One of the most touristy things to do in Tucson is going for a relaxing bike ride in downtown Tucson. I'm the Founder and Editor-in-Chief at Wild Hearted. While there are plenty of questionable brews out there, by far some of the highest-quality samples can be found at Americas most visited distillery Ole Smoky and the rustic award-winning Sugarlands Distilling Company. This indoor water park has a mountain theme and features a lazy river, heated pools, and two giant water slides, as well as an interactive tree house. It would be an excellent idea to head to Gatlinburg and spend a few days in the mountain resort city, especially for a nature lover. With tour companies like Smoky Mountain Angler, expert guides take guests along the fresh rivers and teach them how to reel in wild mountain trout or whatever other critter floats along. Try the 13-mile Low Gap Trail - Appalachian Trail - Snake Den Trail loop. Theyre located in downtown Gatlinburg and are very close to the entrance to the most popular national park in the country! The Village Shops is a beautiful old world European themed shopping area with cobblestone streets, a fire fountain and little places to sit here and there.. The closest I could suggest as non-touristy is visiting the Cataloochee Valley or driving the Cherokee Orchard Rd and Roaring Fork Nature Trails. True to its name, this place offers hands-down one of the most fun things to do in Gatlinburg. Hi! Post zipping, feel free to enjoy the parks many outdoor amenities, including barbecue grills, picnic tables, nature trails, and more. For something more relaxing, opt for a Lower Pigeon River rafting tour. Inspired by Austrian tea houses, the Wild Plum provides some of the most delicious lunches that youll find in the smokies. For even more puzzling adventures, Ripleys Marvelous Mirror Maze is a treat. In Summer Paddle through the gorge, tackle the challenging rapids and swim in the river if you dare. The Cades Cove Loop winds for 11 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a picturesque drive with a backdrop of the mountain peaks. Get an ultimate fun pass which includes a tour in this famous haunted house any time of the year. Look over Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains from the 407-ft. observation tower of the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle. Theyre located two blocks off the main parkway, free on-site Parkway, and walking distance to a trolley stop. In addition to the six wonder zones, this attraction also boasts laser tag, an indoor ropes course and a 4D simulator! The highest point in Tennessee, Clingmans Dome bears witness to the ravages of one type of insect. The Old Creek Lodge is in walking distance to most of downtown Gatlinburg while also being situated on the river making it seem both remote and centrally located. including a lazy river and heated pools. Those yearning for a more intense athletic endeavor can opt for the strenuous, 10.6-mile journey to the Mt. Tenissa is a content writer, translator and editor. Inspired by the ghosts and ghouls of Gatlinburgs past, it creates an atmosphere thats delightfully spooky. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again. Get cozy in their wood and chandelier accented dining room as you peruse their well-balanced menu. If shopping and Christmas are your things then a visit to the largest Christmas store in Gatlinburg is necessary. Did you ever think youd go tubing down snowy mountains in the South? Address: 668 Glades Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA, Website: Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Jonesing for a sweet aperitif? 5. Experience a magical time by catching a magic show at the one and only Iris Theater. Its one of the essential things to do in Gatlinburg, without a doubt. Do Not Forget to Pack Water When You Hike. There are other mountain-themed outdoor pursuits to try at Rowdy Bear Mountain, including axe-throwing activities, and the riveting Ski Lift Shootout Coaster a suspended Alpine coaster with two-seater swing chairs attached. Appreciate the unchanged mountain tradition of taffy-making when you watch candy makers at work. Unusual Attractions in Gatlinburg Gatlinburg, Tennessee Synchronous Fireflies of the Great Smoky Mountains For two weeks every June, fireflies in the Smoky Mountains perform an astonishing. Explore Gatlinburg and its surrounding Great Smoky Mountains in a unique, adventurous way behind the wheel of an off-road specialty vehicle. Its not hard to get thrilled in this family-friendly attraction that offers plenty of realistic simulated rides and experiences. As you hike along the trail, you will see some historical buildings including outbuildings and two churches from the 19th and 20th centuries. Or, embrace your inner animal lover with an aw inspiring llama trek. