimming overhead. You might even catch a glimpse of a scuba diver feeding the hungry fish! And for the penguin lovers out there, there's a daily parade where these tuxedoed birds waddle along a charming little path. It is so cute that it will make your heart melt!

3. Sugarlands Distilling Company

Things to do In Gatlinburg TN

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Sugarlands Distilling Company in Gatlinburg is all about moonshine. They make it the old-fashioned way, and you can even watch the stills on a tour. But the real fun is tasting! They have all sorts of moonshine flavors, from the original kick to sweet ones like blueberry muffin.

Sugarlands has more to offer. They also have creamy liqueurs like chocolate coffee, perfect for sipping after dinner. They even make vodka for those who prefer something different.  So, if you're in Gatlinburg and want to try some moonshine, or just see how it's made, Sugarlands Distilling Company is the place to go. It is surely one-of-a-kind experience, making it yet another one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg TN.

4. Ole Smoky

Things to do In Gatlinburg TN

Ole Smoky in Gatlinburg is moonshine heaven! They're the biggest moonshine maker in the world, and they've got a flavor for everyone.

Walk into their shops and you'll see shelves lined with jars of moonshine in all sorts of colors and unique taste combinations. There's the classic original moonshine, for those who like it straight-up.

But if you're looking for something different, they've got flavors like watermelon, peanut butter whiskey, or even banana pudding! If you like exploring new flavors, this is surely one of the best

Ole Smokey also offer tours of their distillery so you can see how they make it. Plus, they have cute little gift shops where you can get yourself (or your loved ones) a jar of moonshine (or other goodies) as a souvenir of your trip to the Smokies.

5. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Things to do In Gatlinburg TN

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Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is all about seeing the Great Smoky Mountains from up high. You can ride the yellow chairlift for stunning views of Gatlinburg town as you climb towards Crockett Mountain.

At the top, you can walk across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America! It's pretty high up, but the bridge is very safe. There's even a section with a glass floor if you dare to look down.

If you are afraid of heights, that’s no problem at all! You can still enjoy the views from the observation deck. There's also a short walking trail you can explore, and a restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat while taking in the mountain scenery.

Conclusion

The Great Smoky Mountains are home to the town of Gatlinburg, which has something to offer everyone. At Sugarlands Distilling Company, you can begin your day with a tour and tasting where you can sample a variety of tastes and witness moonshine being prepared the traditional way. Then, at Ripley's Aquarium, you can explore the aquatic world by going through transparent tunnels surrounded by fish and even getting up close and personal with soft jellyfish.

Climb Crockett Mountain for breathtaking vistas during a scenic trip on the yellow Gatlinburg SkyLift in the afternoon. Experience walking across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, at the summit! The glass floor part is a genuinely unique experience, so don't miss it – as it is one of the most fun things to do in Gatlinburg with your friends and family.

FAQs

1. Which one is better Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is a place for people who seek for a peaceful, laid-back experience, whereas, Pigeon Forge offers a large variety of activities on the mountain top for people with a high adrenaline rush!

2. How many days is enough for Gatlinburg?

A week-long trip to Gatlinburg is good for people traveling with their families, where they can get to experience the several water parks, explore nature, and visit the national parks.

3. How far apart are Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg?

They are only seven miles apart from each other.

4. What is the best month to visit Gatlinburg Tennessee?

September through October which is the fall season. At this time around, Gatlinburg is the most colorful place in the world.

5. What is the cheapest month to go to Gatlinburg Tennessee?

Visiting Gatlinburg during the off season can get you affordable prices. Months through January and March or November to December are off season.