Inspired by the fun childhood moments of the entertainer Dolly Parton, this water park sits beside the Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge. She enjoys being a globetrotter and has traveled to many countries around the world. 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. photo credit: Rocky Top Mountain Coaster via Facebook. Religious attraction featuring life-size recreations of Biblical events & a tranquil garden area. Address: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, A post shared by Mark Empey (@mark_empey). Streams, rivers, and waterfalls appear along hiking routes that include a segment of the Appalachian Trail. The Smoky Mountain Art Gallery supports local artists practicing and living in the Great Smoky Mountains. You can walk up and down the strip and take all the free tastings and have plenty of alcohol, I promise. Gatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau . We can help. Veteran outpost offering guided white-water rafting & float tours, plus zip lining & a ropes course. Nestled in downtown Gatlinburg lies the Smokies most unique shopping destination, The Village district. Whether you are hitting the Smoky Mountain trails or just strolling around downtown, a day full of unique things to do in Gatlinburg is not complete without an incredible meal. Walk Across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. 3. If youre lucky and not screaming, or taking photographs you might even spot a grizzly. Choose from three different tracks, including a combined tunnel and zigzag course, a speedy roll, and an extreme zigzag course. Long has Gatlinburg been known for its paranormal forces, with ghosts and ghouls rumored to inhabit the citys streets. The Valley truly shines in fall, best known for its serene beauty and sublime Smoky Mountain views. Amp up your adrenaline and reach speeds of up to 30 mph when you power through unparalleled Smoky Mountain Scenery on the. everything you need to know about seeing the fireflies, Tips For Working Remotely When Traveling To Big Cities In The US, 15 Fun Things To Do In Nashville TN For Couples, Dont Go to the Kentucky Derby Why Horse Racing is a Cruel Tradition, Destination Russia: Extra-Ordinary Encounters from a Land Full of Stories, Four Beach Holiday Destinations for Vegans. Address: 336 Wa Floy Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA Website: Trish's Mountain Diner Opening hours: 7am - 2.30pm (closed on Sun) Price: under 10 USD 5. Proudly self-labeled as the weirdest place in Gatlinburg, Ripleys Believe It or Not! Gatlinburg, TN 37738. While in Gatlinburg, why dont you spare the time to meet some local artists at Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community? If possible, do all the non-touristy things mentioned above, although you should also do the touristy things. Leu Gardens. After watching either Roadhoggers or Winter Wipeout, you would never think of movies the same way again. Let us know by sharing in the comments, we love hearing about your experiences. What if you prefer something non-touristy? On the Ski Mountain Coaster, you twist down 3,750 feet of the mountain at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour (or at their own pace, of course). Wild Bear Falls Water Park. To keep the kids entertained, the facility offers immersive, educational activities and even a petting zoo! Buddys bar-b-q in Sevierville is the perfect stop in or out of the Smokies, offering hometown bar-b-q thats cooked low and slow. With an amusement park and ski resort at its center, plus some of the nations premier hiking and adventure opportunities, the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a trip through the charming South. Play for keeps and win BIG brands from the likes of Sony, Playstation, Lego, Xbox, Apple, Cuisinart, Coach, Nerf and plenty of others. In addition to famous destinations like Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the nearby Dollywood theme park, there is a number of unique things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge that are worth visiting. Not only do you get to shop, but you can chat and meet the local artisans to learn more about them and their craft. Founded in 1962, this year-round amusement park offers a ton of exciting activities for everyone. Look above to see a ceiling of sparkling stars, or follow the red zigzagging lit-up pathways for an escape out of the labyrinth. Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville locals enjoy the shows and attractions that visitors do, but they also have some favorite spots that are a little less crowded and involve fewer sightseers. The fun doesnt have to end here Besides Arcade City, Arcadia is another awesome choice for gamers whether young or old and the prizes up for grabs are pretty mental! Learn from friendly expert guides who can explain the significance of the areas geology and its unique history. Look out for all the barnyard characters as you move between holes at one of the three 18-hole courses at the Ripleys Old MacDonalds Farm Mini-Golf area. A little over two hours away, Bristol is best known for the legendary NASCAR short-track Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol has come into its own by embracing its rich vein of musical heritage [the actual birthplace of country music], beautiful natural elements, and a big revitalization scene. Not only fun but as you putt-putt your way through 45 holes (if playing both courses), learn about the history of Gatlinburg dating to its first settlers. Let's keep this between us, ok?! Chimney Tops Trail is a 3.6-mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee that features a river and is rated as difficult. Its also a shop offering a wide selection of puzzles and board games that you can take home. If you use the entrance near Gatlinburg, you'll be in line with a bunch of other visitors/cars. For an even more enchanting experience, visit the Rocky Top after dark. Sip on the original, or splash out with flavors like peanut butter and jelly or Appalachian apple pie. Easy to reach along the Cataract Falls Trail, the walk there and back is just over a kilometer. After perhaps spending a couple of hours across the road at the Ripleys Aquarium, the Tennessee Cider Company is the perfect spot to sit back and unwind. The rooms have comfortable finishes and are well-equipped. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Welcome to the most popular national park in the country! Its not your typical tourist activity, but its an unforgettable one nonetheless. Explore the creeks and historic buildings on the Rough Fork Trail, and revel in the old-growth forests on the Boogerman Trail. Specialties: The Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg is conveniently located on River Road, at the base of the Smoky Mountains, only 30 minutes from Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). Cruze Farm. Dont miss your chance to ride The Flying Ox either, the worlds first zipline rollercoaster! Youll be blown away by the number of elk and beautiful scenery. Museum with kitschy oddities on display, including shrunken human heads & rare animal skeletons. Come visit higher ground at our Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg. Inspired by Austrian tea houses, the Wild Plum provides some of the most delicious lunches that youll find in the smokies. Owned by an enthusiast and professional player who has joined famous global competitions, this fun place guarantees success in sticking the axe on the board in no time. Tackle 1,500 feet of elevation gain on the Rainbow Falls Trail with a stunning waterfall reward at the finish line. This popular path features the tallest waterfalls in the Smokies. For the ultimate thrill-seeker, get in line for the Fire Tower Falls! Walk the path of Little Brier Gap Trail for a relaxing stroll. Theres also an on-site restaurant to refuel after a few hours of practicing your drives. If youre having an extended stay in the area and are interested in exploring your own artistic side, consider signing up for a workshop at the Arrowmount School of Arts and Crafts, which has classes exploring everything from ceramics to furniture making to cake sculpture. Do not forget to enjoy the remarkable views of the Smoky Mountains as you are doing all those fun activities. It is included as one of the best and most fun things to do in Astoria. ), HOLIDAY INN CLUB VACATIONS SMOKY MOUNTAIN RESORT. Swing by this monument to see the sweetheart of the Smokies and take a picture with her in downtown Sevierville! Walker Sisters Springhouse is perfect for outdoor recreation. There are trails that are more appealing to locals because of everything they have to offer, and the fact that theyre less popular for tourists. Listen up die-hard gamers! One of the most touristy things to do in Tucson is going for a relaxing bike ride in downtown Tucson. If youre in Gatlinburg, pay a visit to the cocktail bar on the back porch of Sugarlands Distilling Company. The sprawling landscape includes incredible lush forests and an abundance of wildflowers that bloom year-round. For two weeks every June, fireflies in the Smoky Mountains perform an astonishing light show. For those that consider themselves connoisseurs in the category, stop by the best breweries and be your own judge of the local brews on offer. For synchronous fireflies, the beginning of June. Kick things off with a dramatically smoked Jim Beam Manhattan and an order of early frost green tomatoes. Two-, four-, and six-seater UTVs are up for grabs at venues like KanamFun and Mountain Life UTV Rentals, including the slick Polaris Slingshot. The 18,000-square-foot Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is the largest and closest outfitter to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at the south end of the