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30 Best Things To Do In Gatlinburg (TN) That Will Make Your Visit Exciting

Hello there! It’s Nasiba.

What do you do when in Gatlinburg? You say yes to everything! Because everything in this mountain town is worth saying yes to.

I’ve always read about the Smoky Mountains and watched videos on YouTube. Their beauty is a natural wonder! But seeing them in person, boy, I was not ready! We did a self-driving tour with some friends who live here and they took me to all the beautiful spots. It’s an experience that will remain with me for a long time.

Another Gatlinburg experience that I’ll remember forever is the Mysterious Mansion of Gatlinburg. Now, I don’t like horror movies so this place was nowhere close to my list of things to do. However, my friends convinced me that it’s not that scary. I agreed to visit. Big mistake!

We went through dark passages that led to creepy rooms. You can’t see anything. Out of nowhere, a figure jumped in front of me in the darkness. I’ve never cried for my mother so loud! My friends tried to explain that these were just actors, but I was hearing none of it. I just wanted out! Nevertheless, I finished the horrific tour. Was it thrilling? Yes. Am I ever doing it again? NEVER!

With that said, see some of the activities I enjoyed doing in Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg is a mountain town in Tennessee.

It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, famous for being home to the world-renowned Great Smoky Mountains.

But what makes it a favorite destination for most tourists is because the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free to enter.

The Smoky Mountains are a spectacular sight.

A layer of blue-colored fog artfully hovers over the mountains, hills, and valleys, giving them a smoky look, hence the name.

Their beauty also lies in the lush green canopy of the forest vegetation in spring and colorful foliage in autumn.

Wondering where to stay in Gatlinburg? Explore the top Gatlinburg resorts with reviews.

But Gatlinburg is more than the famous mountains.

Visiting the city will not only give you an experience of a lifetime through its exciting activities but will also teach you the area’s local culture and history.

For example, at the Gatlinburg Farmers’ Market, you will learn about the most famous food in Gatlinburg and get an opportunity to try it in one of the local eateries like the Pancake Pantry.

There are many fun things to do in Gatlinburg, from walking on the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America to visiting a historical cabin owned by the area’s first settler.

Every activity that you will engage in is worth your time and money.

And as you will find out, there are also many free to do things in Gatlinburg.

To make your visit productive and memorable, we have put together some of the best things that you should not miss to do in Gatlinburg. Have a look:

Things to do in Gatlinburg

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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4.9

Entry tickets: Free entry

Address: 107 Park Headquarters Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • Receives over 10 million visitors every year
  • Spread on over 522,000 acres of land
  • The best time to visit is between June and August
  • Famous for being a free-to-enter US national park

There is a reason why the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States and one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg.

It is famous for its biodiversity of over 100 animal species, 50 fish species, 240 bird species, and 1,500 flowering plant species.

You will be dazzled by the scenic landscape dotted with tall trees, forest vegetation, mountains, hills, valleys, rivers, wooded trails, spectacular waterfalls, historic structures, and more.

Whether you’re traveling alone or with kids, you will find a tour of the Smoky Mountains National Park exciting and fulfilling. You can hike the scenic wooded trails, suitable for beginners, experts, and kids.

Depending on the season, enjoy a nature picnic surrounded by lush greenery, flowers, or colored foliage.

Kids can play around in the open spaces.

Indulge in myriads of outdoor activities like wildlife watching, biking, horseback riding, or going on a self-driving tour.

Remember to pick a map at the Sugarland Visitor Center that will guide you on how to go about exploring the park.

  • The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 30 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

2. Gatlinburg Space Needle

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4.5

Entry tickets: Adults $15.95, children (ages 4–11) are $9.95, and seniors (ages 60 and over) or AARP members: $12.95

Address: 115 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It is an observation tower that was established in 1970
  • It stands at 407 feet
  • The tower offers a 360-degree view of Gatlinburg city and the Smoky Mountains

The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a famous iconic observation tower that offers the most spectacular panoramic view of the surrounding landscape and the city.

You will see the mountains from an aerial view that unfolds their incomparable beauty. 

