non touristy things to do in gatlinburg
Discover classic American and Southern dishes on its menu, and they also do a mean BBQ. It was OK. Those yearning for a more intense athletic endeavor can opt for the strenuous, 10.6-mile journey to the Mt. Address: 3540 Line Dr, Kodak, TN 37764, USA, A post shared by Travel the Burg (@traveltheburg) on Mar 23, 2019 at 4:33am PDT. Located at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our city is jam-packed with family-friendly attractions. The family-friendly Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park is worth a visit no matter the season. You can explore the observation deck to take in views or walk across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. Family-friendly that it is and little travelers are kept well-amused. If you must go to a non-child-friendly attraction, . If the locals love it, you know it must be good. Located next to the entrance of the charming European-inspired The Village, the restaurant can be a great stop before or after exploring the artisanal shops. Sugarlands Distilling Company - crafted in an artisanal stone burr mill using homegrown Tennessee white corn, Sugarlands moonshine is severed straight up in mason jars. Synchronous Fireflies of the Great Smoky Mountains. If you're looking for Gatlinburg attractions that are worth the money, climb onto the coaster and get to flying. Go white water rafting on the Little Pigeon River (from USD 43.0) Show all photos What do you think of water rafting? The 120-passenger cable car operates year-round, presenting spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains no matter the season. Address: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, A post shared by Mark Empey (@mark_empey). Tickets are affordable and fun; youll see fast-paced hockey with delightful fan interaction. photo credit: Tennessee Jed's Gatlinburg via Facebook. While putt-putt golf, ziplining, and escape rooms may be found in many places, this is a unique one! Outside the shop, the air is filled with live music, jovial laughter, and the distinct smell of cooked and processed grains. Your email address will not be published. The tower has an outdoor observation level that provides a 360-degree view of the Great Smoky Mountains and the city of Gatlinburg. This indoor water park has a mountain theme and features a lazy river, heated pools, and two giant water slides, as well as an interactive tree house. You wont want to miss out on locations like Alewine Pottery, a potter that creates pieces inspired by the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. While theres no shortage of things to do within the Gatlinburg city limits, the citys true selling point is its proximity to some of the nations most beautiful natural hiking trails. Gatlinburg and the neighboring Pigeon Gorge arent bustling metropolises or tourist-trodden concrete jungles. Gatlinburg is a great location for a romantic getaway, a group of friends, and families with small kids. Its safe and friendly, even your pets are welcome to join you. Then relax your body in a 42-inch hot tub at the Grotto Falls. On the Ski Mountain Coaster, you twist down 3,750 feet of the mountain at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour (or at their own pace, of course). Museum of the Dukes of Hazzard TV show with indoor go-kart & mini-golf, run by actor Ben Jones. The best time to visit the valley is during sunrise or sunset as you will get to marvel at the most perfect vistas of the valley. With a serious passion for brewing, taste the selection of locally-crafted beers at Gatlinburg Brewing Company. I get a little upset when people go here and only stay in town. Youll also find fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, private balconies, and large screen TVs in your rooms. Cool Touristy & Non-Touristy Things To. 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.. Leu Gardens. Come April, the Greenbrier area of the park is chock full of wildflowers. . The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 407 feet tall observation tower. 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. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cataloochee Valley promises an unforgettable nature retreat. Homemade wines from their Grandfathers recipes are made from the finest local ingredients in the town of Gatlinburg. We're helping you experience the vacation of a lifetime here by rounding up the best things to do in Gatlinburg, TN. The drive from Gatlinburg to Hamilton takes about 153 mi (246 km), and it should take you about 2 hours 37 minutes in normal traffic. This 5.5-mile nature trail features plenty of verdant old-growth forest, well-preserved log cabins, grist mills, and other historic buildings. A 3-mile trail runs through the forest & behind this 25-foot waterfall in the Great 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. Astoria Riverfront Trolley. The soaring 36-meter-high Mingo Falls can be found just outside the National Parks perimeters, and its one of the tallest waterfalls in the area. The Smoky Mountain Music Festival [April] continues its dedication to excellence by offering school musicians an opportunity to demonstrate their talents before prestigious adjudicators in a beautiful setting. Whatever you do, dont leave Gatlinburg without this essential souvenir. Its the perfect place to go for a special Smoky Mountain souvenir. 