Gatlinburg Strip. Test Your Rock Climbing Abilities at Climb Up Testing your rock climbing abilities at Climb Up is one of the non-touristy things to do in Paris Inspired by the ghosts and ghouls of Gatlinburgs past, it creates an atmosphere thats delightfully spooky. The Hillbilly Golf mini-golf course straddles the side of a mountain, requiring a tram ride up the slopes to the top. Florida certainly isn't devoid of lush tropical landscaping, but you wouldn't think you'd find a botanical oasis just minutes from downtown Orlando. For some of the best views of both the town and mountains, Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is smack bang between Gatlinburg Spur (connecting the city with the nearby Pigeon Forge) and the Great Smoky Mountains (along the Gatlinburg Bypass). Its the one-stop shop for interactive, family-friendly entertainment. You can explore the observation deck to take in views or walk across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. We pride ourselves on serving innovative, tasty wines with an East Tennessee flair. Children 12 and under FREE with paying adult. Top Free Things To In London. Gatlinburg might be small in size but its the furthest thing from small in the entertainment department. You would not want to miss the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a perfect spot for you to take a leisurely stroll or even hike. Grab this hassle free checklist of the top 110 things to do in London from a local, includes: . has been delighting, confusing and entertaining guests of all ages for decades. Ripley's Moving Theater 721 Amusement & Theme Parks By Tercott86 Family fun!! Address: 2440 North . They are the only species in America that can synchronize their flashing light patterns and this only happens one time a year usually a two-week window so this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Walking from one place to the next, you get to sample FREE wine at each stop on the designated route! Tanger Outlets (Pigeon Forge) We like deals, too. Address: 458 Brookside Village Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA, Website: Smoky Mountain Farms Jelly House. Offering locations in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Rowdy Bear Mountain is a must-do for those who love the outdoors and have an inclination towards adrenaline, as well. Perfect your paddle on a more introductory Class I route, or stay on land and tackle ropes courses, rock climbing, canopy ziplining, and more. This mountaintop wonderland also provides a fun and refreshing atmosphere for eating, shopping and relaxing with the lush forest and botanical gardens home to more than 3,000 plants. Learn about the history of prohibition, sample moonshine, and tackle tranquil trails in Wears Valley. Meet and interact with a penguin you can also create art together. Please see my disclosure. Do Not Forget to Pack Water When You Hike. The Gatlinburg Bypass is owned and maintained by the National Park Service and is considered part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 811 East Parkway, P.O. Come nightfall; luminous lights will guide you through your winding outdoor excursion. Zip a dee doo all day long when you strap in for an hour of high-flying adventure with, Zipline Tours with Rafting in the Smokies. Fill your days with race car events, state mountain park explorations and city sightseeing from museums to interesting architecture. Want to walk across the top of Gatlinburg? Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. Locals love the portion sizes, the quaint atmosphere, and the prices; Trishs provides great value if youre traveling on a budget. 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. Thats not a typo, the theater at Ripleys Gatlinburg really ismoving! The SkyBridge in Gatlinburg is the longest suspension bridge on the continent (photo by Morgan Overholt/TheSmokies.com) 7. Permit the worlds fluffiest llamas to carry your gear while you meander through the scenic Smoky Mountain foothills, flowered fields, and babbling brooks. Go white water rafting on the Little Pigeon River (from USD 43.0) Show all photos What do you think of water rafting? The soaring 36-meter-high Mingo Falls can be found just outside the National Parks perimeters, and its one of the tallest waterfalls in the area. The ride down the mountain is five minutes in total. This is a 3-mile streetcar line ride in Astoria using an old freight railroad track along the Columbia River. Brick-walled, artifact-filled pub offering American chow, sports TV & a balcony with mountain views. Take precaution on the rocks around the waterfall as they tend to get super slippery. Order a cold one from the selection of the brewerys own branded beers on tap, or if youre here for serious business, try their Brew Samplers. In addition to the six wonder zones, this attraction also boasts laser tag, an indoor ropes course and a 4D simulator! One of the best shops you should visit is the Smoky Mountain Farms Jelly House. Appreciate the unchanged mountain tradition of taffy-making when you watch candy makers at work. Those who live in Gatlinburg are especially loyal to their local minor league baseball team, the Tennessee Smokies. Synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) are one of at least 19 species of fireflies that live in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There is no place better than Pigeon River if you want to do this adrenaline-fueled activity. The SkyBridge - which offers iconic views of Downtown Gatlinburg TN, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and more - isn't entirely made of glass. 