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the spacious campground and picnic facilities and the Hen Wallow Falls Day Hike. 32. Whatever you do, dont leave Gatlinburg without this essential souvenir. This Civil War-themed attraction allows viewers to sit with either the North or the South group, as the battle plays out and, occasionally, the South wins. Gatlinburg might be small in size but its the furthest thing from small in the entertainment department. One spot you can't find anywhere else in the world is the Dolly Parton Statue! They are the only species in America that can synchronize their flashing light patterns and this only happens one time a year usually a two-week window so this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Race against the clock and outwit your competition by exploring this Southern city in a fast-paced competition, one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg. For lunch, get a little fancy at the unpretentious Wild Plum Tea Room. If youve ever found yourself laying on the couch binge-watching The Amazing Race, heres your chance to step up and play, but without the cameras in your face. THE PLAYGROUND. The rooms are also equipped with TVs, Wi-Fi, and some have a fireplace. Rowdy Bear Mountain is home to two amazing thrill rides including the First Mountain Glider in the world. Cross swimming bridges 150 ft high as you take in a resplendent ten-acre wooded island in the middle of Big Pigeon River. About | Privacy Policies | Business Resources | Sitemap | Made with by IMEG. 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Synchronous Fireflies of the Great Smoky Mountains. However, sometimes you want to get off the beaten path, especially if youre wanting to stay away from the tourist crowds or youve already seen all the sites in East Tennessee. The three-floor building is hard to miss its the absolutely oddest thing you can find at Parkway. Family-run pottery studio & store selling handcrafted mugs, plates, pitchers, vases & bakeware. Answer 1 of 6: We're taking advantage of our fall break and will be going Oct 14-18th. At the family-fun center, catch a fantabulous Magic Show performed by a top mentalist and magician, or ride a glass elevator to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle tower for panoramic city views. Sporting modern finishes and less than 100 meters away from the start of The Great Smoky Mountain National Park, enjoy excellent service, views and facilities at the Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg. Now in its tenth season [mid-May to mid-October], the market provides Tennessee grown produce, local products, and foods in a friendly social environment. The 5.5-mile-long, one-way, loop road is a favorite side trip for many people who frequently visit the Smokies. It has the largest collection of outdoor gear, apparel, footwear and souvenirs. Throughout summer and fall, choose from a number of beautiful hiking trails, plus an Alpine Slide and water rides. If you're looking for more ideas of places to visit in the Smoky Mountain area, check out these attractions in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. While putt-putt golf, ziplining, and escape rooms may be found in many places, this is a unique one! Do not forget to enjoy the remarkable views of the Smoky Mountains as you are doing all those fun activities. Choose from three different tracks, including a combined tunnel and zigzag course, a speedy roll, and an extreme zigzag course. Copyright 2023 TourScanner | All rights reserved. The sprawling landscape includes incredible lush forests and an abundance of wildflowers that bloom year-round. Thats not a typo, the theater at Ripleys Gatlinburg really ismoving! 22 Absolutely Free Things to Do in Gatlinburg, 5 Budget-Friendly Gatlinburg Vacation Tips, 7 Spectacular Things to Do in Gatlinburg at Night, 11 Most Romantic Restaurants in Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg Hidden Gems: 7 Secret Spots You Don't Want to Miss, Ultimate Guide to Ober Gatlinburg: Coupons, Discounts, and Deals, 16 Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Adults You Don't Want to Miss, Ultimate Guide to Anakeesta Coupons, Discounts, and Deals, Sip & Sample at Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries in Gatlinburg. Walk the path of Little Brier Gap Trail for a relaxing stroll. The hotel is within a 20-minute drive from Dollywood and the city of Gatlinburg. Family-friendly that it is and little travelers are kept well-amused. Make sure to also visit the elk of Cataloochee Valley. The fourth option, Hit Parade transports guests into the 50s and 60s with chart-topping hits from the likes of Elvis and Neil Diamond! After trekking the easy half-mile paved trail to the viewing platform, you can see the expansive wilderness of Tennessee and North