22 December 2022. Capture that essence with a timeless photo by dressing up as a cowboy or cowgirl at Old Town Photos or Miss Sadies in Gatlinburg. HotTub PoolTable 10minGatlinburg 7SmartTVs 3Kings 211 reviews Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, United States from USD 240 View Deal Swing by this monument to see the sweetheart of the Smokies and take a picture with her in downtown Sevierville! Have you ever ridden a mountain coaster before? Do Not Forget to Pack Water When You Hike. Bring that camera or fully charged phone, as youll want to capture endless selfies of you and your new best friend. 8. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the spacious campground and picnic facilities and the Hen Wallow Falls Day Hike. For an amazing show seldom found anywhere else, Paula Deens Lumberjack Feud puts on a 1.5-hour extravaganza. We perform checks on reviews 31. Long has Gatlinburg been known for its paranormal forces, with ghosts and ghouls rumored to inhabit the citys streets. While the Porters Creek Trail makes for an excellent walk. Visit museums, adventure parks, arcades and forbidden caverns, and the travel time between the two towns is merely 15 minutes by car. As you arrive at Laurel Falls, spot mountain laurel blossoming along the trail and around the waterfall in shades of soft pinks (in May). 2001 - 2023 Tripster. If you are lucky, you may be invited to the stage and be part of the show. Try out the baked cheese, decadent desserts and, of course, their signature Plum Tea. Search for free among 1,500,000 tours in every destination around the world! Bask in the supernatural presence with a 1-mile, two-hour walking tour under the moonlight (a ghosts favorite time of day). Get an ultimate fun pass which includes a tour in this famous haunted house any time of the year. There is a bar and plenty of seating for you to kick back, relax, and sip on your shine. The Gatlinburg Bypass is owned and maintained by the National Park Service and is considered part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Theyre impressive historical towns that emit a vibrant atmosphere of eras gone by. 1.8. photo credit: Rocky Top Mountain Coaster via Facebook. Dollywood features over 50 enthralling rides spread across 150 acres, a number of award-winning eateries and regular live entertainment. Officially Gatlinburgs oldest and spookiest haunted house, this three-story Victorian mansion on River Road has been welcoming brave visitors for over 35 years. Epic Free Viewpoints. You can enjoy a display of artworks, including ceramics, potteries and paintings. The attraction with displays about sports, science & architecture records & interactive challenges. See and interact with its latest collection of odd artifacts such as authentic shrunken heads, and a vampire killing kit. During the winter months from mid-December to mid-March, skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes and even non-skiers enjoy . The Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area is open 365 days a year. has been delighting, confusing and entertaining guests of all ages for decades. While we would never describe the nations most visited National Park as a unique thing to do in Gatlinburg,' within the parks lush 522,427 acres lies plenty of under-the-radar hiking trails, scenic drives, and picnic areas. With tour companies like Smoky Mountain Angler, expert guides take guests along the fresh rivers and teach them how to reel in wild mountain trout or whatever other critter floats along. Activities include pitch & putt, a boating lake, GoApe, a skatepark, children's playground, farmers market, ice skating rink and many different concerts and events. Activities on offer include mini golf, escape games, laser tag, a ropes course, bumper cars, and a laser maze, making Gatlin's one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg with kids. Seems escape rooms are all the rage everywhere you go these days, Gatlinburg included! Head over to nearby Kodak from the spring to the fall to watch the Smokies play ball! 