Top 5 Things to Do in Gatlinburg: Your Essential Guide
Nestled at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a destination that perfectly blends rugged outdoor adventure with charming mountain hospitality. Whether you are planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, this mountain town offers an endless array of activities.
However, with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan your itinerary. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve narrowed down the top five must-do experiences in Gatlinburg. From breathtaking heights to the best sips in the Smokies, here is your definitive guide.
1. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
It goes without saying that the #1 reason people visit Gatlinburg is to experience the most visited national park in the United States. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers something for every skill level.
For those looking for an iconic view, a hike up to Alum Cave Bluffs or the trek to Clingmans Dome (the highest point in Tennessee) is a must. If you prefer to see the sights from your car, a drive through Cades Cove offers the best opportunity for wildlife viewing-keep your eyes peeled for black bears, white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys. The park is free to enter, making it the most accessible and awe-inspiring attraction in the region.
2. Walk Across the SkyBridge at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
If you want the best vantage point of the downtown Gatlinburg strip set against the backdrop of the mountains, head to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. You’ll ride the iconic yellow chairs from the center of town up to the top of Crockett Mountain.
Once at the summit, you can walk across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America. Stretching 680 feet across a deep valley, the bridge features glass floor panels at its midpoint for those brave enough to look straight down. It’s the perfect spot for a panoramic photo and a memory you won’t soon forget.
3. Sip Your Way Through the Gatlinburg Wine Trail
While the mountains provide the scenery, the Gatlinburg Wine Trail provides the flavor. This is arguably the most relaxing and delicious way to spend an afternoon in Gatlinburg. The trail consists of five unique stops, each offering a distinct taste of Appalachian tradition and modern winemaking.
- Gatlinburg Wine Cellar: Home to the world-famous "Cotton Candy" wine. This is a must-visit for those who love sweet, fun, and nostalgic flavors.
- Sugarland Cellars: Located at the entrance of the national park, this winery focuses on traditional mountain winemaking, with each bottle telling a story of local history.
- Tennessee Homemade Wines: If you want a taste of authentic, local fruit wines, this is the place. Their blackberry and blueberry wines are legendary.
- Old Mountain Wine & Mercantile: A newer addition that offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere with a focus on high-quality, craft wines that pair perfectly with mountain sunsets.
- Tennessee Cider Company: While wine is the star, don’t forget the crisp, refreshing flavors of hard cider. This stop offers everything from traditional apple to seasonal favorites like pumpkin or caramel apple.
Pro Tip: Don't just visit one! Grab the VIP Trail Pass for just $10. This pass grants you access to all five locations. The best part? You have seven full days to complete the trail at your own pace, and once you’ve visited all five, you receive a free gift to commemorate your journey.
4. Get Up Close with Marine Life at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
It might seem strange to find a world-class aquarium in the middle of the mountains, but Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is consistently ranked as one of the best in the country.
The highlight is the Shark Lagoon, where a 340-foot underwater tunnel allows you to travel on a moving sidewalk while sharks, sea turtles, and giant stingrays swim just inches above your head. It’s an immersive experience that provides a nice change of pace from the outdoor activities and is a perfect rainy-day option.
5. Experience the Thrills at Anakeesta
Anakeesta is an outdoor theme park that captures the "magic in the mountains." To get there, you’ll take a scenic Chondola (a choice of a gondola or a chairlift) to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain.
Once at the top, you can explore Firefly Village, walk through the Treetop Skywalk (a series of bridges suspended 50-60 feet in the air), or climb the AnaVista Tower for 360-degree views that reach as far as Kentucky. For the thrill-seekers, the RailRunner Mountain Coaster and dual ziplines offer an adrenaline rush with a view.
Why the Gatlinburg Wine Trail Should Be on Your List
While the views and the hikes are incredible, your vacation is about relaxation. The Gatlinburg Wine Trail provides a social, laid-back atmosphere that bridges the gap between your morning hike and your evening dinner. Whether you are a connoisseur or a casual sipper, the variety offered at our five locations-Gatlinburg Wine Cellar, Sugarland Cellars, Tennessee Homemade Wines, Old Mountain Wine & Mercantile, and Tennessee Cider Company-ensures there is a glass for everyone.
Ready to start your adventure? Grab your VIP Trail Pass today and experience the best flavors Gatlinburg has to offer!
Plan your visit to the Gatlinburg Wine Trail and discover why our mountain wines are the talk of the Smokies.