Visitors have the option of riding a glass elevator to the observation deck or taking 832 steps on open spiraling staircases.

The elevator and the artistically designed staircases offer a 360-degree view of the scenery as they take you to the top.

You will get a free viewfinder at the observation deck to watch the surrounding scenic beauty.

There are educational exhibits to teach visitors more about the famous mountains and the beautiful city.

The base of the Space Needle is also an exciting attraction for families and kids.

It is home to the Arcadia, where you will participate in a selection of games, the Iris Theater, where visitors can watch an entertaining show, and the Slice Pizza Bakery, where your family can enjoy a mouthwatering pizza or salad.

  • The Gatlinburg Space is 1 hour 8 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

3. Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

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4.5

Entry tickets: No entry fee

Address: 668 Glades Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It is the biggest community of artisans in the country
  • Home to over 100 artisans
  • Spreads over a 4-mile stretch with shops lined up on either side

If you love arts and crafts, the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is worth paying a visit. 

It is an organization of artisans showcasing and selling Appalachian arts and crafts.

It features a wide range of handmade gifts and décor pieces like baskets, ceramics, essential oils, candles, pottery, handmade glass, and paintings.

Explore the beautiful art and craft items on display as the friendly artisans happily explain the inspiration behind them.

It is one of the educative things to do near Gatlinburg, where you will learn more about local artistry.

It is an ideal stop to buy a souvenir or gift. 

If you get hungry, there is a lineup of restaurants and cafés like Crystelle Creek Restaurant & Grill or Three Jimmy’s Good Time Eatery, where you can enjoy a delicious local meal and drink.

  • The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is 1 hour 5 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

4. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area

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4.3

Entry tickets: No entry fee, however, you have to buy tickets for the different activities you want to participate in.

Address: 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • Offers a wide assortment of activities for families and kids
  • Mountaintop fun
  • It is open for business throughout the year

If you are looking for fun activities to do near Gatlinburg for the entire family, you should pay a visit to Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area. It has a mountaintop ski area and an amusement park. 

Visitors take a 120-passenger tramway to the top of the mountain. At the mountaintop, you will enjoy exciting activities like skiing, snow tubing, indoor ice skating, snowboarding, and water rides.

There are adventurous activities for kids, as well, at the kiddie park, the maze, and the zoo.

If you do not want to engage in the activities, you can ride on the mountain coaster to have a scenic view of the surrounding landscape.

The alpine slides will take you through the woods and down to the base of the mountain.

Other entertaining things in Ober Gatlinburg include playing golf in the mini-golf area and dining in the aerial tramway. 

  • Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area is 1 hour 10 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

5. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

The sidewalk entrance to the Hollywood Star Cars exhibit and museum attraction on the parkway downtown, with many popular rides from movies | Shutterstock

4.6

Entry tickets: $15 for adults, children 15 and under are free with the purchase of an adult admission ticket

Address: 914 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It was established in 1996
  • Houses cars from famous Hollywood TV shows and movies
  • A fun place for both adults and kids

Imagine getting into a car that has been driven by your favorite Hollywood actor! That’s what a visit to the Hollywood Star Cars Museum will help you achieve.

The one-of-a-kind museum collects, houses, and showcases notable cars used in Hollywood movies and TV shows.

Exploring the Hollywood Star Cars Museum is one of the most amazing things to do in Gatlinburg.

You will see your favorite Hollywood cars and take photos in them.

Some of the notable cars housed here are the General Lee from The Dukes of Hazzard, Paul McCartney’s Cadillac, The Beach Boys’ 1955 Thunderbird, and cars from The Fast and Furious movie franchise.

The museum, which takes about an hour to tour, is an exciting place to visit in Gatlinburg for adults and children.

  • The Hollywood Star Cars is 1 hour 4 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

6. The Village Shoppes

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4.6

Entry tickets: No entry fee

Address: 634 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • Located in Downtown Gatlinburg
  • It is home to over 25 shops and restaurants
  • A beautiful area to admire architecture and landscaping

Located in downtown Gatlinburg, The Village Shoppes is dotted with shops, stores, and restaurants, designed to give it a European District feel.

