ATTRACTIONS & TRANSPORT
Click to discover a comprehensive list of hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains.
Ober Gatlinburg will keep you busy in all 4 seasons. Avoid the excessive wait for the tram during peak holiday periods and drive. Pay per activity or purchase one of two wristband options during the summer to enjoy all the amusement activities. In winter, all kinds of snow and ice activities are offered including skiing, snowboarding, tubing and ice skating. Admission is free if you drive otherwise you pay the cost of the tram.
Take the gondola up to Anakeesta from Gatlinburg. To visit this park, you will have to pay admission to enter. It's similar to Ober but has slightly fewer activities for kids but offers adults the opportunity to enjoy a 'spicy' beverage while kids are enjoying themselves. The park is newer that Ober but both are located on the top of a mountain with gorgeous views and fun year round.
An huge outdoor shopping mall sort of place with lots of restaurants and activities. Ride the massive ferris wheel or take a run through the skywalk. You'll also find an escape room and arcade to kill some time. The fountain set to music with backlights is worth a stop, especially during the Christmas season. Free parking and entrance.
If you are a fan of country music and all things southern, this is a must visit. Open mid-March through Jan 1st, Dollywood has something special for each season. Board the Dollywood Express, catch a show, ride a coaster and dine until your heart is content. If visiting in the summer, stop by Dollywood's Splash Country for a quick dip.
Battle class 3 and 4 rapids on upper Pigeon River from March-October or a more scenic tour on the lower river May-September.
Race side-by-side while taking in breathtaking views of the Smokies at Climb Works. Interested in multiple adventures, bundle a trip with SMO Rafting (above) and Anakeesta and throw in a lumberjack show! As Canadians, your hosts highly recommend one if you haven't yet had the pleasure.
If you've ever wanted to skydive but were too scared to take the plunge, this is a super fun family activity. The session sounds short, but you'll definitely feel like you've had enough at the end of it.
If you haven't ridden the mountain coasters at Ober or Anakeesta, this one will scratch that itch. Thrill yourself with this 7-8 minute ride down and around the mountain.
TRANSPORT AROUND GATLINBURG
Avoid a traffic and parking nightmare in Gatlinburg by hopping on the free trolley at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center.
