As you hike along the trail, you will see some historical buildings including outbuildings and two churches from the 19th and 20th centuries. Unique, prominent winery featuring a range of award-winning varietals, a tasting room & a gift shop. Live actors lurk behind every corner of this creepy renovated mansion, just waiting to welcome you to their home. For two weeks every June, fireflies in the Smoky Mountains perform an astonishing light show. These are just some of the many ways that you can experience Gatlinburg as the locals do. Before setting out for an adventure in Gatlinburg, you may want to stop by Trishs Mountain Diner for a tantalizing and filling breakfast. Pingback: Things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Park Ranger John . NON-touristy gimmicky things in Gatlinburg - Tripadvisor Those yearning for a more intense athletic endeavor can opt for the strenuous, 10.6-mile journey to the Mt. It takes all the marine wonder of your typical aquarium with over 10,000 exotic sea creatures spread across 10 uniquely themed galleries. About | Privacy Policies | Business Resources | Sitemap | Made with by IMEG. Take precaution on the rocks around the waterfall as they tend to get super slippery. These buggies can tackle the harsh off-road terrain with ease, allowing you to witness areas untouched by the majority of locals and tourists. Things To Do in Gatlinburg - Explore Gatlinburg, TN | Things to Do One of the most touristy things to do in Tucson is going for a relaxing bike ride in downtown Tucson. 20 + Free Things to Do in Sevierville - East TN Family Fun Departs regularly from downtown Gatlinburg to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Area and Amusement Park. There are plenty of activities you can do in this small community that promises stunning scenic landscapes. Fine gifts imported from Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the Celtic Heritage Company is the perfect spot for Celtic music, foods, jewelry, accessories, kilts, and more. For the ultimate thrill-seeker, get in line for the Fire Tower Falls! If you've never been to Ripley's Aquarium, it's well worth a visit to see some sealife. Little Bear Winery features favorites such as two berries wine which is the perfect blend of blueberry and blackberries as well as their rhubarb wine. Victorian-style haunted house featuring year-round self-guided tours & spooky surprises. Come April, the Greenbrier area of the park is chock full of wildflowers. The disorientating abode is just one of the many whimsical illusions on display at Wonderworks, self-proclaimed as an amusement park for the mind.. We cant wait to see you there. For more information on places the locals love to eat, check out our blog, Where the Locals Eat in Pigeon Forge TN and the Smoky Mountains.. Specializing in craft beer, brewed right on site. NON-touristy gimmicky things in Gatlinburg - Tripadvisor 1. Renting a vehicle is recommended, as the public transport options are limited. To help you plan, weve created a guide to some of the best non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge: Would you love to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park but want to avoid the crowded, more popular trails? Funky, art-filled chain pizzeria featuring craft beer, calzones & creative stone-baked pizzas. What if you prefer something non-touristy? The Soul of Motown and Terry Evanswood Magic Show are each high-energy favorites, while the Hazzard Hoedown is a regular comical delight. With secret passageways, winding staircases and creepy dark corridors, this is the place to go, especially if youre planning to release any bottled-up screams. Gatlinburg is situated in east Nashville practically on the border of western North Carolina and is a fantastic base for exploring other places in the region on day trips from Gatlinburg. These attractions can be visited by senior citizens without any hassle. Their downtown Gatlinburg facility features two working copper stills. Drive down the 8-mile-loop road to discover weavers, watercolor artists, soap makers, potters and so many more unique vendors making for the perfect selection of handcrafted, Appalachian souvenirs. for a free tasting, or enjoy a glass of your favorite in our tasting rooms. Theres everything from an aerial tramway to a see-through bridge, there are plenty of activities for kids and kid-like adults. Skate rental and lessons are available, so just bring yourself and a can-do attitude! Gatlinburg might be small in size but its the furthest thing from small in the entertainment department. Feel the thrills as you dip and soar over Rowdy Bear Ridge. Cabin Rentals Are The Best (Non-Touristy) Way To See Gatlinburg Gatlin's Fun Center. The Rainbow Falls Trail is an American hiking trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visit museums, adventure parks, arcades and forbidden caverns, and the travel time between the two towns is merely 15 minutes by car. 95 Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN | A Gatlinburg Bucket List - Wild Hearted For almost 50 years, Smoky Mountain Candy Makers have been supplying Tennessee with delicious homemade taffy. Named after Revolutionary War Veteran Samuel Wears, this tranquil Valley oozes natural beauty and charm. At the family-fun center, catch a fantabulous Magic Show performed by a top mentalist and magician, or ride a glass elevator to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle tower for panoramic city views. Find accommodation, read accommodation