Carolina all the way out to the horizon. Paddle through frothing white water rapids, tuck into a hearty platter of smoked meats or soak in the spellbinding scenery from a Mountain Coaster. Easy to reach along the Cataract Falls Trail, the walk there and back is just over a kilometer. Then, indulge your inner carnivore with a Rib Eye or Porterhouse, but be sure to save room for the decadently rich Appalachian Chocolate Cake. Asheville is the coolest little mountain town that is equal parts progressive, outdoorsy, and hip. I highly suggest visiting at sunrise for the best chance of seeing wildlife as well as the best place to see black bears in the smoky mountains. The Gatlinburg location boasts two unique experiences that will leave a lasting impression on you and your family: the Mountain Glider and the Alpine Coaster! Are you a huge fan of baseball? Elevate your next Gatlinburg evening when you reserve a table at the Burg Steakhouse. Open since 1991 and boasting 11 local locations, they sure know a thing or two about food. These are some of the best non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge if you want to explore the Smokies like a local. One of the Ripleys-branded attractions throughout the city, Ripleys Haunted Adventure is ready to scare the socks off anyone brave enough to enter its doors. Over 20,000 sets of spice shakers reveal the surprisingly telling history of our most basic spices. Entering what seems like endless hallways and rooms creating hundreds of reflections, maze-runners, try to make your way through the flashing LED lights and an infinity of mirrors. The Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster allows you to experience the Great Smoky Mountains in a fun, fast, and unique way, reaching speeds up to 35 mph. We are proud to be the very first hotel in the state of . 2022 33. Each time we have pretty much driven as quickly as possible trough pigeon forge and Gatlinburg . A 3-mile trail runs through the forest & behind this 25-foot waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains. Museum with kitschy oddities on display, including shrunken human heads & rare animal skeletons. From Americas most visited distillery to crazy pastry-inspired flavor combinations, each establishment brings a unique spin to its tasting tours: Need a break from amusement park antics and big chain restaurants? As the route features declines, there are parts of the track that provide a serious adrenaline rush. With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as a backdrop, The Park Grill is a great spot for couples and has a refined dining feel. 2023 Atlas Obscura. There are lots of hotels in Gatlinburg TN with indoor pool to choose from so if getting in some pool time is important to you, youre definitely in luck! See the marvelous mountain ranges with a 360 degrees view, which extends to 100 miles in a clear sky. Head to a Tennessee Smokies game! Hiking in the Smokies is one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg. When traveling the scenic loop road, plan to get out and visit the restored buildings that include three churches, log homes, cantilevered barns, and a working mill. Transport yourself to the Tinseltown backlot in this unique museum, with 40 authentic vehicles from films like The Dukes of Hazzard and Fast and Furious lining the floor. With an elevation gain of 1,640 feet, it can be a challenging hike, but its worth every step. After perhaps spending a couple of hours across the road at the Ripleys Aquarium, the Tennessee Cider Company is the perfect spot to sit back and unwind. A trip to the mountains isnt complete without ziplining. For a terrific day trip itinerary, head to the outskirts of Sevierville, Tennessee. A quick, entertaining activity during any day of exploring the main Gatlinburg strip, the 7D Dark Ride Adventure is an immersive, exciting activity for kids and adults alike. The drive from Gatlinburg to Hamilton takes about 153 mi (246 km), and it should take you about 2 hours 37 minutes in normal traffic. Time your visit for perfect weather to fly and get a birds-eye view of the magnificent mountain ranges. Adventurers will be able to climb three stories in the air to face thirty-eight challenges including rickety bridges, suspended ropes, and other balancing obstacles. If youre having an extended stay in the area and are interested in exploring your own artistic side, consider signing up for a workshop at the Arrowmount School of Arts and Crafts, which has classes exploring everything from ceramics to furniture making to cake sculpture. Marvel at the stunning foliage in red, orange, and yellow hues when you complete either the Laurel Falls or Metcalf Bottoms hiking trails. While we would never describe the nations most visited National Park as a unique thing to do in Gatlinburg,' within the