Things to Do in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg Has Attractions for Everyone in Every Season
Gatlinbug, Tennessee is located in the southern Appalachians, where the weather is cooler than other southern locations and the vegetation is lush. Year-round vacation rentals in Gatlinburg are popular due to the distinct four seasons, and the area has many things to offer. The spring and fall provide the opportunity to see great scenery, and the winter and summer offer nearly endless outdoor activities. Check out these ideas as you plan a trip to Gatlinburg.
Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the result of efforts made by the residents in nearby areas rather than the government. The residents had to buy the land and turn it over to the U.S. Federal government before the government would designate the area as a national treasure. That finally happened in 1940.Upon visiting the park, it's easy to see why so many wanted to preserve these 500,000 acres. Aside from the stunning views and the rich outdoor activities the area can support, the park is one of the few places where wild black bears live. It is home to a large variety of other animals and plants, as well.
Go Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rapids are an exhilarating experience, and Gatlinburg has 12 different class III rapids. When you're ready to test your skills, move up to the area's three different class IV rapids for a real adventure. You'll find the rapids along the Big Pigeon River, but you don't have to ride them alone. Sign up for a guided tour with White Water Rafting or Rafting in the Smokies. The expert staff can safely steer your raft through the roughest of the class IV rapids.Fly Through the Forest on a Zipline
Gatlinburg Ziplines Family Adventures offers a fun way to see the mountainside and the city of Gatlinburg. The zipline is right by the city and gives you a bird's eye view as you go right by it. You can choose the height and length of the line that you wish to use, as well as determine the length of time that you would like to enjoy flying across the sky. Private tours are available if you want the whole area to yourself.Spend Time Hiking
You'll see hiking trails almost everywhere you look. With over 600 miles of trails, Gatlinburg has enough options to keep everyone active. Baskins Creek Falls is an easy trail that is 3.8 miles long. The slight rise and fall of the terrain will deliver you to a beautiful waterfall. On the other spectrum, Gregory Bald is a strenuous 11.6-mile hike for experienced hikers only. After the four-hour hike to the Balds, you can enjoy spectacular mountain views.Tour the Hollywood Stars Cars Museum
This museum has over 40 cars featured in big Hollywood movies and TV shows. Located in dowtown Gatlinburg, it is an easy stop that you will remember, especially if you take photos beside the famous cars. You will see cars like Bumblebee from Transformers, the Ghostbuster's Ecto 1 and the Batmobile from Batman. This specialty museum is a great way to relive the history of entertainment.Shop Until You Want to Stop
Gatlinburg, Tennessee has a large shopping strip that will keep you entertained for as long as you like. You'll find everything that you could want close to your vacation rental in Gatlinburg. Pick up gifts for people back home, shop for Christmas or just indulge and buy things for yourself.Gatlinburg for Kids
From family attractions to outdoor adventures set in a pristine, beautiful atmosphere, you’ll never run out of things to do on a family vacation - there are unique museums, crafts fairs, miniature golf courses and several entertainment venues and theme parks. Don't miss the award-winning Ripley’s Believe-It-Or-Not Museum, featuring an aquarium, haunted adventures, mini golf, a moving theatre, mirror maze, a fun zone and, last but not least, Ripley’s amazing and mind-boggling mysteries.Regardless of the time of year, you can enjoy Gatlinburg. What will you do first?
photo credits: Grimm Pics , Valerie Everett