reviews, and check flight prices.Book attractions, tickets, or guides in advance. Inspired by the ghosts and ghouls of Gatlinburgs past, it creates an atmosphere thats delightfully spooky. Go white water rafting on the Little Pigeon River (from USD 43.0) Show all photos What do you think of water rafting? Youre saddled onto a slow-moving, well-trained horse the way nature was meant to be explored. It also takes pride in its 100-year-old family recipe of Old Apple and Apple Orchard, which are made from locally grown apples. Order a cold one from the selection of the brewerys own branded beers on tap, or if youre here for serious business, try their Brew Samplers. Load up on sweet delights such as Choco Moo or Moon Pie Banana Cream. Its not hard to get thrilled in this family-friendly attraction that offers plenty of realistic simulated rides and experiences. Even if you are not into baseball, you will still be entertained by the game and youll have a lot of fun with the crowd. See peaks as far away as Kentucky and enjoy a bird's eye view of the park and lush botanical Vista Gardens 60 feet below! Watch professional log rolling, axe throwing, speed climbing and the nerve-racking springboard chop. Many of the distilleries in Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Gatlinburg offer unique cocktails made with their spirits. Or pick up a bottle of Pigeon Forge blush to go. Over 20,000 sets of spice shakers reveal the surprisingly telling history of our most basic spices. The aquarium boasts a myriad of sea creatures. The Greystone Lodge is family-owned and located in a very convenient location downtown. You can have any trip that youd like, from a relaxing, week-long getaway to a jam-packed weekend with your best friends. ), HOLIDAY INN CLUB VACATIONS SMOKY MOUNTAIN RESORT. One of the Ripleys-branded attractions throughout the city, Ripleys Haunted Adventure is ready to scare the socks off anyone brave enough to enter its doors. You would not want to miss the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a perfect spot for you to take a leisurely stroll or even hike. A post shared by Kelly Lopez (@kellylopezfl). Head to the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Try the 13-mile Low Gap Trail - Appalachian Trail - Snake Den Trail loop. You can often find locals relaxing and enjoying a drink at one of these spots! The Cat House is also a great place to make some feline friends, as many of the owner's cats live at the shop. The majestic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, settled by the Scots-Irish and steeped in history, intrigue, and tales of witchcraft. An hour and a half away, Cataloochee Valley is worth a visit if you have the time, especially at sunrise or sunset. Your email address will not be published. Inspired by the fun childhood moments of the entertainer Dolly Parton, this water park sits beside the Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge. Homemade wines from their Grandfathers recipes are made from the finest local ingredients in the town of Gatlinburg. With an elevation gain of 1,640 feet, it can be a challenging hike, but its worth every step. Many tourists say its an unforgettable experience, but that depends on how much you drink. This may be one of the most unique things to do in Gatlinburg! The three-floor building is hard to miss its the absolutely oddest thing you can find at Parkway. Check out its website for the market schedules and new vendors and crafts to keep an eye out during your visit to Gatlinburg. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Welcome to the most popular national park in the country! A little over an hour away, Knoxville is an easy drive to Gatlinburg. Founded in 1962, this year-round amusement park offers a ton of exciting activities for everyone. Adventurers will be able to climb three stories in the air to face thirty-eight challenges including rickety bridges, suspended ropes, and other balancing obstacles. Let's keep this between us, ok?! You can take a road trip through the rural mountain roads and enjoy the quiet, natural beauty and streams. Family Travel Made Easy: Learn the Best Strategies for Stress-Free They have several vegan options and theres also one in Nashville. 6. This golf course features hilly greens, a clubhouse & a picturesque mountain setting. What do you think of water rafting? Witness the wonder of blooming violets, lady slipper orchids, and showy orchis species by foot or car. Continue venturing further south to either destination close by, or a little further away. Sure, moonshine tastings and tours are a big hit with tourists, but have you ever stopped to enjoy some specialty moonshine cocktails at the distilleries? Did someone say snow tubing?! Or, why not try them all? 8. In Summer Dont putt too hard your ball might roll down the mountain! Visitors are able to see the distilling process up close while learning about the history of moonshine production in the Smoky Mountains. For a dazzling experience, hop on a group raft through the Rainbow Revenge with translucent tubes that create different colors as you go down. However, sometimes you want to get off the beaten path, especially if youre wanting to stay away from the tourist crowds or youve already seen all the sites in East Tennessee. From more out-of-the-way nature trails to hitting up beloved local eateries in downtown Gatlinburg, travelers of all persuasions will be tickled pink by this rugged mountain resort city. 63 Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee - TourScanner Embrace almost 10 minutes of high-speed thrills as you ride the longest coaster in East Tennessee. Thanks to its location in a mountain hollow, theres plenty of natural shade. From Americas most visited distillery to crazy pastry-inspired flavor combinations, each establishment brings a unique spin to its tasting tours: Need a break from amusement park antics and big chain restaurants? What started out as a quest to find the best salt shakers turned into an insatiable hobby for the founders of this museum, and when no space was left in their home to keep their collections, the unique Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum was established. Naturally, everything is cooked over flames, and the restaurant has been serving patrons for over 29 years! Or opt for a Llama Farm Visit to skip out on the physical exertion all together. Clocking in at four miles round-trip, the Gatlinburg Trail is one of the simpler routes to trek, starting from the borders of the park, and with no climbing required. Make sure to also visit the elk of Cataloochee Valley. Ripley's Moving Theater 721 Amusement & Theme Parks By Tercott86 Family fun!! Experience a magical time by catching a magic show at the one and only Iris Theater. Proudly self-labeled as the weirdest place in Gatlinburg, Ripleys Believe It or Not! Want to do some shopping and have the chance to meet locals at the same time? Try out the baked cheese, decadent desserts and, of course, their signature Plum Tea. Gatlinburg and the neighboring Pigeon Gorge arent bustling metropolises or tourist-trodden concrete jungles. Hire a car for the duration of your vacation, order a taxi, or hail a cab from the airport to your stay. Dollywood features over 50 enthralling rides spread across 150 acres, a number of award-winning eateries and regular live entertainment. It also features Glow in the Dark mini golf where you can play in an underwater theme with brightly colored creatures, including a mermaid, giant octopus and dolphins. One of the nations few theme parks built with a dedication to replicating that classic Southern charm is the amusement park co-owned by famous entertainer Dolly Parton. We love their hearty half-pound burgers and their rotating selection of seasonal and craft beers. An extraordinary spectacle combining a delectable dinner with a 32-horse live show (plus the riders, of course), Dolly Partons Stampede is Tennessee entertainment like youve never seen before. Providing beautiful cabin-style luxury accommodations, Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort offers a convenient location and scenic views. Something else you wont find a shortage of is a good round of hillbilly golf. This is located right off the main road in Gatlinburg. The Listening Room Cafe puts the magic of Music City front and center. As the name suggests, Off-Road Gatlinburg is all about the off-road experience and tours with this company favor different areas like the Appalachian Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Address: 336 Wa Floy Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA Website: Trish's Mountain Diner Opening hours: 7am - 2.30pm (closed on Sun) Price: under 10 USD 5. The University of Tennessee campus is also impressive and beautiful. Let us know by sharing in the comments, we love hearing about your experiences. Long has Gatlinburg been known for its paranormal forces, with ghosts and ghouls rumored to inhabit the citys streets. You wont want to miss out on locations like Alewine Pottery, a potter that creates pieces inspired by the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. With locations in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Gatlin's Fun Center is the premiere destination for fun in the Smoky Mountains. We know we want to do some hiking in the. Seems escape rooms are all the rage everywhere you go these days, Gatlinburg included! From a selection of mountain-y inns, hotels and resorts, here are some of the best places to stay around Gatlinburg. Boasting attractions like the lazy river, a pair of water slides and kid-friendly pools and splash zones, its the perfect place to let the youngsters loose for an afternoon. If youre looking for something a bit fancier in Gatlinburg, The Melting Pot now has a vegan menu including vegan cheese and vegan chocolate. Did you even visit Gatlinburg if you didnt make it to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park? photo credit: Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community via Facebook. The Gatlinburg location boasts two unique experiences that will leave a lasting impression on you and your family: the Mountain Glider and the Alpine Coaster! Unsubscribe in one click. Ober Gatlinburg is an amusement park with ice skating, skiing, and more. Its one of the essential things to do in Gatlinburg, without a doubt. Walking night tours of local attractions thought to be haunted, including a 19th-century cemetery. She looks (Do a quick search on the following sites). Astoria Riverfront Trolley. Exploring Sicily's Unique Hidden Gems Off The Beaten Track Via The Godfather Hidden Gems in London: Non Touristy Things to Do Top 5 Hidden Gem Italian Islands I Want To Visit. Bask in the supernatural presence with a 1-mile, two-hour walking tour under the moonlight (a ghosts favorite time of day). Held the month of October at Ober Gatlinburg. 