Gatlinburg, the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a charming town nestled in the mountains of Tennessee with an endless supply of attractions, theme parks, and dining options. A popular destination for couples, families and groups of friends for a weekend or longer getaway, this town is built on nostalgia, thrills and unforgettable experiences.
Whether you’re coming to Gatlinburg for a few days of rest and relaxation in a cabin overlooking the wilderness or can’t wait to spend time walking the famous downtown Gatlinburg strip in search of souvenirs and good food, you’ll find it all here. In this guide to Gatlinburg, you’ll discover everything you need to plan your perfect trip to the Smoky Mountains.
How to Get Around Gatlinburg
Getting around Gatlinburg is as simple as walking the bustling downtown strip, hopping on the trolley, or driving a car to your destinations. Downtown Gatlinburg is extremely walkable with multiple crosswalks, wide sidewalks, and lots of attractions, eateries, and shops closely packed together.
Gatlinburg Trolley
The free Gatlinburg Trolley covers most of Gatlinburg, from downtown all the way to the Gatlinburg Community Center. Walk to a trolley stop or use the Park-n-Ride lot at the Welcome Center. The trolley runs year-round with longer hours (8:30 a.m. to midnight) from May to October.
Driving
Driving around Gatlinburg gives you the most freedom to explore areas outside the city, but can result in added expenses with parking fees. Roads can be congested during peak summer and fall travel months. Find a list of places to park (free and paid) in Gatlinburg here.
Best Time to Visit Gatlinburg
The best time to visit Gatlinburg is between mid-September and October. This period sees the fall foliage in the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains National Park at its peak with cool temperatures that are ideal for exploring, walking downtown and enjoying festivals. This idyllic time draws lots of visitors to the city, making it essential to book hotels and attraction tickets in advance.
Gatlinburg sees highs averaging from 69°F-78°F during September and October. It’s perfect weather for visiting Dollywood, hiking in the Smoky Mountains, eating and shopping downtown, or hanging out at seasonal fall events like these:
- Smoky Mountain Fall Festival at Ober Mountain (September-October)
- Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival in Kodak, TN (September)
- Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival in Gatlinburg, TN (September-November)
- Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair at the Gatlinburg Convention Center (October)
- Harvest Festival and Great Pumpkin LumiNights at Dollywood (September-October)
For leaf peeping, mild weather, and lots of seasonal activities—even with bigger crowds—there’s no better time to visit Gatlinburg than in the fall.
Top Things to Do in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is packed with attractions and things to do for all ages, interests, and ability levels. From outdoor adventures in the scenic Smoky Mountains to downtown attractions and Dollywood, it’s easy to plan a variety of activities for each day of your trip. Make the most of your trip to Gatlinburg by fitting in as many of the best things to do in Gatlinburg as possible!
Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
This national park is the most-visited in the U.S. with over 522,000 acres of mountains, valleys, historic sites, and hiking trails. See it all with a knowledgeable guide on a Classic National Park Tour. Stroll the half-mile Gatlinburg Trail along the Little Pigeon River, crossing one of the longest footbridges in the park. Other trails, like Grotto Falls and the strenuous Chimney Tops, provide tons of hiking opportunities.
Take a scenic drive on the High Points Driving Tour and stop at the overlooks along Newfound Gap Road. Drive the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop on the Great Smoky Mountains & Cades Cove Self-Guided Tour with historic cabins, churches, and buildings in a beautiful valley.
If you’re able, you’ll want to hike to Clingmans Dome, now called the Kuwohi Trail, while you’re in the park. A scenic drive leads you to the parking lot, where you’ll hike up along a 0.5-mile paved path that looks easy—until you start to feel the 331’ elevation gain on the way to the Observation Tower! From the top, you’ll enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and up to 100 miles in the distance, including seven states: Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Alabama.
Enjoy Thrills and Treats at Dollywood
Spending a day at Dollywood is one of the most rewarding things to do while you’re in Gatlinburg. This theme park, Dolly Parton’s creation, is home to everything from thrill rides and roller coasters to full-service restaurants and entertaining shows. Arrive early in the morning to shorten your wait times and fit in as many rides, shows, snacks, and attractions as possible.
Test your courage on the 20-story-high Drop Line, zip around the track at 73 miles per hour on the hot rod-themed Lightning Rod, journey deep underground on the Mystery Mine ride, and soar through the sky on the Wild Eagle coaster. Children will find lots of smaller rides and games to enjoy.