1339 Ski Mountain Rd. An indoor and outdoor water park with a mountain theme [of course!] Answer 1 of 14: Hey there, My husband and I recently moved to Knoxville and we have of course been to Smoky Mountain Ntl Park a couple of times. For a pre (or post) hike breakfast, Trishs Mountain Diner offers classic eats with amazing service. Experience a magical time by catching a magic show at the one and only Iris Theater. Other things you can also buy include homemade jelly preserves, honey pickles and hot sauce. If you're looking for more ideas of places to visit in the Smoky Mountain area, check out these attractions in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. Outside the shop, the air is filled with live music, jovial laughter, and the distinct smell of cooked and processed grains. 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! There are some interesting boutiques and a really good donut place there, The Donut Friar. Kids can crawl through underwater tunnels to get an up-close view of the penguins at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. Try a few of the local creations in Gatlinburgs first Hard Cider tasting room, before grabbing a take-home growler or two of your favorite flavor. With over 100 artists and craftsmen lining its corridors, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is officially the countrys largest independent artisan organization. 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. Address: 306 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA 7. Bike Ride at Downtown Tucson. From an overload of exciting outdoor adventures to the weirdest and most wonderful activities, the things to do in Gatlinburg are endless, and youll need at least two days to fully enjoy and experience all that this southern town has to offer. Wine homemade from a variety of fruits offered in a rustic, country-style space with tastings. The oldest craft brewery in East Tennessee is a great spot for happy hour or watching the game. Make sure to take advantage of that and enjoy all of the amazing outdoor things to do in Gatlinburg. Come visit us at the Gatlinburg Wine Trail and speak to our friendly staff; theyll be able to tell you even more about the non-touristy gems of the area. Prepare to brave the combo slide The Edge Watercoaster which provides an almost 200 meters long ride. Gatlins Fun Center has laser tag, a ropes course, multiple escape rooms, bumper cars and a high-speed coordination game called Atomic Rush. In the midst of a hemlock forest discover the seven-meter-high Grotto Falls, accessible via the Trillium Gap Trail. Roller coaster curves and winds through the woods and mountains forest terrain where you can control your own speed. If shopping and Christmas are your things then a visit to the largest Christmas store in Gatlinburg is necessary. A little over an hour away, Knoxville is an easy drive to Gatlinburg. National Museum of African American Music. Its easily one of the best things to do in downtown Gatlinburg. A quick, entertaining activity during any day of exploring the main Gatlinburg strip, the 7D Dark Ride Adventure is an immersive, exciting activity for kids and adults alike. 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. 25 Best Things To Do In Gatlinburg, Tennesee, You Shouldn't Miss Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park spreads out over 800 square miles in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. . Ready for a refreshing day of White Water fun? Bring that camera or fully charged phone, as youll want to capture endless selfies of you and your new best friend. Ways to tour Gatlinburg Book these experiences for a close-up look at Gatlinburg. Post zipping, feel free to enjoy the parks many outdoor amenities, including barbecue grills, picnic tables, nature trails, and more. The Listening Room Cafe puts the magic of Music City front and center. This chestnut box will not be opened until the country music legend's 100th birthday in 2046. Pick from themes like the Indiana Jones adventure, the Haunting of Hyde House, the Realm of Illusions, and even the MoonshineHill Hootenanny! As any visitor can say, photos just dont do this place justice. If youre on the hunt for exciting and fun things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, look no further. It sounds fun, doesn't it? Its the perfect place to go for a special Smoky Mountain souvenir. 