TL;DR: Gatlinburg is packed with amazing activities for every traveler. The must-do experiences include exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, soaring high at Anakeesta and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, and enjoying family fun at Dollywood. For the perfect home base to access all these adventures, consider booking a cabin with Hemlock Hills Cabin Rentals, which offers luxury amenities and prime locations.
Welcome to Gatlinburg, the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains! Whether you're an adventure seeker, a family on vacation, or a couple looking for a romantic escape, this mountain town is brimming with incredible experiences. But with so many options, planning the perfect trip can feel overwhelming. Where do you even begin? We've designed this guide to be your definitive resource, cutting through the noise to highlight the absolute best things to do in Gatlinburg Tennessee.
This comprehensive listicle breaks down the must-see attractions, from the breathtaking vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the thrilling heights of the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. We’ll cover family-friendly adventures at Anakeesta, thrilling whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River, and the unique charm of the Arts & Crafts Community. Our goal is to make your planning seamless and your visit unforgettable. If you’re looking for a cabin that combines location, comfort, and authentic Smoky Mountain charm, we highly recommend Hemlock Hills Cabin Rentals. They offer an ideal blend of rustic mountain charm and modern luxury just minutes from all the action.
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1. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No list of things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, would be complete without its crown jewel: the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. As the most visited national park in the United States and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers an unparalleled natural escape right at your doorstep. The park's vast expanse of 522,419 acres is home to lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, making it a must-see for every visitor.
One of the park's greatest assets is its accessibility; there is no entrance fee, making it an exceptional value for families, couples, and solo adventurers. With over 850 miles of hiking trails, there’s a path for every skill level. You can enjoy a leisurely stroll to a beautiful waterfall or embark on a challenging trek to a breathtaking summit.
Popular Trails to Explore
- Laurel Falls Trail: This 2.6-mile round-trip paved trail is moderately easy and leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall. It’s a great option for families with children.
- Cataract Falls Trail: At less than a mile round-trip, this simple, flat trail is perfect for all ages and abilities, ending at a charming waterfall just a short walk from the Sugarlands Visitor Center.
- Alum Cave Trail: For a more strenuous adventure, this 5-mile hike (one way to the summit of Mt. LeConte) offers incredible geological formations and panoramic views. Many hikers turn around at the impressive Alum Cave Bluffs, a 2.3-mile journey.
Pro Tip: Plan your park adventures by visiting early in the morning (before 8 AM) to secure parking at popular trailheads and avoid the largest crowds. Always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before you go.
After a long day of hiking and exploring, there's no better feeling than returning to the comfort of your cabin. The porches and hot tubs at Hemlock Hills Cabin Rentals provide the perfect setting to relax sore muscles while soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere. For more tips on timing your adventure, learn more about the best time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
2. Hemlock Hills Cabin Rentals – Your Smoky Mountain Home Base
Perfect for families, groups, or couples who want the best of both nature and convenience, securing the right place to stay is an essential part of your Gatlinburg adventure. Hemlock Hills Cabin Rentals offers one of the best selections of Gatlinburg vacation rentals, combining luxury amenities with authentic mountain charm. With private hot tubs, modern log cabin designs, and prime locations just minutes from Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, these cabins provide the perfect retreat after a day of exploring. Choose from cozy 1-bedroom escapes to spacious 5+ bedroom lodges complete with game rooms and stunning views.
🏡 Why Book Hemlock Hills Cabin Rentals?
✔ Prime Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge locations
✔ Hot tubs, game rooms & luxury amenities
✔ Wide variety of cabin sizes (1–5+ bedrooms)
✔ Minutes from Dollywood & Smoky Mountain National Park
✔ Family, group & couple-friendly options
👉 Explore Hemlock Hills Cabins Here
3. Experience Anakeesta Adventure Park
For a magical mountaintop experience that blends thrilling adventure with serene natural beauty, Anakeesta is a must-do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This unique outdoor park sits high above the city, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Smokies. Your adventure begins with a scenic ride up the mountain on either the open-air Chondola or the enclosed Ridge Rambler, setting the stage for a day of exploration and excitement in the whimsical Firefly Village.
