6. Or pick up a bottle of Pigeon Forge blush to go. While we would never describe the nations most visited National Park as a unique thing to do in Gatlinburg,' within the parks lush 522,427 acres lies plenty of under-the-radar hiking trails, scenic drives, and picnic areas. Zoom down the zipline, take a relaxing gondola ride, take a selfie with a (fake) bear, or overcome obstacles in the treetop play area. To save you time and help you find great local restaurants, we've made this list of the top 7 favorite places where locals eat in Gatlinburg, TN! Departs regularly from downtown Gatlinburg to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area and Amusement Park. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Vegan LifestyleTravel InspirationDestinationsScuba Diving, AboutContactPressShopNewsletterBlogging ResourcesPrivacy Policy & Disclaimer. Museum of the Dukes of Hazzard TV show with indoor go-kart & mini-golf, run by actor Ben Jones. Have you already visited all the popular attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and are looking to explore the Smokies in a different way? Stock up on local and naturally made skincare, observe a blacksmith at work or pick out a leather creation by Gary McCoy. Thats not a typo, the theater at Ripleys Gatlinburg really ismoving! Get an ultimate fun pass which includes a tour in this famous haunted house any time of the year. A second spot whose name helps paint a picture; The Place of a Thousand Drips is one of the waterfalls in the park accessible by car, with no hiking needed to reach it. It offers rushing mountain streams, glimpses of old-growth forest, and a number of well-preserved log cabins, grist mills, and other historic buildings. Head to a Tennessee Smokies game! Enjoy spectacular views year-round from aboard 120-passenger Aerial Tramway. Visiting Roaring Fork is done by a paved one-way, 5.5 mile drivable loop, located near Gatlinburg and one hour away from Cades Cove. She looks (Do a quick search on the following sites). Use our epic guide to get an insiders peek into the locals only section of Gatlinburg today! Its putt-putt but as youve never seen before. Unravel the world of shakers at this zany museum, and investigate a collection of over 20,000 pairs of salt and pepper shakers. The best time to visit Gatlinburg sincerely depends on your goal of visiting. Wild Bear Falls Water Park. Gatlin's Fun Center. The SkyBridge - which offers iconic views of Downtown Gatlinburg TN, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and more - isn't entirely made of glass. So whether you want a city getaway or a more natural . Walk across the longest pedestrian bridge in North America, taste test moonshine at Ole Smoky, and go whitewater rafting all in the same weekend. Depending on when you plan your Smoky Mountain visit to Cosby, you could be greeted by dwarf irises, bleeding hearts, and phacelia or vibrant autumn leaves. Home to a handful of local wineries, theres a splash of wine-infused activities to try out in Gatlinburg, from tastings to tours to trails. Feel the thrills as you dip and soar over Rowdy Bear Ridge. From secret abodes hidden deep in the hills to the infamous Bell witch. Then warm up afterward with a cup of hot chocolate at the Sugar Bears Caf And Creamery. Rates: Minimum stay is two nights; rates vary by cabin but start at $225 . Diverging into plentiful small cascades, its a spectacular sight to behold. It takes all the marine wonder of your typical aquarium with over 10,000 exotic sea creatures spread across 10 uniquely themed galleries. Skip out on the tourist traps, and instead feast like an insider when you dine at any of the most lauded local hangouts: Catch up on the game, chow down on award-winning jumbo wings, and keep the kids entertained at Pigeon Forges only family sports grill and bar. Maybe theres a game that you just need to catch on the TV. Sleeping six guests revel in peace and tranquility. However, there are some areas that locals prefer for hiking to get away from the crowds. See and interact with its latest collection of odd artifacts such as authentic shrunken heads, and a vampire killing kit. East Tennessee is known for its stunning mountain ranges, natural beauty, and amusement parks abound, but did you know that it is also one of the biggest art communities in the United States? Gatlinburg is a great location for a romantic getaway, a group of friends, and families with small kids. You can even bring your pets along to Four Sisters Old Time Photos. Meet and interact with a penguin you can also create art together. As you stroll through the aisles, expect rows of just-picked fruits and vegetables, scrumptious cookies (Josies Cookies), dehydrated chili flakes (Olde Virdens Red Hot Sprinkle), lovely handmade soaps (Kulturology Soap Co), and plenty more. Get cozy in their wood and chandelier accented dining room as you peruse their well-balanced menu. Streams, rivers, and waterfalls appear along hiking routes that include a segment of the Appalachian Trail. Or, why not try them all? I get a little upset when people go here and only stay in town. The hike begins at the Newfound Gap parking lot and continues for 4 miles along the Appalachian Trail. But I'm wondering if. Gatlinburg Space Needle. Visit Smoky Mountains Outdoor Rafting and jump into the smaller boat in the extreme upper river section for a heart-pumping adventure. Another small town that is worth exploring is the Pittman Center. For one of the best outdoor activities in Gatlinburg, soar over the city and the endless greenery of Tennessees Smoky Mountains on board a hot air balloon. After gawking at the pros in action, try log rolling or speed climbs yourself (safely harnessed, of course). All this artistry got you feeling famished? 