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. Unsubscribe in one click. Tanger Outlets is located in Pigeon Forge (photo by Morgan Overholt/TheSmokies.com) 5. Have you already visited all the popular attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and are looking to explore the Smokies in a different way? Free Fun at the Library. Easy to reach by car, its considered one of the greatest free viewing locales in Gatlinburg. For dinner, youll have plenty of delicious spots to choose from! The busiest peak time of the year is June and July so plan accordingly. Topping it all off, the entire park sits within the stunning surrounds of the Great Smoky Mountains. Witness the wonder of blooming violets, lady slipper orchids, and showy orchis species by foot or car. Location: 745 Powdermill Rd. However, there are some areas that locals prefer for hiking to get away from the crowds. With six ziplines and two sky bridges, guests will have ample opportunities for adrenaline. Give them something from Gatlinburg. Schedule your time of visit because this ride is a crowd favorite. A post shared by Kelly Lopez (@kellylopezfl). You can find these amazing escape rooms in two locations: Reagan Terrace Mall and The Village with Masters of Magic where you can also choose from various classic and contemporary board games to take home. A trip to the mountains isnt complete without ziplining. Clocking in at four miles round-trip, the Gatlinburg Trail is one of the simpler routes to trek, starting from the borders of the park, and with no climbing required. History exhibits and ranger talks presented at select times will also clue you in on the national park. 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. Seeing is believing and its all possible at the epic Rowdy Bears Smoky Mountain Snowpark. It's easy to see why visiting the Smoky Mountain Cat House is one of the best things to do in Pigeon Forge off the beaten path. We're helping you experience the vacation of a lifetime here by rounding up the best things to do in Gatlinburg, TN. Non-Touristy Things to Do in Gatlinburg: Arts and Crafts Community Calling all craft heads! See Reviews Here | Book Now (free cancellation! Or all three, but were not sure how that would work. Your email address will not be published. Head to the Smoky Mountain Riding Stables and trot through the vast and rocky terrain of the Smoky Mountains. 10 Amazing Bachelor Party Ideas In Gatlinburg, Tennessee. It has the largest collection of outdoor gear, apparel, footwear and souvenirs. Its located in the Knoxville-Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge, about a 20-minute drive from downtown Gatlinburg. These buggies can tackle the harsh off-road terrain with ease, allowing you to witness areas untouched by the majority of locals and tourists. Activities on offer include mini golf, escape games, laser tag, a ropes course, bumper cars, and a laser maze, making Gatlin's one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg with kids. With secret passageways, winding staircases and creepy dark corridors, this is the place to go, especially if youre planning to release any bottled-up screams. A beloved local eatery for residents and tourists alike, Pancake Pantry has been dishing up piping hot plates for over half a century and is yet to put a foot wrong. Downtown If you've never been to Ripley's Aquarium, it's well worth a visit to see some sealife. It was OK. 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 For the younger crowd, head on over to Rowdy Ridge Playground with interactive features from slides to climbing nets for children (the minimum age requirement is two years old and kids must be chaperoned at all times). 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. While technically located in Pigeon Forge, Wonderworks is just 15-20 minutes from Gatlinburg, making for an easy afternoon activity that the kids (and adults) will love. While there are plenty of questionable brews out there, by far some of the highest-quality samples can be found at Americas most visited distillery Ole Smoky and the rustic award-winning Sugarlands Distilling Company. 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. It is a popular iconic spot and is home to many hidden gems including historical museums, street murals, art and architecture, beautiful cathedrals, and top-class restaurants. 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. Its a little spread out, but downtown Knoxville, especially Market Square, is a great place to explore. Only 1.5 hours away, Asheville is a place that everyone should visit at least once. 11. 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!
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