There is a bar and plenty of seating for you to kick back, relax, and sip on your shine. I highly suggest visiting at sunrise for the best chance of seeing wildlife as well as the best place to see black bears in the smoky mountains. Cades Cove - Another scenic drive in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this one is an 11-mile one-way loop. Visit the Dolly Statue. If you want to kill time, kill it by doing something fun like observing those water inhabitants. The buildings are also open for taking tours, this a fantastic open-air museum. Prepare to brave the combo slide The Edge Watercoaster which provides an almost 200 meters long ride. Inspired by the ghosts and ghouls of Gatlinburgs past, it creates an atmosphere thats delightfully spooky. Glide and slide down the 150-meter-long slope, with its highest elevation reaching a 21-meter incline to ride down. This one-of-a-kind observation tower provides guests with 360-degree views of the smoky mountains. The rooms are also equipped with TVs, Wi-Fi, and some have a fireplace. If youre lucky and not screaming, or taking photographs you might even spot a grizzly. Suitable For: 12 and above Moonshine Mountain Coaster Source: @moonshinemtncoaster This alpine coaster takes roller coasters to a whole new thrilling level. Its the perfect place to go for a special Smoky Mountain souvenir. With numerous attractions to visit and enjoy, Gatlinburg will certainly be your favorite city in Tennessee. Time your visit for perfect weather to fly and get a birds-eye view of the magnificent mountain ranges. In Summer Something else you wont find a shortage of is a good round of hillbilly golf. Only 30 minutes away, Sevierville is an easy side trip from Gatlinburg. It has the largest collection of outdoor gear, apparel, footwear and souvenirs. Diverging into plentiful small cascades, its a spectacular sight to behold. As you arrive at Laurel Falls, spot mountain laurel blossoming along the trail and around the waterfall in shades of soft pinks (in May). Easy to reach by car, its considered one of the greatest free viewing locales in Gatlinburg. Want to really feel like a local? Hi! Cascading through valleys and mountains, the waterfall scene in Gatlinburg is next level, and you could dedicate an entire day just to go chasing waterfalls. The interactive puzzle-solving adventure game is jam-packed with exciting challenges that test your teamwork and creative thinking while taking you all over the city in search of your next clue. Keep those eyes peeled, as you won't want to miss a single 360-degree turn, curve, or tunnel. She looks (Do a quick search on the following sites). While perhaps not the most unknown drive, the views afforded by the Gatlinburg Bypass and the Gatlinburg Overlook make it worth a stop on any Smoky Mountain journey. Go white water rafting on the Little Pigeon River (from USD 43.0) Show all photos What do you think of water rafting? The Treetop package includes nine world-class ziplines, keeping you off the ground and among the trees for 2.5 hours non-stop. Specialties: The Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg is conveniently located on River Road, at the base of the Smoky Mountains, only 30 minutes from Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). Address: 561 Brookside Village Way Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Website: Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum Opening hours: 10am - 2pm (daily) Price: 3 USD You might be interested in these Airbnbs! Quaint coffee shop offering traditional beverages along with pastries & a variety of gifts for sale. As the name suggests, Off-Road Gatlinburg is all about the off-road experience and tours with this company favor different areas like the Appalachian Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains. There is a fair held in July and October. One of the most popular adventure parks in Gatlinburg, Anakeesta boasts a wide array of thrilling experiences. For even more puzzling adventures, Ripleys Marvelous Mirror Maze is a treat. No, your eyes arent deceiving you that house genuinely is upside down! You can have any trip that youd like, from a relaxing, week-long getaway to a jam-packed weekend with your best friends. All the fun of the classic bumper car ride is thrown into an ice rink! The Great Smoky Mountains are an untouched slice of Mother Nature. Grab this hassle free checklist of the top 110 things to do in London from a local, includes: . Visitors are able to see the distilling process up close while learning about the history of moonshine production in the Smoky Mountains. With an area designed to replicate the landscapes and mountain ranges of Tennessee, offering two 18-hole courses with a touch of humor into the mix. 10. For non-touristy stuff, you're gonna need to drive away from the area, I think. You can reach the