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 . Open since 1991 and boasting 11 local locations, they sure know a thing or two about food. The rooms have comfortable finishes and are well-equipped. Sevierville is famous for high-end outlet shopping, cool places to stay in the Smoky Mountains and hometown girl, Dolly Parton. Keep those eyes peeled, as you won't want to miss a single 360-degree turn, curve, or tunnel. One of the most touristy things to do in Tucson is going for a relaxing bike ride in downtown Tucson. Econo Lodge Pigeon Forge Riverside . Seeking to challenge your quads? Arguably its greatest highlight is the stunning and eerily quiet Forbidden Caverns. Whether you seek stunning vistas or solitary hikes, Gatlinburg delivers a cornucopia of creative attractions. To keep the kids entertained, the facility offers immersive, educational activities and even a petting zoo! Downtown Just over half an hour away from downtown Gatlinburg, this quiet area of the Smokies is a great place to view the fall foliage, after enjoying lunch at the iconic Elviras Cafe. Synchronous fireflies (Photinus carolinus) are one of at least 19 species of fireflies that live in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Decked with immersive features and water elements, children especially love these themed courses. You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings. 9. But if you want the quick and easy list of the most bizarre things to do in Gatlinburg, welcome! Come visit higher ground at our Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg. And So Should You. The Old Creek Lodge is in walking distance to most of downtown Gatlinburg while also being situated on the river making it seem both remote and centrally located. Walker Sisters Springhouse is perfect for outdoor recreation. Prepare for a ride of a lifetime as youre strapped into a hand-controlled coaster cart (seating up to two passengers) and then begin the descent from the top of the mountains, whizzing through the native terrain at speeds up to nearly 50 kilometers per hour. This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). Its 680 feet across and you can look 140 feet down through the glass floor halfway through. One of the best shops you should visit is the Smoky Mountain Farms Jelly House. Situated at the base of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, The Captured fuses the challenging detective work of an escape room. For some of the best ice cream you'll ever have, you have to visit Cruze Farm. Besides the 18-hole and nine-hole courses, the facility also boasts a fully-equipped pro shop to upgrade your kit. For those that consider themselves connoisseurs in the category, stop by the best breweries and be your own judge of the local brews on offer. Make sure to taste their Brewmaster Special, an exclusive rotating tap that changes throughout the year. Explore the creeks and historic buildings on the Rough Fork Trail, and revel in the old-growth forests on the Boogerman Trail. Between your hiking, shopping and art workshops, youre sure to have worked up an appetite! Have you already visited all the popular attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg and are looking to explore the Smokies in a different way? Rather hit the road than travel on foot? While available separately, grab the combo ticket for the best bang for your buck. Permit the worlds fluffiest llamas to carry your gear while you meander through the scenic Smoky Mountain foothills, flowered fields, and babbling brooks. There are some interesting boutiques and a really good donut place there, The Donut Friar. As for the recently opened 'The Garden' found at 120 Fenchurch Street, this is an innovative space that will delight . A free 20-minute movie provides an overview of everything you'll need to know about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park before you embark on your own adventure! You can hike via the Alum Cave Trail which is roughly a 10.5 in and out hike. A second spot whose name helps paint a picture; The Place of a Thousand Drips is one of the waterfalls in the park accessible by car, with no hiking needed to reach it. Unsubscribe in one click. Gatlinburg Space Needle. As you stroll through the aisles, expect rows of just-picked fruits and vegetables, scrumptious cookies (Josies Cookies), dehydrated chili flakes (Olde Virdens Red Hot Sprinkle), lovely handmade soaps (Kulturology Soap Co), and plenty more. Tackle 1,500 feet of elevation gain on the Rainbow Falls Trail with a stunning waterfall reward at the finish line. 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. For those keen to go behind the scenes and learn about the drinks distillery process and historical significance, sign up for a walking tour. Children need to be accompanied by an adult, but kids aged 10 years and older can ride solo if theyre over 1.3 meters tall. With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park as a backdrop, The Park Grill is a great spot for couples and has a refined dining feel. 