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Gatlinburg offers an incredible mix of natural beauty and family-friendly attractions that draw millions of visitors each year. From scenic mountain drives to thrilling adventure parks, discover the best things to do in Gatlinburg that showcase both the town's classic charm and modern Appalachian culture.
Your Gatlinburg Activities Guide — Jump to a Section
- Top 8 In-Town Picks
- Outdoor Adventures
- Scenic Drives & Overlooks
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- Fun with Kids
- Free & Budget-Friendly
- Rainy Day Activities
- Events & Festivals
- Plan Your Stay
- Frequently Asked Questions
Top 8 In-Town Picks
Experience Gatlinburg's most popular attractions without leaving the city limits, from treetop adventures to mountain coasters.
Anakeesta
What makes it special
Soar through the treetops on ziplines, walk among towering trees on canopy bridges, and enjoy panoramic mountain views from this elevated adventure park.
Best times to visit
Early morning or late afternoon features cooler temperatures and better lighting for photos. Sunset visits offer magical golden hour views.
Time to budget
3-4 hours to fully experience all attractions and dining options
Planning tips
Purchase timed-entry tickets for special experiences in advance. Weather-dependent closures are possible. Wheelchair-accessible gondola cabins and viewing areas are available.
Nearby cabins
Absolute Heaven & Sunrise Over the Smokies
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
What makes it special
Walk through underwater tunnels surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish. Interactive exhibits and feeding demonstrations make this perfect for all ages.
Best times to visit
Weekday mornings or evenings after 6 PM are best for smaller crowds. Check diving show schedules online before visiting.
Time to budget
2-3 hours for full exploration, including all exhibits and shows
Planning tips
Purchase tickets ahead of time during peak seasons. The aquarium is fully wheelchair accessible, with stroller parking available.
Nearby cabins
Bigger Bear Views Lodge & Skinny Dipping
Gatlinburg SkyPark
What makes it special
Ride the scenic chairlift to reach spectacular mountain views, then cross the 680-foot record-breaking SkyBridge for unforgettable photo opportunities.
Best times to visit
Clear weather days are best for visibility. Sunset rides offer stunning color displays over the Smokies.
Time to budget
2-3 hours, including chairlift rides and time at the summit
Planning tips
Operations are weather dependent. There is limited wheelchair accessibility at the summit. Purchase tickets online for quicker entry.
Nearby cabins
Holly Ridge Hideaway & Simone’s CottageOber Mountain
What makes it special
This mountaintop park offers year-round fun with skiing, snow tubing, alpine slides, a mountain coaster, and scenic chairlift rides offering four-season entertainment.
Best times to visit
Winter is best for skiing and snow sports, and summer offers the alpine slides and more outdoor activities. Check seasonal operating schedules.
Get a feel for winter fun at Ober Mountain.
Time to budget
Half to full day, depending on activities chosen
Planning tips
Seasonal closures occur for weather and maintenance. Age and height restrictions vary by activity. Rental equipment is available on-site.
Nearby cabins
Our cabins near Ober Mountain allow you to skip long drives and parking hassles.
Gatlinburg Space Needle
What makes it special
Ascend 407 feet for 360-degree views of the Smokies from this iconic landmark, featuring an observation deck and gift shop.
Best times to visit
Opt for clear weather days for maximum visibility. Evening visits offer city lights and mountain silhouettes.
Time to budget
45-60 minutes, including elevator rides and viewing time
Planning tips
Elevator access makes it wheelchair accessible. Combination tickets are available with other attractions. Weather may affect operations.
Nearby cabins
Holly Tree Cabin 936 & Mountain Therapy 1123
Hollywood Star Cars Museum
What makes it special
See authentic vehicles from famous movies and TV shows, including Batmobiles, the General Lee, and a Flintstone-Mobile.
Best times to visit
Any time works since it's indoors, which makes it a great rainy day activity or midday break from outdoor adventures.
Time to budget
1-1.5 hours to see all exhibits and read descriptions
Planning tips
This indoor attraction is open year-round. Photography is allowed. And it’s wheelchair accessible, with wide aisles between displays.