mountaintop resort by taking the aerial tramway at Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg, which allows you to admire the marvelous scenery during the 2.1-mile transport. Sip on the original, or splash out with flavors like peanut butter and jelly or Appalachian apple pie. From the outdoor adventures of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the unique attractions in downtown Gatlinburg the number of things to do in Gatlinburg TN is astounding and incredibly diverse. This may be one of the most unique things to do in Gatlinburg! The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum. Located off of the East Parkway, this 8-mile loop is home to a variety of shops, galleries, and studios that showcase the work of our talented local artisans. Outside of the rooms, youll be able to enjoy both indoor and outdoor pools, grills, fire pits, a fitness center, and a kids club. Keep an eye out for the schedules of the next Amazing Gatlinburg Race! If you visit during the spring or summer, you can cheer on the Smokies, a Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Some stops include Sugarland Cellars, Bootleggers Homemade Wine and Little Bear Winery. Renting a vehicle is recommended, as the public transport options are limited. In addition to your in-room amenities, youll have easy access to hiking trails, three heated outdoor pools, a world-class spa, and a year-round water park. 903 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 There are few places in Gatlinburg that so perfectly display the spirit of mountain life like the Ole Smoky Moonshine distillery. Knoxville is one of the bigger cities in Tennessee but still has a very small-town feel. Leu Gardens. Order a cold one from the selection of the brewerys own branded beers on tap, or if youre here for serious business, try their Brew Samplers. Its only about a 35-minute drive from Gatlinburg but has plenty of shopping, dining and activities to offer. The sprawling landscape includes incredible lush forests and an abundance of wildflowers that bloom year-round. Well, there are plenty of non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, as well. If Moonshine just doesnt cut it, grab a glass or two of some of the states finest blends at Tennessee Homemade Wines. The live actors, spooky makeup and frightening special effects combine to make this one of the scariest attractions in Tennessee. Have you already visited all the popular attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and are looking to explore the Smokies in a different way? The entire journey takes about 10 minutes, dropping visitors off at Ober Gatlinburg, home to must-do activities like ice skating and the Alpine Slide. Ripleys Haunted Adventure takes haunted houses to the next level. All this artistry got you feeling famished? At 475 feet above the earth and with a scintillating top speed of 55 miles per hour, the Goliath zipline proudly wields the title of highest, longest and fastest zipline across the Great Smoky Mountains. Unravel the world of shakers at this zany museum, and investigate a collection of over 20,000 pairs of salt and pepper shakers. has been delighting, confusing and entertaining guests of all ages for decades. Before heading out for a hike, check trail conditions at the front door. The rooms have comfortable finishes and are well-equipped. 8. 22 Absolutely Free Things to Do in Gatlinburg, 5 Budget-Friendly Gatlinburg Vacation Tips, 7 Spectacular Things to Do in Gatlinburg at Night, 11 Most Romantic Restaurants in Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg Hidden Gems: 7 Secret Spots You Don't Want to Miss, Ultimate Guide to Ober Gatlinburg: Coupons, Discounts, and Deals, 16 Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Adults You Don't Want to Miss, Ultimate Guide to Anakeesta Coupons, Discounts, and Deals, Sip & Sample at Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries in Gatlinburg. Get cozy in their wood and chandelier accented dining room as you peruse their well-balanced menu. Rushing rivers, majestic Smoky Mountains, and an abundance of outdoor thrills are all part of Gatlinburgs charm. As one of the most popular walks in the park, the hike along Laurel Falls Trail is a two-hour round-trip. Zoom down the zipline, take a relaxing gondola ride, take a selfie with a (fake) bear, or overcome obstacles in the treetop play area. Providing beautiful cabin-style luxury accommodations, Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort offers a convenient location and scenic views. A recreation of the doomed ocean liner in the middle of the Smoky Mountains. You can also discuss the artworks with the artists. Hiking in the Smokies is one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg. While there are plenty of questionable brews out there, by far some of the highest-quality samples can be found at Americas most visited distillery Ole Smoky and the rustic award-winning Sugarlands Distilling Company. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Greystone Lodge on the River. Stock up on plenty of sandwiches, trail mix, and jerky as the Greenbrier Picnic Area is open year-round. Meanwhile, the Sky Lift soars 500 feet to the top of Crockett Mountain, offering even more incredible vistas. Spend time on your visit experiencing places that the locals go on a regular basis! While many visitors may flock to the Jewel of the Smokies for theme park excitement or rousing dinner theater, this lush Tennessee oasis is overflowing with off-the-beaten-path activities. 1. While theres no shortage of things to do within the Gatlinburg city limits, the citys true selling point is its proximity to some of the nations most beautiful natural hiking trails. Keep reading to learn more about the top ones. All Rights Reserved. The vegan scene is one of the best in the country, there are an immeasurable amount of amazing hiking opportunities and the whole town practically lives by a support local practice. For some of the best views of both the town and mountains, Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is smack bang between Gatlinburg Spur (connecting the city with the nearby Pigeon Forge) and the Great Smoky Mountains (along the Gatlinburg Bypass). To help you plan, weve created a guide to some of the best non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge: Would you love to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park but want to avoid the crowded, more popular trails? Mountain Mall Mountain Mall With its wooden architecture and kitschy, country-style shops, the Mountain Mall isn't your average shopping mall. Skate rental and lessons are available, so just bring yourself and a can-do attitude! Explore nearly 30 intriguing boutiques, restaurants and galleries, all brought together with an old-timey European flare. Mount Le Conte is a mountain in Tennessee located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Theyre located two blocks off the main parkway, free on-site Parkway, and walking distance to a trolley stop. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is a collective of artisans who offer many different pieces of arts and bespoke goods for you to collect and explore. The Greystone Lodge is family-owned and located in a very convenient location downtown. 5. Stock up on local and naturally made skincare, observe a blacksmith at work or pick out a leather creation by Gary McCoy. Sports fans dont have to wait until they get back home to enjoy a game or two. Rustic, industrial-chic moonshine maker offering indoor & outdoor tours, tastings & live music. Or, visit the restaurant during lunch time and your stomach will stop complaining after you savor the ordered dishes. Enjoy Gatlinburg! Just over half an hour away from downtown Gatlinburg, this quiet area of the Smokies is a great place to view the fall foliage, after enjoying lunch at the iconic Elviras Cafe. It is recognized worldwide as the most bio-diverse park in the national park system. The tower has an outdoor observation level that provides a 360-degree view of the Great Smoky Mountains and the city of Gatlinburg. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the spacious campground and picnic facilities and the Hen Wallow Falls Day Hike. These are some of the best non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge if you want to explore the Smokies like a local. Nantahala Outdoor Center is your one-stop-shop for everything outdoors kind of like a locals REI. Enjoy some seriously soft cuddles when you get friendly with everyones favorite South American mammal. Whether youre looking for some fun or wanting to improve your competitiveness, youve come to the right place. If youre traveling with the kids, Cataract Falls is a great option. Packed with super limited edition ones, this largest collection of pinballs in the city can easily fill up all your day with excitement. What are your favorite sites to tour or places to visit in Gatlinburg? Situated at the base of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, The Captured fuses the challenging detective work of an escape room. Get spoiled for choice at the Amazing Mirror Maze, one of the most popular family-friendly attractions in Gatlinburg. Following the trailhead with the same name as its 24-meter-high waterfall, Rainbow Falls gains its nickname because when the sun is shining, a rainbow glimmers in the air around it. Dollywood features over 50 enthralling rides spread across 150 acres, a number of award-winning eateries and regular live entertainment. This relatively quick cruise provides a sneaky way to avoid downtown traffic. A little over two hours away, Bristol is best known for the legendary NASCAR