Gatlinburg

Top 15 Things to do in Gatlinburg That You Won’t Want to Miss

Are you looking for things to do in Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is an excellent place for family fun, and what’s more, you get some fantastic views of the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. So if you’re looking for things to do in Gatlinburg, this list is for you!

If you’re wondering what there is to do in Gatlinburg, look no further! We’ve compiled some of the best attractions that Gatlinburg has to offer in one concise list, so look no further for a list of things to do in Gatlinburg. With several museums, a tram, sky-lift and a whole lot more, Gatlinburg the perfect place to take it Tennessee’s natural and man-made offerings.

Clingman’s Dome

The highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Clingman’s Dome sits high above Gatlinburg at 6,643 feet. A short drive from Gatlinburg via the national park, it’s got some great trails nearby that allows you to experience the full majesty of this peak.

If you’re looking to do the full hike, be sure to bring some comfortable shoes or you may live to regret it!

things to do in gatlinburgthings to do in gatlinburg

Shopping in Gatlinburg

A must-do for most tourists visiting a new area is hitting the local boutiques. Downtown Gatlinburg is home to over 400 shops and 5 large malls, so there’s plenty of choice! With the shops here being extremely unique, it’s great fun just to stroll through downtown and see what you can find. Though you may want to look through some of the classic retail stores, Gatlinburg’s home-owned shops are much more interesting!

Festivals in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg presents a variety of festivals through the year, and whether you love a good winter festival (Gatlinburg Winter Magic) or prefer a good jive (Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales), Gatlinburg offers plenty for the entertainment fan.

Find out more about Gatlinburg’s seasonal festivals and events by clicking here.

Gatlinburg Trolley

The Gatlinburg Trolley is an absolute must-visit if you’re in Gatlinburg. With over 100 stops located within Gatlinburg, you can take a ride on any one of the routes to see the best of the city. The rides are super cheap too and you can even get an unlimited daily pass for $2!

Gatlinburg Skylift

If you’re looking for the best aerial views of Gatlinburg, there’s no better way to find them than on the Gatlinburg Skylift. Offering views from 1,800 feet up on Crockett Mountain, you’re sure to see some unforgettable sights. It’s open year-round, so you needn’t worry too much about missing it!

Cades Cove

A scenic 11-mile loop located in a valley surrounded by mountains, Cades Cove treats you to abundant wildlife, historic sights and hiking, biking, and horse riding galore. If you’re a fan of all things natural, give Cades Cove an explore!

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One of the few national parks that does not charge admission, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of Gatlinburg’s most visited attractions. Welcoming over 10 million visitors annually, the park offers historical exhibits, trails and other activities. A great place to spot wildlife and bask in nature’s wonders, it’s absolutely a must-visit if you’re visiting Gatlinburg.

Things to do in Gatlinburg: Aerial Tramway

If you’re looking for another birds-eye view of Gatlinburg, hop on the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway. One of the country’s largest tramways, it goes 2.1 miles up the mountain to a peak of 11,000 feet! At the top, you’ll find shopping, dining, an amusement park and more. Worth a visit just for the ride on the tram alone, giving this one a try is a no-brainer.

Gatlinburg Space Needle

A 407-foot tower that overlooks Gatlinburg, the Gatlinburg Space Needle is equipped with viewfinders and exhibits that outline the town’s amazing history. Most visitors say that the view from the observation deck here is unbeatable (though somewhat overpriced). If you’re looking for Gatlinburg’s finest views though, you may just find it worth the money!

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and Ripley’s believe it or not

Popular amongst little ones, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers the chance to get up close and personal with marine life! Here you can pet a penguin or take a behind-the-scenes tour of the aquarium. Though this tends to attract hordes of visitors, if you’ve got kids that love marine life, it’s well worth the time.

There is also the classic Ripley’s believe it or not too – for the curious minded visitors!

Great Smoky Mountain Arts & Crafts

Established in 1937, this arts and craft loop is home to the largest group of independent artisans in North America. Visitors will find unique pieces of pottery, glass leather and more. A totally quaint and free experience (should you decide to just look!), it’s absolutely worth a visit.

Visit one of Gatlinburg’s delicious restaurants

There are loads of amazing places to eat in Gatlinburg, so if you’re looking for Gatlinburg restaurants you’re going to have lots of options! You can spend your daytime seeing the sights of Gatlinburg and then enjoy some of Gatlinburg’s restaurant scene in the evening!

Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

If you love enjoying a little scenery and seeing everything nature has to offer around Gatlinburg, then you’re going to love the Gatlinburg scenic overlook. If you’re into photography too, this is an amazing place to capture some beautiful photographs! Enjoy the scenic outlook at sunrise and sunset for the ultimate view!

Gatlinburg Farmer’s Market

Next on my list of things to do in Gatlinburg, it’s the Gatlinburg Farmer’s Market. It offers many delicious Tennessee-grown produce, from fruit, vegetables and delicious pre-made food too. You’ll find amazing baked treats, jams, marmalades, etc – it’s basically a food-lovers dream day out in Gatlinburg!

Hollywood Star Cars Museum

And last on my list of things to do in Gatlinburg, it’s the Hollywood Star Cars Museum. This amazing museum is full of Hollywood’s best and most well known cars. A must-visit for any car lovers visiting Gatlinburg!