Nearby cabins
Bonnie and Clyde & Patriots Den
Gatlin's Mini Golf & Escape Rooms
What makes it special
Challenge your family to themed mini-golf courses in Gatlinburg and problem-solving escape rooms featuring wild stories to navigate.
Best times to visit
Evening hours are best for outdoor courses with cooler temperatures. Reserve escape rooms in advance for peak times.
Time to budget
1 hour for mini golf; 1 hour per escape room experience
Planning tips
Age recommendations vary by escape room difficulty. Group discounts are available.
Nearby cabins
Gatlinburg Getaway & Gateway to Gatlinburg
Moonshine Mountain Coaster (Formerly Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster)
What makes it special
Experience a thrilling downhill ride through the forest on a gravity-powered coaster with speed controls for riders of all comfort levels.
Best times to visit
Weekday mornings are ideal for shorter wait times, while night rides offer a magical experience as the track lights up! Avoid heavy rain or icy conditions when coasters may close.
Time to budget
30-45 minutes, including wait time and ride duration
Planning tips
Height and age restrictions apply. Call ahead to confirm hours during inclement weather. Single or double rider options are available.
Nearby cabins
On the River & Red Bud Cottage
Insider Tips for Downtown Fun
- Buy timed tickets when offered to avoid long wait times.
- Arrive at opening for smaller crowds.
- Park once and walk the Parkway to save time and parking fees.
Outdoor Adventures
The Great Smoky Mountains provide endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from gentle nature walks to challenging mountain adventures.
Hiking
Explore over 800 miles of trails ranging from easy hikes to backcountry treks through diverse ecosystems and stunning mountain scenery.
Best times to go
- Early morning hours
- Fall foliage season
Easy
Perfect for families with children, these well-maintained trails offer beautiful scenery without strenuous climbing or technical terrain challenges.
Moderate
Intermediate trails feature some elevation gain and longer distances while remaining accessible to most hikers with basic fitness levels.
Strenuous
Challenging backcountry routes with significant elevation changes, stream crossings, and rugged terrain require good physical condition and mental preparation.
|
Trail Name |
Roundtrip Length |
Elevation Gain |
Highlights |
Difficulty |
|
Laurel Falls |
2.3 miles |
314 feet |
80-foot waterfall, towering trees, mountain laurel |
Easy |
|
Trillium Gap Trail to Grotto Falls |
2.6 miles |
585 feet |
Waterfall you can walk behind, wildflowers, stream crossings |
Moderate |
|
Baskins Creek Trail |
3 miles |
953 feet |
2-tiered waterfall, secluded, striped maples, rocky terrain |
Moderately strenuous |
|
Cove Mountain Trail |
7.7 miles |
1,776 feet |
Waterfalls, old-growth forest, historic fire tower, seasonal mountain views |
Moderate to Strenuous |
|
Trillium Gap Trail to Mt. LeConte |
13.9 miles |
3,401 feet |
Grotto Falls, forest, summit views, llama trains to LeConte Lodge |
Strenuous |
Waterfalls
Discover cascading mountain streams and impressive waterfalls accessible via scenic hiking trails through old-growth forests and rock formations.
Best times to go
- Spring snowmelt season
- After recent rainfall
Top spots
- Laurel Falls (paved trail)
- Rainbow Falls (moderate hike)
Ziplining
Soar through the forest canopy on guided zipline tours offering unique perspectives of the Smoky Mountains and thrilling outdoor experiences.
Best times to go
- Mild weather conditions
- Morning or afternoon slots
Top spots
- CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains
- Anakeesta’s duel ziplines
Whitewater Rafting
Navigate exciting rapids on the Pigeon River with professional guides ensuring safe and memorable experiences for adventurers of various skill levels.
Best times to go
- Spring through early fall
- Higher water release days
Top spots
- Upper Pigeon River
- Lower Pigeon River sections
Tubing
Float down gentle river sections in inflatable tubes for relaxing, family-friendly water recreation with minimal skill requirements and maximum fun.
Best times to go
- Warm summer months
- Weekday mornings
Top spots
- Little Pigeon River
- Creekside cabins
Horseback Riding
Explore mountain trails on guided horseback rides through scenic valleys and wooded paths suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Best times to go
- Cooler morning hours
- Dry weather conditions
Top spots
- Cades Cove area
- Sugarlands Stables
Biking
Pedal through the national park and surrounding areas on designated bike paths, paved trails, and mountain roads offering varied difficulty levels.
