If you are looking for some outdoor adventure paired with cityscapes, food, and shopping, then Gatlinburg is the place to be. It has everything from lavish lodges to mountain streams, waterfalls, hiking trails, museums, theme parks, roller coaster rides, and entertainment at every corner.
It is one of the most popular and populated family vacation destinations, and for the right reasons. It is open year-round and a short drive away from most states. It is also convenient for spontaneous visits, weekend getaways, or long holidays. No matter how long you stay, you will hardly get bored and will not run out of things to do and places to visit.
However, if you have never been to the capital of Appalachian Disneyland before, you must prepare some essential tips to make the most out of it.
- Where to Stay
The foremost thing you must consider is your lodging option. Make sure that you choose the most comfortable staycation spot to make the most of it. It is better to book your rooms if you are planning to travel with your family. Gatlinburg offers activities and comfortable stays for all ages, so do not hesitate to bring everyone, including your kids and pets.
One of the best options is to stay in a Gatlinburg hotel with an indoor pool. You will get the privacy you need this way, with the whole family jumping in to relax. You will also find a kiddie pool for the kids that is shallower than the pool for adults. It is ideal for spending your summer vacation in Gatlinburg, where you can take a refreshing swim whenever you like. You will also find a poolside café next to the outdoor pool, perfect for poolside lunch, picnics, evening tea, or coffee. During winter, you will get heated pools and a sauna to relax.
- Breakfast Specialty
Gatlinburg’s specialty as a mountain resort is its breakfast of pancakes. You will find several pancake houses all across the city in different flavors and with fruits. Gatlinburg’s Pancake Pantry was Tennessee’s first pancake house and is now the pancake capital of the US. Some regional staples include buckwheat and buttermilk pancakes, among others.
You can combine pancakes with waffles, French toast, sausages, eggs, tea, or coffee. You must eat your fill before heading out for the day. Since Gatlinburg offers many physical activities, it is better to have a grand breakfast.
Alternatively, several sandwich shops and bakeries sell breakfast bagels and donuts with coffee. Most of the breakfast spots usually close around 2 PM, while others stay open until 4 PM.
Moreover, you also have the option to cook breakfast yourself. Your hotel room may have a stocked kitchen with all staples. Or, you can get the required supplies and cook by yourself.
- Pack the Essentials
Remember that you are traveling to the mountains. That means expect the weather to get colder as you hike up the mountains. However, temperatures may vary during summer. Therefore, pack your clothing items accordingly. Remember to bring your hiking gear, such as hiking shoes and socks, a tee shirt, jacket, hat, backpack, water bottle, and snacks for hiking.
Moreover, no matter how cold it may be, you can still get a suntan. Therefore, bring sunscreen and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes. Also, carry a rain jacket with you as it may rain unexpectedly in the mountains.
A good camera must capture panoramic mountain views, selfies, and group photos. Remember to carry a backup charging bank, especially if you plan an entire day of adventure. A portable internet device will also be helpful if you want to stay connected.
- Plan Your Day in Advance
It can become overwhelming with so many places to visit when in Gatlinburg. Save your time by planning your day and scheduling your visits. For example, you can get a sightseeing flex pass and choose your adventures, such as visiting Anakeesta theme park, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Ober Gatlinburg, and other amusement parks.
Similarly, you can plan your next day by visiting Dollywood. It has over 50 rides and hosts festivals and events. It is a family-friendly park with exciting activities for kids. Moreover, you can go golfing on the mini golf course, go white water rafting, visit SkyLift Park, and take a private helicopter tour.
When it comes to museums, the Titanic Museum and the Upside Down building are two of the most famous ones. They offer guided tours describing the historical significance of each. These museums are ideal for history buffs and curious minds. The Haunted Gatlinburg Tour offers a walking tour of the haunted places in the city after dark. You can also go on a self-driving trip to all the hottest spots.
Planning your day will make your trip more fun and ensure you enjoy everything interesting. Keep yourself updated with all your favorite places and plan accordingly.
Conclusion
If you visit Gatlinburg once, you will want to visit it repeatedly. Therefore, it is better to familiarize and prepare yourself to make your trip as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Make sure you stay in a hotel with pools for the most relaxing staycation. Have breakfast before heading out and plan your day. If you go hiking, pack lighter, only carrying the essentials like your hiking gear, snacks, and water. Consider the changing weather and wear layers.
