Planning a trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee but don’t know where to begin? Look no further! This guide is jam packed with everything you need to know about visiting Gatlinburg. There is so much to see and do! It might feel overwhelming when trying to plan your trip. Hopefully reading this guide will help ease your stress and allow you to plan the best trip to Gatlinburg!
Read my Ultimate Guide to Visiting Gatlinburg, TN to learn the best time to visit, how to get to Gatlinburg, where to stay, how to get around Gatlinburg, and best things to do. This guide also goes into detail about visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park since it neighbors Gatlinburg. If you are looking for outdoor adventures but also want to do all the touristy Gatlinburg things, this guide is perfect for you!
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Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Gatlinburg is very touristy! I repeat, Gatlinburg is very touristy! If that’s not your style… wait! Don’t go yet. Let me show you how to have the best time when visiting Gatlinburg. Honestly, my husband and I spend more of our time exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park (also quite touristy) rather than jaunting around Gatlinburg. Doesn’t mean we don’t like Gatlinburg. It just means we prioritize outdoorsy activities, such as hiking and watching sunrises, over pricey touristy activities, such as the skybridge.
We do enjoy Gatlinburg. My husband and I have been two years in a row (2022 and 2023). I have learned that planning a trip to Gatlinburg with a solid itinerary is the best way to go. Why? Because trying to decide which activities to do, what time to do the activities, where to park, where to eat… you get the idea. It can be STRESSFUL! Don’t be stressed out on your family vacation (or solo vacation). Let me handle the hard work of planning for you!
Below you will find information to help you plan an amazing trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Best Time to Visit
Most months out of the year are great for visiting Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains. It all depends on your particular plans, your budget, and tolerance for big crowds. Let’s break it down so you can better plan your trip to Gatlinburg!
Want to save money and avoid crowds?
If you want to spend less money during your vacation and explore without the big crowds, then plan a trip during the offseason! The offseason is usually during late fall, entire winter season, and early spring (November through March).
The rates for accommodations and lodging are typically much more affordable as compared to summer rates (peak season). Also, the touristy attractions might be at a lower price and without crazy waiting times. Be aware, some attractions may close seasonally. Make sure to look up each spot you want to check out prior to booking your trip.
Winter hiking is always fun if you don’t mind cold temperatures. Always layer up properly! Be aware that U.S. 441 (scenic highway through the Great Smokies) may be closed in the winter if snowy and icy conditions are present.
Want to make memories with your kids (with warmer temps)?
Summer is the prime time for family vacations because the kids are out of school and the weather is ideal for fun outdoor activities. Also, all the attractions are open and ready for business.
Be prepared to pay a pretty penny on everything during summertime! All the rates for lodging and attractions skyrocket since so many people plan their vacations this time of year.
One more little downside of visiting in the summer, especially if you are hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains, is the bugs! This is one of the major downsides of vacationing in the summer if you are an outdoorsy person. I don’t mind the presence of bugs in general, it’s just when they try to fly in your nose, mouth, ears, and eyes, or when they try to suck your blood… looking at you, gnats and mosquitoes!
Since we are a couple without kids, we try to avoid summer vacations in popular touristy spots. But if it’s the only time you have, go for it! You will still have a great time if you plan things out, and if you can start your day earlier than everyone else.
READ THIS: 15 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Great Outdoors
Want to know the absolute best time to visit Gatlinburg?
My husband and I have visited Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains twice in September. It was near-perfect. Let’s talk about why it was a near-perfect experience.
The peak season in Gatlinburg (as in the time we try to avoid) is June to August. Then right after that is September. Temperatures are getting cooler, crowds are growing smaller, and offseason rates are beginning.
The only downside is that leaves are not quite at their peak for fall. We love love love fall hiking! However, the crowds return in major flocks during the peak fall time. It’s understandable though. The mountains are full of bright colors, and it’s a beautiful site to see!
So, with that being said, if you are adamant about avoiding crowds and don’t care about seeing the stunning fall foliage, I would avoid visiting Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains in mid-October to mid-November.
But if I had to choose between visiting in the summer or fall, I would choose fall every time! The crowds will still likely be lesser in the fall (especially on the weekdays) as compared to anytime during the summer.
How to Get to Gatlinburg
Driving from another location
Most people now-a-days use their GPS on their phones to get from point A to point B. Therefore, I won’t provide in-depth directions. Below is a small list (not exhaustive) of major cities and towns within a 6-hour’s drive from Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Disclaimer: The driving times listed below do not account for major traffic backups, accidents, rush-hour, etc. Also, there are other routes that may increase your drive time. Always plan for extra time for bathroom breaks, grabbing breakfast/lunch, filling up gas, or charging your electric vehicle.
