Unveiling the Gems: Must-See Gatlinburg Attractions
Must-See Attractions
Gatlinburg, TN, brims with cool spots and unique experiences for every visitor. Whether you’re hunting for the main attractions or off-beat finds, this guide has you covered right here with the best Gatlinburg has to offer.
Top Gatlinburg Attractions
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SkyBridge
Get ready to walk like you’re in a movie — the SkyBridge is North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge. It’s been the buzz since 2019. With views that seem to stretch forever, it’s an adventure you can’t skip. For more details, check out The Appy Lodge. -
Anakeesta
Anakeesta is your one-stop shop for fun—canopy walks, ziplines, a chill beer garden, shopping, and even a rail runner! It’s Smoky Mountains done right. See what’s up at The Appy Lodge. -
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No need for opening your wallet at the door here. It’s one of the few national parks with free admission, drawing in over 10 million folks a year. From hiking trails to historical spots, this place offers something for everyone. Find out more at US News.
| Attraction | Notable Feature | Source |
|---|---|---|
| SkyBridge | Longest suspension bridge in North America | The Appy Lodge |
| Anakeesta | Zipline adventures and a chill beer garden | The Appy Lodge |
| National Park | No entry fee and tons to do | US News |
Hidden Gems to Explore
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Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
This is an 8-mile creative wonderland with over 100 artists and crafters. It’s cool for more than just artsy stuff; there are shops and bites to eat too. See artisans in action and maybe try your hand at a craft. Discover more at US News. -
Elkmont Historic District
From a logging town to a vacation spot, Elkmont has stories to tell. Dive into the past at places like The Appalachian Club and the Wonderland Hotel. Fill your brain with the area’s rich history at Cabins USA Gatlinburg. -
Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Drive through lush forests, peek at some historic buildings, and enjoy some peace away from the crowds. It’s an ideal retreat for those seeking a calm experience.
For more insider tips and trip planning, check out some Gatlinburg vacation packages and Gatlinburg cabin rentals to make the most of your getaway.
Family-Friendly Activities
Gatlinburg’s got you covered with loads of stuff that’ll keep the fam entertained. From adrenaline-jumping action to chill spots for the little ones, your gang will leave with buckets of giggles and Instagrammable moments.
Adventure Parks and Shows
Looking for thrills? Gatlinburg’s adventure parks and shows are the go-to for unforgettable family days. Check these out:
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Dollywood: It’s more than just rides—try music jam sessions and local festivals that vibe with the Smokies’ culture. The theme park has something that will get everyone grinning.
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Ober Gatlinburg: Whether it’s skiing in the winter or whizzing down the alpine slide in summer, this place packs excitement all year. Don’t miss the chance to meet some critters up close.
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Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: You’ll be both “oohing” and “aahing” while checking out jellyfish dances and mind-blowing sea creatures. Walking on a see-through boat or feeding turtles is a must-try!
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Anakeesta: Zip through the skies or stroll among the treetops, then kick back and enjoy some breathtaking views. It’s all about good vibes here, no matter your age.
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WonderWorks: Learning’s a blast here. From hurricane simulations to space escapades, it’s like stepping into a classroom on steroids. Interactive fun has never been this awesome.
| Adventure Park | What’s Cool Here |
|---|---|
| Dollywood | Rides, Music, Culture Burst |
| Ober Gatlinburg | Winter Sports, Animal Meetups |
| Ripley’s Aquarium | Impressive Sea Life, Turtle Hangouts |
| Anakeesta | Sky Soars, Views for Days |
| WonderWorks | Hands-On Learning, Mind-Blowing Activities |
Kid-Centric Experiences
Young hearts and minds are in for a treat with these top picks:
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Fannie Farkle’s Amusement Center: Jam-packed with games, it’s a winner for kiddos wanting to rack up tickets and scoop some swag. Plus, their snacks are top-notch.
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Wild Bear Falls Water Park: Who says you have to wait for summer? Slides, a lazy river, and splash zones make every day a summer vacay for kids.
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Foxfire Adventure Park: Give them a taste of flying with ziplining or conquering a climbing wall. It’s all loads of outdoor fun that’ll give them stories to tell.
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Goats on the Roof: Goats chilling on a roof—really! Feed them, jump on a coaster, and munch on the creamiest ice cream. It’s fun times topped with quirkiness.