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. . The time of day that you arrive also has an impact on what you will see at the overlook. Outside of the rooms, youll be able to enjoy both indoor and outdoor pools, grills, fire pits, a fitness center, and a kids club. We can help. While technically located in Pigeon Forge, Wonderworks is just 15-20 minutes from Gatlinburg, making for an easy afternoon activity that the kids (and adults) will love. We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website. In addition to your in-room amenities, youll have easy access to hiking trails, three heated outdoor pools, a world-class spa, and a year-round water park. Let's keep this between us, ok?! Probably one of the healthiest stores and restaurants in Gatlinburg, this is a natural foods store with a cafe focusing on vegetarian & vegan fare such as salads & sandwiches. Its forests provide perfect shade for a day on the upper Pigeon River as you zoom down the class 3 and class 4 with rapids with the water splashing in all directions. While some of the most popular trails, like Cache Creek, shouldnt be skipped due to their beauty, they can get busy. photo credit: Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community via Facebook. In the midst of a hemlock forest discover the seven-meter-high Grotto Falls, accessible via the Trillium Gap Trail. Children from the ages of three and upwards, and over 96 centimeters tall are allowed to ride the coaster with a parent. These are some of the best non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge if you want to explore the Smokies like a local. The tower has an outdoor observation level that provides a 360-degree view of the Great Smoky Mountains and the city of Gatlinburg. Atlanta is four hours from Gatlinburg and playing a pivotal role in local American history and culture, its well worth visiting. If you visit during the spring or summer, you can cheer on the Smokies, a Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. Religious attraction featuring life-size recreations of Biblical events & a tranquil garden area. The hike begins at the Newfound Gap parking lot and continues for 4 miles along the Appalachian Trail. Grab this hassle free checklist of the top 110 things to do in London from a local, includes: . All Rights Reserved. Let us know by sharing in the comments, we love hearing about your experiences. One spot you can't find anywhere else in the world is the Dolly Parton Statue! Hi! 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. There are single and double coasters to choose from. 1. Quirky museum featuring salt & pepper shakers from various eras made from a range of materials. Research using this guide or read my other Gatlinburg posts.See my packing list. Biking, bird watching, and horseback riding are also recommended activities to try while you're outside in Gatlinburg. Walking from one place to the next, you get to sample FREE wine at each stop on the designated route! Or, why not try them all? Cross swimming bridges 150 ft high as you take in a resplendent ten-acre wooded island in the middle of Big Pigeon River. If staying in a historic 1930s Smoky Mountain Bed and Breakfast is your type of thing than Laurel Springs Lodge is perfect for you. From secret abodes hidden deep in the hills to the infamous Bell witch. Explore nearly 30 intriguing boutiques, restaurants and galleries, all brought together with an old-timey European flare. An indoor shopping center with 36 uniquely themed shops located in the heart of Gatlinburg. Inspired by Austrian tea houses, the Wild Plum provides some of the most delicious lunches that youll find in the smokies. Hiking in the Smokies is one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg. Tanger Outlets is located in Pigeon Forge (photo by Morgan Overholt/TheSmokies.com) 5. 2023 Visit My Smokies, The ONLY site you need to plan your Smoky Mountain vacation, is a website owned and operated by Sevier County, Tennessee. Another beloved hiking area is the Cataloochee Valley, which is just under 2 hours away from Gatlinburg, but entirely worth the trip. However, there are some areas that locals prefer for hiking to get away from the crowds. Please note that the road is closed in winter. Try a few of the local creations in Gatlinburgs first Hard Cider tasting room, before grabbing a take-home growler or two of your favorite flavor. This interactive game tests your ability to solve puzzles and discover clues, so you can escape death like avoiding the cannibals who are ready to devour you if you cant escape the cellar in 60 minutes. Here are some of the favorite things for locals to do in the Smokies: Tanger Outlets is one of the largest shopping centers in the Smokies with over 100 brand name stores. Between the pick of ways to sightsee the Smokies and things to do in Gatlinburg, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster is among the top unique attractions. The SkyBridge - which offers iconic views of Downtown Gatlinburg TN, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and more - isn't entirely made of glass. Watch professional log rolling, axe throwing, speed climbing and the nerve-racking springboard chop. We cant wait to see you there. For almost 50 years, Smoky Mountain Candy Makers have been supplying Tennessee with delicious homemade taffy. As well as the many Pigeon Forge things to do, guests will find an array of natural wonders like Cades Cove, Smoky Mountain National Park, scenic overlook, Anakeesta Mountain, Crockett Mountain, tourist attraction draws of the Gatlinburg area, the Pigeon River, Wears Valley, and other parks. Then, indulge your inner carnivore with a Rib Eye or Porterhouse, but be sure to save room for the decadently rich Appalachian Chocolate Cake. Their Pigeon Forge outpost focuses on quality tunes merged with local food and drink. The Treetop package includes nine world-class ziplines, keeping you off the ground and among the trees for 2.5 hours non-stop. 