Ways to Have Fun in Gatlinburg
In the heart of the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, beckons travelers with its natural beauty and a myriad of exciting experiences. The town is nestled adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. In fact, 2022 marked a remarkable milestone as the park experienced its second busiest year ever, welcoming an astounding 12,937,633 visitors.
As you explore this charming town, you’ll discover a wealth of opportunities for enjoyment. From outdoor adventures in the breathtaking wilderness to unique indoor attractions, Gatlinburg offers something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll delve into ten remarkable ways to make the most of your vacation in Gatlinburg, ensuring an unforgettable and action-packed getaway.
Visit Anakeesta:
Anakeesta is a mountain park, and it is one of the highest-ranking tourist attractions in Gatlinburg. It has activities that would suit anyone. Enjoying spectacular views of the surrounding landscape is also available at the summit. The Chondola and Ridge Rambler scenic rides will take you up.
When you reach the summit, tap into your inner explorer. And try your hand at ziplining through the trees or tackling the treetop course. Take a leisurely walk through the Vista Gardens and enjoy colorful wildflowers and shrubs that give the backdrop of the stunning mountains for an unforgettable experience.
Stay in Luxury Cabins:
Nothing compares to cuddling up in your comfy cabin after enjoying an exciting day at Gatlinburg. And the best part? You can find 1 bedroom cabins in Gatlinburg TN under 100! They offer privacy with spectacular mountain views that provide all the facilities needed for comfort. Some even include amenities such as hot tubs and fireplaces to add a touch of luxury to your vacation.
Additionally, staying at a cabin gives you the chance to “disconnect” from the world and reconnect with family and friends. Playing board games, a movie night near a fireplace, or roasting some marshmallows would go really well while staying in a cabin.
Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
Gatlinburg has a beautiful downtown, and it serves as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is a place where any person who loves nature must spend a whole day at least. There are millions of walking paths, lots of plants, and plenty of animal life.
In scenic drives, explore the park for its breathtaking views and awe-inspiring waterfalls. Go, possibly with your trekking boots, along any of the routes – starting off with a moderate one uphill before ending at the top. As you go on, keep a lookout for black bears, turkeys, or any other animal.
Make sure you do not miss the opportunity to camp in the park’s scenic nature. Sleeping under the stars and waking up with fresh air and natural sounds will give you experiences that cannot be forgotten.
Gatlinburg Pinball Museum:
The pinball museum in Gatlinburg is unique but also has an old-fashioned feeling to it. This interactive museum features vintage pinball machines from as early as the 1930s to modern-day favorites. There are more than one hundred machines for visitors to play an unlimited number of games at their will as they learn about the history and evolution of pinball.
Alongside the pinball, classical retro-type games such as Pac-Man and Space Invaders are also playable by visitors. The museum also conducts fun activities, including a host of pinball tournaments, trivia nights, and even private party rental services.
Gatlinburg Space Needle:
The iconic space needle landmark for Gatlinburg will take you and your family to a higher level while giving you panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains at 407 feet above ground. A glass elevator will take you for a ride on top all the way to the viewing pavilion, from which you can have a good look at the scenery from above. In fact, on a clear day, you may even be able to view for miles.
There are multiple activities, such as the Iris Theater and Arcadia. It is an ideal place where you can enjoy evening moments with your family or friends.
Additionally, the Space Needle is famous for the annual New Year’s Eve celebrations, at which one can watch the ball fall and view fireworks from a great height. This is a memorable experience to live up to.
Enjoy Shopping:
There are several shopping options for people to visit in Gatlinburg. One would find everything ranging from traditional Appalachian crafts and handmade items to modern boutiques and specialty stores. Walk through the picturesque roads of downtown Gatlinburg, looking for different knickknacks, clothes, artwork, and so on.
Do not forget about a community, Great Smoky Arts & Crafts, which is the biggest group of its kind in America. In addition, you can see how professionals do their job and buy the original pieces of art.
Additionally, don’t miss out on the popular cuisine that Gatlinburg is well-known for; therefore, make sure to visit any of the numerous eateries and coffee shops to get a bite of some southern cooking experience coupled with flavor.
Ober Mountain:
Ober Mountain is one of the best destinations if you’re interested in both adventures and relaxation. Reach this mountaintop amusement park by riding the Aerial Tramway from downtown Gatlinburg or by driving up Ski Mountain Road.
When you get there, consider skating on the large indoor ice rink and also go skiing or snowboarding or take a scenic chairlift ride for some amazing views. You can also have fun in the summer while enjoying miniature golf or waterpark slides.
Additionally, Ober Mountain provides different eateries as well as shopping villages for souvenirs and special gifts. It’s the perfect spot for families or couples looking for a fun day out.
Conclusion:
Gatlinburg is a great destination for families who are looking for fun. Whether you want to take a scenic drive, explore the outdoors, or simply relax in your cabin retreat – all of your needs can be met here in the Smoky Mountains.
When contemplating your Gatlinburg itinerary, ponder exploring the highlighted attractions for unforgettable moments with your dear ones. Prepare your vehicle, set your course for the majestic mountains, and let the adventures begin! Don’t delay; start planning and secure your trip today to immerse yourself in all that Gatlinburg has in store.