You can shop and dine here as you soak up its beautiful landscaping and architecture.

At The Village, you will taste delicious local cuisines in any of the beautifully decorated restaurants.

Interact with the lovely locals as they tell you more about the city’s culture.

There are gift shops, jewelry shops, toy stores, pottery shops, candy stores, and art galleries. 

  • The Village Shoppes is 1 hour 3 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

7. Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

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4.5

Entry tickets: Single-rider $16, a double-rider ticket for two adults $27, parent-child combo ticket $24, unlimited 1-hour pass for single riders only $30, same day re-rides for single riders $8

Address: 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It sits along the Gatlinburg Parkway
  • The Coaster can speed up to 35 miles per hour
  • An ideal adventure for adults and kids 

If you are looking for a fun-filled family adventure in Gatlinburg that will give you an adrenaline rush, be sure to check out Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster.

This family-friendly coaster ride will take you and your kids through the scenic forest terrain.

Adults should be at least 56 inches tall.

Children must be in the company of adults and should be at least 38 inches in height and 3 years old. 

Prepare to have a memorable adrenaline rush in this thrilling coaster ride as it weaves through the wooded trails of the Smoky Mountains.

You have control over the speed, which you can raise to 35 miles/hour if you are looking for an electrifying rush. 

  • Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is 1 hour 3 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

8. Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

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4.8

Entry tickets: No entry fee

Address: Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • The ideal place to have an aerial view of Gatlinburg and the Smokies
  • It is a free attraction site

Located about 30 minutes away from central Gatlinburg, the Scenic Overlook offers the most spectacular views of the entire city and the Great Smoky Mountains.

The area’s landscape is beautiful, and when observed from this viewpoint, it is a whole new level of breathtakingly beautiful.

Sitting on the Gatlinburg Bypass, the Scenic Overlook will allow you to see the area’s magnificent landscape that is characteristic of mountains, hills, valleys, and the city’s buildings.

You can take stunning photos here to freeze the beautiful memories.

The best time to visit is in the evening.

It is quite a spectacle as the sun sets on the horizon over the foggy mountains, painting the sky in pink and purple as it sinks behind the famous mountains. 

  • The Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is 1 hour 4 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

Planning another great trip in Tennessee? make sure to check our great list of things to do in Chattanooga & fun things to do In Nashville!

9. Tennessee Homemade Wines

Another snowy day in the Smokies! We’ll be sipping on some warm mulled wine today! | Facebook

4.3

Entry tickets: No entry fee except the cost of buying wine

Address: 643 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • A hub for homemade Tennessee wines
  • Founded by Gatlinburg locals
  • Made using locally sourced fresh fruits

It would be wrong to visit Gatlinburg and leave without getting a taste of the local wine. 

Tennessee Homemade Wines is a winery that produces and stocks locally crafted wine using locally-sourced fruits.

The winery owners are locals and thus will give you an authentic taste of Tennessee wine. 

After a long day exploring the mountains, coming back to a glass of wine made from fresh fruits such as blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries, is such a delight.

The winery offers visitors a wine-tasting experience to help them choose their favorite taste.

Purchase a bottle of wine from their wide selection, which includes the White Knuckle grape, the Old Apple Recipe, and more. 

  • Tennessee Homemade Wines is 1 hour 4 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

10. CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains – Zipline Tour

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5.0

Entry tickets: Mountaintop Zipline Tour from $99.00 / Adult (7+)

Address: 155 Branam Hollow Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It comprises 9 long ziplines
  • The thrilling adventure takes two and a half hours to complete
  • One of the signature adventures in Gatlinburg

Prepare for a 5-star experience with the CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains Zipline Tours.

It takes two and a half hours to tour all nine ziplines. The world-class ziplines will take you on a ‘flying’ adventure over tree canopies and mountains. 

As one of the top things to do while spending time in Gatlinburg, the zipline tour starts with a ride to the mountaintop aboard an ATV.

