Famous for things like ziplining and horseback riding through the Smokies, you might not expect Gatlinburg, TN to have many indoor attractions for a rainy day. But there’s more to this historic history than what meets the eye! Here are eight things for planning what to do in Gatlinburg even with stormy skies.
8: Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre
Appropriate for all ages, the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre puts on a toe-tappin’ performance that will delight the whole family. It’s family owned and operated, too, making it one of the friendliest, down-home attractions in Gatlinburg.
7: Fannie Farkle’s Family Fun Parlor
Have an extra quarter? Then hit up Fannie Farkle’s Family Fun Parlor, where you can order everything from corn dogs to smoked sausages and then play some arcade games while you wait. You’ll have so much fun you’ll be disappointed when your food is ready!
6: Hollywood Star Cars Museum
From classic cars to modern motorcycles, the Hollywood Star Cars Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in automobiles or just a behind-the-scenes look at some of the most iconic set pieces of cinema history.
5: Gatlinburg Trolley
Grab your poncho and take a trip on the Gatlinburg Trolley! Not only does it provide a comfy ride through of all the city’s best attractions, but it’s also the best seat in the house during summer fairs and Christmas parades. You won’t want to visit Gatlinburg without taking the trolley at least once!
4: Amazing Mirror Maze
Try your luck at the Amazing Mirror Maze, one of the most unique things to do in Gatlinburg. It’s a one-of-a-kind attraction that’s fun for the whole family, and the pictures you take inside will be absolutely amazing!
3: Ice Skating Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park
Just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you can’t have an active day. First enjoy the mountain view – the aerial tram that you can ride from downtown Gatlinburg to Ober Gatlinburg is completely inclosed and provides a two mile view as you journey along the mountain terrain. Once at Ober you can enjoy the indoor skating rink, restaurants, and shops going from one to the other without ever going outdoors. And if the mountain top is colder and you are lucky enough to be there at a time for snow you can enjoy all of the outdoor activities like skiing in Gatlinburg.
2: Gatlinburg Space Needle
Enjoy a spectacular view of the Smokies from the observation tower of the Gatlinburg Space Needle. It’s stunning enough on a regular day, but when lightning lights up the mountains, you’ll have a hard time believing your eyes.
1: Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Known as one of the best aquariums in the country, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is an interactive aquatic experience filled with feeding shows, underwater tunnels and 12-foot sharks. Just watch out for wandering penguins!