If you plan to visit Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you are in for a treat. Located amidst the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a picturesque town with abundant natural beauty, outdoor adventures, delicious food, and attractions that will keep you entertained throughout your stay.
From hiking trails to amusement parks, there is something for everyone in Gatlinburg. This article will highlight ten must-visit places in Gatlinburg that you should not miss during your trip.
10 Places to Visit on Your Gatlinburg Trip
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park can easily be termed Gatlinburg’s most popular and well-known attraction. The park spans over 500,000 acres and straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, making it the largest protected area in the eastern United States.
It is the most popular national park in the country, with more than 12 million visitors annually. The park offers breathtaking views of the mountains, hiking trails, camping, and wildlife watching. You can spend hours exploring the park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
- Regional Restaurants
Gatlinburg is known for its many delicious restaurants, offering a variety of cuisines that are sure to satisfy any palate. A trip to the downtown Gatlinburg restaurants will allow you to explore the rich food culture of the region.
You’ll find everything from traditional food to contemporary menus in the Gatlinburg restaurants. It showcases the impeccable taste of Gatlinburg residents and their love for food. Not only that, their food is packed full of flavors and quite affordable on the pocket.
- Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is a year-round mountain resort that offers several outdoor activities and attractions for visitors. The resort is atop Mount Harrison and can be reached through a scenic aerial tramway or a winding mountain road.
Ober Gatlinburg is a popular destination for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing during the winter. In the summer, it offers a range of outdoor activities, including a scenic chairlift ride, alpine slide, mountain coaster, and wildlife encounters. Visitors can see black bears and other native animals up close during the wildlife encounter.
- Gatlinburg SkyBridge
The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is almost 700 feet long and offers breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains. The bridge also has a glass floor section where you can look down and see the forest below. It is a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. Visitors can take their time strolling across the bridge, enjoying the stunning scenery, and capturing plenty of photos.
- Gatlinburg Space Needle
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is an iconic observation tower that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the town of Gatlinburg. The tower stands 407 feet tall and features an observation deck accessible via a glass elevator.
The observation deck offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding area and is a great spot to take in the stunning beauty of the mountains and town below. Visitors can spend as much time on the observation deck to take photos or enjoy the view.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a famous tourist attraction, offering a unique underwater experience. The aquarium features over 10,000 exotic sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles.
You can also walk through a tunnel surrounded by water, giving you the feeling of being underwater. One of the highlights of the aquarium is the Penguin Playhouse. It features live penguins and a playground area for children.
- Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community
The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community is a unique and charming area in Gatlinburg that is home to over a 100 artisans and craftsmen. The craftsmen have submitted their masterpieces to the community for over 70 years.
The community spans an 8-mile loop road that showcases an impressive range of handmade crafts, including pottery, paintings, jewelry, candles, and much more. Visitors can witness the artisans at work in their studios and purchase one-of-a-kind items to take home as souvenirs.
- Sugarlands Distilling Company
The Sugarlands Distilling Company is a popular attraction in Gatlinburg for those who enjoy sampling local spirits. The distillery is located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg and allows visitors to learn about the history of moonshining in the Smoky Mountains.
This trip allows them to understand the process of distilling spirits. The tours are informative and entertaining and include tasting their award-winning spirits, such as moonshine, whiskey, and rum.
- Mynatt Park
Mynatt Park is a hidden gem in Gatlinburg that offers an escape from the busy town. The park is located by the banks of the Little Pigeon River and offers a serene and scenic environment. It is well-maintained and features a walking trail, perfect for a stroll, jog, or bike ride.
There is also a picnic area where visitors can relax and enjoy a meal with friends and family. One of the unique features of Mynatt Park is the small stream that runs through it, which adds to the park’s tranquility.
- Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster
The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is a thrilling ride that takes you through the scenic mountains of Gatlinburg. The coaster track winds through the forest and takes riders on twists, turns, and drops that will get your heart racing. The best part is that riders can control the coaster’s speed, allowing them to take a slow scenic ride or a fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled experience.
The coaster carts are designed for one or two riders and are equipped with brakes and hand-held control, giving riders complete control over their ride experience. The Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster is a must-visit attraction for anyone looking for a thrilling adventure during their visit to Gatlinburg.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a beautiful town that offers an abundance of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you choose the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or the Gatlinburg Space Needle, there is something for everyone to explore and experience.
If you are a nature lover, thrill-seeker, or looking for a peaceful retreat, Gatlinburg is the place to visit. So, add these ten must-visit places to your list and make the most of your Gatlinburg travel.