4-6 hours’ drive:
- Nashville, Tennessee
- Atlanta, Georgia
- Louisville, Kentucky
- Columbia, South Carolina
- Roanoke, Virginia
2-3 hours’ drive:
- Chatanooga, Tennessee
- Johnson City, Tennessee
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- Asheville, North Carolina
Less than 2 hours’ drive:
- Knoxville, Tennessee
- Sevierville, Tennessee
- Bryson City, North Carolina
- Cherokee, North Carolina
Flying into a nearby airport:
There are several major airports near Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The closest one is a little over an hours’ drive to Gatlinburg and the other ones range from a 2- to 4 hours’ drive.
McGhee Tyson Airport is located 12 miles south of Knoxville, in Alcoa, Tennessee. It’s a little over an hour drive to reach Gatlinburg.
Asheville Regional Airport is located near Interstate 26 and the town of Fletcher, North Carolina, and is 9 miles south of downtown Asheville. It’s about a 2 hours’ drive to Gatlinburg.
Tri-Cities Airport is located in Blountville, Tennessee. It serves the Tri-Cities area of Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia. It’s about a 2 hours’ drive to Gatlinburg.
Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport is located 5 miles east of downtown Chattanooga, in Hamilton County, Tennessee. It’s about a 2 1/2 to 3 hours’ drive to reach Gatlinburg.
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport is located near Greer, South Carolina, which is midway between Greenville and Spartanburg. It’s about a 3 hours’ drive to Gatlinburg.
Nashville International Airport is located in the southeastern section of Nashville, Tennessee. It’s about a 3 1/2 to 4 hours’ drive to Gatlinburg.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport is located in Charlotte, North Carolina. It’s about six miles west of the city’s central business district. It’s about a 3 1/2 hours’ drive to reach Gatlinburg.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is located 10 miles south of the Downtown Atlanta district. It’s about a 4 to 4 1/2 hours’ drive to Gatlinburg.
There are several options for transportation from any of the airports to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. The most common method is to rent a car. If you can manage without a car (that is, if you decide to stay in Gatlinburg and not explore the surrounding areas), then you could get an Uber/Lyft or taxi. Public transportation may also be an option.
Where to Stay
There are lots of accommodation options within Gatlinburg and the surrounding area. Like I mentioned above, prices will be lower in the offseason and higher in the peak season. Thankfully, there are many options for those who are on a budget and for those who can splurge. Below is a list of various lodging options. Make sure to do further research as this list is not exhaustive!
Use these resources to help find the perfect stay: Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com, and Tripadvisor.
Accommodations in Gatlinburg:
- River Edge Inn
- Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
- Greystone Lodge On the River
- Carr’s Northside Cottages & Motel
- Holiday Inn Express Gatlinburg Downtown
Accommodations near Gatlinburg:
- LeConte Lodge
- Wilderness at the Smokies
- Under Canvas
- Meadowlark Motel
- Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort
How to Get Around Gatlinburg
Walking is the best way to get around downtown Gatlinburg! All the restaurants, shops, fun attractions, and wine and moonshine shops are within walking distance of each other. There are many benefits of walking versus taking your own vehicle or public transportation.
First off, it’s good for your health! The more active you are, the better. Second, it’s better for the environment. Third, walking is way less stressful than having to deal with traffic. And finally, if you are staying in or very close to downtown Gatlinburg, you don’t have to worry about paying an outrageous parking fee.
The next best way to get around Gatlinburg is to use public transportation. Gatlinburg offers a free trolley service. The trolley operates everyday all year-round. Learn more about the Gatlinburg Trolley here!
You can also use rideshare services, such as Uber or Lyft, to get you into the downtown area or anywhere else in Gatlinburg without having to worry about navigating through traffic and finding a parking spot.
The last option is to drive your own vehicle (or the one you rented) which is very common if you are not staying within walking distance of the downtown area. Most people will drive and pay for parking in one of the many parking lots then walking everywhere.
Is free parking a thing in Gatlinburg?
Yes, it is! The options are very limited. There is free parking along River Road which runs behind the Parkway. The spots are hard to get, especially during the summer months. It’s worth trying through.
Another good option is the drive to one of the free Park and Ride Lots located outside of the downtown Gatlinburg and use the free trolley system to catch a lift to the downtown area.
Learn more about the parking situation here!
Best Things to Do
Eat & Drink
There are plenty of good restaurants, wineries, and distilleries located in Gatlinburg. My husband and I are vegetarian, so we want to suggest places that have good vegetarian (and vegan) options. Also, we want to suggest places we have actually eaten at. Below is a list of the restaurants that we have enjoyed!