I hope this list of things to do in Gatlinburg has given you loads of ideas!

So, there you have it- a concise list of things to do in Gatlinburg that’s sure to keep you busy. Whether you want to explore the area’s trails or take in the best views from the space needle, you’re sure to find something on here that takes your fancy.

Top 10 Gatlinburg Restaurants You Need to Visit

Are you looking for the best Gatlinburg restaurants, if so, hopefully this list will give you lots of ideas and inspiration!

If you’re looking for the best Gatlinburg restaurants to enjoy delicious food at, this list is for you!

Gatlinburg is such a beautiful mountain resort that is located right by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Full of amazing mountain-themed restaurants and delicious breakfast spots, there are so many places in Gatlinburg to grab a delicious bite to eat. Whether you prefer to fill up on breakfast food or prefer a hearty steak, this list of the best Gatlinburg restaurants is sure to spark some food-based inspiration!

Crockett’s

First on my list of the best Gatlinburg restaurants, it’s Crockett’s. A tribute to David C. Maples (a 19^th century frontiersman known as Crockett) who fed weary travellers breakfast food, Crockett’s provides a family friendly spin on breakfast favourites.

Resembling a 19^th century camp house, it’s a rustic place for the whole family to dine. Home to some of Gatlinburg’s largest breakfast plates, it’s one of Gatlinburg’s best dining spots – don’t miss this option for best Gatlinburg restaurants!

Donut Friar

Next on my list of the best Gatlinburg restaurants, it’s Donut Friar. Located in Gatlinburg’s old-world complex, the Donut Friar is a place that’s been baking pastries and donuts for over 45 years. The ideal place for a quick breakfast bite or indulgent afternoon treat, they serve pretty much every donut imaginable alongside freshly brewed coffee.

If sweet treats make you weak at the knees, you’ve simply got to stop by this wonderful baked-goods store to get your fill of that delicious fried dough! Definitely one of the top Gatlinburg restaurants you’ll want to check out!

Wild Plum

Wild Plum is my next suggestion for the best Gatlinburg restaurants! Wild Plum is a place that offers Austrian charm alongside Southern hospitality. Serving an ever-changing menu that’s based on family recipes, Wild Plum is a wonderful tearoom that’s sure to impress most people.

Whether you want to have a full meal or just some muffins and tea that give the place it’s quaint charm, you’re sure to be well looked after here.

Peddler Steakhouse

The Peddler Steakhouse is the next Gatlinburg restaurant on my list. It has been a staple in Gatlinburg ever since it opened 40 years ago. The combination of tradition of amazing food makes the place a sure-fire winner.

With famed fresh steaks cooked over Tennessee hickory charcoal, you’re sure to have one of the best steaks of your life here! If you’re not a steak fan, never fear though. With a pretty extensive menu, you’re sure to find something that tickles your fancy.

Log Cabin Pancake House

Next on my list of the best Gatlinburg restaurants, it’s the Log Cabin Pancake House. Serving fluffy pancakes in a converted log cabin, Log Cabin Pancake House very much lives up to its name. Always a popular choice in Gatlinburg and a great place for breakfast, you’ll find a massive pancake menu here full of signature recipes and unique combinations.

However, if you aren’t in the mood for pancakes, this place also offers waffles, omelettes, burgers and more for those that just don’t dig fluffy pancakes.

Pancake Pantry

Another great option for pancakes in Gatlinburg is Pancake Pantry. Known for its delicious homemade fluffy pancakes, you’ll be able to get these tasty circles of joy in any way you choose. From Swedish-themed pancakes to tropical pancakes, this is the place to experiment! This place is definitely one of the best Gatlinburg restaurants!

Bennett’s Pit BBQ

If you’re in Tennessee and are craving some amazing barbecue food, then look no further than Bennett’s Pit BBQ. Known as one of the best Gatlinburg restaurants, this place is somewhere you won’t want to miss.

As Barbecue food in the South is almost a way of life, it’s true that nobody does it better than Bennett’s. Whether you’re after some mouth-watering ribs or pulled pork, this place has it all. Located adjacent to Gatlinburg Parkway on River Road, it’s in the centre of town so is super easy to get to.

Smoky Mountain Trout House

One of Gatlinburg’s best restaurants, the Smoky Mountain Trout House is a winner! This downtown speciality spot is a must-visit if you’re a seafood connoisseur. If you love perfectly flaky fish, it doesn’t get much better than what these guys can dish up. Their flaky trout dressed with herbs and melted butter is truly to die for!

Slice Pizza Bakery

Next on my list of the top Gatlinburg restaurants, it’s Slice Pizza Bakery. Located at the base of the famous Gatlinburg Space Needle, this is a place where you’re sure to find some of the best pizza around. Here, you can order either by the slice or by the pie and, regardless of which you choose, it’s going to be a flavour sensation.

Due to its location, you’re sure to find it a convenient place to grab a bite whilst you’re looking around downtown Gatlinburg. This place is definitely one of the best Gatlinburg restaurants.

No Way Jose’s Cantina

And finally on my list of the best Gatlinburg restaurants, it’s the No Way Jose’s Cantina. An authentic Mexican restaurant that’s super unique, this is THE place to be for tacos, fajitas, and burritos in Gatlinburg. If you find yourself craving some Mexican fare whilst in Gatlinburg, then this is the place to try.