Things To Do In Gatlinburg

If you like variety, you'll love Gatlinburg TN! This Smoky Mountain destination literally has it all: From kid-friendly fun things to do to rustic mountainside attractions you'll only find right here in the Smokies! Looking for nearby attractions and things to do in Gatlinburg? Gatlinburg TN is located just south of Pigeon Forge and borders the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Where is Gatlinburg?

Getting there is simple: It's just a seven mile jaunt down the Parkway from the center of Pigeon Forge, which means you don't have to travel very far at all to enjoy some big Gatlinburg attractions and adventures! Because it's nestled just outside the national park, the Great Smoky Mountains give Gatlinburg a unique, alpine feel – all with a unique Tennessee twist.

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Gatlinburg Attractions

From downhill skiing to world-class attractions, you'll stay busy in Gatlinburg during all four seasons: Winter turns the area into a veritable wonderland with Smoky Mountain skiing and sledding; spring's mild temperatures make hiking the area's 600+ miles of trails pleasant; summer's sunny skies are perfect companions for rafting the mountain rapids; and fall brings a symphony of colors to behold and the mountains changes hues.

Gatlinburg Attractions

Gatlinburg Hotels

Opting to stay in the Gatlinburg area? Check out our list of top Gatlinburg hotels and condos. A hotel is a great lodging option if you're looking for amenities like continental breakfast, daily housekeeping services, and close proximity to the many things to do in Gatlinburg on the parkway.

Gatlinburg Hotels

Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals

If you're looking for a bit of seclusion and gorgeous mountain views, consider browsing our selection of Gatlinburg cabin rentals. A scenic log cabin in this part of the Smoky Mountains makes for a wonderful getaway especially if you're aiming to spend more time in the national park, which is extremely close by, than other attractions.

Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals

Gatlinburg Restaurants

Get a bite to eat downtown. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all delicious when you're dining at one of these fabulous Gatlinburg restaurants. There are spaces to accomodate parties of all sizes for any occasion. Walk down the strip and choose from the many tasty establishments.

Gatlinburg Restaurants

Gatlinburg Hikes

Gatlinburg Hikes

There are tons of great places to go hiking in Gatlinburg. You can start at the visitor center for a bunch of easier options, or dive right into the tough stuff after taking a scenic drive down Newfound Gap Road. Blaze a trail on the very mountains you can see from your cabin. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just south of this little mountain town.

Gatlinburg Hikes

National Park Visitor Centers

Sugarlands Visitor Center

Nestled just inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Sugarlands Visitor Center is the perfect place to begin your mountain adventure. Learn about park activities, get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna, and even talk with a ranger at this NPS-operated center.

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Rocky Top Sports World

Rocky Top Sports World Facebook

Gatlinburg Sports

Located near Gatlinburg-Pittman High School and just north of the national park, Rocky Top Sports World is host to many football, lacrosse, basketball, volleyball and soccer tournaments. Many traveling teams come to the area to compete. With Mount LeConte serving as the backdrop to the outdoor facilities, the location is unique in its mountain setting.

Rocky Top Sports World

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park offers incredible views of the mountains and downtown Gatlinburg from the iconic Gatlinburg SkyBridge. The SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. While visiting the park, enjoy drinks and snacks from the SkyCenter and take a seat in one of the many cozy areas on the SkyDeck.

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Anakeesta

From the famous chondola to the treetop skybridge to the mountain coaster, Anakeesta is one of Gatlinburg's most memorable and all-encompassing attractions. Grab friends & family and zip side by side on their award winning dueling zipline, and then relax & grab a bite to eat in the Magical Firefly Village.

Anakeesta

7D Dark Ride Adventure

This seven dimensional state-of-the-art shooting game is not for the faint of heart. You will be blown away by the combination of wind, sound, and movement that propels 7D Dark Ride Adventure into a beyond real experience. Join the fun with a room full of fellow adventurers and ready your trigger finger, because you're sure to have a blast.

7D Dark Ride Adventure

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

At Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, explore a coral reef, tropical rainforest and other exciting destinations without leaving the mountains! This world-class attraction was recently voted America's #1 Aquarium by TripAdvisor and it's easy to see why: This expansive under-water attraction is home to hundreds of interactive and innovative exhibits for folks of all ages to enjoy!

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Things To Do In Gatlinburg + Attractions: Click to visit page.

Greystone Lodge On The River

Recently renovated, this Gatlinburg hotel with a water park is a casually luxurious destination that's great for families wanting to stay near all the fun of the parkway. Greystone Lodge on the River is within walking distance of Ripley's Aquarium. Kids will enjoy everything from the waterslide and outdoor pool area to the cozy bunkbeds in the guest rooms!

Greystone Lodge

The Appy Lodge

If you're looking to stay right on the Gatlinburg parkway, consider the newly renovated Appy Lodge. Each of the rooms at the Appy is named after an actual shelter on the Appalachian Trail and includes hardwood flooring, incredible walk-in showers, and high end finishes and custom décor throughout. And you can't miss the history that lines the hallways; see for yourself!

The Appy Lodge

J.O.E. & Pop's Sub Shoppe

If you're a fan of Philly cheese steaks, reuben sandwiches and Italian subs, you'll love J.O.E. & Pop's Sub Shoppe in Gatlinburg. All the meats and cheeses are freshly sliced and the subs are made exactly the way you like them. Make your meal a platter with 2 sides for only $2 more.

J.O.E. & Pop's Sub Shoppe

Alamo Steakhouse & Saloon

With locations in both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Alamo Steakhouse & Saloon has been voted Best Steak in the area year after year. But their delicious dining options aren't limited to their award-winning steak; their unique dishes like pistachio encrusted salmon and grilled oysters are just as mouth watering

Alamo Steakhouse

Big Daddy's Pizzeria

Big Daddy's Pizzeria is so dedicated to serving perfectly wood fired pizzas made with the freshest ingredients that they don't even have a freezer on the premises. After their very own pizzeoli crafts the handmade dough, their specialty pizzas are prepared to every guest's delight.

Big Daddy's Pizzeria

Make the most of your next Pigeon Forge vacation by spending some quality time with plenty of things to do in Gatlinburg, TN with all of the amazing sites and attractions! Learn more about Smoky Mountain attractions and things to do in East Tennessee by clicking through PigeonForge.com.

Upcoming Events in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Mar 7, 2023 - Mar 31, 2023

Get Lucky At The SkyBridge

Celebrate St. Patricks Day all March long this year by trekking 500 feet above Gatlinburg to enjoy the record-breaking SkyBridge's green lig...

Where is Gatlinburg?