5 Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg is known as the gateway to Smoky Mountains National Park, but there’s so much more to do and see in this popular travel destination beyond the mountains.

The small town in eastern Tennessee attracts travelers of all types looking for a fun time, from families to couples, bachelor and bachelorette parties to meetings and events planners.

Whatever type of traveler you are, whatever you love to do most when visiting a new locale, here are five can’t-miss things to do in Gatlinburg.

1. Catch the Views from Ober Gatlinburg

Ober Gatlinburg is technically a ski resort, but there’s no need to love skiing — or to even visit the Smoky Mountains in the winter — to enjoy a stop by this attraction. The large complex offers fun things to do every season, across a range of activity levels. Take the chairlift or tramway to enjoy scenic views. Join the family on the alpine slide or mountain coaster for some kid-friendly thrills, or, take things slow with a ride on the carousel or by taking in the native animals at the wildlife encounter.

2. See the Sea Life at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

The expansive Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is filled with more than 10,000 sea creatures across 10 exhibit spaces. Catch a glimpse of all your favorites, from sharks to sea turtles. Beyond just taking in all of the amazing sea life, though, you and your family can also enjoy a robust schedule of hands-on and immersive activities, such as glass-bottom boat rides and penguin encounters.

3. Take in the Quirky Exhibits at the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum

If you’re a traveler who can’t pass up the opportunity to browse a good museum wherever you go, you’ll want to make tracks fast for the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum. This Food Network-featured attraction features more than 20,000 salt and pepper shakers and is the only museum of its kind in the world.

4. Take to the Waters for an Adventure

Salt and pepper shakers not adrenaline-pumping enough for you and your crew? Get outdoors for a new adventure! While you might think that the area’s most popular outdoor activity is hiking, what with all those mountains, you may be surprised to learn that whitewater rafting is just as popular for visitors — maybe even more so. Outdoor Rafting Adventures offers guided whitewater rafting experiences for all ages, with no experience necessary. Just strap on your helmet and your life vest, and get ready to have a great time.

5. Channel Your Inner Cinephile at This Unique Museum

Lastly, you’ve got to visit this popular museum that appeals to both car lovers and film buffs alike. The Hollywood Star Cars Museum features automobiles from a range of famous flicks and shows, some of the most popular being vehicles from the Fast & Furious franchise, as well as the original Batmobile.

Need More?

Want more to do while in Gatlinburg? Check out Discovery Map’s Gatlinburg, Tennessee, illustrated map and guide for more helpful suggestions on things to do, where to stay and where to eat while in the region.