fun things to do in gatlinburg tennessee

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful mountains, rich history, and wide range of activities. Here are some fun things to do in Gatlinburg:

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Explore over 500,000 acres of stunning natural beauty, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
2. Ober Gatlinburg: This ski resort and amusement park offers year-round activities like ice skating, an alpine slide, and a chairlift ride with breathtaking views.
3. The Strip: Gatlinburg’s main road is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions like mini-golf, arcades, and a wax museum.
4. Anakeesta: An outdoor attraction with a treetop canopy walk, ziplining, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
5. Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of navigating the Pigeon River’s rapids with a guided rafting trip.
6. Gatlinburg Space Needle: Catch panoramic views of the city from this 400-foot-tall observation tower.
7. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Home to a vast array of marine life, including sharks, stingrays, and penguins.
8. Cades Cove: A historic valley with preserved log cabins, churches, and scenic routes perfect for biking or driving.
9. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park: Ride a chairlift up Crockett Mountain for spectacular views, and then cross the SkyBridge, a 700-foot-long suspension bridge.
10. Gatlinburg’s Winterfest: Celebrate the holiday season with millions of twinkling lights, festive events, and a winter-themed wonderland (mid-November to mid-February).
11. Dollywood: While not directly in Gatlinburg, Dolly Parton’s theme park is just a short drive away, offering roller coasters, live music, and craft demonstrations.
12. Gatlinburg Riverwalk: Stroll along the Little Pigeon River and enjoy shops, restaurants, and scenic views.
13. Mini-golf and Arcades: Gatlinburg has a plethora of mini-golf courses and arcades, perfect for family-friendly fun.
14. Whiskey and Wine Tastings: Visit local distilleries and vineyards, like Ole Smoky Moonshine and Sugarland Cellars, for a taste of Tennessee’s finest.
15. Scenic Drives: Take a leisurely drive through the surrounding mountains, enjoying the scenic views and stopping at overlooks and picnic areas.
16. Gatlinburg’s Mysterious Mansion: A spooky attraction featuring strange artifacts, special effects, and a fascinating history.
17. Smoky Mountain Trout House: Feed and catch trout in the natural waters of this fishing attraction.
18. Gatlinburg’s Comedy Club: Enjoy stand-up comedy shows and live entertainment.
19. Horseback Riding: Explore the beautiful countryside on horseback with guided trails and rentals.
20. Art Galleries and Studios: Discover local artists and artisans showcasing their work in various mediums.

Remember to check individual attraction websites for operating hours, prices, and any special events or closures. Have a great time exploring Gatlinburg!