Planning a trip to Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains? This guide brings together the best things to do in Gatlinburg so you can explore top attractions, family activities, outdoor adventures, and local favorites all in one place. From alpine coasters and mountaintop views to distilleries, hidden gems, and nearby lakes, you’ll find quick links to our in depth guides so you can plan your stay with confidence and make the most of your visit.
Discover the adventure and beauty of the Smokies at the Moonshine Mountain Coaster, Gatlinburg’s original alpine coaster. Glide down a smooth, silent track at your own pace, take in breathtaking mountain views, and experience dazzling night rides beneath vibrant LED lights. Perfect for families, couples, and thrill-seekers—this coaster lets you enjoy Gatlinburg in a whole new way.
Experience the world’s most unusual miniature golf at Hillbilly Golf in Gatlinburg, TN. Ride an incline 300 feet above the city to two challenging 18-hole courses set on a mountainside, filled with quirky Appalachian-themed obstacles like outhouses, moonshine stills, and vintage farm equipment. Perfect for families and groups, this hilltop adventure offers fun, laughter, and stunning mountain views you won’t forget.
Experience stunning panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains from the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle. Standing 680 feet tall, this classic observation tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views spanning up to 80 miles on clear days. Located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, the Space Needle features high-speed glass elevators, an indoor observation deck, and an outdoor open-air deck for the ultimate viewing experience. Perfect for families, couples, and first-time visitors seeking quintessential Gatlinburg attractions.
Discover Tennessee moonshine and whiskey at Ole Smoky Distillery in Gatlinburg. Enjoy tastings, live music, craft cocktails, and authentic Smoky Mountain spirits in a vibrant downtown atmosphere.
Escape to Cherokee Lake near Talbott, Tennessee—a pristine 28,780-acre reservoir perfect for boating, fishing, swimming, and lakeside relaxation. Enjoy world-class bass fishing, water sports, scenic parks, and stunning Smoky Mountain views.
Visit Bush’s Visitor Center in historic Dandridge, Tennessee, for a FREE family-friendly museum experience celebrating America’s favorite bean brand. Explore interactive exhibits, learn about the Bush family heritage, meet Duke the dog, and shop for exclusive merchandise.
Discover year-round adventure at Ober Mountain, Gatlinburg’s premier ski area and mountaintop amusement park. Ride the scenic Aerial Tramway for breathtaking views, then enjoy skiing, snow tubing, ice skating, alpine coasters, and wildlife encounters.
Experience the thrill of Anakeesta, Gatlinburg’s premier mountaintop adventure park. Soar above the treetops, explore suspended bridges, and enjoy world-class dining with spectacular Smoky Mountain views.
North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge at 680 feet, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains from 1,800 feet above sea level. Reach the summit via the iconic yellow SkyLift chairlift and experience the thrill of walking across transparent glass panels 500 feet above downtown Gatlinburg. Just minutes from our Rooftop Retreat and Sweetgum Lodge properties, this award-winning attraction named Best Lookout in Tennessee provides unforgettable mountain vistas and year-round adventure for the whole family.
Voted Best U.S. Aquarium by USA Today, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies features over 10,000 exotic sea creatures in world-class exhibits including the famous 340-foot Shark Lagoon tunnel and interactive Touch A-Ray Bay. Located just minutes from our Rooftop Retreat and Sweetgum Lodge properties in downtown Gatlinburg, this year-round indoor attraction offers the perfect family adventure whether you’re seeking a rainy-day activity or adding variety to your Smoky Mountain vacation.