From here, you will have the exciting opportunity to go on a thrilling adventure by taking either the Mountaintop zipline tour or the Treetop zipline tour.

Both tours offer visitors a 360 degrees panoramic view of the Smokies. 

  • CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains Zipline Tours company is 1 hour 15 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

11. Gatlinburg Pinball Museum

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4.3

Entry tickets: $12 for adults, $10 for children under 10

Address: 205 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

  • It features over 100 pinball machines and arcade games
  • It takes you back in time with some retro games
  • Offers fun games for families with kids

Located on the Historic Nature Trails, the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum is one of the few indoor family things to do in Gatlinburg.

It has the biggest collection of pinballs in the city.

The famous museum is like a live arcade where you can try out the wide selection of retro arcade games and over 100 pinball machines. 

For a whole day pass, you will indulge in a wide range of games like car races, alien hunting, vintage video games, and more.

Kids and adults will equally have an experience of their lifetime trying out retro games in the permanent exhibits, as well as the limited-edition games and rare pinballs. 

  • Gatlinburg Pinball Museum is 1 hour 3 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

12. Ripley’s Believe or Not! Odditorium

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4.3

Entry tickets: $16.99 for adults (12+), $9.99 for children (3-11), free for children 2 and under

Address: 800 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It’s located in downtown Gatlinburg
  • Intrigues visitors with its strangeness and oddity
  • A fascinating attraction for both adults and kids

Ripley’s Believe it or Not! lives up to its hype by giving guests a fascinating, bizarre, and unique experience.

It houses unusual artifacts in interactive exhibits. It also has a 3D theater with seats that move visitors to the rhythm of the action taking place in the displayed films. 

Furthermore, the odditorium has mini-golf courses, a labyrinth of mirrors, and a haunted house to intensify the thrill. 

Take a tour of Ripley’s Believe or Not Odditorium to see over 600 intriguing exhibits where the unbelievable comes to life.

The exhibits include displays such as animal skeletons that are deformed, shrunken heads, and live actors inside the haunted house to complete the amusing oddities. 

With an aquarium that hosts sea creatures like live sharks, bat rays, and penguins, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is one of the amazing activities to do in Gatlinburg for families and kids.

  • Ripley’s Believe it or Not! is 1 hour 2 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

13. Anakeesta

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4.4

Entry tickets: Adults: (12-59) $32.99, Children: (4-11) $19.99, Seniors: (60+) $25.99, free for children 3 and under

Address: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • An award-winning family mountaintop park
  • It is located in downtown Gatlinburg
  • It sits on about 70 acres of land

Anakeesta is one of the best adventurous places to visit near Gatlinburg.

Not to mention that it also offers guests a mountaintop dining and wining experience, as well as some shopping fun.

It is also an ideal spot to soak up the beauty of Gatlinburg.

Anakeesta will take you on an exciting adventure with its adrenaline-packed activities that include skywalking, ziplining, and riding in a mountain coaster.

This spectacular mountain attraction is also home to Vista Gardens.

The garden is home to over 3,000 plant species.

Also on the mountaintop is Black Bear Village and Firefly Village, where you can enjoy a great outdoor shopping experience for souvenirs and branded items.

When it comes to food, there is a lovely lineup of eateries like the Cliff Top or Kephart Café.

They serve delicious servings like gourmet burgers and steaks. 

For complete the perfect Tennessee trip, you need to check out things to do in Pigeon Forge, as it’s one of top places to lure the tourists.

  • Anakeesta is 1 hour 1 minute from McGhee Tyson Airport

14. Mysterious Mansion of Gatlinburg

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4.6

Entry tickets: Adults/Teens: $15, children: $9, children 5 and under free. $2 increase during Halloween season

Address: 424 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • An attraction site since 1980
  • The oldest haunted attraction site in Gatlinburg
  • Ideal for both adults and kids

A family-owned attraction site, the Mysterious Mansion of Gatlinburg offers kids and adults a scary and thrilling experience as they go through the mansion’s creepy passageways. 

The three-story home, designed in a Victorian-era style, offers a wholesome spooky experience complete with flickering lights and live actors.