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. Big outdoor adventure hub offering zip lining, gondola rides, a treetop play area and more. Every year, this Tennessee-based mentalist and professional entertainer does more than 200 shows at the Iris Theater in downtown Gatlinburg. A little less than three hours away, Chattanooga is the furthest day trip but worthwhile if youre in Gatlinburg for a while. Topping it all off, the entire park sits within the stunning surrounds of the Great Smoky Mountains. Gatlins Fun Center has laser tag, a ropes course, multiple escape rooms, bumper cars and a high-speed coordination game called Atomic Rush. everything you need to know about seeing the fireflies, Tips For Working Remotely When Traveling To Big Cities In The US, 15 Fun Things To Do In Nashville TN For Couples, Dont Go to the Kentucky Derby Why Horse Racing is a Cruel Tradition, Destination Russia: Extra-Ordinary Encounters from a Land Full of Stories, Four Beach Holiday Destinations for Vegans. Hit up three amazing music museums. Visiting the Arts & Crafts Community is another one of our favorite non touristy things to do in Gatlinburg. NOC Gatlinburg is an exciting summer destination for many tourists. Address: 668 Glades Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA, Website: Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Paddle through the gorge, tackle the challenging rapids and swim in the river if you dare. Take precaution on the rocks around the waterfall as they tend to get super slippery. We know we want to do some hiking in the. After all the outdoor activities and city exploring, treat yourselves to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in town. 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! The Gatlinburg Wine Trail includes 4 different wineries where visitors can taste local wines for free! The Great Smoky Mountains are an untouched slice of Mother Nature. Visit the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. We love their hearty half-pound burgers and their rotating selection of seasonal and craft beers. Specializing in craft beer, brewed right on site. Theres everything from an aerial tramway to a see-through bridge, there are plenty of activities for kids and kid-like adults. Combining a roller coaster with shoot-em-ups, 3D visuals, sensory triggers and epic special effects, this ride simply needs to be experienced to be truly understood. For dinner, youll have plenty of delicious spots to choose from! Hydration level is important when taking on any physical activity. Affordable for families. A trip to the mountains isnt complete without ziplining. Townsend is often called the "quiet side of the Smokies" in contrast to the bustling and often crowded tourist areas of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Nantahala Outdoor Centre is located at the Gatlinburg entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With the funkiest beer names on tap, sample IPAs, golden ales, Szechuan Peppercorn Witbier, Coffee Porter and plenty of other unique craft drafts. Keep reading to learn more about the top ones. A recreation of the doomed ocean liner in the middle of the Smoky Mountains. End the night with a lively outing to Luco Burro, a TexMex restaurant known for its margaritas and tacos. 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? If you want to kill time, kill it by doing something fun like observing those water inhabitants. It has reached the halfway point in Philadelphia, Tennessee. 5. (865) 436-5423. The South is renowned for dishes enhanced by flavors created by smoking techniques; Bennetts Pit Bar-B-Que is one of the top places in town to experience all the smoky goodness. Keep in mind, being an outdoor park, Splash Country is only open from May to September (the summer months). As one of the most popular walks in the park, the hike along Laurel Falls Trail is a two-hour round-trip. Sporting 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains, with downtown Gatlinburg beneath your feet, the 407-foot tall Space Needle is the premier inner-city observation deck. 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.
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