Gatlinburg

A mountain resort town nestled at the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, famous for its scenic beauty, ski slopes, and adventure activities. It offers quirky attractions, craft shops, and a lively entertainment scene.

Things to do

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park — Explore the most visited national park in the United States with hundreds of miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Anakeesta Adventure Park — Experience ziplines, rope courses, and aerial obstacle challenges set high in the treetops with stunning mountain views.
• Gatlinburg SkyLift and SkyBridge — Ride the scenic chairlift up the mountainside and walk across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
• Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort — Hit the slopes during winter months or enjoy mountain activities like alpine slide and scenic chairlift rides year-round.
• Arts and Crafts Community — Browse over 120 local artisan shops featuring handmade pottery, woodwork, jewelry, and traditional Appalachian crafts.
• Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies — Visit one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world featuring exotic fish, sea otters, and interactive touch pools.
• Gatlinburg Trolleys and Scenic Chairlifts — Take a vintage trolley tour through downtown or ride panoramic chairlifts for elevated views of the Smoky Mountains.

Food to try

• Pancakes and Country Breakfast — Start your day with generous stacks of fluffy pancakes topped with local sourwood honey, often served alongside bacon and biscuits at family-style restaurants.
• Trout — Sample fresh locally-caught rainbow trout, typically pan-fried or smoked, a signature dish reflecting Appalachian mountain traditions.
• Fried Chicken and Biscuits — Enjoy crispy Southern-fried chicken served with buttermilk biscuits and country gravy at casual dining establishments throughout town.
• Moonshine Tastings — Visit local distilleries to sample authentic Tennessee moonshine and moonshine-infused craft cocktails, a regional specialty and cultural experience.
• Ramps and Wild Vegetables — During spring, seek out dishes featuring wild ramps and foraged Appalachian vegetables reflecting the region's agricultural heritage.

Local customs & good to know

• Plan for Mountain Weather — Weather changes rapidly in the Smokies; bring layers and be prepared for sudden rain even on clear days, and check conditions before hiking.
• Book Attractions in Advance During Peak Season — Summer and fall weekends fill up quickly with tourists; book accommodations and popular activities ahead to avoid long waits and disappointment.
• Respect Park Rules and Wildlife — Keep a safe distance from bears and other wildlife, stay on marked trails, and follow all national park regulations to protect both yourself and the ecosystem.
• Embrace Local Hospitality — Gatlinburg residents value friendly conversation and outdoor enthusiasm; engage with shop owners and locals who often share genuine recommendations and mountain stories.