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. Its only about a 35-minute drive from Gatlinburg but has plenty of shopping, dining and activities to offer. 6. Spread across the two 18-hole courses are plenty of clich hillbilly and redneck decor: outhouses, moonshine stills and farm equipment, to name a few. Only 30 minutes away, Sevierville is an easy side trip from Gatlinburg. The fourth option, Hit Parade transports guests into the 50s and 60s with chart-topping hits from the likes of Elvis and Neil Diamond! The trail ascends Mount Le Conte, the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River, and passes Rainbow Falls before absorbing the Alum Cave Trail and terminating near the LeConte Lodge. During the winter months from mid-December to mid-March, skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes and even non-skiers enjoy . Embrace almost 10 minutes of high-speed thrills as you ride the longest coaster in East Tennessee. Grab a spot around the patios fire pit for an unforgettable night. At the family-fun center, catch a fantabulous Magic Show performed by a top mentalist and magician, or ride a glass elevator to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle tower for panoramic city views. Try out the baked cheese, decadent desserts and, of course, their signature Plum Tea. Its 680 feet across and you can look 140 feet down through the glass floor halfway through. In the midst of a hemlock forest discover the seven-meter-high Grotto Falls, accessible via the Trillium Gap Trail. Did you even visit Gatlinburg if you didnt make it to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park? 11. Embrace almost 10 minutes of high-speed thrills as you ride the longest coaster in East Tennessee. Before heading out for a hike, check trail conditions at the front door. You can take a road trip through the rural mountain roads and enjoy the quiet, natural beauty and streams. Easy to reach by car, its considered one of the greatest free viewing locales in Gatlinburg. It would be an excellent idea to head to Gatlinburg and spend a few days in the mountain resort city, especially for a nature lover. Experience some powerful magic while facing challenges at the escape room Masters of Magic located at Gatlins Escape Games. 1. You can also discuss the artworks with the artists. Synchronous Fireflies of the Great Smoky Mountains, wants to go to It wouldnt be a trip to Tennessee without at least a taste of the regions infamous moonshine otherwise known as hooch or homebrew. Set up inside a log cabin, the setting adds extra authenticity. Rather hit the road than travel on foot? For a dazzling experience, hop on a group raft through the Rainbow Revenge with translucent tubes that create different colors as you go down. Feel all the romance when checking into your room at the Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts with its own fireplace and private jacuzzi, and from the balcony, you might even get lucky and spot a bear or two! As you arrive at Laurel Falls, spot mountain laurel blossoming along the trail and around the waterfall in shades of soft pinks (in May). TourScanner is the worlds largest website to search for tours & travel activities. Specializing in craft beer, brewed right on site. Ober Gatlinburg is a fantastic four seasons mountain-top ski area and amusement park. 3 Things to do today in Bengaluru. In addition to the six wonder zones, this attraction also boasts laser tag, an indoor ropes course and a 4D simulator! You can walk up and down the strip and take all the free tastings and have plenty of alcohol, I promise. Tenissa is a content writer, translator and editor. Sporting modern finishes and less than 100 meters away from the start of The Great Smoky Mountain National Park, enjoy excellent service, views and facilities at the Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg. 