Gatlinburg, TN, has acquired a bit of a tourist town reputation, especially in recent years. While it is true that holidays and fall time are peak seasons for this small mountain town, there is an unmistakable charm wafting around the sometimes crowded streets. It is a kind of magic, causing some people to return again and again and making certain that no matter when you go, you’ll be glad you did. Here are the top 10 activities to ensure your trip will be one to remember.
LaurelFalls
Just minutes south of traffic light #10 in Gatlinburg, Laurel Falls is a great hiking trail for the whole family. The incline is gradual and though there are some steep drops, the wide paved path provides a safe and convenient hiking experience. Feel free to take the stroller. The 1.3 mile hike to the falls takes approximately an hour, depending on your speed. The falls are a spectacular 75 ft and wow with two levels. There is a small natural pool perfect for cooling off and taking a photo to celebrate the journey.
Situated in the lush forest just outside city limits is the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. This is a 5.1 mile, one-way nature trail that offers hiking opportunities and the chance to explore some of the historic cabins located along the route. While this is best experienced on or in an open air vehicle, it is still a wonder worth the trip.
Rhythm Section in the Mountain Mall
Rhythm Section is a must for any music fan. The space is small, but the finds are many. Rhythm Section is a cozy music shop tucked in the lower level of the Mountain Mall. Tee-shirts, stickers, buttons, and (of course) music. There is always a gem to be uncovered in this entertainment den.
Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park is perched high above town, accessible by Aerial Tram or a short mountain drive from traffic light #10. There are many things to do at Ober Gatlinburg, including a bear exhibit and arcade. Another family favorite is the large indoor ice skating rink, a great afternoon activity rain or shine.
River Rage Tubing in Townsend, TN
Though this attraction is a 45 minute drive outside Gatlinburg, it is worth every mile. River Rage offers all day tubing for only $8. That includes tube and shuttle service. Another perk is a tuber’s discount at the neighboring BBQ restaurant with tables overlooking the water.
HollywoodWax Museum
Feel like walking the red carpet? Rubbing elbows with the rich and famous? Then take yourself, and your entourage, down to traffic light #8. The Hollywood Wax Museum offers photo opportunities with all your favorite celebrities. Wait for the bus with Forrest Gump. Hop aboard the Titanic with Leo. Or follow the yellow brick road with the gang from The Wizard of Oz. These figures and many more are waiting for you and they are always ready for their close-up.
Fans of live Bluegrass, energetic clogging, and historical accounts of the mountain surroundings should plan their trip during the Smokey Mountains Tunes and Tales event. This is season specific and free, taking place on the streets of Gatlinburg from June through August. The parkway comes alive every night from 5 to 10 pm.
For those looking for a stress-free way to see downtown, an Old Fashioned Wagon Ride is the way to do it. This is a seasonal activity, offered September through October. The $4 per person goes to benefit the United Way. Riders can board at traffic light #6 with rides starting every 45 minutes from 5 to 9 pm Sunday through Thursday. This is a great way to relax before dinner or unwind before bed.
Hillbilly Golf
Forget everything you thought you knew about miniature golfing. Hillbilly Golf is a unique course on a mountain. Golfers board an incline, which travels 300 feet up through the trees and drops them off to choose one of two 18-hole courses. Located near traffic light #2, it is a wildly different, outrageously fun way to spend an evening above the parkway.
Have you ever wanted to travel back in time? Cade’s Cove is a mountain settlement frozen in the 1800’s. Visitors can bike or drive the loop and enjoy the preserved churches, cabins, and even a working mill. Cade’s Cove is approximately an hour drive from Gatlinburg and also offers many hiking opportunities. It is about a 2 hour excursion once you enter the area. Though it is a bit of a journey, the beauty and serenity make it an experience not to be missed.
For more information on these activities as well as many, many more visit www.gatlinburg.com.
