Gatlinburg is a beautiful mountain town located in eastern Tennessee, United States. It is a popular vacation destination because of its breathtaking mountain views and stunning landscapes. Gatlinburg also has various visitor activities and attractions, including theme parks, shows, and other tourist experiences. This bustling town attracts more than 12 million visitors each year.
Whether for families, couples, or solo travelers, there is something for everyone in Gatlinburg. The town offers great outdoor activities such as zip lining, fishing, hiking, rafting, and horseback riding that will keep you happy and entertained throughout your trip.
However, planning a trip to Gatlinburg can be overwhelming, with so many options to consider and things to do. Don’t know where to start? Here are some tips.
- Where to stay?
When planning your trip, you must choose the accommodation that suits your budget and requirements. If you desire a relaxing vacation while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains, staying at hotels would be an ideal choice.
Gatlinburg offers a variety of hotels to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury stays. You can look up a suitable hotel in Gatlinburg TN online by checking websites and user reviews.
Hotels include amenities such as outdoor pools, hot tubs, private balconies, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants. They also provide a shuttle service to and from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Beyond hotels, these cabins in Gatlinburg provide another excellent lodging option. These range from cozy one-bedroom retreats to spacious multi-family lodges, often featuring rustic decor, fully-equipped kitchens, and outdoor spaces where you can truly immerse yourself in the mountain atmosphere.
- Check for favorable weather
Gatlinburg has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit the city depends on your preferences and the activities you want to enjoy. Here is a breakdown of the weather in Gatlinburg by season:
- Spring (March-May) – Spring is a pleasant time with temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F. The weather is mild, with some rain and occasional thunderstorms.
- Summer (June-August) – Summer is the peak tourist season in Gatlinburg, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Temperatures can reach from 80°F to 90°F, with high humidity. So, stay hydrated and wear sunscreen when enjoying outdoor activities during this time.
- Fall (September-November) – Fall is a beautiful time with cooler temperatures and colorful foliage. Temperatures range from 50°F to 70°F, with occasional rain and cooler evenings.
- Winter (December-February) – Winter in Gatlinburg can be chilly, with temperatures dropping between 30°F and 50°F. The area occasionally experiences snow and ice, so it is important to pack appropriately if visiting in winter.
- Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a large, protected area in the Appalachian Mountains of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina. It is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, with over 14 million visitors in 2021.
The park is home to a diversified range of plants and animals, including over 1,500 flowering plants and more than 200 birds. It is also home to the highest peak in the eastern United States, Clingmans Dome, which rises to an elevation of 6,643 feet.
The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, horseback riding, and picnicking. Several historic sites also provide a glimpse into the Appalachian culture. While planning to visit, be sure to bring your camera and take time to appreciate Mother Nature.
- Indulge in outdoor activities
Gatlinburg is known for its adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, making it equally popular among nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some outdoor attractions worth considering:
- Hiking – Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas have over 800 miles of hiking trails. From easy, scenic walks to challenging backcountry treks, there is something for every level of hiker.
- Rock climbing – The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to numerous rock-climbing routes, ranging from beginner to advanced level.
- Zorbing – Zorbing is an activity in which a person is placed inside a large, transparent plastic ball and then rolled down a hill. The Outdoor Gravity Park in Gatlinburg offers zorbing as one of its attractions.
- Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway – The Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway is a gondola lift that takes visitors from downtown Gatlinburg to the top of Mount Harrison. At the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Smokys, go skiing or snowboarding in the winter, or visit the Wildlife Encounter, which features a variety of animals.
- Ziplining – Gatlinburg offers several zipline tours, allowing you to soar through the treetops and take in the stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Visit local attractions
Some popular attractions in Gatlinburg include the following:
- Dollywood Amusement Park – Dollywood is owned by country music singer Dolly Parton. The park features a variety of adventure rides, live music shows, and southern-style food. It’s the ideal picnic spot for families.
- Ripley’s Aquarium – Ripley’s Aquarium is a popular downtown Gatlinburg attraction featuring a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
- Gatlinburg Space Needle – The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 407-foot-tall observation tower that offers scenic views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
- Titanic Museum – The Titanic Museum offers an interactive look at the famous ocean liner and its fateful voyage.
- Gatlinburg SkyLift Park – Gatlinburg SkyLift Park features a scenic chairlift and several outdoor activities, including a zipline and a suspension bridge.
- Anakeesta – Anakeesta is a mountain-top adventure park that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including a tree canopy walk, a zip line tour, and a mountain coaster.
- Where to eat?
Gatlinburg has a diverse culinary scene with a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and budgets. Here are a few ideas for where to eat in Gatlinburg:
- Local restaurants – Gatlinburg has several locally owned restaurants offering a variety of cuisines, including southern comfort food, Italian, Mexican, and more. Some popular options include Crockett’s Breakfast Camp, The Peddler Steakhouse, and The Melting Pot.
- Fast food and chain restaurants – There are several fast food and chain restaurants in Gatlinburg also, including Burger King, McDonald’s, and Subway, as well as local chains like the Pancake Pantry and the Donut Friar.
- Cafes and coffee shops – For a lighter meal or a pick-me-up, Gatlinburg has several cafes and coffee shops, including the Smoky Mountain Coffee Roasters, the Donut Friar, and the Croissant d’Or Patisserie.
- Places to shop
There is a wide variety of shopping options in Gatlinburg, including souvenir shops and local artisan boutiques to national chain stores and outlet malls. A few popular shopping spots in Gatlinburg are:
- The Village – The Village is a pedestrian-friendly shopping complex with a variety of specialty shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
- Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community – Located just outside of downtown Gatlinburg, this 8-mile loop is home to several artisan studios and galleries showcasing the work of local artisans and artists.
- Tanger Outlets – This large outlet mall is located just outside downtown Gatlinburg and features a variety of popular brands, including Nike, Adidas, and Levi’s.
- The Mountain Mall – The Mountain Mall is a large indoor shopping center with a variety of specialty stores, souvenir shops, and restaurants.
Conclusion
Planning a trip to Gatlinburg can be an exciting and enjoyable experience. By following the tips outlined in this blog, you can make the most of your trip and have a memorable vacation. These tips include researching the best time to visit, choosing the right accommodations, and planning an itinerary. By planning and being prepared, you can ensure your trip to Gatlinburg is a success. So why wait? Start planning your trip today and discover all that Gatlinburg has to offer.