Perhaps best of all, the 13+ dining options around the park make it easy to find great food while you’re enjoying all Dollywood has to offer. Don’t miss the chance to nosh on some of Dolly’s famous Cinnamon Bread from the Grist Mill—but if the lines are long (they usually are), a lesser-known secret is to grab your bread from the Spotlight Bakery, which rarely has lines like the Grist Mill. The bakery is also famous for their 25-pound apple pie!
Hit the Slopes at Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is one of the most popular attractions in Gatlinburg with an adventure park and ski area. During the winter months, the mountain springs to life with a mix of machine-made and real snow to keep the slopes covered for skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and more. Onsite snow sports rentals provide the equipment you’ll need to enjoy the powder.
Outside the winter months, activities like mini-golf, wildlife encounters, mountain coasters, ziplining, indoor ice skating, bobsledding, a shopping mall, and more will keep you entertained. With a convenient Aerial Tramway that runs up Ober Mountain from downtown, it’s easy to get here during any season. If you’d prefer, you can drive up to Ober Gatlinburg from Traffic Light #10 and take the chairlift the rest of the way to the top for even more scenic views.
Stroll Downtown Gatlinburg
Downtown Gatlinburg is always bustling with pedestrians strolling the sidewalks, shopping, and grabbing tasty treats and food from restaurants and local shops along the way. Many of the town’s best attractions are located here on the Parkway, where the Little Pigeon River winds through and makes even the tourist areas look scenic.
You’ll find fun activities like Anakeesta, a mountain amusement park with zip-lines and treetop rope courses, along with Ripley’s Believe It! Or Not and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. See the 407’ tall Space Needle, play arcade games and mini golf, take old-fashioned photos, stop by a moonshine distillery for a tasting, and check out the entertainment and food at popular eateries.
When you’re in Gatlinburg, even downtown, you’re still in the Smoky Mountains. You may even see a black bear wandering downtown! There are a few local bears that seem to hang out near the Parkway around traffic lights #9 and #10. They’re often spotted near Calhoun’s and Cherokee Steakhouse—just be sure to keep your distance if you see one!
Visit the Gatlinburg SkyPark
The revamped Gatlinburg SkyPark will be one of the high points of your visit—literally! Take a 10-minute ride on the SkyLift from downtown to climb 500 feet up Crockett Mountain and reach the SkyBridge—the longest pedestrian cable bridge on the continent. A large, clear “glass” section of the bridge lets the bravest adventurers glimpse down at the trees and valley below. It’s a feat for the daring, but an incredible experience with panoramic views of the scenery around you.
At the top, you’ll be able to snap photos to commemorate your trip up Crockett Mountain, visit the SkyCenter café and gift shop, hike the SkyTrail, and climb the Tulip Tower for the best vantage point in the city—an even cooler experience at night. Don’t forget to grab photos taken on your SkyLift ride to the top for a cool memento from your trip.
Where to Stay in Gatlinburg
Determining where to stay in Gatlinburg can be a challenge with so many hotels and resorts nestled around the town. It’s important to pick accommodations that meet your criteria for the trip and will be near the activities you’re planning on doing. For proximity to attractions, seclusion in the wilderness, or family-friendly accommodations with extras like waterparks, take your pick from the best hotels in Gatlinburg below.
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
- Address: 539 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best for: Walkable downtown convenience with tons of amenities
Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is just steps away from attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium, Anakeesta, and the Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg. If you’re planning on doing plenty of exploring on foot or by trolley, this is an impeccable choice. With two heated pools, a hot tub, two restaurants, a bar, and a splash pad for kids, it’s a hotel everyone can agree on. After a long day of walking the downtown strip, you’ll be relieved that your hotel is so centrally located! Book a room with a balcony to watch the downtown buzz and instantly get into vacation mode when you stay here.
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Waterpark
- Address: 915 Westgate Resorts Road Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best for: Couples, families, and outdoor lovers with nearby GSMNP
Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Waterpark offers luxury cabin-style rooms and condos in a wilderness wonderland that’s adjacent to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is an excellent basecamp if you’re planning on spending plenty of time in the national park. Fireplaces, full kitchens, and private balconies with special extras like Wild Bear Falls waterpark, a full-service spa, and a Kids Club make this a truly special place to stay in the Smokies. Enjoy scenic views with hiking trails on the property and three heated pools before hopping on the complimentary trolley to downtown Gatlinburg. Feel free to bring Fluffy, because pets are welcome here!
Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg
- Address: 635 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best for: Quiet, upscale accommodations close to the Parkway
Located just off the Parkway on the quiet River Road, Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a convenient hotel location with plenty of luxurious amenities. Rooms overlook the Little Pigeon River for beautiful views, but you’ll still be just a few minutes’ walk or trolley ride to any attraction downtown. Enjoy the patio, hot tub, and fire pit at night, relax in the heated indoor pool, or get cozy in the plush beds after a long day of exploring with streaming services on every TV.
Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail
- Address: 520 Airport Rd, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best for: Secluded vibes close to hiking and scenic drives
Overlooking the tumbled stones and rushing waters of Leconte Creek, Hampton Inn Gatlinburg Historic Nature Trail takes its name from its proximity to the Roaring Fork Motor Trail. The motor trail is a popular 5.5-mile scenic drive that leads you down a narrow, winding path away from the hustle and bustle of downtown. The hotel is also a short drive from the Twin Creeks Trail if you’re up for some hiking. With well-appointed rooms overlooking the creek and a large outdoor patio, other amenities like walk-in showers, a heated indoor pool, hot tub, and balconies are just the icing on the cake.
Courtyard by Marriott Gatlinburg
- Address: 315 Airport Rd, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Best for: Romantic getaways with fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and a serene atmosphere
Courtyard by Marriott Gatlinburg sits just off the main Parkway in Gatlinburg and offers a more serene experience for travelers who want to be within walking distance of all the buzz without staying on the strip. An onsite restaurant and bar, heated indoor pool, lounge and patio with a fire pit, and gorgeous mountain views from rooms with balconies make it a solid choice for your Gatlinburg stay at an affordable price point. Some rooms even feature fireplaces and whirlpool tubs—the perfect setting for couples seeking a romantic retreat!
Where to Eat in Gatlinburg
Dining is one of the areas where Gatlinburg really shines—with options ranging from family-friendly feasts to romantic steakhouses and rowdy grills with live entertainment. There’s something for everyone here! Choose a place that’s worthy of a special occasion, or sit down to a down-home meal of smoked barbecue and deep-fried pickle chips if that’s more your speed. These are the best restaurants in Gatlinburg!
Heirloom Room
- Address: 333 Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type of Cuisine: New American
The Heirloom Room is hailed as one of the best eateries in Gatlinburg and Sevier County, nestled in its position over the river for a peaceful ambiance that seems miraculous, given its prime Parkway location. With a concentration on fresh local ingredients, it’s a great spot to try unique twists on classic dishes. Whiskey connoisseurs will appreciate the 100+ bottles behind the large bar.
Greenbrier Restaurant
- Address: 370 Newman Rd, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
- Diamond-designation: Three Diamond
- Reservations: Suggested
- Type of Cuisine: American
Greenbrier Restaurant seamlessly marries a historic, rustic feel with fresh, innovative dishes in its unique 1939 log cabin location. Secluded from the busiest part of Gatlinburg, it offers a cozy and serene atmosphere with upscale takes on dishes like Iowa dry-aged steaks, bone marrow beef tartare, and seasonal fresh seafood dishes. Come for dinner or stop by for the abundant Sunday brunch offerings while you’re in town.
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que
- Address: 714 River Rd, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
- Diamond-designation: Approved
- Reservations: Not required
- Type of Cuisine: Barbecue
Ask a local or long-time Gatlinburg visitor about the best place to get barbecue, and you’re likely to hear Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que again and again. This beloved establishment is known for serving up some of the best beef brisket, chicken, ribs, and pork, all smoked onsite over a wood fire to bring that rich and toasty flavor (and amazing aromas). Wings, burgers, sandwiches, and salads round out the menu and make it a crowd-pleasing location everyone can agree on.
Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse
- Address: 1002 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
- Diamond-designation: Approved
- Reservations: Accepted, not required
- Type of Cuisine: Steak
Step off the main drag and into the relaxed-yet-elegant atmosphere of Cherokee Grill and Steakhouse for a memorable meal on your Gatlinburg trip. Oversized windows offer views of the street below as the stone fireplace lends the eatery a cozy, steakhouse vibe. Enjoy dishes like delectable prime rib, seasoned rotisserie chicken, savory crabcakes, or fried catfish. You can even stop by for happy hour nightly or the famous Sunday brunch!
