If you’re tired of taking your family pictures in front of a mall backdrop, or your last vacation photo features half of the kids looking the other way and the adults blinking, then your next trip to Gatlinburg is the perfect time to get that great family photo you’ve been wanting. Gatlinburg, set in the picturesque Great Smoky Mountains, offers some truly unique backdrops for beautiful photos. Here are 10 unique places to snap a few:
The Space Needle. Here, you will have a 360 degree view of the Great Smoky Mountains atop a 400 foot observation tower. Whether it’s fall, spring, summer or winter, you will see some amazing sights from this spot.
- Clingman’s Dome. This is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. On a clear day, those who make the trek up the half-mile paved trail can have a view of almost 100 miles.
- LeConte Lodge. Located on Mount LeConte (the third highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park), LeConte Lodge serves up lunch, as well as an incredible view of the area.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. This may not be the first place you think of when considering family photos, but the aquarium has some pretty amazing sights. Make a stop under the Shark Lagoon (you’ll have to hop off the moving walkway), for a fun and unexpected family pic.
- Whitewater Rafting. What could be more unique and exciting than a family photo as you splash down a raging river? Gatlinburg has a number of whitewater outfitters available, and they all have photographers on hand at the perfect moment. Mom will be screaming, dad will be laughing, and the kids will be waving with excitement.
- Hollywood Wax Museum. This may seem like an odd place to take a family photo, but this will leave you with some great family memories. You can sit next to Forrest Gump, beam yourselves up with the Star Trek crew, or taste test with Lucy.
- Gatlinburg Sky Lift. At 1800 feet at the top of Crockett Mountain, the Sky Lift provides the best view of the city of Gatlinburg. At night, the city lights give a whole different perspective of the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Cades Cove. Along this 11 mile loop, you will find some of the most beautiful views of the Great Smoky Mountains. There are many places to stop for a photo op in Cades Cove, including: historic houses, lush fields, and towering mountains.
- Panorama Point. This 3 bedroom, 3 ½ bathroom cabin sleeps 12 and has one of the most incredible views available. The pool room, master bedroom, deck and sun room all offer amazing mountain views. When you plan your next family getaway, check out Panorama Point or some of our other cabins with great views, and don’t forget your camera!
- Roaring Fork. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a beautiful drive, and Grotto Falls along the way is a beautiful waterfall in front of which to take some great vacation photos.