Things to Do in Gatlinburg

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Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is the ultimate gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and downtown entertainment. Whether you are seeking the thrill of whitewater rafting, the serenity of a mountain hike, or the excitement of family-friendly attractions, Gatlinburg has something for everyone. From scenic chairlifts providing panoramic views to unique museums and local distilleries, this charming mountain town is packed with unforgettable experiences.


Here is our guide to the best things to do in Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains.

A group of people wearing helmets and life vests paddles a raft through white water rapids on a rocky river.

Whitewater Rafting with Big Creek Expeditions

Experience the ultimate Smoky Mountain adventure with a thrilling whitewater rafting trip on the Pigeon River. Just a short drive from Gatlinburg, Big Creek Expeditions offers exciting Class III rapids for adrenaline seekers and scenic float trips perfect for families, making it one of the top outdoor activities near Gatlinburg, TN.

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Gatlinburg SkyPark

Take a ride on the iconic Gatlinburg SkyLift to the top of Crockett Mountain, where you can walk across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America. This must-see place in Gatlinburg offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the bustling downtown area below.

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Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Consistently voted one of the top aquariums in the country, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a premier Gatlinburg attraction. Visitors can marvel at thousands of exotic sea creatures, walk through the incredible underwater shark tunnel, and even interact with playful penguins and stingrays.

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Anakeesta

Anakeesta is an award-winning outdoor family theme park located high above Gatlinburg. Accessible via a scenic Chondola ride, this mountaintop destination features a treetop canopy walk, thrilling dueling ziplines, a mountain coaster, and stunning views, making it one of the most popular Gatlinburg things to do.

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park

No trip to Gatlinburg is complete without exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With over 800 miles of hiking trails, historic cabins in Cades Cove, and stunning waterfalls like Laurel Falls, it is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those looking for outdoor attractions in Gatlinburg.

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Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

Experience a true taste of Tennessee at the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, the most visited distillery in the United States. Located right on the Parkway, visitors can enjoy live bluegrass music, learn about the history of moonshining, and sample a wide variety of unique and traditional moonshine flavors.

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Hiking in the Cherokee National Forest

Hartford Tennessee is surrounded by the Cherokee National Forest, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring nature. Visitors can find numerous trails ranging from easy nature walks to challenging mountain treks, many of which feature beautiful waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and stunning panoramic views of the Pigeon River gorge.

Other Towns Near Gatlinburg

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While Gatlinburg offers endless entertainment, the surrounding towns in the Smoky Mountain region are also worth exploring. Just a short drive away, you will find a variety of unique attractions, outdoor adventures, and charming communities that make the Tennessee Smokies such a beloved vacation destination. Whether you are looking for thrilling theme parks, peaceful nature retreats, or the best whitewater rafting in the area, these neighboring towns have plenty to offer.

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Just a short drive away from Gatlinburg is Pigeon Forge, a bustling mountain town that offers a variety of world-class attractions, including the famous Dollywood theme park and The Island entertainment complex. Visitors can also explore the many shops, restaurants, dinner shows, and interactive museums that line the vibrant Parkway.

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Another popular destination near Gatlinburg is the town of Sevierville, which offers a variety of shopping and dining options, as well as a number of outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. Visitors can also explore the Forbidden Caverns, a fascinating underground cave system that features unique rock formations and a rich history.

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Known as the whitewater rafting capital of Tennessee, Hartford is a small community nestled along the Pigeon River. It is the premier destination for adventure seekers looking to experience the thrill of the rapids. Home to Big Creek Expeditions, Hartford offers unforgettable whitewater rafting and scenic float trips, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting the Smoky Mountains.