Suit up for a 3-hour scenic tour of the Smokies as you splash your way through Class III and IV rapids. Easy to reach along the Cataract Falls Trail, the walk there and back is just over a kilometer. So if you're planning a visit and are looking to stay far off Orlando's tourist-beaten path, here are 18 of Central Florida's non-touristy treasures: 1. The family-friendly Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park is worth a visit no matter the season. Decked with immersive features and water elements, children especially love these themed courses. Elevate your next Gatlinburg evening when you reserve a table at the Burg Steakhouse. What do you think of water rafting? The live actors, spooky makeup and frightening special effects combine to make this one of the scariest attractions in Tennessee. Embrace almost 10 minutes of high-speed thrills as you ride the longest coaster in East Tennessee. 5 Must Visit U.S. Cities For A Weekend Trip 2 Must-Visit Places, 7 Adventures on Yas Island Abu Dhabi 7 Most Thrilling Tourist Attractions in California A Tourist Guide To The Sin City (Ultimate . Unusual Attractions in Gatlinburg Gatlinburg, Tennessee Synchronous Fireflies of the Great Smoky Mountains For two weeks every June, fireflies in the Smoky Mountains perform an astonishing. Claiming the local award for the best steakhouse in the area, Alamo Steakhouses selection of aged steaks is hard to beat. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Gatlinburg - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor As you set foot in Pittman Center, you will immediately understand when we say that the town is a charm in itself as it offers an excellent combination of natural beauty, culture and history. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. Whether you are an adult or a child, this show will blow your mind away as master magicians perform their magic in front of the audience. Florida certainly isn't devoid of lush tropical landscaping, but you wouldn't think you'd find a botanical oasis just minutes from downtown Orlando. Sleeping six guests revel in peace and tranquility. A Walk in the Woods has been around since 1998 and is known for their expertise in leave no trace ethics, botany, wildlife, geology, culture, and history of the Great Smoky Mountains. Seems escape rooms are all the rage everywhere you go these days, Gatlinburg included! Watch professional log rolling, axe throwing, speed climbing and the nerve-racking springboard chop. Get an ultimate fun pass which includes a tour in this famous haunted house any time of the year. Please see my disclosure. In addition to a huge 196-acre park, there's a whole host of non-touristy things to do at Ally Pally. Visit Smoky Mountains Outdoor Rafting and jump into the smaller boat in the extreme upper river section for a heart-pumping adventure. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. It is also the highest peak that is completely within Tennessee. For an even more enchanting experience, visit the Rocky Top after dark. For one of the best outdoor activities in Gatlinburg, soar over the city and the endless greenery of Tennessees Smoky Mountains on board a hot air balloon. Make sure to check out the fun things to do in Pigeon Forge right next door. For even more puzzling adventures, Ripleys Marvelous Mirror Maze is a treat. Infuse your Gatlinburg getaway with plenty of fresh air, adrenaline, and homespun culture when you step outside of the tourist zone. Just over half an hour away from downtown Gatlinburg, this quiet area of the Smokies is a great place to view the fall foliage, after enjoying lunch at the iconic Elviras Cafe. Whet the appetite with an order of pimento cheese and bacon jam crostini before tearing into a Smoked BBQ platter or plate of Cajun chicken pasta. Walker Sisters Springhouse is perfect for outdoor recreation. Your email address will not be published. Follow Pigeon Creek Trail for just over half a kilometer to reach it. Sample all the best fresh food Gatlinburg has to offer, while chatting to the friendly locals and the fan-favorite Farmers Market a city staple that operates most Saturday mornings. Over 20,000 sets of spice shakers reveal the surprisingly telling history of our most basic spices. Super fun for all ages, the attraction is family-friendly. 