Best times to go
- Early morning hours
- Fall and spring seasons
Top spots
- Gatlinburg Trail
- Cades Cove Loop Road
Fishing
Cast your line in pristine mountain streams for native trout species while enjoying peaceful natural surroundings and excellent fishing opportunities.
Best times to go
- Early morning or evening
- Spring and fall seasons
Top spots
- Little Pigeon River
- Backcountry streams in the national park
Snow Tubing
Slide down groomed snow slopes on inflatable tubes during winter months for family-friendly snow recreation.
Best times to go
- Winter months only
- Fresh snow conditions
Top spots
- Ober Mountain
- Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark in neighboring Pigeon Forge
Insider Tips for Outdoor Activities
- Start early on weekends to beat crowds and heat in warmer months.
- Carry layers and water for changing mountain weather in any season.
- Save trailhead locations in your maps app before losing cell service.
Scenic Drives & Overlooks
Experience the Smoky Mountains' natural beauty from scenic roadways and overlooks offering spectacular mountain vistas, wildlife viewing, and historic sites.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
A one-way loop road past historic log cabins, cascading streams, and old-growth forest that offers opportunities for short walks and wildlife spotting.
Distance & parking: 5.5-mile loop; parking at trailheads and historic sites along route
Newfound Gap Road
As the main thoroughfare crossing the Great Smoky Mountains, this route provides access to hiking trails, overlooks, and the Tennessee-North Carolina state line.
Distance & parking: 31 miles total; multiple pullouts and parking areas at overlooks
See starting point on Google Maps
Cades Cove Loop
A historic 11-mile loop road through a preserved valley features 19th-century buildings, abundant wildlife, and scenic mountain views.
Distance & parking: 11-mile, one-way loop; parking at visitor center and several pull-offs
Foothills Parkway
This scenic mountain highway offers elevated views of multiple mountain ranges and valley systems from various overlooks and pull-offs.
Distance & parking: Multiple sections totaling 33 miles; designated overlook parking areas
See starting point on Google Maps
Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook
This easily accessible viewpoint provides panoramic views of downtown Gatlinburg and surrounding mountain ridges, perfect for photography and quick stops.
Distance & parking: 2.5 miles from downtown; limited roadside parking available
Kuwohi (Formerly Clingmans Dome)
As the highest mountain in the national park and the highest point in Tennessee, the observation tower here boasts breathtaking 360-degree mountain views.
Distance & parking: 7 miles one-way; large parking area at Kuwohi summit
Insider Tips for a Successful Trip
- Check road status before leaving town for weather closures.
- Fill up with gas in Gatlinburg before heading into remote areas.
- Restrooms are limited on mountain routes; plan accordingly.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP)
America's most-visited national park surrounds Gatlinburg with over 500,000 acres of protected wilderness, historic sites, and recreational opportunities.
Parking Tag, Hours & Closures
The GSMNP requires parking tags for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes at trailheads and popular destinations. Most park roads remain open year-round, but weather can cause temporary closures on higher elevation routes like Kuwohi Road. Visitor centers operate with seasonal hours, and some backcountry areas may have restricted access during wildlife management periods.
Popular Trails
Laurel Falls
This paved 2.6-mile round-trip trail leads to an 80-foot waterfall; it’s wheelchair accessible and perfect for families with children seeking an easy nature experience.
Alum Cave
A challenging 4.4-mile round-trip hike winds through diverse ecosystems to geological formations, including caves, arches, and spectacular mountain views from clifftops.
Abrams Falls
Known for beautiful wildflowers in spring, this moderate 5.2-mile round-trip route takes you to a 25-foot waterfall pouring into a shimmering pool; the starting point is in Cades Cove.
Wildlife and Safety Tips
Black bears, elk, and other wildlife inhabit the park, requiring visitors to maintain safe distances and store food properly. Never feed wildlife or approach animals for photos.
