Located at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is one of the most popular mountain destinations in the United States. Visitors travel here year-round to enjoy scenic landscapes, family attractions, outdoor adventures, and charming mountain towns. Whether you are planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a weekend escape, there are countless things to do in Gatlinburg that make it a must-visit destination in Tennessee.
From breathtaking hiking trails to exciting amusement parks and vibrant downtown streets, Gatlinburg offers something for every traveler. Before exploring the city, many visitors choose comfortable Tennessee vacation rentals or cozy cabins to enjoy the mountains like a local. Staying in a private vacation rental provides more space, privacy, and the chance to experience the Smoky Mountains in a relaxed setting.
Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park
One of the top things to do in Gatlinburg Tennessee is exploring the incredible beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As the most visited national park in the United States, it offers stunning mountain views, waterfalls, wildlife, and hundreds of hiking trails.
Popular hiking routes include Clingmans Dome, Laurel Falls, and Alum Cave Trail. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives like the Newfound Gap Road or Cades Cove Loop, which provide breathtaking views of the mountains and frequent wildlife sightings.
Many travelers choose nearby Smoky Mountain cabin rentals to stay close to nature while enjoying modern amenities such as fireplaces, hot tubs, and panoramic mountain views.
Walk the Gatlinburg SkyBridge
The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is one of the most iconic attractions in the city. Suspended high above the mountains, it is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Visitors can walk across the bridge while enjoying stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and the town below.
At night, the bridge lights up beautifully, creating an unforgettable experience for couples and families. It is easily one of the most photographed tourist attractions in Gatlinburg.
Visit Ober Mountain for Year-Round Fun
Another popular attraction is Ober Mountain, a mountain adventure park that offers activities in every season. During winter, visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. In warmer months, Ober Mountain transforms into an outdoor playground with mountain coasters, chairlifts, wildlife encounters, and scenic rides.
For travelers looking for adventure and family entertainment, Ober Mountain remains one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg with kids.
Explore Downtown Gatlinburg
Downtown Gatlinburg is a lively area filled with shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and attractions. Walking along the Parkway is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Gatlinburg downtown.
Visitors can explore unique candy stores, handmade craft shops, mountain-style boutiques, and local restaurants serving classic Southern cuisine. The area also features attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, arcades, and museums that are perfect for families.
Staying nearby in comfortable mountain vacation rentals makes it easy to explore downtown while still enjoying peaceful mountain surroundings.
Ride the Gatlinburg Space Needle
For panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and the city, visitors should take a ride up the Gatlinburg Space Needle. This observation tower rises over 400 feet above downtown and provides stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape.
At the top, visitors can enjoy a viewing deck, interactive exhibits, and incredible photo opportunities. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks and one of the best Gatlinburg attractions for first-time visitors.
Experience Scenic Chairlifts and Mountain Views
One of the most relaxing things to do in Gatlinburg is riding the scenic chairlifts that travel up the surrounding mountains. Attractions such as Anakeesta and the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park offer beautiful views, treetop walks, and mountaintop dining experiences.
Visitors can enjoy ziplining, mountain coasters, gardens, and observation towers while taking in breathtaking scenery across the Smoky Mountains.
Discover Local Arts and Crafts
The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community is an eight-mile loop filled with local artisans and handmade goods. Visitors can find pottery, paintings, wood carvings, candles, jewelry, and unique souvenirs created by local craftsmen.
Exploring this creative community is a great way to experience the authentic culture of the Smoky Mountains while supporting local artists.
Outdoor Adventures and Activities
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless adventures in Gatlinburg. Popular activities include:
- Whitewater rafting on nearby rivers
- Horseback riding through mountain trails
- Ziplining above forests
- Wildlife photography in the national park
- Fishing in scenic mountain streams
After a full day of exploring, many visitors relax in cozy Gatlinburg vacation rentals that offer comfortable accommodations and stunning mountain views.
Best Time to Visit Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is a year-round destination, but each season offers a unique experience.
- Spring – Wildflowers bloom across the Smoky Mountains.
- Summer – Perfect for hiking, outdoor adventures, and festivals.
- Fall – Famous for colorful foliage and scenic drives.
- Winter – Snow-covered mountains and holiday celebrations.
Many travelers prefer visiting in fall when the Smoky Mountains display spectacular autumn colors, making it one of the most beautiful times to experience things to do in Gatlinburg Tennessee.
Where to Stay in Gatlinburg
Choosing the right place to stay can make your trip even more enjoyable. Travelers looking for comfort, privacy, and mountain views often choose vacation rentals in Gatlinburg instead of traditional hotels.
With options ranging from cozy cabins to luxury mountain lodges, visitors can find accommodations that fit their needs and budget. Many properties include full kitchens, hot tubs, fireplaces, and scenic balconies overlooking the Smoky Mountains.
Booking directly through RentByHost’s no booking fee vacation rentals also allows travelers to connect with property owners and avoid extra service fees commonly charged by large booking platforms.
Plan Your Gatlinburg Adventure
With breathtaking mountain scenery, exciting attractions, and endless outdoor adventures, Gatlinburg remains one of the most beloved destinations in the Smoky Mountains. Whether you are hiking scenic trails, exploring downtown attractions, or relaxing in a mountain cabin, there are countless unforgettable things to do in Gatlinburg.
Start planning your trip today and explore the best Gatlinburg vacation rentals available on RentByHost to enjoy a comfortable and memorable stay in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
Faqs
What are the best things to do in Gatlinburg Tennessee?
The best things to do in Gatlinburg Tennessee include visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park, walking across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, exploring downtown attractions, riding scenic chairlifts, and enjoying outdoor adventures like hiking and wildlife viewing.
Why is Gatlinburg a popular tourist destination?
Gatlinburg is popular because it sits at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors come here to enjoy beautiful mountain scenery, hiking trails, family attractions, entertainment, and year-round outdoor activities.
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Gatlinburg?
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, ziplining, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, fishing, scenic drives, and wildlife photography in the Smoky Mountains surrounding Gatlinburg.
Is Gatlinburg a good destination for family vacations?
Yes, Gatlinburg is one of the best family vacation destinations in Tennessee. Families can visit aquariums, mountain parks, amusement attractions, and nature trails that provide entertainment for visitors of all ages.
What is the Gatlinburg SkyBridge?
The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Visitors can walk across the bridge and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and downtown Gatlinburg.
What is the best time to visit Gatlinburg?
Gatlinburg is a year-round destination. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, summer is ideal for outdoor adventures, fall offers spectacular foliage views, and winter features festive holiday celebrations and snow-covered mountain scenery.
What attractions are located in downtown Gatlinburg?
Downtown Gatlinburg offers shopping, restaurants, museums, entertainment venues, and popular attractions like Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, observation towers, arcades, and mountain-themed experiences.
Are there hiking trails near Gatlinburg?
Yes, hundreds of hiking trails are located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Gatlinburg. Popular trails include Clingmans Dome, Laurel Falls, and Alum Cave Trail.
Where should visitors stay when visiting Gatlinburg?
Many travelers prefer staying in Gatlinburg vacation rentals or mountain cabins because they provide more space, privacy, scenic views, and amenities like hot tubs, fireplaces, and full kitchens.
How many days should visitors spend in Gatlinburg?
Most travelers spend two to four days in Gatlinburg to explore the national park, visit major attractions, enjoy outdoor adventures, and experience the restaurants and shops in downtown Gatlinburg.