22 Must See Free Things to do in Gatlinburg Tennessee While the food is fantastic and the drinks are cold, the best part of Luco Burro is the rooftop patio overlooking downtown Gatlinburg. If youve ever found yourself laying on the couch binge-watching The Amazing Race, heres your chance to step up and play, but without the cameras in your face. Sneak in even more social media-worthy photo ops when you traverse the Ramsey Cascades trail. As you set foot in Pittman Center, you will immediately understand when we say that the town is a charm in itself as it offers an excellent combination of natural beauty, culture and history. photo credit: Tennessee Jed's Gatlinburg via Facebook. 5. 1. Theyre impressive historical towns that emit a vibrant atmosphere of eras gone by. Refuel with a latte and pastry from Gatlinburgs Grind Coffee & Bakery. Address: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, A post shared by Mark Empey (@mark_empey). Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area is 1 hour 10 minutes from McGhee Tyson Airport. But if you want the quick and easy list of the most bizarre things to do in Gatlinburg, welcome! 7. At 6,593 ft it is the third highest peak in the national park, behind Clingmans Dome and Mount Guyot. It is included as one of the best and most fun things to do in Astoria. For a pre (or post) hike breakfast, Trishs Mountain Diner offers classic eats with amazing service. As any visitor can say, photos just dont do this place justice. You can also discuss the artworks with the artists. It's a popular destination and is a great opportunity to remember to slow down and allow yourself to enjoy the atmosphere. With numerous attractions to visit and enjoy, Gatlinburg will certainly be your favorite city in Tennessee. See Reviews Here | Book Now (free cancellation! An indoor and outdoor water park with a mountain theme [of course!] A Walk in the Woods has been around since 1998 and is known for their expertise in leave no trace ethics, botany, wildlife, geology, culture, and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. One of the best shops you should visit is the Smoky Mountain Farms Jelly House. Walking from one place to the next, you get to sample FREE wine at each stop on the designated route! Synchronous Fireflies of the Great Smoky Mountains, wants to go to 1 show, the mind-shattering performance of the internationally-renowned magician, Erik Dobell! 27 Best Non Touristy Things To Do in London & Places to Visit Its time to travel like a local! Rustic, industrial-chic moonshine maker offering indoor & outdoor tours, tastings & live music. Local winery featuring a convivial tasting bar, free tours & a store for regional souvenirs. (865) 436-5423. Add this to the list of adrenaline-inducing non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg. The beloved Impossibilities Magic Show combines hilarious mayhem with optical illusions. On the Alpine Slide, youngsters race against their friends in sled-like carts across a winding 1,800-foot long track. Spread across the two 18-hole courses are plenty of clich hillbilly and redneck decor: outhouses, moonshine stills and farm equipment, to name a few. For an even more enchanting experience, visit the Rocky Top after dark. Chimney Tops Trail is a 3.6-mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee that features a river and is rated as difficult. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Gatlinburg - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Though the winery sells original blends, its known for its soft and delicious fruit-infused wines, such as the Blueberry Bammer, Proper Peach, Fine Blackberry and White Knuckle Grape. Answer 1 of 6: We're taking advantage of our fall break and will be going Oct 14-18th. Did you ever think youd go tubing down snowy mountains in the South? With bright, airy and classy interiors, couples and families love the River Edge Inn. Atlanta is four hours from Gatlinburg and playing a pivotal role in local American history and culture, its well worth visiting. The trail offers beautiful views of the river, which at one point is crossed by a pedestrian footbridge. They help you prepare for many adventures, and outfits you for day hikes and overnight camps. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area. If you are not a baseball lover, maybe you are an art lover. Some stops include Sugarland Cellars, Bootleggers Homemade Wine and Little Bear Winery. Home to over 600 critters originating from rainforests all over the world, this family-friendly Smoky Mountains attraction should be high atop any animal lovers bucket list. If staying in a historic 1930s Smoky Mountain Bed and Breakfast is your type of thing than Laurel Springs Lodge is perfect for you. Kids can crawl through underwater tunnels to get an up-close view of the penguins at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. With an area designed to replicate the landscapes and mountain ranges of Tennessee, offering two 18-hole courses with a touch of humor into the mix. Location: The Ghostwalk Tour meets at the public fountain located at 520 Parkway Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Price: Adults $17. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Transport yourself to the Tinseltown backlot in this unique museum, with 40 authentic vehicles from films like The Dukes of Hazzard and Fast and Furious lining the floor. Make a stop at Wears Valley if you want to enjoy some serenity. 5 Must Visit U.S. Cities For A Weekend Trip 2 Must-Visit Places, 7 Adventures on Yas Island Abu Dhabi 7 Most Thrilling Tourist Attractions in California A Tourist Guide To The Sin City (Ultimate .