Carry bear spray on backcountry hikes and make noise while walking. Weather can change rapidly at higher elevations, so dress in layers and carry extra clothing. Stream crossings can become dangerous during heavy rainfall periods.
Insider Tips for the Smoothest National Park Experience
- A parking tag is required when parked for over 15 minutes at any location.
- Save parking passes and screenshots offline for areas without cell service.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks to refuel when needed — never leave items in the park.
Gatlinburg Fun with Kids
Gatlinburg offers numerous family-friendly attractions and activities designed to entertain children while creating lasting vacation memories for the whole family.
Must-Do Attractions for Families
Ripley's Aquarium, Anakeesta's treetop adventures, Gatlinburg SkyPark, and Dollywood (in nearby Pigeon Forge) provide engaging experiences for various age groups. Interactive exhibits, gentle rides, and educational programs ensure children stay entertained while parents enjoy quality time together in mountain settings.
Easy Hikes & Waterfalls
Gatlinburg Trail and Oconaluftee River Trail offer paved, wheelchair-accessible paths perfect for strollers and young walkers. Laurel Falls provides an easy waterfall destination, while Cataract Falls offers a shorter option for toddlers and preschoolers.
Rain-Proof Ideas
Indoor attractions like the aquarium, Hollywood Star Cars Museum, and various arcade venues provide entertainment during inclement weather. Shopping centers along the Parkway offer climate-controlled environments with restaurants and souvenir shops.
Insider Tips for Kid-Friendly Days
- Book the first time slot of the day for popular attractions.
- Plan a midday break near trolley stops for tired little feet.
- See our ultimate guide to kid-friendly things to do in Gatlinburg!
Free & Budget-Friendly Options
Experience Gatlinburg's natural beauty and local culture without breaking the budget through numerous free attractions and low-cost activity options.
Views & Walks
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers free admission for scenic drives, and it’s only $5 to purchase a parking pass to get out, explore, and hike trails. The Gatlinburg Trail provides an easy paved walk along the Little Pigeon River, while various overlooks offer spectacular mountain views. You can also stroll the Parkway and pop into local wine tasting stops for free sips!
Take a stroll in downtown Gatlinburg.
Free Gatlinburg Trolley
The Gatlinburg Trolley system provides affordable transportation around town with free routes connecting major attractions and parking areas, reducing the need for expensive downtown parking.
Low-cost Family Picks
Mini-golf courses, arcade games, and local festivals often provide entertainment value at reasonable prices. Many attractions offer combo tickets and group discounts for families visiting multiple locations.
Insider Tips for Budget-Conscious Fun
- Aim for weekdays outside holidays for better deals and smaller crowds.
- Pack picnic lunches for scenic overlooks and trail destinations.
- Book budget-friendly accommodations to save cash for Appalachian fun.
Rainy Day Activities
Gatlinburg's indoor attractions and covered venues ensure vacation fun continues regardless of mountain weather conditions.
Indoor Attractions
Ice-skating at Ober Mountain, Ripley's Aquarium, and Hollywood Star Cars Museum provide climate-controlled entertainment. Shopping centers and outlet malls offer browsing opportunities with restaurants and specialty stores throughout covered areas.
Museums & Exhibits
Educational attractions showcase local history, natural science, and cultural heritage through interactive displays and guided programs. Art galleries and craft demonstrations highlight regional traditions and contemporary mountain culture.
Escape Rooms & Arcades
Problem-solving adventures and classic arcade games appeal to various age groups while providing engaging indoor entertainment. Multiple venues throughout Gatlinburg offer different themes and difficulty levels for diverse interests.
Insider Tips to Beat the Rain on Vacation
- Keep umbrellas and quick-dry layers handy for sudden weather changes.
- Recheck mountain webcams as weather conditions can clear quickly.
- Opt for a cabin with indoor entertainment, like a game room or swimming pool!
Gatlinburg Events & Festivals
Seasonal celebrations and special events in the Smokies add unique experiences to Gatlinburg visits throughout the year, with local traditions and mountain culture.
Spring Events
Wildflower blooms, Easter celebrations, and outdoor season kickoff events celebrate renewal and nature's awakening in the mountains.
Summer Events
Music festivals, craft fairs, and outdoor concert series take advantage of warm weather and extended daylight hours for outdoor entertainment.