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. Though the winery sells original blends, its known for its soft and delicious fruit-infused wines, such as the Blueberry Bammer, Proper Peach, Fine Blackberry and White Knuckle Grape. Winning over hearts thanks to its location, guests love the running river alongside the Greystone Lodge on the River, the mountain backdrop, and the short distance to restaurants and shops. Leu Gardens. From the end of November to the end of January, the specially designated trolleys carry their guests on a memorable journey through downtown and adjacent East Parkway, allowing everyone to experience the magical wonder of Gatlinburg Winter Magic. Look over Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains from the 407-ft. observation tower of the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle. Heres everything you need to know about seeing the fireflies. The Ober Gatlinburg resort has plenty to offer year-round, however, two of its thrilling attractions reign supreme! If youre lucky and not screaming, or taking photographs you might even spot a grizzly. From a selection of mountain-y inns, hotels and resorts, here are some of the best places to stay around Gatlinburg. Ziplines and whitewater rafting, world-class golf and fishing, and 800 miles of hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is one of America's premier outdoor destinations. If you visit during the spring or summer, you can cheer on the Smokies, a Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Roller coaster curves and winds through the woods and mountains forest terrain where you can control your own speed. Make sure to grab some dessert from Ben & Jerrys they have several vegan flavors! With a menu offering both sweet and savory covering everything from Old Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes to Sweet Potato Pancakes, Pecan Pancakes, and Georgia Peach Crepes (perfect for the sweet tooth) theres a stack for every palate. There are plenty of activities you can do in this small community that promises stunning scenic landscapes. Considered as the areas only Dine-In theater, The Grand Majestic hosts an array of brilliant entertainment perfect for guests of all ages. Visitors are able to see the distilling process up close while learning about the history of moonshine production in the Smoky Mountains. Whether strolling down a flat hike or trekking up to Mt. We love their hearty half-pound burgers and their rotating selection of seasonal and craft beers. Hear the sinister stories, view real haunted photographs and even test out some actual ghost-hunting equipment. The sprawling landscape includes incredible lush forests and an abundance of wildflowers that bloom year-round. While the popular restaurants throughout the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area are popular for a reason, its worth making a stop and restaurants the locals love. If youre looking for more ideas of places to visit in the Smoky Mountain area, check out these attractions in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. You can find everything from basket-weaving, to painting, to pottery! Look above to see a ceiling of sparkling stars, or follow the red zigzagging lit-up pathways for an escape out of the labyrinth. Hosted in a small, intimate theatre, the show contains lots of interaction with the audience. Make sure to take advantage of that and enjoy all of the amazing outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg. For an even more enchanting experience, visit the Rocky Top after dark. Address: 2839 Webb Creek Road Sevierville, TN 37876, USA. The majestic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, settled by the Scots-Irish and steeped in history, intrigue, and tales of witchcraft. They have several vegan options and theres also one in Nashville. We recommend stopping by Shine Girl in Sevierville for a selection of moonshine unlike any other place in town and delicious cocktails. Immersed within the beautiful greenery of the Smoky Mountains, CLIMB Works provides adventurous visitors the chance to explore the stunning natural landscape in two equally exciting ways the breathtaking Mountaintop Zipline and the top-rated Treetop Zipline. Its also a shop offering a wide selection of puzzles and board games that you can take home. It was OK. We pride ourselves on serving innovative, tasty wines with an East Tennessee flair. If you happen to be visiting around Christmas time, the holiday show receives nothing but glowing reviews. So far, her favourite destination is Switzerland. As any visitor can say, photos just dont do this place justice. 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. Visiting Tennessee for a short escape? Go to a non-Gatlinburg entrance to GSM park and do some hiking. Drive down the 8-mile-loop road to discover weavers, watercolor artists, soap makers, potters and so many more unique vendors making for the perfect selection of handcrafted, Appalachian souvenirs. Choose from three different tracks, including a combined tunnel and zigzag course, a speedy roll, and an extreme zigzag course. Ripleys Haunted Adventure takes haunted houses to the next level. Pick from themes like the Indiana Jones adventure, the Haunting of Hyde House, the Realm of Illusions, and even the MoonshineHill Hootenanny! With a strong hold on traditions, indulge in prime custom-cut steaks and premium wines at The Peddler Steakhouse. After trekking the easy half-mile paved trail to the viewing platform, you can see the expansive wilderness of Tennessee and North Carolina all the way out to the horizon. Keep an eye out for the schedules of the next Amazing Gatlinburg Race! As someone who regularly visits the Smoky Mountains, I still havent explored all the vastness that there is here. Stock up on plenty of sandwiches, trail mix, and jerky as the Greenbrier Picnic Area is open year-round. See all Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self Driving Tour 93 Adventure Tours from C$20.86 per adult Mountaintop Zipline 2-Hours Activity 126 from C$153.