things to do in gatlinburg tn

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular vacation destination known for its natural beauty, outdoor activities, and family-friendly attractions. Here are some things to do in Gatlinburg:

Outdoor Activities:

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Explore the beautiful mountains, forests, and wildlife of the national park.
2. Hiking: Gatlinburg has numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, including the Alum Cave Trail and the Laurel Falls Trail.
3. Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River.
4. Ziplining: Fly through the trees on one of Gatlinburg’s many ziplining courses.
5. Fishing: Try your luck at catching trout or other fish in the many streams and lakes in the area.

Attractions:

1. Ober Gatlinburg: An amusement park with skiing, ice skating, and an alpine slide.
2. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
3. Anakeesta: An outdoor attraction with a treetop canopy walk, ziplining, and stunning views.
4. The Island at Pigeon Forge: A entertainment complex with a giant Ferris wheel, haunted house, and other attractions.
5. Gatlinburg Space Needle: A 400-foot-tall observation tower with panoramic views of the city.

Family-Friendly Activities:

1. Dollywood: A theme park owned by Dolly Parton, featuring roller coasters, live music, and craft demonstrations.
2. MagiQuest: An interactive game where players use magic wands to complete quests.
3. The Comedy Barn: A variety show featuring comedy, music, and magic.
4. Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre: A small theater with a variety of shows, including musicals and comedy acts.
5. Gatlinburg Strip: A lively area with shops, restaurants, and attractions.

Shopping and Dining:

1. The Village Shops: A shopping center with a variety of stores and restaurants.
2. Gatlinburg Strip: A lively area with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
3. Anakeesta: Offers shopping and dining options with a focus on local artisans and cuisine.
4. The Donut Friar: A popular donut shop with a wide variety of flavors.
5. Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que: A barbecue restaurant with a wide variety of meats and sides.

Seasonal Events:

1. Winterfest: A winter festival with lights, decorations, and events.
2. Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair: A festival featuring local artisans and crafts.
3. Smoky Mountain Springfest: A festival with live music, food, and activities.
4. Gatlinburg Summer Concert Series: A series of free concerts featuring local and national acts.
5. Gatlinburg Christmas Parade: A festive parade with floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, attractions, or family-friendly fun, Gatlinburg has something for everyone.