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Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium: Weird and wonderful, the odditorium lines up bizarre stuff from across the globe. It’s a fun spot where learning is snuck in with laughter.
| Kid-Centric Attraction | Fun Awaits |
|---|---|
| Fannie Farkle’s Amusement Center | Win Big, Snack Attack |
| Wild Bear Falls Water Park | Wet N’ Wild, Lazy Relaxing |
| Foxfire Adventure Park | Action-Packed, Nature Thrills |
| Goats on the Roof | Cuddly Goats, Sweet Treats |
| Ripley’s Believe It or Not! | Weird Wonders, Learn and Laugh |
For more scoop on where to head next, snag our guide on things to do in Gatlinburg, TN and Gatlinburg weekend getaways. Whether it’s high-fiving at a theme park or laughing with some quirkiness, Gatlinburg rolls out the fun carpet for every family member.
Outdoor Adventures
Gatlinburg is a treasure trove for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. Whether you’re on the hunt for awe-inspiring waterfalls or a heart-pounding ziplining adventure, this picturesque mountain town has got you covered.
Waterfall Exploration
Get ready to chase some waterfalls in Gatlinburg! There are a bunch of stunning cascades, each with its own charm and allure.
| Waterfall | Accessibility | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Grotto Falls | Moderate 2.6-mile hike | Walk behind the waterfall |
| Laurel Falls | Easy 2.3-mile hike | Kid-friendly paved trail |
| Rainbow Falls | Challenging 5.4-mile hike | Gorgeous 80-foot waterfall |
| A Place of a Thousand Drips | Easy access | Whole ‘lotta drips if it rains |
Thinking about a trip? You’ll want to peep gatlinburg mountain view cabins for sweet spots not too far from these watery wonders.
Hiking and Ziplining
Strap on your hiking boots and dive into Gatlinburg’s trails. Whether you’re after a relaxed walk or a hair-raising climb, there’s something for every kind of hiker within the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains.
| Trail | Length | Difficulty | Scenic Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alum Cave Trail | 4.6 miles | Moderate | Breathtaking views at Alum Cave Bluffs |
| Chimney Tops Trail | 4 miles | Tough as nails | Rock scrambling with all-around views |
| Laurel Falls Trail | 2.3 miles | Piece of cake | Waterfall and critters |
| Elkmont Ghost Town Trail | 2 miles | Easy-peasy | Old-timey ruins and stories from the past |
Craving that adrenaline high? Check out Gatlinburg’s zipline escapades for a sky-high perspective of the Smokies.
| Zipline Tour | Number of Ziplines | Duration | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains | 9 | 2 hours | Twin ziplining with killer views |
| Legacy Mountain Ziplines | 7 | 2.5 hours | 3,400 feet of ziplining goodness |
| Anakeesta Dueling Ziplines | 3 | 1.5 hours | Race against a friend, and don’t forget the rappelling stations! |
Looking to juice up your escapade? Snag a gatlinburg weekend getaway that rolls out the red carpet for these action-packed activities.
From chasing the rush of waterfalls to soaring high above the Smokies, Gatlinburg is every nature lover’s dream come true. Gear up for an unforgettable time with some of the top Gatlinburg attractions.
Culinary Delights
Gatlinburg has a smorgasbord of tasty treats to tickle every taste bud. Dive into its culinary scene bustling with flavors, and discover those special tucked-away spots that make dining in Gatlinburg something special.
Best-Kept Restaurants
In this friendly corner of Tennessee, Gatlinburg hides some mouthwatering gems. Think cozy nooks and fancy spots, each offering a plate of joy. Just about anyone can find their food groove here.
| Restaurant Name | Type of Cuisine | Must-Try Dishes |
|---|---|---|
| The Greenbrier | American | Savory steaks and seafood wonders |
| Buckhorn Inn | Southern | Calling all early birds for a soul-satisfying southern breakfast |
| Crystelle Creek | Multi-Cuisine | Tunes and tasty bites make a memorable mix |
| Wild Plum Tea Room | European | Homemade pastries that feel like a warm hug |
This scrumptious list is cooked up by Wanderlog
For more plate-spinning excitement, stop over at our guide on top restaurants in Gatlinburg.
Local Craftsmanship
Besides noshing, Gatlinburg invites you to stroll through its colorful artsy side. With a lively mix of talented folks crafting up a storm, visitors can soak up the music, browse quirky shops, and enjoy that cozy mountain vibe (The Appy Lodge).
Check out Anakeesta, blending thrill and chill. With walking high above the forest floor, zippy ziplines, shopping escapades, and a spot to sip some brew, it’s all part of the Gatlinburg charm (The Appy Lodge).
Recommended Local Craft Spots
| Craft Location | Specialty | What Makes It Tick |
|---|---|---|
| Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community | Handcrafted Goods | A massive crew of creative minds hard at work. |
| Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts | Workshops | Dive into seasonal classes and unleash your inner artist. |
| Cliff Dwellers Gallery | Fine Arts | A treasure trove of pieces from over sixty talented locals. |
Hungry for more Gatlinburg fun? Poke around our features on things to do in Gatlinburg, TN and Gatlinburg vacation packages.
