things to do in gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is a popular tourist destination in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, offering a wide range of activities and attractions for all ages. Here are some things to do in Gatlinburg:
Outdoor Activities
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Explore the beautiful mountains, forests, and wildlife of the national park.
- Hiking: Gatlinburg has numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, including the Appalachian Trail.
- Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the Pigeon River.
- Ziplining: Fly through the trees on one of Gatlinburg’s many ziplining courses.
- Fishing: Try your luck at catching trout or other fish in the many streams and lakes in the area.
Attractions
- Ober Gatlinburg: An amusement park with skiing, ice skating, and an alpine slide.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
- Anakeesta: An outdoor attraction with a treetop canopy walk, ziplining, and stunning views.
- The Island at Pigeon Forge: A entertainment complex with a giant Ferris wheel, haunted house, and other attractions.
- Gatlinburg Space Needle: A 400-foot-tall observation tower with panoramic views of the city.
Family-Friendly Activities
- Dollywood: A theme park owned by Dolly Parton, featuring roller coasters, live music, and craft demonstrations.
- MagiQuest: An interactive game where players use magic wands to complete quests.
- The Comedy Barn: A variety show featuring comedy, magic, and music.
- Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre: A small theater with a variety of shows, including comedy and musical performances.
- Gatlinburg Strip: A lively area with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Food and Drink
- The Alamo Steakhouse & Saloon: A steakhouse with a rustic, Western-themed atmosphere.
- Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que: A barbecue joint with a wide variety of meats and sides.
- The Donut Friar: A popular donut shop with a wide variety of flavors.
- The Cherokee Grill: A restaurant serving American cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
- Gatlinburg Brewing Company: A brewery with a taproom and live music.
Other Activities
- Ghost Tours: Gatlinburg is known for its haunted history, and there are many ghost tours available.
- Horseback Riding: Explore the beautiful countryside on horseback with a guided tour.
- Mini Golf: Gatlinburg has many mini golf courses, including the famous Pirate’s Cove.
- Arcades: There are many arcades in Gatlinburg, featuring classic video games and pinball machines.
- Shopping: Gatlinburg has a wide range of shops, from souvenir stores to boutiques and specialty stores.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Gatlinburg. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, attractions, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Gatlinburg has something for everyone.