Gatlinburg, Tennessee is packed with unforgettable experiences for visitors of all ages. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, or romantic getaway activities, this charming mountain town has something special waiting for you. Here are our top 10 must-do activities for 2025!
1. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No trip to Gatlinburg is complete without visiting America's most popular national park. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, the Smokies offer endless exploration. Don't miss Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, and Laurel Falls, all easily accessible from our cabins.
2. Visit Dollywood Theme Park
Just 30 minutes away in Pigeon Forge, Dollywood is a world-class theme park featuring thrilling rides, live entertainment, award-winning dining, and Southern hospitality at its finest. The park's festivals throughout the year, from Flower & Food Festival to Smoky Mountain Christmas, make every visit unique.
3. Walk the Gatlinburg SkyBridge
Experience North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge! At 680 feet long and suspended 140 feet above the ground, the SkyBridge offers breathtaking views of the Smokies. Take the SkyLift up and combine it with the SkyDeck observation platform for an unforgettable experience.
4. Discover Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
This world-class aquarium features a 340-foot underwater tunnel, touch tanks, penguin encounters, and thousands of exotic sea creatures. It's consistently rated one of the best aquariums in the country and is perfect for rainy days or hot summer afternoons.
5. Stroll Downtown Gatlinburg
The charming Parkway is lined with unique shops, restaurants, attractions, and entertainment. Browse handcrafted goods at the Arts & Crafts Community, sample saltwater taffy, and soak in the mountain town atmosphere. Evening brings the streets to life with neon lights and entertainment.
6. Experience Ober Mountain Ski Resort
Tennessee's only ski resort offers year-round activities. Winter brings skiing and snowboarding, while summer features alpine slides, scenic chairlift rides, and wildlife encounters. The aerial tramway from downtown Gatlinburg is an adventure in itself!
7. Try Whitewater Rafting
The Pigeon River offers exciting whitewater rafting adventures suitable for beginners and experienced rafters alike. Several outfitters provide guided trips ranging from gentle family floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids.
8. Visit the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
The largest group of independent artisans in North America spans 8 miles of scenic mountain roads. Watch craftspeople create pottery, leather goods, candles, brooms, and more using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
9. Go Horseback Riding
Several stables in the area offer guided horseback rides through beautiful mountain terrain. It's a peaceful way to experience the Smokies and perfect for creating family memories.
10. Enjoy a Dinner Show
Pigeon Forge is famous for its dinner theaters, including Dolly Parton's Stampede and Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud. These family-friendly shows combine entertainment, comedy, and all-you-can-eat meals.
Bonus: Relax at Your Cabin
After a day of adventure, there's nothing better than returning to your mountain cabin. Soak in your private hot tub, challenge the family to pool in the game room, or simply relax by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa and those unforgettable mountain views.
"The best Gatlinburg vacations balance adventure and relaxation. Explore by day, unwind by night in your own private mountain retreat."