parks lush 522,427 acres lies plenty of under-the-radar hiking trails, scenic drives, and picnic areas. Veteran outpost offering guided white-water rafting & float tours, plus zip lining & a ropes course. This chestnut box will not be opened until the country music legend's 100th birthday in 2046. Follow along to discover 16 unique things to do in Gatlinburg. The murals and granite plaza are later included in this beautiful historical monument. The busiest peak time of the year is June and July so plan accordingly. If youre looking for more ideas of places to visit in the Smoky Mountain area, check out these attractions in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. No-frills sports bar known for drinks and karaoke. Wrangle the whole family for a day of mighty river action in the Smokies. Refuel with a latte and pastry from Gatlinburgs Grind Coffee & Bakery. . Address: 2440 North . Within walking distance from the Mysterious Mansion (making for the perfect back-to-back itinerary), Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies fuses with the amazing interactive experiences of Ripleys museum. Use our epic guide to get an insiders peek into the locals only section of Gatlinburg today! Whats more Tennessee than Moonshine? Theyre impressive historical towns that emit a vibrant atmosphere of eras gone by. Why not stop in to watch it at the Smoky Mountain Brewery? Unravel the world of shakers at this zany museum, and investigate a collection of over 20,000 pairs of salt and pepper shakers. An hour and a half away, Cataloochee Valley is worth a visit if you have the time, especially at sunrise or sunset. End the night with a lively outing to Luco Burro, a TexMex restaurant known for its margaritas and tacos. Feel the thrills as you dip and soar over Rowdy Bear Ridge. You are going to love this place. Inspired by the fun childhood moments of the entertainer Dolly Parton, this water park sits beside the Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is a collective of artisans who offer many different pieces of arts and bespoke goods for you to collect and explore. An indoor shopping center with 36 uniquely themed shops located in the heart of Gatlinburg. Some of the roads in Gatlinburg (for example, the Tail of the Dragon) dont allow UTVs, but not to fear, this adventure rental company also has Jeeps, Slingshots, Vanderhall and Rykers which you can rent to drive these parts instead. Embrace almost 10 minutes of high-speed thrills as you ride the longest coaster in East Tennessee. Address: 336 Wa Floy Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA Website: Trish's Mountain Diner Opening hours: 7am - 2.30pm (closed on Sun) Price: under 10 USD 5. To save you time and help you find great local restaurants, we've made this list of the top 7 favorite places where locals eat in Gatlinburg, TN! Make sure to take advantage of that and enjoy all of the amazing outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg. 25 Best Things To Do In Gatlinburg, Tennesee, You Shouldn't Miss Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park spreads out over 800 square miles in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. You can find these amazing escape rooms in two locations: Reagan Terrace Mall and The Village with Masters of Magic where you can also choose from various classic and contemporary board games to take home. Address: 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA 7. Take the classic cinematic spectacle to the next level by strapping yourself into one of the motion seats and letting the state-of-the-art digital effects work their magic. Named after Revolutionary War Veteran Samuel Wears, this tranquil Valley oozes natural beauty and charm. for 20 years. Outside the shop, the air is filled with live music, jovial laughter, and the distinct smell of cooked and processed grains. For a dazzling experience, hop on a group raft through the Rainbow Revenge with translucent tubes that create different colors as you go down. If you want to kill time, kill it by doing something fun like observing those water inhabitants. The spectacular SkyBridge claims the title of the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, with glass floor paneling adding another dimension of adventure. The RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo houses over 140 species, including reptiles, birds, adorable primates and plenty more. All the fun of the classic bumper car ride is thrown into an ice rink! Tanger Outlets is located in Pigeon Forge (photo by Morgan Overholt/TheSmokies.com) 5. Downtown A Walk in the Woods has been around since 1998 and is known for their expertise in leave no trace ethics, botany, wildlife, geology, culture, and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. Check out its website for the market schedules and new vendors and crafts to keep an eye out during your visit to Gatlinburg. You need to assemble in the activity zone near the park entrance and have your get-up approved by the staff. With a serious passion for brewing, taste the selection of locally-crafted beers at Gatlinburg Brewing Company. What are your favorite sites to tour or places to visit in Gatlinburg? Rent out a UTV from Rocky Top Adventure for two hours, or more, and zoom around their recommended routes like Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome. Located at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our city is jam-packed with family-friendly attractions. 