Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is truly the best destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, enjoy thrilling adventures, or simply relax in a picturesque setting. Gatlinburg offers everything – outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and a charming small-town atmosphere.
With so much to see and do here, it’s important to plan everything to make the most of your visit. This guide will help you explore the must-see attractions, uncover some lesser-known spots, and ensure that your Gatlinburg getaway is both memorable and enjoyable.
However, deciding where to stay is an equally crucial factor for any vacation, so let’s first start with this point:
Choosing the Right Accommodation
One of the most important decisions when planning a Gatlinburg getaway is choosing the right place to stay. The type of accommodation you select can greatly impact your overall experience, and for those looking to combine comfort with convenience, condos are an excellent choice. Condos offer a cozy, home-like atmosphere that is perfect for families, couples, and even solo travelers who want a more private and personalized lodging option. Staying in a condo allows you to enjoy amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, living spaces, and often stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Condos in Gatlinburg are strategically located and provide easy access to the town’s key attractions while still offering a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle. Many condos, like the Laurel Inn Condominiums, often include amenities like swimming pools, Jacuzzi rooms, fully equipped kitchens, fitness centers, and hot tubs, enhancing your vacation experience with added comfort and relaxation. When planning your stay, consider the benefits of choosing a condo to fully enjoy what Gatlinburg has to offer.
Must-See Attractions in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is home to several must-see attractions that draw visitors from all over the country.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The most iconic of these is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which serves as the perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park offers an extensive network of hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a top destination for those looking to connect with nature. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely walk through lush forests or a more challenging hike up to one of the park’s peaks, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park has something for everyone.
2. Ober Mountain
Another popular attraction in Gatlinburg is Ober Mountain, an all-season amusement park and ski resort. Ober Mountain offers a wide range of activities, including skiing, ice skating, and a wildlife encounter where visitors can see native animals up close. During the warmer months, the resort transforms into an adventure park with options like an alpine slide, mini-golf, and a scenic chairlift that provides breathtaking views of the Smokies.
3. Gatlinburg SkyPark
For those seeking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains, the Gatlinburg SkyPark is a must-visit. The park features the iconic SkyLift, which takes visitors up Crockett Mountain to the SkyDeck, where they can walk across the SkyBridge—the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. The views from the top are truly spectacular, offering a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. The SkyPark is an excellent spot for photography, and the experience of crossing the SkyBridge is both thrilling and unforgettable.
4. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Another highlight in Gatlinburg is Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, one of the top-rated aquariums in the country. This family-friendly attraction is known for its impressive underwater tunnels that allow visitors to walk through exhibits filled with sharks, rays, and other marine life. Interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences make it a hit with kids, while the diverse range of sea creatures keeps adults equally engaged. Ripley’s Aquarium is a must-see for anyone visiting Gatlinburg, offering a fun and educational experience that appeals to all ages.
5. Anakeesta
Anakeesta is a mountaintop adventure park that provides a mix of relaxation and excitement. Visitors can take a scenic ride up the mountain on a chondola or Ridge Rambler and enjoy treetop skywalks, zip-lining, and panoramic views of the Smokies. The park also features dining options and shopping, which makes it a great place to spend an entire day.
Discovering Gatlinburg’s Hidden Gems
While Gatlinburg is well-known for its popular attractions, the town also offers a variety of hidden gems that provide a more intimate and unique experience.
1. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
This scenic, one-way loop road offers a peaceful escape from the busier areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As you drive along the 5.5-mile trail, you’ll be surrounded by lush forests, rushing streams, and historic cabins that offer a glimpse into the area’s past. The trail is also home to several short hikes, including the popular Rainbow Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall. For those looking to experience the natural beauty of the Smokies without the crowds, Roaring Fork is an ideal destination.
The trail also provides opportunities to spot wildlife, such as black bears and deer, in their natural habitat. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for wildlife viewing. In addition to the natural beauty, Roaring Fork is steeped in history, with well-preserved structures like the Noah “Bud” Ogle cabin, a historic homestead that gives visitors a sense of what life was like for early settlers in the region.
2. Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook
For breathtaking views that are slightly off the beaten path, the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is another gem worth discovering. Located along the Gatlinburg Bypass, this overlook offers panoramic views of Gatlinburg, the surrounding mountains, and the lush forests of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The overlook is a great spot for photography, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a warm glow over the landscape. It’s also a peaceful place to take a break from sightseeing, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and soak in the natural beauty that makes Gatlinburg so special.
The Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is often less crowded than other viewpoints, which makes it a perfect place for quiet reflection or a romantic moment. The overlook is easily accessible by car, and there is ample parking available so visitors can stop and enjoy the view without having to hike or walk long distances.
3. Grotto Falls
Lastly, for a truly serene experience, consider hiking to Grotto Falls. Unlike some of the more famous waterfalls in the Smokies, Grotto Falls offers a more secluded and intimate experience. The trail to the falls is a moderate 2.6-mile round trip hike that takes you through old-growth forests, with the sound of the rushing stream guiding you along the way. What makes Grotto Falls unique is the fact that the trail actually leads behind the waterfall.
Gatlinburg is a destination that offers something for everyone, from its well-known attractions to its hidden gems. Take the time to explore both the famous landmarks and the hidden treasures, and you’ll discover why Gatlinburg remains a beloved destination for so many travelers.