You will take a self-guided tour of the mansion through dark passageways into its creepy rooms as you try to find your way out.

Expect to be spooked and thrilled by the live actors who appear in the dark rooms from nowhere and then disappear without a trace.

There are mirrors on the walls, in which you will see ‘ghosts’ standing behind you.

To intensify its spookiness, the haunted mansion has cobwebs, corpses, and skeletons spread throughout its rooms.

  • The Mysterious Mansion of Gatlinburg is 1 hour 2 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

15. Smoky Mountain Riding Stables

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4.3

Entry tickets: $26.50 per person plus tax – 45 Minute-ride

Address: 1720 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • Gives guided horseback riding fun
  • It was established over 20 years
  • Ideal for both expert riders and beginners

Imagine a nature encounter in which you ride through spectacular wooded trails surrounded by lush forest vegetation, sounds of forest creatures, and across one of the most beautiful terrains in the country, all experienced on a horse’s back? 

This magnificent encounter is what the Smoky Mountain Riding Stables will offer you when you visit Gatlinburg.

What’s more, is that you can enjoy this experience with your kids!

Get on a horse’s back and take a guided trip through the breathtaking Smoky Mountains to see beautiful trails, rivers, waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic views. 

Don’t worry if you have no prior riding experience.

All the horses use a walking pace to accommodate everyone and ensure that you get the most out of your ride.

  • Smoky Mountain Riding Stables are 1 hour 6 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

16. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

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4.6

Entry tickets: Adult (12-64), $29.95, Senior (65+), $23.95, Junior (4-11) $18.95, Children 3 & below, free

Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It is home to the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America
  • It features the SkyBridge, SkyCentre, SkyDeck, and SkyTrail
  • It takes guests 1,800 feet above the sea level

The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is famed for giving guests an unforgettable ride on its iconic yellow chairs on the SkyLift. 

The ride will take you to the SkyLift Park where a great outdoor adventure awaits. You will have the opportunity to explore its new scenic SkyTrail, the famous SkyBridge, the SkyCentre, and the SkyDeck.

They all offer a different and unique experience.

Begin your day with the delightful SkyLift ride across the foggy Smoky Mountains.

It is a chance to witness the breathtaking transformation of the picturesque landscape setting as your ride takes you higher up the mountain. 

To maximize your experience, explore the park’s wide array of activities which includes taking a walk across the glass-bottom SkyBridge, enjoying a meal or drink at the SkyCentre, hiking the SkyTrail, or simply soaking up the beauty of the mountain scenery in the SkyDeck.

If you are traveling with your family and are looking for fun things to do near Gatlinburg with children, SkyLift Park should be top on your list.

  • Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is 1 hour 2 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

17. Pancake Pantry

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4.3

Entry tickets: No entry fee

Address: 628 Parkway, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

  • The ideal eatery for families and kids
  • Famous for its Flapjacks variety
  • It opened its doors in 1961

Before and after exploring various attractions in Gatlinburg, you need a place where you can enjoy a delicious meal to keep your energy level high and maybe even take away some snacks with you.

Pancake Pantry is that place.

Famous as a breakfast and lunch joint that serves local cuisines and general American cuisines, it is one of the best eateries in Gatlinburg.

Visit Pancake Pantry to enjoy its wide range of pancakes, waffles, flapjacks, and other breakfast choices.

It also serves delicious local cuisines for its lunch menu, prepared by experienced chefs. You will also get a vegetarian/vegan menu. 

You can eat here or take away your meal of choice.

  • Pancake Pantry is 1 hour 3 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

18. Mount LeConte

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4.9

Entry tickets: No entry fee

Address: Mt. Leconte, Tennessee 37738

  • Located inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  • It comes in third place as the highest peak in the Smokies National Park
  • It is the highest peak within Tennessee, at 6,593 ft.

Named after geologist Joseph Le Conte, Mount LeConte is one of the best places to visit in Gatlinburg if you are an avid hiker.

It is famous for its great but strenuous hiking trails that attract experienced hikers. 

A hike to and from the highest peak takes about 6 to 9 hours.