The Park Grill
- Address: 1110 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
- Diamond-designation: Approved
- Reservations: Accepted, not required
- Type of Cuisine: American
Located right on the bustling Parkway, The Park Grill is a highly-rated restaurant serving lunch and dinner with style. The rustic theme, seen in exposed log beams and high ceilings with a cabin-like feel, make it a cozy place to enjoy delicious dishes that speak to the local culture. Moonshine-marinated chicken and steak, a large salad bar, and special desserts to finish your meal with a sweet punctuation mark make it a great place for couples to dine.
Gatlinburg Photo Spots
Photo ops are never in short supply in this scenic city in the Smokies. With the surrounding peaks and valleys, great theme parks, and rustic decor around every corner, you’ll find plenty of places to get pictures you’ll want to remember for a lifetime. Capture the best memories from your trip by snapping a few pictures at these top Gatlinburg photo spots.
1. Gatlinburg SkyLift
Snap unbelievable photos of the surrounding mountain scenery and downtown Gatlinburg below on your ride up and down the SkyLift, which takes you up to an overlook 1,800’ high for the best views in the city.
2. The Legendary Black BMW
You’ll find it impossibly parked in a tiny patch of dirt on a hill next to Parton’s Deli on the strip. This BMW has become a local legend and the unofficial welcome sign of Gatlinburg.
3. Morton Overlook
There’s no better mountain overlook along Newfound Gap Road, and sunsets are particularly incredible from this scenic vista.
4. Clingman’s Dome Observation Tower
Tackle the short but steep hike up the paved path to reach the tower and you’ll be able to capture views of mountains and seven states around you.
5. Ripley’s Kugel Fountain
A 10,000-pound ball of granite floats on a thin stream of water, enabling you to turn it at will while you stroll downtown. It’s a great photo op!
Gatlinburg Day Trips
When you’re traveling to Gatlinburg, you’re in one of the most beautiful parts of Appalachia. Surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains and right on the border of North Carolina, there are some fantastic places to take day trips from Gatlinburg.
1. Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend, TN
- Distance: 45 minutes
Also situated in the Smokies, Townsend is another access point for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and home to the famed Tuckaleechee Caverns. You can venture deep underground on a tour and see Silver Falls cascading 210’ down, enter the Big Room (large enough to fit a football stadium inside), and tons of unique cave formations. The caverns are closed from December to February.
2. Explore Cherokee, NC
- Distance: 1 hour 10 minutes
Just over an hour away in North Carolina, Cherokee is home to the Oconaluftee Indian Village, where you can travel back in time to the 18th century and see how the Cherokee tribe lived, worked, and played. Souvenirs and food are plentiful in the village! Mountainside Theatre offers daily summertime plays about the Cherokee people, and you can fit a little gambling in at the Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort while you’re here.
3. Biltmore Estate: Asheville, NC
- Distance: 2.5 hours
The jaw-dropping opulence of the Biltmore Estate, the largest home in America, makes it well-worth the drive from Gatlinburg during your trip. Crossing through the national park into North Carolina, you’ll be able to visit and tour the gardens and 8,000-acre grounds, as well as the palatial home built by George Vanderbilt. Come during spring to see the gardens at their best and most colorful, or during the holidays to see it decked out in lights and decor!
Visiting Gatlinburg on a Budget
As a tourist-centric town, Gatlinburg can be expensive to visit—but if you know a few hacks and tips to make your trip more affordable, visiting the Gateway to the Smokies doesn’t have to break the bank. From hotels and dining to car rentals and attractions, these are the best ways to save money on your trip to Gatlinburg.
1. Use your AAA membership.
Score vehicle discounts, deals on tickets, and the best prices on hotels. You can even score big discounts on airport parking and extra points at select hotel brands!
2. Flip through the coupon booklets.
You’ll find them all over the city—likely in your hotel lobby, too. Discounts vary, but most attractions in Gatlinburg use the books for publicity and offer deals from a few dollars off all the way to free appetizers or 25% discounts on meals.
3. Take advantage of free activities.
While you’ll need a parking pass to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, hiking trails, stopping at overlooks, visiting the Tennessee/North Carolina state line, and taking scenic drives within the park are free.
4. Dine early.
If you plan on eating out for most of your meals in Gatlinburg, take advantage of early bird and happy hour specials to save money on dining. You might find cheaper entrees, free kids meals, half-price appetizers and drink deals.
5. Try some free samples.
Before you shell out the cash for full-sized options, ask about samples! Plenty of places offer free samples in Gatlinburg, including Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen, Beef Jerky Outlet, Pepper Palace, and Aunt Mahalia’s Candies in the Mountain Mall.
Plan Your Gatlinburg Vacation with AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Gatlinburg trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.