short-track Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol has come into its own by embracing its rich vein of musical heritage [the actual birthplace of country music], beautiful natural elements, and a big revitalization scene. Ober Gatlinburg is an amusement park with ice skating, skiing, and more. 318 places sorted by traveller favourites. This mountaintop wonderland also provides a fun and refreshing atmosphere for eating, shopping and relaxing with the lush forest and botanical gardens home to more than 3,000 plants. Though this trail can get crowded at times, its not as popular as Laurel Falls or Alum Cave, and it offers gorgeous views! Streams, rivers, and waterfalls appear along hiking routes that include a segment of the Appalachian Trail. Non-Touristy Things to Do in Washington, DC Besides Museums and Monuments Check Out Some Local Art at Blind Whino Hidden away from all the tourists in the streets of Southwest DC is a formerly abandoned church that fell into a vat of neon pixie dust, and opened its doors to the art community. Give them something from Gatlinburg. You would not want to miss the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a perfect spot for you to take a leisurely stroll or even hike. Are you a huge fan of baseball? Its the one-stop shop for interactive, family-friendly entertainment. Whether you are an adult or a child, this show will blow your mind away as master magicians perform their magic in front of the audience. Bigger groups can even rent out special areas, like the Yee-Haw Brewing Co. Bar. Make a stop at Wears Valley if you want to enjoy some serenity. Keep an eye out for wild turkeys, deer and even tree-climbing black bears! All Rights Reserved. It has reached the halfway point in Philadelphia, Tennessee. Stock up on sandwiches, biscuits, Frito pies, and more when you hit up either of their two Gatlinburg locations. You can take a road trip through the rural mountain roads and enjoy the quiet, natural beauty and streams. Suit up for a 3-hour scenic tour of the Smokies as you splash your way through Class III and IV rapids. Sample all the best fresh food Gatlinburg has to offer, while chatting to the friendly locals and the fan-favorite Farmers Market a city staple that operates most Saturday mornings. After all the outdoor activities and city exploring, treat yourselves to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in town. image by If you're looking for indoor fun in Gatlinburg, check out Wild Bear Falls Water Park. With secret passageways, winding staircases and creepy dark corridors, this is the place to go, especially if youre planning to release any bottled-up screams. Maybe theres a game that you just need to catch on the TV. For a pre (or post) hike breakfast, Trishs Mountain Diner offers classic eats with amazing service. We pride ourselves on serving innovative, tasty wines with an East Tennessee flair. Follow Pigeon Creek Trail for just over half a kilometer to reach it. Johnny Simon 08-Jul-2019. Refuel with a latte and pastry from Gatlinburgs Grind Coffee & Bakery. The Gatlinburg Wine Trail includes 4 different wineries where visitors can taste local wines for free! Appreciate the delicate art of basket weaving or watercolors when you stop by the arts and crafts community. See and interact with its latest collection of odd artifacts such as authentic shrunken heads, and a vampire killing kit. Easy to reach along the Cataract Falls Trail, the walk there and back is just over a kilometer. for a free tasting, or enjoy a glass of your favorite in our tasting rooms. If you are lucky, you may be invited to the stage and be part of the show. Inspired by the fun childhood moments of the entertainer Dolly Parton, this water park sits beside the Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge. Bike Ride at Downtown Tucson. The sidewalk entrance to the Hollywood Star Cars exhibit and museum attraction on the parkway downtown, with many popular rides from movies | Shutterstock. Paula Deens Lumberjack Feud Adventure Park tickets, Dolly Partons Stampede dinner show tickets, The Park Vista A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Gatlinburg, Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg On The River, Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts. A quick, entertaining activity during any day of exploring the main Gatlinburg strip, the 7D Dark Ride Adventure is an immersive, exciting activity for kids and adults alike. It features over 500 unique exhibits encompassing interactive installations, wacky tidbits, optical illusions and a space shuttle made from jelly beans. Located next to the entrance of the charming European-inspired The Village, the restaurant can be a great stop before or after exploring the artisanal shops. After tackling Goliath, theres still plenty more to do throughout the Firefox Mountain Adventure Park.