Anakeesta is more than just an attraction; it’s an immersive experience designed for all ages. From treetop skywalks to heart-pounding ziplines, the park combines adrenaline-pumping activities with moments of quiet reflection. Whether you're seeking a challenge on the dueling zipline course or a peaceful stroll through the Vista Gardens, Anakeesta provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Top Attractions at Anakeesta
- Treetop Skywalk: As the longest tree-based skywalk in North America, this series of 16 suspended bridges lets you walk 50 to 60 feet above the forest floor for a true bird's-eye view.
- Dueling Zipline Adventure: Race side-by-side with a friend on high-speed ziplines that stretch across the mountainside, offering incredible thrills and stunning scenery.
- AnaVista Tower: Climb to the top of Gatlinburg's highest point for 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains, with interpretive signs pointing out major peaks.
Pro Tip: Purchase your tickets online in advance to secure your spot and potentially save time at the entrance. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking, and plan to spend at least half a day to enjoy everything the park has to offer.
4. Cross the Gatlinburg SkyBridge at SkyPark
For breathtaking, panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, the Gatlinburg SkyPark is an iconic attraction that delivers an unforgettable experience. Your journey starts on the classic yellow chairs of the SkyLift, which carries visitors from the heart of downtown up 1,800 feet to the top of Crockett Mountain. This gentle, scenic ride offers a unique perspective on Gatlinburg and is a perfect activity for all ages.
Once at the summit, the adventure continues on the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Stretching nearly 700 feet across a deep valley, it provides stunning 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains. For an extra thrill, the bridge features glass-floor panels in the middle, allowing you to gaze 140 feet down into the forest below. It's a fantastic way to experience mountain vistas without a strenuous hike.
Key Features of the SkyPark
- SkyLift: The smooth, open-air chairlift ride that serves as your transportation to the top of the mountain.
- SkyBridge: A thrilling walk across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge on the continent, offering unmatched views.
- SkyDeck: A spacious observation deck with a cafe, shop, and ample seating where you can relax and soak in the scenery.
- SkyTrail: An elevated boardwalk that follows the contours of Crockett Mountain, offering new perspectives of the SkyBridge and the Smokies.
Pro Tip: For the most dramatic photos, plan your visit during the "golden hour" just before sunset. The light creates a magical glow over the mountains. Purchase your tickets online in advance to save time at the ticket window.
After a day spent high above the city, returning to your cabin's private deck is the perfect way to continue enjoying the mountain air. For more ideas on how to get an elevated view, check out these other popular chairlift attractions in Gatlinburg.
5. Visit Dollywood Theme Park
Just a short drive away in neighboring Pigeon Forge, Dollywood stands as a world-class destination that is an essential part of any trip to the Gatlinburg area. This 160-acre theme park, co-owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, perfectly blends thrilling amusement park rides with the rich culture and traditions of the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s a top-tier attraction for a reason, offering an incredible variety of entertainment for all ages.
From heart-pounding roller coasters that race through the foothills to dazzling live shows and master craftsmen demonstrating their skills, Dollywood provides a full day of family fun. The park is also renowned for its award-winning seasonal festivals, like the Harvest Festival with its stunning illuminated pumpkins and the Smoky Mountain Christmas, which transforms the park into a winter wonderland.
Can't-Miss Attractions & Tips
- Wild Eagle: America's first wing coaster, this ride soars high above the park, giving you a thrilling bird's-eye view of the Smokies.
- Lightning Rod: A hot-rod themed wooden coaster that launches riders from zero to 45 mph up a massive hill before an adrenaline-fueled journey.
- Craftsman's Valley: Watch skilled artisans create beautiful glass-blown ornaments, hand-forged metalwork, and classic leather goods right before your eyes.
Pro Tip: Download the official Dollywood app before your visit. It provides real-time ride wait times, a park map, and show schedules, allowing you to maximize your day and navigate the park like a pro.
After a whirlwind day of rides and entertainment, retreating to a peaceful cabin is the perfect way to unwind. To find the perfect home base for your theme park adventures, you can find our top picks for cabins near Dollywood.
6. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Pigeon River
For an adrenaline-pumping adventure that gets you right into the heart of the Smokies' natural beauty, whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River is an essential activity. This thrilling experience offers one of the most exciting things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, combining spectacular scenery with heart-pounding rapids. Multiple professional outfitters guide you safely down the river, ensuring an unforgettable journey for both first-timers and seasoned rafters.
