In the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a charming town brimming with natural beauty, captivating history, and endless opportunities for fun. Whether you're planning a family getaway, seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure, or yearning to step back in time, Gatlinburg offers a treasure trove of activities that cater to all.
From scenic drives and mountain coasters to museums that bring history to life, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque town. Dive into Staylah's top picks for things to do in Gatlinburg and start planning your unforgettable Smoky Mountain experience!
Family-Friendly Activities
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Address: 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Dive into the wonders of the ocean at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. This world-class aquarium features over 10,000 exotic sea creatures and offers interactive experiences like the Penguin Playhouse and Shark Lagoon Tunnel. Perfect for families, this aquarium provides an educational yet entertaining day out.
Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Anakeesta is an outdoor adventure park that offers something for everyone. Take a scenic chairlift or ride a gondola to the summit, where you’ll find treetop canopy walks, ziplines, a mountain coaster, and magical botanical gardens. The park also features dining options with stunning views of the Smokies.
Address: 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Ober Mountain provides year-round family fun with activities ranging from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to wildlife encounters, alpine slides, and scenic chairlift rides in the warmer months. Don’t miss the Aerial Tramway, which offers breathtaking views as it transports you from downtown Gatlinburg to Ober Mountain.
Address: 115 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Take in panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains from the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle. After enjoying the 400-foot observation tower, explore the arcade, grab a bite at the onsite pizzeria, or catch a show at the Iris Theater.
Address: 716 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Gatlin’s Fun Center is a one-stop shop for family entertainment! Offering mini-golf, laser tag, escape games, and bumper cars, there’s no shortage of excitement here. Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, Gatlin’s is perfect for families looking for a variety of activities all under one roof.
Wild Bear Falls Indoor Waterpark
Address: 915 Westgate Resorts Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Beat the heat or escape a rainy day at Wild Bear Falls, an indoor waterpark themed around the Great Smoky Mountains. With water slides, a lazy river, and a zero-entry pool for the little ones, it’s a great place for families to splash around and have fun.
Recreational Adventures
Address: 155 Branam Hollow Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
For adrenaline junkies, Climb Works Smoky Mountains offers ziplining tours that let you soar over the lush forest canopy. Their dual ziplines allow you to race with friends while taking in stunning mountain views. The company also offers mountain biking trails for those who prefer adventure on two wheels.
Address: 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Experience the thrill of a mountain coaster that you control! The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster allows you to set your speed as you twist and turn through the Smoky Mountain landscape. It’s a unique way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty with an added rush of excitement.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Address: Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Smokies with a drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This 5.5-mile loop offers scenic views, historic buildings, and access to hiking trails, including the popular Grotto Falls. It’s a perfect blend of nature and history, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore.
Nantahala Outdoor Center Gatlinburg
Address: 1138 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Get your fill of outdoor adventures at the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) in Gatlinburg. From white water rafting and kayaking to ziplining and hiking, NOC offers a variety of guided experiences in the stunning natural surroundings of the Smokies.
Address: 1409 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Explore the Smoky Mountains on horseback with Sugarlands Riding Stables. Offering guided horseback rides through scenic trails, this adventure is suitable for riders of all levels. It’s a peaceful way to experience the area’s natural beauty up close.
Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
For breathtaking views and a touch of adventure, visit Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Ride the SkyLift to the top of Crockett Mountain and walk across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. The park also features an observation deck with panoramic vistas of the Smokies.
Historical Hot-Spots
Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
Address: 668 Glades Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Step back in time and experience the artistry of the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Established in 1937, this 8-mile loop is home to the largest group of independent artisans in the country. Visitors can watch live demonstrations, browse unique crafts, and purchase handmade goods that reflect the cultural heritage of the Smokies.
Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum
Address: 7747 E Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882
Explore the rich history of the logging industry in the Smokies at the Little River Railroad and Lumber Company Museum. This museum showcases artifacts, photographs, and a restored Shay locomotive, offering a glimpse into the early days of the region’s development.
Gatlinburg’s Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
Address: 461 Brookside Village Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Quirky and fascinating, the Gatlinburg Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum features over 20,000 sets of salt and pepper shakers from around the world. It’s a fun, offbeat stop for history buffs and collectors alike, providing a unique perspective on cultural history through the lens of everyday items.
Christ in the Smokies Museum & Gardens
Address: 520 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Visit the Christ in the Smokies Museum & Gardens for a spiritual and historical journey. This wax museum tells the story of Christ’s life through life-sized dioramas, while the serene gardens provide a place for reflection and meditation.
Address: 88 River Rd. Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Delve into the past at the Gatlinburg History Museum, where you can learn about the town’s origins, the development of the tourism industry, and the role of the Smokies in shaping the community. The museum features exhibits that highlight the stories of early settlers and the evolution of Gatlinburg over the centuries.
Address: Cherokee Orchard Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Step into the life of Gatlinburg’s early settlers at the Historic Ogle Cabin. Built in 1807 by the first European settlers in the area, this preserved cabin offers a glimpse into the daily lives of those who shaped the history of Gatlinburg. It's a small but significant piece of the town's heritage, located near the center of town.
Pack your bags and set your sights on Gatlinburg—where history, adventure, and family fun come together in one unforgettable destination!
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