Take an uphill hike through the mountain’s scenic trails to any of its four subpeaks or the highest peak.

You will come across other hikers as the location attracts many hikers.

You will enjoy the spectacular view en route and a panoramic landscape view at the peak of the mountain.

The mountain’s peak is a popular spot to watch a magnificent sunset and sunrise over the foggy Smoky Mountains.

Mount LeConte is one of the free things to do in Gatlinburg.

  • Mount LeConte is 1 hour 16 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

19. Wild Bear Falls Indoor Water Park

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4.5

Entry tickets: Single-Day Admission: $24.95 +tax, 3-Day Admission: $53.85 +tax, 5-Day Admission: $84.75 +tax, Children under 3: free

Address: 915 Westgate Resorts Rd, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

  • It is a mountain-themed aquatic park
  • It is located near Pigeon Forge
  • It is a property of the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort

For days when you’ll want an indoor experience during your vacation in Gatlinburg, the Wild Bear Falls Indoor Water Park will meet your needs. The mountain-themed aquatic park offers guests a mountain experience without visiting the actual mountains.

Indulge in any of the aquatic activities in this 60,000 square feet aquatic park.

You can float in the lazy river, take an adventure in the treehouse, or let the water carry you in one of the giant water slides.

The park has a retractable roof to give you a view of the blue sky and a taste of sunshine.

It has heated water that contributes to its suitability as an ideal winter destination in Gatlinburg.

  • Wild Bear Falls Indoor Water Park is 1 hour 3 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

20. Gatlinburg SkyBridge

Skybridge Gatlinburg with blue sky background | Chansak Joe | Shutterstock

4.7

Entry tickets: Adult (12-64), $29.95, Senior (65+), $23.95, Junior (4-11) $18.95, Children 3 & below, free

Address: 765 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • Located in the SkyLift Park
  • It is 1,800 feet above the sea level
  • It is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America

The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is a suspended pedestrian bridge that offers visitors a wonderful experience of taking a walk across a deep valley.

The bridge’s floor is wooden with 30 feet of crystal-clear glass at the center of the walkway where visitors can see the valley below.

Take the SkyLift to the top of the park where you will find the famous SkyBridge, among other attractions.

As one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg, the bridge will offer you the opportunity to experience the thrill of being suspended in the air surrounded by a picturesque landscape of the Smoky Mountains region.

It will take you about three minutes to walk across the bridge, which is about the length of two football fields.

Walk at your own pace to soak up the scenic beauty of the mountains or to enjoy a magnificent sunset/sunrise. 

For similar articles about Tennessee trips, check out top things to do in Knoxville!

  • The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is 1 hour 7 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

21. Sugarlands Distilling Company

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4.9

Entry tickets: $12 per person per tour

Address: 805 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It is located in downtown Gatlinburg
  • It receives over 1 million visitors annually
  • It opened doors in 2014

Sugarlands Distilling Company is an award-winning distillery that produces a wide selection of rum, moonshine, rye whiskey, cream liqueurs, and more. 

The distillery’s traditional recipes are so good that the company has a TV show on Discovery Channel named Moonshiners Legends.

The locally-owned distillery offers visitors curated tasting and drinking experiences.

On your visit, you will taste some of their award-winning drinks and go on a behind-the-scenes tour to see where and how the production magic happens.

Owing to its popularity, Sugarlands Distilling Company is one of the things that should not miss your list of things in Gatlinburg. 

You can purchase any drink of your liking as well as the company’s merchandise selection.

  • Sugarlands Distilling Company is 1 hour 4 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

22. Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

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4.7

Entry tickets: $34 per person (must be 13 years and above)

Address: 903 Parkway #128, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It is located in downtown Gatlinburg
  • It is the first legal moonshine distillery in Tennessee

The Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery is famous for its original unaged corn whiskey.

It boasts of recipes passed down from original Ole Smoky families, who were among the first people to step foot in the region.

It is one of the most popular distilleries in Gatlinburg and visiting it will tell you why.  

Visit the distillery to see how legal moonshine production is done.

