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Gatlinburg, United States

Destination Guide

Gatlinburg

United States

Best things to do in Gatlinburg

21 curated attractions in Gatlinburg, United States. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

April - June, September - October

Average temp

15°C/59°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Very safe

About Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a small town packed with attractions that balance the outdoors and entertainment. With the national park bringing in nature lovers, the town has transformed into a hub of tourism with a mix of kitschy attractions, including Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Visitors flock here for the chance to enjoy the mountains while sampling moonshine at Ole Smoky Distillery or exploring the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum. The town is a curious blend of neon lights and rustic charm, where the trails lead to views and the streets are lined with various attractions, making it a convenient base for those wanting to explore the Smokies.

Who it's for

People who enjoy a blend of outdoor activities and quirky attractions. Perfect for families and tourists who want novelty but not necessarily deep culture. Those seeking refined experiences or a quiet getaway might find the neon lights and crowds a bit overwhelming.

Getting around

Public transport: Poor

  • The center is small enough to walk end to end in about twenty minutes
  • Public transport is limited, with a Gatlinburg Trolley that runs infrequently
  • The Aerial Tramway offers a scenic ride, but it’s best to have a car to reach the national park
The Village Shops

The Village Shops

Shopping
Christ in the Smokies Museum and Gardens

Christ in the Smokies Museum and Gardens

Specialty & quirky museums
Ober Gatlinburg

Ober Gatlinburg

Ski resorts
Gatlinburg Pinball Museum

Gatlinburg Pinball Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Gatlinburg Trail

Gatlinburg Trail

Hiking trails
Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

National parks & nature reserves
Gatlinburg’s Little Log Wedding Chapel

Gatlinburg’s Little Log Wedding Chapel

Churches & cathedrals
Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

Scenic viewpoints
Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

Breweries, distilleries & food makers
Mysterious Mansion

Mysterious Mansion

Family & kids' attractions
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Aquariums
Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

Adventure parks
Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community

Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community

Local & craft markets
Old Smoky Candy Kitchen

Old Smoky Candy Kitchen

Food and Drink Destinations
Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Specialty & quirky museums
Gatlinburg Space Needle

Gatlinburg Space Needle

Observation decks & city views
Gatlinburg Farmers Market

Gatlinburg Farmers Market

Local & craft markets
Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway

Observation decks & city views
Anakeesta

Anakeesta

Adventure parks
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Observation decks & city views

Where to eat in Gatlinburg

The places worth planning a meal around.

Howard's

Howard's

American

★ 4.5 · 6,277 reviews

Stud Cider

Stud Cider

American Craft Cider · $10–$25

★ 4.9 · 1,397 reviews

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