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg 775 Walking Tours from C$41.75 per adult HotTub PoolTable 10minGatlinburg 7SmartTVs 3Kings 211 reviews Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, United States from USD 240 View Deal If your visit happens to align with the holiday season, check the calendar for the annual Christmas on Ice events. However, sometimes you want to get off the beaten path, especially if youre wanting to stay away from the tourist crowds or youve already seen all the sites in East Tennessee. Head to the Smoky Mountain Riding Stables and trot through the vast and rocky terrain of the Smoky Mountains. The three-floor building is hard to miss its the absolutely oddest thing you can find at Parkway. Tanger Outlets (Pigeon Forge) We like deals, too. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. Calling all craft heads! Cammerer Fire Tower. Two-, four-, and six-seater UTVs are up for grabs at venues like KanamFun and Mountain Life UTV Rentals, including the slick Polaris Slingshot. Unusual Attractions in Gatlinburg Gatlinburg, Tennessee Synchronous Fireflies of the Great Smoky Mountains For two weeks every June, fireflies in the Smoky Mountains perform an astonishing. The largest collection of pinballs and retro games in the Smokies. On the Alpine Slide, youngsters race against their friends in sled-like carts across a winding 1,800-foot long track. The Gatlinburg Craftsmens Fair hosts Artisans and Craftsmen from all over the nation. Their Pigeon Forge outpost focuses on quality tunes merged with local food and drink. The Gatlinburg location boasts two unique experiences that will leave a lasting impression on you and your family: the Mountain Glider and the Alpine Coaster! Head over to nearby Kodak from the spring to the fall to watch the Smokies play ball! No, your eyes arent deceiving you that house genuinely is upside down! Its the perfect place to go for a special Smoky Mountain souvenir. Religious attraction featuring life-size recreations of Biblical events & a tranquil garden area. What do you think of water rafting? If you drive non-stop, there is a two-hour 34 minute drive between Gatlinburg and Hamilton. I'm the Founder and Editor-in-Chief at Wild Hearted. A local favorite hiking spot is the Wears Valley. Its forests provide perfect shade for a day on the upper Pigeon River as you zoom down the class 3 and class 4 with rapids with the water splashing in all directions. If you've never been to Ripley's Aquarium, it's well worth a visit to see some sealife. Come visit higher ground at our Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg. Moving away from the Smokies, visit Charlotte in North Carolina. We don't want to do Ripleys or any of the kitchy dinner shows.anyone know of any off-the-beaten-path things to do? Thanks to its location in a mountain hollow, theres plenty of natural shade. For two weeks every June, fireflies in the Smoky Mountains perform an astonishing light show. Riding the glass elevator, take time to admire the surrounding greenery and dynamic colorful villages below. With six ziplines and two sky bridges, guests will have ample opportunities for adrenaline. Some of the most beautiful roads to cruise along include Newfound Gap Road, Roaring Fork Motor Trail, Little River Road, Clingmans Dome Road and Cades Cove Loop. The murals and granite plaza are later included in this beautiful historical monument. This is a must-visit for nature lovers, as the Cataloochee Valley is one of the only places that you can spot wild elk in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It features over 500 unique exhibits encompassing interactive installations, wacky tidbits, optical illusions and a space shuttle made from jelly beans. 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. For even more puzzling adventures, Ripleys Marvelous Mirror Maze is a treat. Museum with kitschy oddities on display, including shrunken human heads & rare animal skeletons. The Hillbilly Golf mini-golf course straddles the side of a mountain, requiring a tram ride up the slopes to the top. Boasting attractions like the lazy river, a pair of water slides and kid-friendly pools and splash zones, its the perfect place to let the youngsters loose for an afternoon. Sneak in even more social media-worthy photo ops when you traverse the Ramsey Cascades trail. Synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) are one of at least 19 species of fireflies that live in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. They have amazing vegan options. Old-fashioned country store featuring housemade liquor varieties & a tasting room. photo credit: Blue Moose Burgers and Wings via Facebook. If youre in Gatlinburg, pay a visit to the cocktail bar on the back porch of Sugarlands Distilling Company. When the summer months roll in, the snow tubing is converted into an outdoor tubing hill so the fun never stops 365 days a year. Ideal for families looking to escape the bustle of Gatlinburg, this petite hamlet provides ample opportunities for shopping, dining, and even treasure hunting! Gatlinburg is situated in east Nashville practically on the border of western North Carolina and is a fantastic base for exploring other places in the region on day trips from Gatlinburg. Your email address will not be published. This rustic, family-style diner is the perfect place to get food that really sticks to your ribs. Its known as Americas Friendliest Ballpark! These buggies can tackle the harsh off-road terrain with ease, allowing you to witness areas untouched by the majority of locals and tourists. Throughout summer and fall, choose from a number of beautiful hiking trails, plus an Alpine Slide and water rides. Highly admired for its beautiful scenery and great shape, as well as useful GPS screens on the golf carts, this place makes a wonderful day out where you can also bring your family and friends to hang out. 9. The b&b was absolutely lovely and about 10 minutes from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, in the mountains. Townsend is often called the "quiet side of the Smokies" in contrast to the bustling and often crowded tourist areas of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Located at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our city is jam-packed with family-friendly attractions. The Great Smoky Mountains are an untouched slice of Mother Nature. From snow tubing through the mountains, to dizzying escape mazes to themed mini-golf courses kids love it here! This popular path features the tallest waterfalls in the Smokies. Locals love the portion sizes, the quaint atmosphere, and the prices; Trishs provides great value if youre traveling on a budget. Youll be blown away by the number of elk and beautiful scenery. This stunning riverside location is all you need and really completes a stay at Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg On The River. 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Take the tram to the top of the overlook with views of 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. Watch in awe as these vintage 1940 machines slice, wrap, and twist the taffy closed. This 8-mile loop is home to a variety of shops, galleries, and studios that showcase the work of our talented local artisans. Sip on the original, or splash out with flavors like peanut butter and jelly or Appalachian apple pie. Tender steaks, smoky cocktails, and unparalleled service make any dinner at the Burg a five-star event. Dont toss up between the clear day or sparkling night views, head to the top just before sunset for the best of both worlds. As the biggest flea market in Tennessee, you can explore local goods, thrift shopping, and farm-fresh produce from over 1000 vendors. If you carry a binocular, you have more chances to see a black bear, white-tailed deer or other wild animals. Whatever you do, dont leave Gatlinburg without this essential souvenir. Dollywoods Splash Country water park ranked fourth on USA Todays assessment of the countrys best outdoor water parks. You can enjoy a display of artworks, including ceramics, potteries and paintings. Great Smoky Mountains National Park 107 Park Headquarters Rd Gatlinburg, TN 37738-4102 (865) 436-1200 Welcoming over 10 million visitors annually, this 522,427-acre national park is truly a must-see when exploring Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg definitely does not have a shortage of distilleries, wineries, and breweries. There is a bar and plenty of seating for you to kick back, relax, and sip on your shine. For the most truly authentic mountain-living feels, book out the entire home of The Fish House at Norton Creek, boasting a beautiful location next to a stream. As most are located inside the Great Smoky Mountains range, there is a bit of hiking required to reach the waterfalls, so decide on the one that best suits you in terms of time, distance and strenuosity. wants to go to It's a popular destination and is a great opportunity to remember to slow down and allow yourself to enjoy the atmosphere. Whether you seek stunning vistas or solitary hikes, Gatlinburg delivers a cornucopia of creative attractions. Between the pick of ways to sightsee the Smokies and things to do in Gatlinburg, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster is among the top unique attractions. At Outdoor Gravity Park, youll zorb down a 1,000 ft. hill for an incredible ride youll never forget. Wrangle the whole family for a day of mighty river action in the Smokies. Rowdy Bear Mountain is home to two amazing thrill rides including the First Mountain Glider in the world. For non-touristy stuff, you're gonna need to drive away from the area, I think.