Gatlinburg is a beautiful mountainous area set in a small, narrow valley. The entire town is a mere five miles wide and two miles long! The incredible outdoor opportunities offer unsurpassed opportunities for invigorating adventures. Many visitors opt for renting Tennessee cabins in the mountains and use them as a base for further exploration. Camping in Gatlinburg is also a possibility and there are plenty of great family campgrounds offering a myriad of fantastic amenities close to many Gatlinburg attractions.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The absolute top of the list of things to do in Gatlinburg TN is visiting the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Outdoor recreation is at its finest. The variety of cabins and Tennessee resorts means there's something in every taste and every budget. The natural beauty of the mountains can be experienced through things to do in Gatlinburg like horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, camping or just taking a relaxed walk through the region.

Gatlinburg Sky Lift

The Gatlinburg Skylift is the best place for scenic views of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains. This Gatlinburg attractions history dates back to 1953 when the idea for the lift was born and executed professionally. With a 1,200 foot vertical drop, expect a spine-tingling, breathtaking ride up and back down.

Ripley's Haunted Adventure

If you have kids who don't scare too easily, Ripley's Haunted Adventure is one of the most fun family-oriented things to do in Gatlinburg Tenn. The building was originally home to the Grimsby & Streaper Casket Company until their strange and mysterious disappearance. Ripley's acquired the property almost two decades ago and operates haunted tours for visitors.

Ripley's Aquarium

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is complete with more then 10,000 small and large sea creatures. The number of fish outnumbers Gatlinburg residents! The Tropical Rainforest, Ocean Realm, Systems Control and Coral Reef are just a few of the Gatlinburg Tennessee attractions kids will love exploring.

Shopping

For those who love shopping, things to do in Gatlinburg TN include visits to the Parkway. A large variety of locally handmade treasures can be bought in village-style shops. Downtown Gatlinburg is home to more then 400 shops and five malls where you'll find many great gifts and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. The National Antique Mall is another of the Gatlinburg Tennessee attractions. It's a fun place to explore and home to many beautifully restored furnishings.

Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park

Fun things to do in Gatlinburg include an exciting visit to the Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park. Inside the park you'll find an aerial tramway, bungee rides, water rides, go carts and a wall jump. Other things to do in Gatlinburg TN at the park include testing your aim at the shooting range and miniature golf.

Dollywood

Dollywood is within easy reach of both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge making it one of the top Gatlinburg Tennessee attractions for those visiting the city. Dollywood is a famous amusement park brimming with thrilling rides, excellent live music, exciting entertainment and many other special events that draw in thousands of families each year. The many things to do in Gatlinburg Tenn at Dollywood, it might take a few days to explore thoroughly.

Gatlinburg Municipal Golf Course

Golf is an ever-growing sport and more new golfers take to the greens everyday. One of the favorite things to do in Gatlinburg Tenn is head out for a golf game at the Gatlinburg Municipal Golf Course. Situated in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains the course is one of the most picturesque in the nation and offers 6,281 yards of challenges and fun.

Gatlinburg Space Needle

The Space Needle is a more than 340-feet high observation deck that overlooks the mountains and the town. It offers one of the most beautiful panoramas of Gatlinburg, sure to take your breath away. Indoors Gatlinburg attractions include laser tag, old-time photos, arcades and a virtual roller coaster.

Smoky Mountain Stables

If you enjoy horseback riding through breathtaking scenery, or just want to try it out for the first time, Smoky Mountain Stables offers one hour to half-day guided tours through the national park. Special horses are available for smaller children making this a perfect family activity.