Gatlinburg TennesseeATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
1. Ole Smoky Distillery
MOONSHINE TASTING & TOURS
Ole Smoky Distillery is a popular attraction featuring a vast array of moonshine flavors and live bluegrass music in a rustic setting. Visitors can enjoy guided distillery tours, moonshine tastings, and stories of mountain heritage. The distillery's downtown location and lively atmosphere make it a must-see for those interested in Smoky Mountain culture.
2. Sugarlands Distilling Company
CRAFT SPIRITS EXPERIENCE
Sugarlands Distilling Company offers behind-the-scenes tours of its barn-style distillery right in downtown Gatlinburg. Guests can sample a wide selection of craft moonshine and whiskey while learning about the distillation process. The friendly atmosphere and downtown location make it a favorite for visitors seeking a taste of Appalachian tradition.
3. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
AWARD-WINNING AQUARIUM
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a top-rated family attraction, home to over 10,000 sea creatures from 350 species, including sharks, sea turtles, and playful penguins. The aquarium features immersive underwater tunnels and interactive exhibits like touch tanks. Daily dive and feeding shows make it an engaging and educational destination for all ages.
4. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
STUNNING MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park offers spectacular panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains from its iconic chairlift and SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. The park features walking trails and photo opportunities overlooking the town and surrounding peaks. It's a classic attraction for visitors seeking breathtaking vistas and a unique perspective of Gatlinburg.
5. Anakeesta
ADVENTURE THEME PARK
Anakeesta is an outdoor adventure park perched on a mountain above Gatlinburg, accessible by a scenic chairlift or gondola ride. Attractions include treetop skywalks, ziplining, gardens, dining, and a mountain coaster, making it a favorite for families and thrill-seekers. The park also provides spectacular views and seasonal events year-round.
6. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
VAST NATURAL WILDERNESS
Great Smoky Mountains National Park borders Gatlinburg and offers visitors access to a renowned natural landscape filled with hiking trails, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. The park is the most visited in the United States and is famed for its mist-shrouded mountains and scenic drives. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy camping, picnicking, and breathtaking overlooks throughout the year.
7. Ober Mountain
YEAR-ROUND MOUNTAIN RESORT
Ober Mountain, formerly known as Ober Gatlinburg, is a mountain-top amusement and ski area offering activities like skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and an alpine slide. The resort also features wildlife encounters, indoor ice skating, and a scenic aerial tramway from downtown Gatlinburg. It's a destination for both winter sports and summertime family fun.
8. Mysterious Mansion
HISTORIC HAUNTED HOUSE
Mysterious Mansion is Gatlinburg's oldest haunted house, providing a spine-tingling maze of frightening rooms and spooky décor. This interactive attraction invites guests to navigate its eerie corridors and experience classic haunted house scares. Its long-standing reputation makes it a popular destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.
9. Gatlinburg SkyTrail
SCENIC WALKING PATH
Gatlinburg SkyTrail is a new addition to the SkyLift Park, providing a scenic, family-friendly trail that connects both ends of the SkyBridge. The trail features storyboards about the region's history and ecology, as well as observation areas for panoramic mountain views. This accessible trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll above the town.
10. Gatlin's Mini Golf
FAMILY MINI GOLF CENTER
Gatlin's Mini Golf offers Gatlinburg's largest indoor and outdoor mini golf experience, with three different courses to challenge visitors of all ages. The courses are beautifully landscaped with local Smoky Mountain themes, providing an entertaining outing for families and groups. Its central location makes it a convenient stop in downtown Gatlinburg.
11. NOC Gatlinburg
OUTDOOR GEAR & ADVENTURES
NOC Gatlinburg, a branch of the Nantahala Outdoor Center, is the go-to spot for outdoor gear shopping and booking guided adventures like whitewater rafting and hiking. The store is stocked with outdoor apparel and equipment for Smoky Mountain excursions. Adventurers can also get trip-planning help from knowledgeable staff based right in the heart of Gatlinburg.
12. The Peddler Steakhouse
MOUNTAIN-VIEW DINING
The Peddler Steakhouse is a beloved Gatlinburg dining institution known for its wood-grilled steaks and riverside views. Housed in a historic log cabin, the restaurant features custom-cut steaks prepared tableside and a fresh salad bar. Its intimate mountain ambiance and long-standing reputation attract both locals and visitors.
13. The Village Shops
EUROPEAN-STYLE SHOPPING
The Village Shops is a charming collection of boutique stores set within a quaint, European-inspired village atmosphere in downtown Gatlinburg. Shoppers can browse for gifts, gourmet foods, art, and unique local products. Cobblestone walkways and specialty shops make it a delightful stop for shopping and strolling.
14. Crockett's Breakfast Camp
HEARTY MOUNTAIN BREAKFAST
Crockett's Breakfast Camp offers a hearty and memorable breakfast experience, serving giant cinnamon rolls and mountain-sized portions. The rustic, log cabin-style restaurant is famed for its old-fashioned décor and friendly Southern hospitality. Arriving early is recommended, as it's a popular spot for starting the day in Gatlinburg.
15. Tanger Outlets Sevierville
DESIGNER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Tanger Outlets Sevierville is a major outlet shopping center located just outside Gatlinburg, offering visitors deals on designer brands and top retailers. With dozens of name-brand stores and plenty of dining options, it draws both tourists and locals seeking savings. The open-air layout provides a comfortable and enjoyable shopping experience.