Fall Events
Autumn leaf displays, harvest celebrations, and Oktoberfest-style festivals highlight the region's most popular visitor season with special programming.
Winter Events
Holiday light displays, winter sports events, and cozy indoor celebrations create magical mountain experiences during colder months.
Insider Tips for Enjoying Appalachian Events
- Book lodging 6-8 weeks ahead for peak festival weekends.
- Build one weather-flexible day into your event-focused itinerary.
- Arrive early to fireworks displays, concerts, or performances to secure a good viewing spot.
Plan Your Stay
Choose from diverse accommodation options strategically located near your preferred attractions and activities throughout the Gatlinburg area. Cabins for YOU has been providing exceptional mountain cabin experiences with local expertise and personalized service for over 24 years.
Gatlinburg Cabins — Authentic mountain retreat experiences with modern amenities and convenient access to downtown attractions and national park entrances
Near: Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Cabins with Pools — Private swimming pools for relaxation and entertainment after active days exploring mountains and local attractions with family groups
Near: Downtown attractions and crafts community
Budget Cabins — Affordable accommodation options offering essential amenities and comfortable lodging without sacrificing location or cleanliness for cost-conscious travelers
Near: Gatlinburg Strip and trolley system access
Pet-Friendly Cabins — Welcoming up to 2 furry family members (75 pounds each); some with fenced yards and nearby walking trails for four-legged vacation companions
Near: Dog-friendly hiking trails and outdoor dining venues
Step inside to experience our authentic Smoky Mountain cabin vibe.
Insider Tips to Find the Best Cabin for Your Stay
- Booking direct often adds perks like late checkout and vacation rewards.
- Filter search results by city, bedroom count, and amenities.
- Speak with a vacation specialist at 1.800.684.7865 for personalized assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions: Things to Do in Gatlinburg
Common questions about visiting Gatlinburg receive practical answers to help plan your mountain vacation experience.
What are the best free things to do?
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers free admission for scenic drives and quick stops at visitor centers. The Gatlinburg Trail provides easy paved walking along the river, while Cataract Falls offers a short hike to a beautiful waterfall. Downtown window shopping and people watching along the Parkway cost nothing but provide entertainment and local culture exposure.
Do I need a parking tag for the park?
Yes, parking tags are required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes at any Great Smoky Mountains National Park location, including trailheads, visitor centers, and popular destinations. Purchase tags online in advance or at visitor centers and save screenshots offline since cell service is limited.
Which scenic drive is best for kids?
Cades Cove Loop Road offers the best family-friendly scenic drive with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, historic buildings to explore, and multiple bathroom stops. The 11-mile loop takes 2-3 hours with stops and provides excellent chances to see bears, deer, and other animals.
What can we do if it rains?
Gatlinburg's indoor attractions include Ripley's Aquarium, Hollywood Star Cars Museum, and various arcade venues. Some shopping centers provide covered walkways between stores and restaurants. Several attractions offer rainy-day discounts, and mountain weather often clears quickly, allowing for afternoon outdoor activities.
Is there a scenic train in Gatlinburg?
Gatlinburg doesn't have a scenic train, but nearby options include the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad in Bryson City, North Carolina, and the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum in Chattanooga. Both offer seasonal excursions through mountain scenery with various themed rides and dining options.
Make the Most of Your Time in Gatlinburg
From dining on mountaintops, ziplining through enchanting canopies, meeting Nemo at the aquarium, and riding mountain coasters to skiing in winter, hiking among wildflowers in spring, whitewater rafting in summer, and enjoying festivals in fall, there’s so much to enjoy when visiting Gatlinburg. With options for every age and group, this charming mountain town keeps families and friends entertained and offers memorable mountain experiences you’ll talk about for years to come.
When you’re not exploring the Gatlinburg area, kick back in a Smoky Mountain cabin with games, theaters, swimming pools, and great outdoor spaces to take in wooded, creek, or mountain views. Cookouts after hiking trails, s’mores around a firepit, cuddles by a crackling fireplace, and soothing hot tub soaks await. Plan your unforgettable mountain stay today and check out the many incredible things to do in Gatlinburg!