Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, rich history, and exciting attractions. However, there’s more to explore beyond the city limits. The surrounding areas of Gatlinburg offer a wealth of exciting places to visit, each with its unique charm and attractions. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the best places to visit near Gatlinburg, TN.
Why Visit Places Near Gatlinburg?
Visiting places near Gatlinburg offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, explore historic towns, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and rafting. The surrounding areas are also home to various attractions, such as museums, theme parks, and waterfalls, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Top Places to Visit Near Gatlinburg
From the scenic beauty of Cades Cove to the thrill of Dollywood, here are some of the top places to visit near Gatlinburg:
- Pigeon Forge: This charming town is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, live music shows, and attractions like Dollywood and Dolly Parton’s Stampede.
- Cades Cove: A historic valley with preserved log cabins, churches, and other structures, offering a glimpse into the past.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering stunning natural beauty, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Sevierville: A historic town with a rich heritage, featuring attractions like the Sevierville Riverwalk and the Tennessee Museum of Aviation.
- Wears Valley: A scenic valley with stunning views, hiking trails, and waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone near Gatlinburg. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into each of these places and provide you with the information you need to plan your trip.
Places To Visit Near Gatlinburg, TN
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular tourist destination nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. The city offers a wide range of attractions, activities, and natural wonders that cater to all ages and interests. If you’re planning a trip to Gatlinburg, here are some places to visit near Gatlinburg, TN that you shouldn’t miss:
Natural Wonders
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit attraction near Gatlinburg. The park offers breathtaking scenery, including rolling hills, forests, and waterfalls. You can hike, camp, or simply take a scenic drive through the park to enjoy the stunning views.
- The Chimney Tops Trail: A 4-mile round-trip hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- The Alum Cave Trail: A 4.4-mile round-trip hike that takes you through a scenic cave and offers stunning views of the mountains.
- The Laurel Falls Trail: A 2.6-mile round-trip hike that leads to a 80-foot waterfall.
Waterfalls
Gatlinburg is surrounded by numerous waterfalls, each with its own unique charm. Here are some of the most popular waterfalls near Gatlinburg: (See Also: Places To Visit Near Burhanpur)
- Laurel Falls: A 80-foot waterfall that is accessible via a 2.6-mile round-trip hike.
- Grotto Falls: A 25-foot waterfall that is accessible via a 2.5-mile round-trip hike.
- Moonshine Falls: A 80-foot waterfall that is accessible via a 4-mile round-trip hike.
Other Attractions
In addition to the natural wonders and waterfalls, Gatlinburg offers a range of other attractions that are worth visiting:
- The Island at Pigeon Forge: A entertainment complex that offers a range of activities, including a Ferris wheel, a haunted house, and a mirror maze.
- The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center: A museum that showcases the history and culture of the Smoky Mountains.
- The Ole Red Gatlinburg: A historic bar and restaurant that offers live music and a range of drinks.
Table of Contents
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Natural Wonders | A range of natural attractions, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. |
| Waterfalls | A list of popular waterfalls near Gatlinburg, including Laurel Falls and Grotto Falls. |
| Other Attractions | A range of other attractions, including The Island at Pigeon Forge and The Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. |
Conclusion
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a popular tourist destination that offers a range of attractions and activities for all ages and interests. From the natural wonders of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the waterfalls and other attractions, there’s something for everyone in Gatlinburg. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery, Gatlinburg is the perfect destination for your next vacation.
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, rich history, and exciting attractions. Located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg offers a wide range of places to visit, from scenic drives and hiking trails to museums and theme parks. In this article, we’ve explored some of the top places to visit near Gatlinburg, TN.
In this conclusion, we’ll summarize the key points and recap what was discussed. We’ve covered a variety of attractions and activities that cater to different interests and age groups. From the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the Ole Red Gatlinburg, there’s something for everyone in and around Gatlinburg.
Some of the top places to visit near Gatlinburg include the Anakeesta outdoor attraction, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Island at Pigeon Forge is another popular destination, featuring a giant Ferris wheel, a haunted house, and a variety of restaurants and shops. For nature lovers, the Cades Cove Historic District is a must-visit, with its preserved log cabins and historic churches. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Provo Utah)
We’ve also highlighted some of the best waterfalls and hiking trails in the area, including the popular Laurel Falls and the Appalachian Trail. For those looking for a unique experience, the Gatlinburg Strip is a must-visit, with its lively atmosphere, street performers, and souvenir shops.
In conclusion, Gatlinburg and its surrounding areas offer a wide range of exciting places to visit, from outdoor adventures to cultural attractions and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Gatlinburg has something for everyone. We hope this article has provided you with some inspiration for your next trip to this beautiful region of Tennessee.
Here are five FAQs related to “Places To Visit Near Gatlinburg TN”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular attractions near Gatlinburg TN?
Some popular attractions near Gatlinburg TN include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Dollywood theme park, and the Ole Red Gatlinburg entertainment complex. Visitors can also explore the charming town of Pigeon Forge, which is known for its dinner theaters and family-friendly activities.
What are some good hiking trails near Gatlinburg TN?
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers many hiking trails for all skill levels, including the Appalachian Trail and the Chimney Tops Trail. The park is also home to many scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and historic log cabins. Visitors can also explore the Gatlinburg Trail, which is a 1.5-mile paved path that connects Gatlinburg to the national park.
Are there any water parks near Gatlinburg TN?
Yes, there are several water parks near Gatlinburg TN, including Dollywood’s Splash Country and the Island at Pigeon Forge’s Island Waterpark. These parks offer a variety of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers for visitors to enjoy. (See Also: Places To Visit Near Bologna Italy)
What are some good restaurants near Gatlinburg TN?
Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas are known for their Southern cuisine, including barbecue, biscuits and gravy, and sweet tea. Some popular restaurants include the Alamo Steakhouse, the Cherokee Grill, and the Donut Friar. Visitors can also try some of the local specialties, such as moonshine and fudge.
Are there any romantic getaways near Gatlinburg TN?
Yes, Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas offer many romantic getaways, including bed and breakfast inns, luxury cabins, and resorts. Visitors can enjoy couples’ massages, wine tastings, and horseback riding through the Great Smoky Mountains. The town also has many romantic restaurants and dinner theaters, including the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre and the Smoky Mountain Trout Farm.