When you take a family vacation to Gatlinburg, a wide variety of exciting activities await you! Take in the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains while enjoying a selection of fun attractions with our list of some of the best things to do in Gatlinburg when you visit with your family.
1. Explore the National Park
When in Gatlinburg, a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must! With over 850 miles of trails and options for all skill levels, this park is any nature lover’s paradise! Hike through lush forests, encounter majestic waterfalls, and spot interesting wildlife – just don’t get too close to the animals! Your family will have an amazing time making memories together in the beauty of the Smokies.
2. Walk the Downtown Strip
Take a leisurely stroll along Gatlinburg’s iconic downtown strip, which offers a delightful blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Explore the unique shops full of souvenirs, crafts, and local treasures. For easy access to the best Gatlinburg has to offer, hop on the free trolley and enjoy a ride through the streets! The vibrant atmosphere of downtown is the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones, making this one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg.
3. Go Mini Golfing
For a fun-filled adventure suitable for all ages, check out one of Gatlinburg’s exciting and interesting mini golf courses! Ride to the top of the mountain and play a round at Hillbilly Golf, a mountaintop course with unique challenges! And for a great indoor option, visit Treasure Quest Golf where their ancient jungle temple course is sure to thrill the whole family! Get ready for a fun and friendly competition when you go mini golfing in Gatlinburg!
4. Discover Ripley’s Aquarium
Dive into a day of fun at Ripley’s Aquarium, where you can witness the wonders of the sea as you encounter over 10,000 sea creatures! Walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, or enjoy a hands-on meeting with stingrays at this exciting attraction! While you’re there, you can also check out other fun Ripley’s Attractions like Believe It Or Not – ensuring a fun-filled day of adventure for your family!
5. Visit Anakeesta
For thrill-seeking adventurers in the family, make sure to visit Anakeesta Mountaintop Adventure Park! Here you can embark on a ziplining experience that will take you soaring above the Smokies, offering breathtaking views and heart-pumping action! You can also ride their thrilling single-rail mountain coaster, which will allow you to speed through the trees at up to 25 miles per hour! Anakeesta is sure to provide an adrenaline filled experience that will leave everyone with lasting memories.
6. Enjoy Great Local Food
After all the excitement of enjoying the best things to do in Gatlinburg, satisfy your family’s appetite with the mouth-watering local food that the town has to offer. For an incredible dining experience in the heart of downtown, visit The Peddler Steakhouse and enjoy their custom-cut steaks and fresh salads while taking in views of the Little Pigeon River. Another fantastic spot is No Way Jose’s, where you can feast on delicious options like their freshly made tamales and sizzling fajitas! This fun and family-friendly restaurant is sure to have something for everyone!
With so much to do, Gatlinburg is the perfect spot to have an unforgettable family vacation. From exploring the beautiful national park to strolling the vibrant downtown strip and more, Gatlinburg offers a wide variety of activities to suit all interests! Plus, learn about how you can get free attraction tickets when you stay with us so you can enjoy all the best the Gatlinburg area has to offer!