903 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 There are few places in Gatlinburg that so perfectly display the spirit of mountain life like the Ole Smoky Moonshine distillery. This 5.5-mile nature trail features plenty of verdant old-growth forest, well-preserved log cabins, grist mills, and other historic buildings. Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine is a corn whiskey distillery in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. During the winter, visitors can strap their skis or snowboards on and head out onto the 10 ski trails, snow tube down a 400-foot snow lane, or try the one-of-a-kind ice bumper cars. Gatlin's Fun Center. The best time to visit the valley is during sunrise or sunset as you will get to marvel at the most perfect vistas of the valley. It wouldnt be a trip to Tennessee without at least a taste of the regions infamous moonshine otherwise known as hooch or homebrew. 12 Things To Do in Gatlinburg and the Best Places To Stay . From Friday to Sunday, you can also take a trip to nearby Kodak to experience the Great Smokies Flea Market. Keep those eyes peeled, as you won't want to miss a single 360-degree turn, curve, or tunnel. The best time to visit Gatlinburg sincerely depends on your goal of visiting. For a pre (or post) hike breakfast, Trishs Mountain Diner offers classic eats with amazing service. One of the most popular adventure parks in Gatlinburg, Anakeesta boasts a wide array of thrilling experiences. for a free tasting, or enjoy a glass of your favorite in our tasting rooms. Big outdoor adventure hub offering zip lining, gondola rides, a treetop play area and more. Moving away from the Smokies, visit Charlotte in North Carolina. With locations in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Gatlin's Fun Center is the premiere destination for fun in the Smoky Mountains. Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville locals enjoy the shows and attractions that visitors do, but they also have some favorite spots that are a little less crowded and involve fewer sightseers. ), HOLIDAY INN CLUB VACATIONS SMOKY MOUNTAIN RESORT. It sounds fun, doesn't it? Games take place from the fall until the spring. Keep in mind, being an outdoor park, Splash Country is only open from May to September (the summer months). The ride down the mountain is five minutes in total. Winning over hearts thanks to its location, guests love the running river alongside the Greystone Lodge on the River, the mountain backdrop, and the short distance to restaurants and shops. . Answer 1 of 14: Hey there, My husband and I recently moved to Knoxville and we have of course been to Smoky Mountain Ntl Park a couple of times. Probably one of the healthiest stores and restaurants in Gatlinburg, this is a natural foods store with a cafe focusing on vegetarian & vegan fare such as salads & sandwiches. Specializing in craft beer, brewed right on site. From the outdoor adventures of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the unique attractions in downtown Gatlinburg the number of things to do in Gatlinburg TN is astounding and incredibly diverse. Keep reading to learn more about the top ones. 8. So long as you dont get too motion sick, tumbling down that 1,000-foot tall hill in a giant bubble is undeniably one of the most fun things to do in Gatlinburg. With an amusement park and ski resort at its center, plus some of the nations premier hiking and adventure opportunities, the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip through the charming South. Theres a lot of handmade candy taffy especially so taking some time to find some vegan candy may be worthwhile. What do you think of water rafting? 2. Maybe theres a game that you just need to catch on the TV. You can enjoy a display of artworks, including ceramics, potteries and paintings. Depending on how much time youve got to spare, half-day and full-day excursions are available. Hosted in a small, intimate theatre, the show contains lots of interaction with the audience. Make sure to stop into Coffee & Company, Gatlinburgs oldest roasting coffee shop, and grab a personalized souvenir for your jealous friends at U Name It.