Top Attractions in Gatlinburg, Tennessee: A Guide to the Best Things to Do
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, is a charming town packed with a variety of attractions that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast looking for adventure, a family seeking fun, or someone who enjoys arts and culture, Gatlinburg offers something for everyone. Here's a guide to the top attractions in this beautiful mountain town.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
As the primary draw for many visitors to Gatlinburg, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-see. Spanning over 500,000 acres, the park is one of the most biologically diverse places in the world and offers countless outdoor activities for all levels of adventurers.
Hiking: There are over 850 miles of trails to explore, including popular routes like the Alum Cave Trail and Clingmans Dome, which takes you to the highest point in Tennessee. Wildlife Watching: The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including black bears, white-tailed deer, and countless bird species. Keep an eye out for these creatures while exploring. Scenic Drives: The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and Cades Cove Loop are scenic drives that showcase the park’s natural beauty without requiring strenuous hiking.
2. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
One of Gatlinburg’s iconic attractions, the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park offers stunning panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. Take a ride on the SkyLift, a chairlift that takes you from downtown Gatlinburg up to the top of Crockett Mountain. At the top, you'll find the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, offering incredible views of the Smokies and the valley below.
3. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Located right in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the top aquariums in the country. With over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and jellyfish, the aquarium offers an exciting and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Highlights include the Shark Lagoon, where you can walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, and the Penguin Playhouse, home to a lively colony of penguins.4. Anakeesta
Perched atop a mountain, Anakeesta is an adventure park that combines fun activities with spectacular views. Visitors can reach the park via a scenic chairlift ride or the Chondola, which combines a gondola and chairlift. Once at the top, you can enjoy a variety of attractions such as:
Treetop SkyWalk: The longest tree canopy walkway in the U.S., offering an incredible view of the Smokies. Anakeesta Firefly Village: A beautiful, whimsical village that comes alive in the evening with twinkling lights and live entertainment. Ziplining: For thrill-seekers, Anakeesta offers an exciting ziplining experience that soars over the forest.
5. The Gatlinburg Space Needle
For a bird’s-eye view of the city and the Smoky Mountains, a visit to the Gatlinburg Space Needle is a must. This 407-foot observation tower provides panoramic views and is perfect for taking in the beauty of the area. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits at the top, which teach about the history of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains.
6. Ober Gatlinburg
During winter, Ober Gatlinburg transforms into a ski resort, but this year-round attraction offers plenty of activities for visitors no matter the season. In the winter, you can hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. In warmer months, enjoy the Alpine Slide, go ice skating, or take a scenic chairlift ride for views of the mountains.
Additionally, Ober Gatlinburg features a wildlife encounter exhibit, where visitors can see native animals such as black bears, otters, and birds of prey.
7. Hollywood Star Cars Museum
If you're a fan of pop culture or classic cars, the Hollywood Star Cars Museum is a fun stop. This museum showcases vehicles that have appeared in movies and TV shows, from the Batmobile to the General Lee from The Dukes of Hazzard. It's a great attraction for car enthusiasts and movie buffs alike.
8. The Village Shops
Located on the edge of downtown Gatlinburg, The Village Shops is a charming European-inspired shopping center. With cobblestone pathways and ivy-covered buildings, the village is home to dozens of unique shops and boutiques selling everything from handmade jewelry to specialty chocolates. It’s a lovely place to wander, shop, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon.
9. The Sugarlands Distilling Company
For visitors who are of legal drinking age and interested in experiencing a piece of Gatlinburg’s history, the Sugarlands Distilling Company offers tours and tastings of locally produced moonshine and whiskey. Learn about the distilling process, sample a variety of spirits, and discover the role moonshine played in the history of the Smoky Mountains.
10. Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster
For a thrilling ride that combines speed with scenic views, the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is a must-try. This gravity-powered coaster allows riders to control their speed as they twist and turn down the mountain. It’s a fun experience for visitors of all ages and perfect for those seeking a bit of adrenaline.
Whether you're in Gatlinburg for a relaxing getaway or seeking adventure in the Smoky Mountains, there's no shortage of exciting attractions to keep you entertained. From outdoor explorations in the national park to unique family-friendly attractions like the SkyLift, Ripley's Aquarium, and Anakeesta, Gatlinburg is a destination that offers a wide variety of experiences. No matter your interests, Gatlinburg promises an unforgettable vacation experience for everyone!