- Mellow Mushroom Gatlinburg
- Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina
- No Way Jose’s Mexican Cantina
- North China Chinese Restaurant
- Arcadia – Slice Pizza Bakery
- The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is famous for their distilleries and wineries which offer tastings either for free or a small fee. It’s a very popular tourist thing to do. If you are 21+ years of age and are a responsible human being, check out these moonshine distilleries and wineries list below!
- Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery (The Holler)
- Ole Smoky Whiskey Distillery (The Barrelhouse)
- Sugarlands Distilling Company
Fun Activities
Like I’ve mentioned before, Gatlinburg is very touristy. But because of this, there are a lot of fun things to do! I’ve listed below a few activities that are actually worth spending money on.
Hiking (our favorite activity)
I discuss more about hiking later on. But I had to mention it here because Great Smoky Mountains National Park is right beside Gatlinburg. There are so many awesome hikes to do nearby. Plus, it’s free! Sort of… you have to pay a parking fee when parking for longer than 15 minutes in the National Park. But it’s worth it, I promise!
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Before going to any aquarium or zoos, always make sure they are ethical. I made sure to do some research about the Ripley’s Aquarium before suggesting this as an activity to do in Gatlinburg.
According to their website, “Ripley’s Aquariums are committed to providing the highest standard of welfare for our animals, from routine veterinary care to numerous research and conservation initiatives on both a local and global level. We aim to foster a culture of sustainability that helps build a legacy of ecological stewardship and inspires the next generation of conservationists.”
Furthermore, the Ripley’s Aquarium is an AZA-accredited facility. This accreditation assures the highest standards for animal care and welfare. Their mission is to provide an experience that fosters conservation and research along with environmental education and animal care.
You can buy tickets here!
Gatlinburg SkyPark (Lift & Bridge)
Ride a chairlift and walk across the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America! You can see all of downtown Gatlinburg from the top. It’s even cooler at nighttime!
The prices are currently reduced due to construction. Buy tickets online here!
Anakeesta
Prepare for a unique outdoor experience! Anakeesta is a mountaintop park which includes a multitude of outdoorsy adventures for all ages. Walk across bridges hanging 50 to 60 feet in the air, admire the stunning 360-degree views from the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg, and stroll through a beautiful oasis of flowers and waterfalls.
The adventures at Anakeesta are endless. Purchase tickets here and have the experience of a lifetime!
Mountain Coasters
Do you like rollercoasters? In Gatlinburg, mountain coasters are the next best thing! These thrilling family-friendly rides will make you want to go again and again. They’re that fun!
Ripley’s Mountain Coaster and Moonshine Mountain Coaster are located in downtown Gatlinburg along the Parkway.
Mirror Maze & Mini Golf
There are several mini golf (aka putt putt) spots along the Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg, including Gatlin’s Mini Golf, Treasure Quest Miniature Golf, and Hillbilly Golf.
Our personal favorite has been the Amazing Mirror Maze & Circus Golf. There’s something about being able to do an exciting mirror maze then a fun round of mini golf. I think the mirror maze is the best part. We always laugh our heads off trying to figure our way out of the maze. It’s so much fun!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a part of the Blue Ridge Mountains which are a part of the Appalachian Mountains which are one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world. This National Park has some of the tallest mountains in the eastern North America. The famous Appalachian Trail passes through the Park.
Split between Tennessee and North Carolina, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the largest protected areas in the eastern United States, covering over 500,000 acres of land. The beautiful flora, wildlife diversity, and history attracts visitors from all over the world. This National Park is the most visited National Park in the United States!
Know Before You Go
Parking Tags
Parking tags are required in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are three different tags you can purchase. Daily pass for $5, weekly pass for $15, or an annual pass for $40. Tags may be purchased online, or on-site. Parking tags will NOT be required for motorists who pass through the area or who park for less than 15 minutes, or while parked at their designated campsite. Entrance into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is FREE, but a parking tag is required.
Black Bears
Black bears are active within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Follow these guidelines to avoid any negative interactions with a black bear.
You might also encounter bears while exploring Gatlinburg. My husband and I stayed in a condo one year which was about a 20-minutes’ drive from Gatlinburg. We saw about 7-8 bears around our condo during our time there. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow the guidelines (linked above).
