Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular vacation destination nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. With its rich history, natural beauty, and family-friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder why millions of visitors flock to this charming town every year. If you’re planning a trip to Gatlinburg, you’ll want to make sure to add these must-see places to your itinerary.
Outdoor Adventures
Gatlinburg is surrounded by the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Here are a few must-see places to get you started:
- The Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This stunning park offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic vistas. Take a guided hike or explore on your own to discover the park’s many wonders.
- The Gatlinburg Strip: This lively stretch of road is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Take a stroll along the strip to experience the town’s energy and excitement.
- The Ole Red Gatlinburg: This historic bar and restaurant is a must-visit for country music fans. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and a glimpse into Gatlinburg’s rich history.
- The Gatlinburg Riverwalk: Take a leisurely stroll along the Little Pigeon River and enjoy the beautiful scenery and charming shops and restaurants.
Family-Friendly Fun
Gatlinburg is a family-friendly destination, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep kids of all ages entertained. Here are a few must-see places to add to your itinerary:
- The Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: This underwater wonderland features a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and daily feedings.
- The Anakeesta Outdoor Treetop Canopy Walk: Take a thrilling walk through the treetops and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. This attraction is perfect for families with older kids and teens.
- The Gatlinburg Space Needle: This 400-foot-tall observation tower offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Kids will love the elevator ride to the top and the interactive exhibits.
- The Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre: This quirky little theater features a variety of family-friendly shows, including comedy, magic, and puppetry. Kids will love the silly antics and colorful characters.
History and Culture
Gatlinburg has a rich history and culture, with plenty of attractions and landmarks to explore. Here are a few must-see places to add to your itinerary:
- The Gatlinburg Heritage Center: This museum showcases the town’s history, from its early days as a logging community to its current status as a popular vacation destination. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and artifacts.
- The Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery: Take a tour of this historic distillery and learn about the art of moonshine-making. Samples are available for those 21 and older.
- The Gatlinburg Riverwalk: Take a stroll along the river and enjoy the charming shops and restaurants. Be sure to stop by the Gatlinburg Riverwalk Fountain, a beautiful display of water and light.
- The Gatlinburg Strip: This lively stretch of road is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Take a stroll along the strip to experience the town’s energy and excitement.
Shopping and Dining
Gatlinburg is a shopper’s paradise, with plenty of boutiques, souvenir shops, and specialty stores to explore. Here are a few must-see places to add to your itinerary: (See Also: Must See Places In Cebu)
- The Gatlinburg Strip: This lively stretch of road is lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Take a stroll along the strip to experience the town’s energy and excitement.
- The Island at Pigeon Forge: This entertainment complex features a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including a giant Ferris wheel and a haunted house.
- The Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair: This annual fair features handmade crafts, artwork, and souvenirs. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
- The Alamo Steakhouse and Saloon: This cowboy-themed restaurant serves up delicious steaks, ribs, and BBQ. Kids will love the fun atmosphere and live music.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg is a must-see destination for anyone looking for a fun and relaxing vacation. With its rich history, natural beauty, and family-friendly atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in this charming town. From outdoor adventures to family-friendly fun, history and culture, shopping and dining, and more, Gatlinburg has it all. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the best of the Smoky Mountains.
People Also Ask
Q: What are the best things to do in Gatlinburg with kids?
A: Gatlinburg is a family-friendly destination with plenty of activities and attractions to keep kids of all ages entertained. Some of the best things to do with kids in Gatlinburg include visiting the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, taking a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and exploring the Ole Red Gatlinburg. (See Also: Must See Places In Antwerp)
Q: What are the best restaurants in Gatlinburg?
A: Gatlinburg is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, and there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from. Some of the best restaurants in Gatlinburg include the Alamo Steakhouse and Saloon, the Cherokee Grill, and the Donut Friar.
Q: What are the best shopping spots in Gatlinburg?
(See Also: Must See Places In Positano Italy)A: Gatlinburg is a shopper’s paradise, with plenty of boutiques, souvenir shops, and specialty stores to explore. Some of the best shopping spots in Gatlinburg include the Gatlinburg Strip, the Island at Pigeon Forge, and the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair.