7. Sneak in even more social media-worthy photo ops when you traverse the Ramsey Cascades trail. Theres also an on-site restaurant to refuel after a few hours of practicing your drives. The Greystone Lodge is family-owned and located in a very convenient location downtown. Ready for a refreshing day of White Water fun? This is a can't-miss on your list of unique things to do in Gatlinburg! Activities include pitch & putt, a boating lake, GoApe, a skatepark, children's playground, farmers market, ice skating rink and many different concerts and events. For something more relaxing, opt for a Lower Pigeon River rafting tour. After all the outdoor activities and city exploring, treat yourselves to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in town. Look out for all the barnyard characters as you move between holes at one of the three 18-hole courses at the Ripleys Old MacDonalds Farm Mini-Golf area. You can enjoy a display of artworks, including ceramics, potteries and paintings. Hit up three amazing music museums. The Great Smoky Mountains are an untouched slice of Mother Nature. There are lots of hotels in Gatlinburg TN with indoor pool to choose from so if getting in some pool time is important to you, youre definitely in luck! Leu Gardens. With moonshine distilleries and cider breweries, live theater shows, haunted houses, and farmers markets, theres something for everyone in this underestimated town. Specialties: The Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg is conveniently located on River Road, at the base of the Smoky Mountains, only 30 minutes from Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). Between your hiking, shopping and art workshops, youre sure to have worked up an appetite! You can walk up and down the strip and take all the free tastings and have plenty of alcohol, I promise. Besides the 18-hole and nine-hole courses, the facility also boasts a fully-equipped pro shop to upgrade your kit. 2001 - 2023 Tripster. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Welcome to the most popular national park in the country! Named after Revolutionary War Veteran Samuel Wears, this tranquil Valley oozes natural beauty and charm. We cant wait to see you there. Long has Gatlinburg been known for its paranormal forces, with ghosts and ghouls rumored to inhabit the citys streets. Use our epic guide to get an insiders peek into the locals only section of Gatlinburg today! HotTub PoolTable 10minGatlinburg 7SmartTVs 3Kings 211 reviews Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, United States from USD 240 View Deal And So Should You. We like weird things so much, we even created a second site all about it. All this artistry got you feeling famished? Attractions In Gatlinburg | Aquariums, Museums & Mini-Golf An indoor shopping center with 36 uniquely themed shops located in the heart of Gatlinburg. Cute Instagrammable Places in London. Considered as the areas only Dine-In theater, The Grand Majestic hosts an array of brilliant entertainment perfect for guests of all ages. Museum with kitschy oddities on display, including shrunken human heads & rare animal skeletons. If youve seen videos of people tumbling down the hills in giant bubbles (AKA zorb balls) and always wanted to try it for yourself, head to the Outdoor Gravity Park the only dedicated zorbing park in the country. Adrenaline junkies, this ones got your name written all over it. Located at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our city is jam-packed with family-friendly attractions. 25 Best Things To Do In Gatlinburg, Tennesee, You Shouldn't Miss Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park spreads out over 800 square miles in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Take the classic cinematic spectacle to the next level by strapping yourself into one of the motion seats and letting the state-of-the-art digital effects work their magic. Best Italian Cafe and Pizzaria This casual Italian cafe in the heart of Gatlinburg has earned quite the following over the years. Theyre located in downtown Gatlinburg and are very close to the entrance to the most popular national park in the country! Every year, this Tennessee-based mentalist and professional entertainer does more than 200 shows at the Iris Theater in downtown Gatlinburg. 25 Best Things To Do In Gatlinburg, Tennesee, You Shouldn't Miss Townsend offers a different perspective of the area that a lot of people enjoy. 