Leave No Trace
Before you go, please make sure you understand the Leave No Trace principles. These seven principles help reduce our environmental impact from outdoor recreational activities. Nature is meant to be enjoyed and respected. 🌱
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of others
Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. It has an 11-mile, one-way loop road that circles the cove. It is known for its wildlife and beautiful flora. Be on the lookout for black bears, deer, river otters, snakes, and sometimes elk! It is one of the most popular destinations within the Great Smoky Mountains.
Another amazing aspect of Cades Cove is the preservation of historical buildings. Along the loop road, you will discover churches, old settlement houses, barns, and more!
There are several hiking trails within Cades Cove. The most popular being a moderate 5-mile roundtrip hike to Abrams Falls. Other hikes include Cades Cove Nature Trail (easy 2-mile trail) and Rocky Top/Thunderhead Mountain (strenuous 14-mile trail).
On Wednesdays from May through September, Cades Cove has vehicle-free days where pedestrians and cyclists can experience the loop without motor vehicles.
Cades Cove is open year-round from sunrise to sunset but always check the NPS website for updates.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a 5.5-mile-long, one-way, loop road that offers a relaxing drive through an old forest and scenic sights of mountain streams and historic buildings within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
This motor nature trail is a narrow, winding, one-way road. Buses, RVs, and large trucks are prohibited on the road. In the colder months from December through mid-March, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is closed.
Vikas and I have done two awesome waterfall hikes along this road. The first one is Rainbow Falls which is 5.5-mile roundtrip hike to an 80-foot waterfall. The trailhead for Rainbow Falls is at the beginning of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail.
The next hike is a 1.4-mile one way hike to Grotto Falls via Trillium Gap Trail. This waterfall is only about 25-feet tall but offers a unique feature in which you can walk behind it. If the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is closed, you can still hike to Grotto Falls from the Rainbow Falls Trailhead.
A few other hikes along this road include Baskins Creek Falls (moderate 3-mile roundtrip trail) and Grapeyard Ridge Trail (hard 14.5-miles roundtrip trail).
Best Hikes Near Gatlinburg
Easy Hikes
Laurel Falls – hike a little over a mile to reach this 80-foot waterfall. This waterfall has an upper and lower section which are divided by a walkway crossing the stream at the base of the upper falls. This is a very popular hiking trail with limited parking. Get there early!
Moderate Hikes
Abrams Falls – this is a very popular hike along the Cades Cove Loop. It’s a 2.5-mile one-way hike to a 20-foot waterfall. Although small, Abrams Falls has a large volume of water flowing over with a beautiful open pool at the base making it a great photo opportunity. Swimming can be dangerous due to strong currents and an undertow. Be safe and have fun!
Rainbow Falls – take a hike to a beautiful 80-foot waterfall. This 5.5-mile roundtrip hike is the perfect family adventure as the trail is rated moderate to hard difficulty. You might even see a rainbow at the waterfall!
Grotto Falls – hike 1.4 miles one-way to this unique waterfall. The Trillium Gap Trail takes you through an old-growth hemlock forest and continues behind the 25-foot waterfall. This is the only waterfall in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that you can walk behind!
Andrews Bald – hike 1.8 miles one-way to the highest grassy bald in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Escape the heavily congested crowds of Clingmans Dome and find more solitude at Andrews Bald. Enjoy the amazing views of the southern Smokies and Fontana Lake.
Charlie’s Bunion – hike 4 miles one-way to one of the most picturesque spots along the Appalachian Trail and capture the breathing taking views from the unique rocky outcrop known as Charlie’s Bunion.
Hard to Strenuous Hikes
Clingmans Dome – take a hike to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s a short yet very steep 0.5 mile-hike to an observation tower that offers beautiful 360-degree views.
Chimney Tops – get ready for a tough, short hike! In the 2 miles heading towards Chimney Tops, you will gain about 1,400 feet in elevation. Unfortunately, due to fire damage and safety issues, the last 0.25 miles (which was the best part) is closed off. But there is a viewing platform which offers nice views, and you can see Chimney Tops from there!
Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte – this is a very popular hike yet strenuous hike clocking in at 11 miles roundtrip with almost 2,800 feet of elevation gain. It’s an awesome adventure, and you will see Arch Rock, Alum Cave Bluff, Mount LeConte Lodge, Cliff Top, and Myrtle Point along the way!
3- and 5-Day Itineraries
Our idea of an itinerary is mostly focused on outdoor adventures. Since Gatlinburg is right next to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, you will see hiking almost each day on the itineraries.
Also, included in this guide are “alternate days”. If one of the planned-out days does not appeal to you, maybe try one of the alternate days. You don’t have to go off exactly how I have everything planned in the itineraries below. They are just sample itineraries to help guide you when planning your trip to Gatlinburg. They are more for inspiration. To give you an idea of what to do when you visit Gatlinburg! The options are endless!