You will get a behind-the-scenes guided tour to learn the production process of their corn whiskey and the distillery’s heritage, which is the secret ingredient for its success.

Enjoy a tasting tour during which you will sample 13 of their best moonshine and whiskey.

The tour fee includes pre-determined merchandise and a 5% discount on all drinks in their stores. 

  • Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery is 1 hour 5 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

23. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

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4.6

Entry tickets: Adult (12 & Up) $ 39.99, Child (6-11) 24.99, Child (2-5) $9.99

Address: 88 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • A themed aquarium with over 10,000 exotic water creatures
  • It is rated the best aquarium in North America by USA Today
  • It is 85,000 square feet

The Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is the best in North America owing to its huge number of sea creatures.

Some of the creatures you will find here include sharks, stingrays, penguins, and sea turtles.

Set aside at least two hours of your day to fully explore the aquarium which is the longest underwater viewing tunnel in North America.

It has over 5.7 million liters of water and hosts 12-foot sharks, among other fascinating giant sea creatures.

Take part in educational programs, behind-the-scenes tours, glass-bottom boat rides, and more.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the most exciting and best things to do in Gatlinburg for families and kids. 

It also offers visitors an adrenaline-charged opportunity to sleep with sharks.

They have a designated tunnel-like area where visitors can lie on sleeping mats at night and quietly watch what sharks and other sea mammals do at night.

The sharks are above and beside you as you lie down. 

  • Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is 1 hour 2 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

24. Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

Miro Vrlik Photography | Shutterstock

4.3

Entry tickets: $12 for adults, $9.50 for children (5-11)

Address: 1001 Parkway #2, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It began operation in 1973
  • It facilitates the transportation of visitors to the ski area

The Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway boasts being one of the biggest tramways in the United States.

Visitors take the tramway to not only reach the ski area but also enjoy the scenic panoramic mountain views.

It is a suitable fun ride for both children and adults.

Take the tramway ride to soak up the sweeping beauty of the city and the mountains from an aerial view.

The stunning landscape below you and beyond will make the ride one of the most unforgettable rides of your life. 

The ride will take you to the top, a height of 11,088 feet, where you will find an amusement park, a zoo, and a skating ground.

Kids will have fun as they participate in the numerous activities in the amusement park like summer tubing, coaster rides, alpine slides, and winter activities like skiing and snow tubing.   

  • The Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway is 1 hour 6 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

25. Gatlinburg Farmer’s Market

The Gatlinburg Farmers Market | Facebook

4.0

Entry tickets: No entry fee

Address: 1222 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738

  • Showcases locally grown and produced products
  • A perfect place to visit for families and kids
  • Opened over 10 years ago

Gatlinburg Farmers’ Market features fresh farm produce and other locally made items in Gatlinburg. 

The market aims to promote efforts by local farmers and local business owners.

You will appreciate the market, especially if you are using a self-catering type of accommodation. 

Explore the market to interact with farmers and learn more about local farming and culture.

The popular market showcases products such as pumpkins, melons, berries, vegetables, natural honey, and baked goods. 

Visit to get a fill of your fresh produce and to have a taste of the delicious farm-to-table dishes served in the neighboring eateries.

The sellers are friendly and always willing and ready to answer questions from visitors.

If you would like to meet and interact with the locals, this is one of the best places to visit near Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg Farmers’ Market runs every year from mid-May to mid-October.

Every fourth Saturday of the month, the market features several fun children activities, like scavenger hunting, that kids can participate in as the adults explore the market.

  • Gatlinburg Farmers’ Market is 1 hour 7 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

26. Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen

Jon Kraft | Shutterstock

4.6

Entry tickets: No entry fee

Address: 744 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It was opened by Dave and Peggy Dych
  • The best place to visit for people with a sweet tooth

Candy is good for the soul! If you have a sweet tooth, you should make your way to Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen.

The candy store is the ideal place to visit for a candy treat and stock up on candy as you explore Gatlinburg.

Visit Candy Kitchen to explore their fresh candy collection and to watch the intriguing process of how candy is made.