The Pigeon River is split into two main sections, allowing you to choose the intensity of your adventure. The Upper Pigeon features Class III and IV rapids for a wild and splashy ride, while the Lower Pigeon provides a gentler float trip perfect for families with young children or those seeking a more relaxed pace. No matter which you choose, you'll be surrounded by the pristine wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest.
Tips for Your Rafting Trip
- Choose Your Challenge: Select the Upper Pigeon for high-energy rapids or the Lower Pigeon for a scenic, family-friendly float.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear secure water shoes with good grip, a swimsuit, and quick-drying clothes. Avoid cotton.
- Be Prepared: Bring a towel, a change of dry clothes, and a waterproof camera to capture all the action.
- Listen to Your Guide: Pay close attention to the safety briefing and instructions on the water to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for everyone.
Pro Tip: Eat a light meal before you go to keep your energy up without feeling weighed down. Most rafting trips last a few hours, so you'll want to be comfortable and ready for paddling.
7. Explore the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community
For an authentic taste of Appalachian culture and a unique shopping experience, venture into the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community. This historic 8-mile loop is the largest group of independent artisans in North America, featuring over 100 artists and craftspeople in their studios and shops. Far from the typical souvenir stores, this community offers a chance to watch talented artisans at work and purchase one-of-a-kind, handmade treasures, making it a perfect activity to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
As you travel the loop, you’ll discover everything from intricate pottery and hand-blown glass to fine paintings, leather goods, and quilts. The community is not just a place to shop; it's an immersive cultural journey. You can often speak directly with the creators, learn about their techniques, and hear the stories behind their work, creating a much more personal and memorable experience.
Must-Visit Stops Along the Loop
- Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts: While primarily an educational center, its galleries are open to the public and showcase stunning works from regional and national artists.
- The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum: A quirky and surprisingly fascinating stop featuring over 20,000 sets of salt and pepper shakers from around the world.
- Local Pottery & Glassblowing Studios: Keep an eye out for numerous studios where you can watch live demonstrations of potters at their wheels or glassblowers shaping molten glass into art.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be getting in and out of your car frequently. Plan to spend at least half a day exploring, and consider visiting on a weekday to avoid the largest weekend crowds.
8. Discover Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
When you need a break from the outdoor adventures or a perfect plan for a rainy day, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies offers a world-class aquatic experience right in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg. This impressive aquarium is home to over 10,000 sea creatures, representing more than 350 individual species. Its engaging, family-friendly exhibits and immersive design make it one of the most popular attractions and a fantastic thing to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
The highlight for many visitors is the 340-foot underwater tunnel, where you can glide along a moving walkway surrounded by giant sea turtles, majestic sharks, and thousands of colorful fish. The aquarium also features a two-story coral reef, a playful penguin habitat, and interactive touch tanks where you can get hands-on with stingrays and horseshoe crabs. It provides an educational and entertaining outing for all ages.
Can't-Miss Experiences
- Shark Lagoon: Travel through the underwater tunnel on a moving sidewalk and come face-to-face with 12-foot sharks, giant stingrays, and a green sea turtle named Sally.
- Penguin Playhouse: Watch adorable African penguins waddle and swim in their expansive indoor and outdoor habitat. You can even crawl through clear tunnels to get an up-close view.
- Touch a Ray Bay: Gently touch graceful stingrays as they glide by in a shallow, interactive lagoon. It's a memorable experience for kids and adults alike.
Pro Tip: Purchase your tickets online in advance to save time and potentially get a better price. Plan to spend at least two to three hours here, and arrive early on weekdays to experience the exhibits with fewer crowds.
9. Hike the Local Trails
Beyond the main entrances of the national park, Gatlinburg and its surrounding areas are crisscrossed with accessible trails that offer some of the best outdoor activities to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. These local hiking and nature walks provide an intimate connection with the serene beauty of the Smokies, catering to every fitness level with options ranging from short, easy strolls to challenging all-day treks. It’s an ideal way to experience pristine forests, spot local wildlife, and enjoy the physical and mental benefits of being in nature.
Whether you are looking for a gentle walk to stretch your legs or a strenuous climb to a scenic overlook, you can find a trail that perfectly matches your agenda. Many of these paths are less crowded than the park's main attractions, offering a more peaceful and personal wilderness experience. This variety makes hiking a fantastic activity for families with young children, couples seeking a quiet escape, or solo adventurers looking for a challenge.
Essential Hiking Tips for a Safe Adventure
- Plan Ahead: Always research your trail's difficulty, length, and elevation gain before you head out.