If hiking is not your thing, never fear, you can simply replace any of the hiking activities with another Gatlinburg activity from the options mentioned above. Or simply drive through the Great Smokies and soak up the spectacular views from the many overlooks without stepping on a trail.
I would highly encourage anyone who hasn’t been hiking (maybe due to fear of bugs, seeing a bear, or getting dirty), to give it a shot! There are tons of different hikes throughout the Great Smoky Mountains that range from easy to strenuous. Some lead to waterfalls while others lead to summits with incredible views. Even if it’s just a simple nature trail… go for it! The fresh mountain air and physical activity will make you feel some type of way. Like a good type of way. 😉
Ok, let’s get into the details of both the 3- and 5-day itineraries! If you are an active, outdoorsy individual, couple, or family, then this is the perfect travel guide for you!
Day 1
- Check into your motel/hotel/lodge/cabin/etc.
- Buy groceries and other essentials if needed
BUDGET TIP: Buy groceries and cook your own meals versus eating out for every meal. This will help save a good bit of money!
- Settle in and eat dinner in downtown Gatlinburg (or cook something yourself that night)
Day 2
- Head to the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
- Hike Rainbow Falls (moderate 5.5 miles)
- Hike Grotto Falls (moderate 3 miles)
- Bring lunch to eat while out hiking
- Hike Laurel Falls (easy 2.5 miles)
DAY 2 TIP: Hike one, two, or all three trails! Do what feels comfortable for you (and your family). If your fitness level allows you to hike all three trails (total of 11 miles), then go for it! If you can only do one hike, that’s great!
- Eat dinner in Gatlinburg (or cook at your accommodation if able)
- Find a simple yet fun attraction (mini golf or a museum) to end the night
Alternate Day
- Hike the Alum Cave Trail to Mt LeConte and to Myrtle Point and Cliff Top (strenuous 11 miles)
- Plan to eat lunch along the trail as this will be an all-day adventure
- Eat dinner in Gatlinburg (or cook at your accommodation if able)
- Try a few moonshine and/or wine tastings (if 21+ years old and responsible)
- Check out Gatlinburg’s SkyPark
Day 3
- Breakfast at a pancake house (or complimentary breakfast at your motel/hotel if available)
- Explore Cades Cove
- Hike Abrams Falls (moderate 5.5 miles)
- Eat a packed lunch while exploring (just remember, don’t feed wild animals!)
- Check out either the Ripley’s Aquarium and/or Anakeesta
- Eat dinner in Gatlinburg (or cook at your accommodation if able)
Alternate Day
This is a full day in Gatlinburg with all the fun attractions and no hiking!
- Breakfast at a pancake house (or complimentary breakfast at your motel/hotel if available)
- Check out either the Ripley’s Aquarium and/or Anakeesta
- Lunch in Gatlinburg
- Find another fun attraction (mountain coaster, mini golf, museum, and/or arcade)
- Try a few moonshine or wine tastings (if 21+ years old and responsible)
- Dinner in Gatlinburg
Staying for 2 more days? Great! Continue reading to find more exciting things to do in Gatlinburg and in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Day 4
- Sunrise at Clingmans Dome (hard 0.5 mile one-way)
Hope you’re an early bird for this one! 😜 If not, simply visit Clingmans Dome when you’re ready. However, I would HIGHLY suggest getting there as early as possible. It’s a very popular spot and the parking lot will fill up fast.
- Hike Andrews Bald (moderate 3.5 miles)
- And/or hike Chimney Tops (hard 3.5 miles)
- Explore more fun attractions in Gatlinburg (mountain coaster, mini golf, museum, and/or arcade)
- Eat dinner in Gatlinburg (or cook at your accommodation if able)
Day 5
- Check out of your motel/hotel/lodge/cabin/etc.
- If you have time, explore more of Gatlinburg
- Check out the shops
- Try another quick, fun attraction
BUDGET TIP: I try to avoid buying unnecessary souvenirs. However, if there is something you have been eyeing this whole time while exploring Gatlinburg and you still have a strong urge to buy it then maybe you should go for it. The more you will use it, the better. And if it will bring you joy, then why not!?
- OR instead of exploring Gatlinburg, take a drive through the Great Smokies and see the scenic views
Summary of Itineraries
We Vlogged Our Experience!
We also went on a 1-week vacation to Gatlinburg, TN and Great Smoky Mountains in 2022. We have a playlist on YouTube with six vlogs! Click this link to watch them all ➡️ Great Smoky Mountains – Gatlinburg, TN | September 2022
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