The hospitable staff is generous enough to give you some samples to help you decide which type of candy is best for you or your kids.

If you are traveling to Gatlinburg with kids, you will want to include Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen on your list of coolest places to visit in Gatlinburg.

Your children will thank you for it. 

  • Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen is 1 hour 7 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

27. Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead

Collin Kendall | Shutterstock

4.8

Entry tickets: No entry fee

Address: 916 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It is located near downtown Gatlinburg
  • It is the only other trail that allows visitors to use bicycles and walk their dogs
  • It is a 3.8 miles hiking loop

Suitable for people of all fitness levels, the Gatlinburg Trail is a great place to enjoy a relaxed nature walk.

It is famous for being one of the only two trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that permits bikes and dogs.

Visitors experience the splendor of the lovely Little Pigeon River, which runs alongside the trail.

Enjoy a relaxing nature walk on the Gatlinburg Trailhead as you soak up the spectacular views of the Little Pigeon River, waterfalls, and the surrounding scenery.

You can also freely walk your dog on the trail and have him/her play with other dogs. 

If you’d like to enjoy a bicycle riding session, the Gatlinburg Trailhead is the ideal place to enjoy a quiet ride on a designated trail.

You will come across other biking enthusiasts since the trail is one of the two that allow bicycle riders in the area.

It is a loop trail, with Sugarlands Visitor Center marking the start and end of the trail.

  • Gatlinburg Trailhead is 1 hour 6 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

28. Noah “Bud” Ogle Cabin

James W. Thompson | Shutterstock

4.7

Entry tickets: No entry fee

Address: Cherokee Orchard Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It is named after William Ogle
  • It is a historic site that hosted the first settler in Gatlinburg, Martha Jane Huskey Ogle

The Noah ‘bud’ Ogle Cabin, also known as the Historic Ogle Log Cabin, is famous for its beautiful history.

It was built by Martha Ogle in 1809 using logs that her husband had put together when he cleared the land in 1802. 

Her husband, William Ogle, had intended to build the cabin for her and their children.

He died before making this a reality.

Martha and William were originally from South Carolina, and Martha only moved to Gatlinburg after her husband’s death to honor his wish of having his children live in the cabin.

Martha became the first settler in Gatlinburg.

Visit the Noah Ogle Cabin to learn its lovely history.

It is one of the historical things to do in Gatlinburg that is worth checking out.

The rustic cabin is still standing to date and has a tourist shop inside.

It also acts as a memorial site for Appalachian settlers.

  • The Noah ‘bud’ Ogle Cabin is 1 hour 10 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

29. The Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum

Oceans | Facebook

4.5

Entry tickets: $3.00 per person, free for children 12 and under

Address: 461 Brookside Village Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • A family-owned collection of salt and pepper shakers
  • The museum is home to over 20,000 sets of shakers

The collection was started by a couple fascinated by the many salt and pepper shakers they came across in their search for a pepper mill.

They decided to start a collection that is The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum today.

Seeing so many salt and pepper shakers in the same space is such a fascinating sight to behold.

It is more so intriguing to learn the story behind each of the shakers in the museum.

The museum also houses 1,500 pepper mills.

There is a gift shop that sells salt and pepper shakers as souvenirs.

  • The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is 1 hour 5 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

30. Iris Theater

4.7

Address: 115 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738

  • It is located in downtown Gatlinburg
  • An ideal place to visit for families and kids

If you are traveling with kids, the Iris Theater is one of the must-do things in Gatlinburg.

The theater offers fun and unforgettable shows and performances that cater to the whole family. 

The performers target people of all ages.

Your children will enjoy the show as much as you. 

Visit Iris Theater for a fun-filled session of magic, mayhem, and mindreading.

You will experience mind-blowing performances from Chris Collins, a magical comedian, and Erik Dobell, a mentalist.

Their performances have previously been featured by FOX and NBC in the show America’s Got Talent.

  • Iris Theater is 1 hour 9 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport

Have you ever visited the Mysterious Mansion of Gatlinburg? Let’s talk about your experience in the comment section below. See you on the next adventure!