Let Gatlinburg’s flavors and crafts spin a story that’s sure to leave a lasting mark on your visit.
Seasonal Recommendations
Fall Foliage Splendor
Swing by Gatlinburg in the fall—it’s pure magic. October and November serve up a mix of chilly mornings in the 50s, climbing to cozy highs of 60s (Westgate Resorts). This is when nature really struts its stuff with the leaves putting on a show you won’t want to miss. The place is dotted with spots that’ll give you killer views of this fiery spectacle.
Top Spots to Enjoy Fall Colors
- Newfound Gap Road: Take this drive for jaw-dropping views of the Smokies decked out in autumn’s finery.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: With its mix of trees and plants, this park’s trails are perfect for leaf-peeping.
- Anakeesta: This family-friendly outdoor park offers stunning views as you explore its charming paths.
Thinking about checking out more seasonal goodies? Pop over to our list of things to do in Gatlinburg TN.
Holiday Festivities
Gatlinburg turns into a postcard-perfect wonderland come holiday season. Ober Mountain’s the place for all things snowy—like skiing and snowboarding that’s sure to get your adrenaline going. Anakeesta’s annual Enchanted Christmas lights up the night with enough sparkle to make even the Grinch grin (Westgate Resorts).
Key Holiday Attractions
| Attraction | Activities |
|---|---|
| Ober Mountain | Skiing, Snowboarding, Ice Skating |
| Anakeesta | Enchanted Christmas, Holiday Fun |
For a snug, holiday hideaway, check out our cozy Gatlinburg cabin rentals. For the lazy planners among us, we’ve got Gatlinburg vacation packages that wrap up all the festivities in one tidy package.
Need help planning the perfect trip? Our guide on the Gatlinburg weekend getaway has got you covered.
Historical Insights
Evolution of Gatlinburg
Once just a logging town, Gatlinburg slowly morphed into a buzzing tourist hotspot back in the late 1800s. It all started when Elkmont became a resort community, luring folks with promises of hunting and fishing—long before the days of endless selfie sticks and Instagram feeds. The trusty railroad made it easy for city slickers to escape to this mountain haven, with spots like The Appalachian Club and the Wonderland Hotel solidifying the area’s status as a nature getaway
But, the real game-changer was the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Getting the park up and running between 1926 and 1940 took some serious legwork and a hefty $5 million donation from folks like John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Big thinkers like Anne Davis and David Chapman, plus writer Horace Kephart, snapped things into place, turning Gatlinburg into the worthy gateway to the park. And let’s not forget local legend Wiley Oakley, a guide who helped others see the beauty he saw every day.
Enter the ’90s, a time of both mishaps and milestones. A major upset was the burning down of the original Ripley’s Believe It or Not in ‘92. Didn’t keep Gatlinburg down though. They bounced back with attractions like the Hollywood Star Cars Museum and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, which threw open its doors in 2000. The fiery destruction of 2016 was a big scare, but it sparked a loving rebuild that’s kept the historical charm alive alongside all the neat new stuff.
Role of Tourism
Tourism is like the air Gatlinburg breathes. It turned the tiny logging town into a bustling lover’s lane for tourists. That first wave of visitors laid the groundwork for Gatlinburg to become the big deal it is today. But the crown jewel? The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s like honey for tourists, drawing them in by the millions every year. Gatlinburg and the park got a good thing going, the town playing host to nature lovers who funnel dollars into the local scene with sights and gatherings aplenty.
The park’s untouched allure and the thrill of outdoor escapades made it a headliner in Gatlinburg’s line-up. Their relationship is a win-win, encouraging nature-loving visitors to stick around and partake in urban delights, boosting the area’s tourist-driven economy. Gatlinburg has faced down some wild rides, like the 1992 blaze and the 2016 wildfire, with good humor and resolve. Thorough rebuilding efforts and strategic additions, like Ripley’s Aquarium, breathed new life into the tourism scene, keeping the hotel lights on and the vibe inviting.
Tourism isn’t just a pastime for Gatlinburg—it’s the bread and butter. It’s pushed the demand for Gatlinburg cabin rentals and Gatlinburg vacation rentals sky-high. Folks are even bringing their furry friends along, giving rise to pet-friendly cabins in Gatlinburg and customized Gatlinburg vacation packages. Balancing old-timey nostalgia with sleek new attractions, Gatlinburg ensures there’s always something for everyone.
Tapping into Gatlinburg’s tourist tale gives people a deeper sense of the place’s charm and ever-evolving character as a holiday haven. From its old-school relics to cutting-edge amusement, Gatlinburg makes sure every visitor walks away with stories, memories, and maybe even a few souvenirs.
