Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg Tennessee: 10 Can’t Miss Activities
Nestled in the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a mountain town bursting with adventure and jaw-dropping views. From rollercoaster giggles to mouthwatering dinner shows by the fireside, Gatlinburg knows how to serve up heaps of fun!
Follow along as we list down the top 10 fun things to do in Gatlinburg that you shouldn’t miss. Gatlinburg’s allure lies in its harmonious blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, family-friendly attractions, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where you can experience the best of the Great Smoky Mountains and create lasting memories with loved ones.
Whether you’re flying high on the famous aerial tramway or sipping on some fiery moonshine that warms your soul, Gatlinburg promises non-stop excitement.
But with so many thrilling options, you might find yourself scratching your head, wondering where to start. Fret not, as we’ve compiled this handy list of the best things to do in Gatlinburg to make your decision-making a breeze.
So, first, lace up your coziest boots. Then, fill your lungs with the fresh mountain air. Finally, prepare for a whirlwind of thrilling experiences in this lively valley town. Your unforgettable escapade awaits!
Ride into Adventure at Dollywood
Hold onto your hats and get ready for an adrenaline rush at the iconic Dollywood amusement park. Featuring heart-pounding rides like Lightning Rod, Wild Eagle, and Daredevil Falls!
With lively music, a warm down-home atmosphere, and the stunning Smoky Mountain backdrop, Dollywood is an absolute blast for visitors of all ages. It’s definitely one of the most exciting and fun things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge!
Experience the Thrills of Moonshine Mountain Coaster
Ready for a thrill ride with twists, turns, and gravity-defying drops? At Moonshine Mountain Coaster, you’ll zoom down nearly a half-mile of the exciting elevated track with endless views of the Smoky Mountains.
As you climb to the top in your cozy cart, the anticipation builds before you rush downhill at exhilarating speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. Experience a memorable ride filled with dips, spins, and turns as you coast along gleefully taking in the crisp alpine air and scenery.
And the best part? This scream-inducing ride offers free parking, making it easy to access the fast-paced fun!
Step onto the Gatlinburg SkyBridge and Soar Above the Smokies
Looking to add more to your list of 10 things to do in Gatlinburg? It’s time to step out over the treetops on the amazing Gatlinburg SkyBridge, North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge! As you walk 140 feet in the air over the lush trees, catch thrilling views of the majestic Great Smoky Mountains.
The glass-bottom observation deck offers a heart-pounding chance to stand on transparent panels peering all the way down. Feel like you’re flying as you soak up the breathtaking views of the Smokies while stepping out on the iconic Gatlinburg SkyBridge. You won’t want to miss it!
Unleash Your Creativity and Explore Artistic Treasures
The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is a haven for creativity, featuring over 100 shops and galleries filled with unique handmade crafts. Watch talented artisans demonstrate glassblowing, woodcarving, pottery-making, broom-making, and more traditional Appalachian crafts.
Find the perfect souvenirs like wood carvings, pottery, jewelry, quilts, homemade jams, and candies among the incredible array of local treasures. Unleash your inner artist and explore the bountiful creativity flowing freely at one of the 10 best things to do in Gatlinburg, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community.
Elevate Your Excitement at Ober Gatlinburg
For an extraordinary mountain adventure, hop aboard the scenic Ober Mountain: Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway that spans a whopping 2.1 miles. As you glide above the city, the views get more and more spectacular, with the Smoky Mountains stretching out in all their glory.
At the mountain’s peak, Ober Gatlinburg is a year-round playground, offering a ton of exciting activities like skiing, snowboarding, tubing, ice skating, mountain biking, and even a thrilling cliffhanger roller coaster! So, take your Smoky Mountain adventure to new heights – literally! You’ll also get to enjoy one of the top 10 things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge!
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Sip, Savor, and Celebrate at the Gatlinburg Distilleries
As you visit Gatlinburg, stop by the Ole Smoky and Tennessee Shine Co. distilleries to sample delicious moonshine, whiskey, rum, vodka, and more. Take an entertaining distillery tour highlighting the process of crafting smooth ‘shine and authentic Tennessee spirits.
With lively music, dazzling light shows, and plenty of free tastings, these distilleries invite you to sip, savor, and celebrate the spirit of Tennessee. From fruity-flavored moonshine to bold, charred whiskeys, the Gatlinburg distilleries offer an intoxicating taste of Southern culture, making this among the coolest things to do in Gatlinburg.
Trek with Fluffy Friends at Smoky Mountain Llama Treks
Most most fun things to do in Gatlinburg, you say? You’re in for a fluffy adventure! Furry, four-legged, and fabulously fun creatures, oh my!
Ever wondered what it’s like to trek with some of the fluffiest and quirkiest companions on the planet? Join a guided llama trek along the scenic hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Bond with your llama as you wander through lush forests and across babbling creeks on memorable guided treks. Trekking with llamas offers all the joys of Smoky Mountain hiking with the delightful perk of hiking buddies who hum as you ramble along!
Dive into a World of Wonder at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Situated right in downtown Gatlinburg, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies invites you to dive into an underwater world of amazement. Get up close to sharks, rays, jellyfish, and over 10,000 sea creatures as you walk through tunnels surrounded by water.
If you want to experience the top things to do in Gatlinburg, you can touch a small shark, watch penguins play, and be mesmerized by the giant sea turtles swimming gracefully all around you. Discover a world of aquatic wonder that will leave you in awe at Ripley’s unforgettable Aquarium of the Smokies.
Putt Your Way to Fun at Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf
Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini Golf, located right in the heart of Gatlinburg, is an exciting 18-hole golf course filled with caves, waterfalls, and friendly competition. Navigate around pioneer wagons, coonskin caps, and more as you putt your way through this Smoky Mountain-themed adventure.
With entertaining animatronic characters and pioneer structures, this family-friendly mini golf course offers a rootin’ tootin’ good time for all ages. Grab a putter and get ready for laughs and memorable moments as you putt your way to fun at Ripley’s frontier-style Davy Crockett Mini Golf.
Catch Unforgettable Gatlinburg Shows
After dark, enjoy dazzling entertainment like Dolly Parton’s Stampede dinner show with thrilling horse stunts, bluegrass music, and mouthwatering food.
For an evening of wonder, catch the Impossibilities – Magic, Mindreading, and Mayhem! featuring spellbinding magic, mentalism, and family-friendly comedy.
From musical extravaganzas to magic and illusion, the lively shows make for unforgettable fun things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. When the sun goes down, witness the Smoky Mountains come alive with Gatlinburg’s fantastic live performances and shows! Trust us, you’ll be glad you did!
Discover the Fun Things To Do in Gatlinburg TN with Tripster
From outdoor adventures to unique attractions and entertainment, there are so many ways to experience the fun things to do in Gatlinburg Tennessee.
Come, be part of the non-stop entertainment, and dive into the rich local culture. And bask in the natural splendor that transforms Gatlinburg into an unforgettable vacation wonderland!
Why wait? Don’t delay – book your attractions, hotels, and vacation packages through Tripster today! You’ll find peak happiness and summit excitement at Tripster Gatlinburg offerings!
Tell Us, What Fun Things To Do in Tennessee Gatlinburg Did We Miss?
What other fun Gatlinburg activities and attractions would you add to our list? Let us know in the comments below!