- Gear Up: Wear proper hiking boots with ankle support and bring multiple layers of clothing, as mountain weather changes quickly.
- Stay Hydrated and Fueled: Pack plenty of water (at least two liters per person), energy-rich snacks, and a small first-aid kit.
- Inform Others: Let someone know your planned route and estimated return time as a safety precaution.
- Use Navigation: Hiking apps like AllTrails or Gaia GPS can be lifesavers for staying on course.
Pro Tip: Start your hike early in the morning. This not only helps you avoid afternoon heat and potential thunderstorms but also increases your chances of spotting wildlife like deer, black bears, and a variety of bird species.
After a rewarding day on the trails, nothing beats returning to a private cabin to rest and recover. To find the perfect path for your group, explore some of the best hikes in the Smoky Mountains.
10. Take a Trolley Tour or a Scenic Drive
For a relaxing way to see the sights without the stress of navigating or parking, the Gatlinburg Trolley Tours and local scenic drives are fantastic options. These experiences offer a guided or self-guided look at the area's history, culture, and natural beauty. The iconic, open-air trolleys provide a charming and budget-friendly way to explore downtown and the surrounding arts and crafts community, making it one of the most convenient things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
With multiple color-coded routes, you can hop on and off to visit key attractions, shops, and restaurants. For those who prefer their own vehicle, scenic drives like the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail offer intimate encounters with historic homesteads, rushing streams, and dense forests right from the comfort of your car. These tours are perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a more leisurely pace.
Trolley Routes and Scenic Drives
- Arts & Crafts Community Loop: This 8-mile trolley loop takes you through the historic Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, where you can watch artisans at work.
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: A 5.5-mile, one-way loop road offering glimpses of mountain streams, old-growth forests, and well-preserved log cabins and grist mills.
- Downtown River Road Trolley: This route provides easy access to Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the attractions along the Parkway, minimizing walking and parking hassles.
Pro Tip: Trolley fares are cash only and require exact change. Purchase an all-day pass for just a few dollars to get unlimited rides on all routes, offering an incredible value for a full day of sightseeing.
After a day of sightseeing, return to the peace and quiet of your private mountain retreat. You can explore more of the area's stunning routes and learn more about planning the perfect Smoky Mountain drive.
FAQ: Planning Your Gatlinburg Trip
What is the best month to visit Gatlinburg?
The best months to visit Gatlinburg are September and October for beautiful fall foliage and pleasant weather, or from April to May for blooming spring wildflowers. These shoulder seasons help you avoid the peak summer crowds.
How many days do you need in Gatlinburg?
A 3 to 4-day trip is ideal for experiencing Gatlinburg's main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you enough time to explore the national park, visit a major attraction like Anakeesta or Dollywood, and enjoy the downtown area.
What is Gatlinburg most famous for?
Gatlinburg is most famous for being the primary gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States. It's also known for its unique blend of outdoor adventure and family-friendly attractions like the Gatlinburg SkyPark and Ripley's Aquarium.
Can you walk around Gatlinburg?
Yes, the downtown Gatlinburg Parkway is very pedestrian-friendly. You can easily walk between shops, restaurants, and many attractions. For longer distances, the Gatlinburg Trolley is a convenient and affordable option.
Your Perfect Smoky Mountain Adventure Awaits
From the serene, mist-covered peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the vibrant energy of the downtown Parkway, Gatlinburg offers a rich tapestry of experiences designed for every kind of traveler. This guide has journeyed through the area's most iconic attractions, from the thrilling heights of the SkyBridge and Anakeesta to the cultural heart of the Arts & Crafts Community and the family-focused fun at Dollywood. The sheer variety of what to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a unique blend of natural wonder and curated entertainment.
Whether you’re planning a family getaway, a couples’ retreat, or a Smoky Mountain adventure with friends, Hemlock Hills Cabin Rentals delivers comfort, location, and unforgettable cabin experiences. With options for every group size, it’s one of the best ways to enjoy Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. By securing a cabin that complements your travel style, you empower yourself to experience the Great Smoky Mountains to the fullest, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Your perfect adventure is waiting.
Ready to find the perfect home base for your Smoky Mountain adventure? Explore the wide selection of cabins at Hemlock Hills Cabin Rentals, offering luxury amenities and prime locations near all the top Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge attractions. Book your unforgettable getaway today!
