Start your trip with a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the most visited national park in the United States. Explore the natural beauty of the mountains, valleys, and rivers, and hike to the stunning Clingmans Dome for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and then cross the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. With a length of 680 feet, the bridge offers stunning views of the city and the Smoky Mountains.
Experience a rootin' tootin' good time with Dolly Parton's Stampede Dinner Attraction, a family-friendly show featuring horse-riding stunts, live music, and a four-course feast. Be sure to arrive early to explore the pre-show activities and visit the horse stable.
Get up close and personal with marine life from around the world at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. Highlights include the Penguin Playhouse, Shark Lagoon, and the Interactive Discovery Center, where you can touch stingrays and horseshoe crabs.
Take a scenic drive through Cades Cove, a valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park known for its wildlife and historic buildings. Stop at the visitor center to learn about the area's rich history and then embark on a hike or bike ride on one of the many trails.
Spend the day at Ober Gatlinburg, a ski resort and amusement park offering a wide range of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and scenic chairlift rides. Visit the Wildlife Encounter to see black bears, river otters, and more.
End your trip on a high note with a visit to Smoky Mountain Brewery, a local favorite serving up award-winning craft beers and tasty pub fare. Take a tour of the brewery and try one of their signature pizzas or burgers.
It is recommended to rent a car to get around Gatlinburg and the surrounding area. Keep in mind that some scenic drives, such as Newfound Gap Road, may be closed in winter due to snow and ice. Parking is available at each of the listed attractions.
Estimated Car Rental: $250-350 for 7 days. Estimated Travel Time: 4-5 hours from Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
If you have more time, consider taking a day trip to nearby Pigeon Forge, home to Dollywood and other attractions. For a shorter trip, skip a day activity or combine multiple activities into one day. Be sure to check attraction hours and availability before visiting, as some may have limited hours or require reservations.
The nearest airport to Gatlinburg is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS), located about 50 minutes (41 miles) from downtown. Other nearby airports include Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) and Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), both located about 2.5 hours (100 miles) from Gatlinburg.