6 Best Places To Visit In Gatlinburg

More than 11 million tourists flock to the resort town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, every year. With its vibrant downtown and vicinity to America’s most visited national park, Gatlinburg enjoys a unique standing among the famous tourist spots. Do not know where to get started? Do not worry. We have compiled a list of the top tourist attractions in Gatlinburg to ensure you get the most out of your next vacation:

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park. It is also one of the few national parks that do not charge visitors an entrance fee. The state line divides the 522,427-acre park in half between Tennessee and North Carolina. It features a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

One of the best ways to explore the park is by hiking on one of the many trails. Some of the most popular trails include the Cades Cove Loop and the Alum Cave Trail. For those who want to explore the park at a more leisurely pace, the park’s many scenic drives offer plenty of opportunities to take in stunning views.

The 11-mile Newfound Gap Road is a must-see; it provides a panoramic view of the park, including the highest point in the park, Clingmans Dome. If you feel hungry after all the adventure, stop by Park Grill Gatlinburg. It is one of the best Gatlinburg restaurants for its diverse menu and friendly staff.

  • Ober Gatlinburg

Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Ober Gatlinburg is both an amusement park and a ski resort. The destination is open year-round. In the winter, you may hit the slopes and enjoy skiing and snowboarding on the mountain. In the summer, visitors can ride the chairlift to the peak of the mountain, where they can soak in the breathtaking vistas and even go for a spin on the alpine slide.

One of the most popular attractions at Ober Gatlinburg is the indoor ice skating rink. You can strap on some skates and glide around the rink whenever you want. Animal lovers will love the Aerial Tramway. It offers a breathtaking ride up the mountain and a chance to see some of the local wildlife. You may spot black bears, river otters, and other animals native to the Great Smoky Mountains.

For thrill-seekers, the Amaze’n Maze is a must-see. It is a giant outdoor maze that will test your sense of direction and challenge your problem-solving skills.

  • Anakeesta

Anakeesta is an amusement park in the vicinity of the Smoky Mountains. With its prime location, low prices, and abundance of exciting events and activities, it is one of our favorite places to visit in Gatlinburg. You can take a gondola or a chairlift to get to the top of Anakeesta. If you are afraid of heights, you may opt for a Ridge Rambler truck.

Once you reach the summit, you may engage in several fun pursuits. Dual ziplines will have you racing down the mountain in no time, while the tree canopy walk will take you over 30 feet into the air. Do not forget to visit the top of the AnaVista Tower for breathtaking views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Whether you are looking for action or tranquility, Anakeesta can cater to all types of tourists.

  • Ripley’s Aquarium Of The Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a magical underwater world waiting to be explored. As you enter, you will be taken to enchanting clear waters teeming with fascinating aquatic creatures of all shapes and sizes. To begin your journey, plunge headfirst into the “Savage Seas” exhibit, home to a variety of dangerous shark species, such as the sand tiger shark and the sandbar shark.

Next, take a stroll through the “Mysteries and Tall Tales” exhibit and discover the strange and unusual creatures that call the ocean their home. From mesmerizing jellyfish to sly octopuses to cute and curious seahorses, you will be amazed at the diversity of life in the ocean.

But the real fun begins when you get the chance to interact with the animals. Get your hands wet and pet a friendly stingray, touch a horseshoe crab, and even feed a shark. Tickets are good for a full 12 months from the date of purchase.

  • Gatlinburg Farmer’s Market

Over ten vendors sell a wide range of products at the bustling Gatlinburg Farmer’s Market from May through October. You can buy farm-fresh fruits and vegetables that were picked at their peak of ripeness as you stroll through the market. From juicy berries to crisp greens, there is nothing like the taste of fresh produce straight from the farm. Whether you are looking for ingredients for a delicious meal or just looking for a healthy snack, the market has you covered.

Freshly baked bread and pastries, artisan cheeses, homemade jams, jellies, and sauces are just some examples of specialty foods available at the market. You will also find unique handmade crafts, such as pottery, jewelry, and hand-woven textiles made by local artisans.

  • Hollywood Stars Cars Museum

The Hollywood Stars Cars Museum has a unique collection of over forty iconic vehicles that have starred in some of the biggest blockbusters and been chased by the paparazzi. As you wander through the exhibits, you will be taken back in time to experience some of the cinema’s most iconic moments. From the lovable Herbie the Love Bug to the sleek Batmobile to the time-traveling DeLorean from Back to the Future, the museum has something for everyone.

But the museum is not just for movie buffs; car enthusiasts will also find plenty to admire. The collection includes some of the most iconic and recognizable cars from film and television, including the Ecto-1 from Ghostbusters, General Lee from The Dukes of Hazzard, and the Batpod from The Dark Knight.

Visits to the museum will never be the same due to the ever-changing exhibits and the regular addition of new vehicles. Whether it is a brand-new acquisition or a themed exhibit showcasing a particular film series, there is always something exciting to look at and learn about in the Hollywood starts cars museum.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a vacation that combines natural beauty with exciting activities, Gatlinburg is the perfect destination. With its mountain vistas, lush forests, and sparkling streams, Gatlinburg offers a wide variety of outdoor activities that appeal to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and families alike. However, if you are overwhelmed with options and do not know where to start, going through this piece would have given you a lot of clarity.

 

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