1. Enjoy Gatlinburg! Explore Australia's Hidden Gems: Must-Visit Tourist Destinations Chimney Tops Trail is a 3.6-mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee that features a river and is rated as difficult. . The bridge is illuminated at night . With over 100 artists and craftsmen lining its corridors, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is officially the countrys largest independent artisan organization. Witness snowflakes falling in winter, or snap pictures of the trees in a sea of autumn colors from October to November. A locally-owned brewery, in the heart of Gatlinburg Tennessee, and the breathtaking Smoky mountains. Location: 745 Powdermill Rd. If shopping and Christmas are your things then a visit to the largest Christmas store in Gatlinburg is necessary. Embrace almost 10 minutes of high-speed thrills as you ride the longest coaster in East Tennessee. You are going to love this place. The best time to visit the valley is during sunrise or sunset as you will get to marvel at the most perfect vistas of the valley. You can find these amazing escape rooms in two locations: Reagan Terrace Mall and The Village with Masters of Magic where you can also choose from various classic and contemporary board games to take home. End the night with a lively outing to Luco Burro, a TexMex restaurant known for its margaritas and tacos. Listen up die-hard gamers! See peaks as far away as Kentucky and enjoy a bird's eye view of the park and lush botanical Vista Gardens 60 feet below! This relatively quick cruise provides a sneaky way to avoid downtown traffic. Ways to tour Gatlinburg Book these experiences for a close-up look at Gatlinburg. Rent out a UTV from Rocky Top Adventure for two hours, or more, and zoom around their recommended routes like Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome. 1339 Ski Mountain Rd. Have you ever ridden a mountain coaster before? Our hotel offers the natural attraction of the mountains and sounds of the nearby creeks. While some of the most popular trails, like Cache Creek, shouldnt be skipped due to their beauty, they can get busy. Head to the Smoky Mountain Riding Stables and trot through the vast and rocky terrain of the Smoky Mountains. Neighboring the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the best hikes are through the mountainous landscape. For an extra sour souvenir, pick up a jar of their famous Ole Smoky Pickles to go. 1.8. This golf course features hilly greens, a clubhouse & a picturesque mountain setting. A well-kept local secret, Blue Moose, is like your favorite pub but better. The Ober Gatlinburg resort has plenty to offer year-round, however, two of its thrilling attractions reign supreme! A recreation of the doomed ocean liner in the middle of the Smoky Mountains. Thats not a typo, the theater at Ripleys Gatlinburg really ismoving! Outside the shop, the air is filled with live music, jovial laughter, and the distinct smell of cooked and processed grains. This can tell you all you need to know about the array of amazing rides and attractions at this Southern-themed splash zone. Many of the distilleries in Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Gatlinburg offer unique cocktails made with their spirits. The 120-passenger cable car operates year-round, presenting spectacular views of the Great Smoky Mountains no matter the season. You will get the chance to taste some delectable wine and moonshine in at least six distilleries and wineries, and gain insights into the local breweries and distilleries. One spot you can't find anywhere else in the world is the Dolly Parton Statue! Address: 561 Brookside Village Way Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Website: Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum Opening hours: 10am - 2pm (daily) Price: 3 USD You might be interested in these Airbnbs! Celebrate the bounty of spring when you swing by Greenbrier for an explosion of floral festivities. As you stroll through the aisles, expect rows of just-picked fruits and vegetables, scrumptious cookies (Josies Cookies), dehydrated chili flakes (Olde Virdens Red Hot Sprinkle), lovely handmade soaps (Kulturology Soap Co), and plenty more. Tanger Outlets (Pigeon Forge) We like deals, too. The Cades Cove Loop winds for 11 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a picturesque drive with a backdrop of the mountain peaks. Tickets are affordable and fun; youll see fast-paced hockey with delightful fan interaction. With six ziplines and two sky bridges, guests will have ample opportunities for adrenaline. Experience a magical time by catching a magic show at the one and only Iris Theater. Post zipping, feel free to enjoy the parks many outdoor amenities, including barbecue grills, picnic tables, nature trails, and more. Its putt-putt but as youve never seen before. 25 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN - Family Destinations Guide From snow tubing through the mountains, to dizzying escape mazes to themed mini-golf courses kids love it here! While we would never describe the nations most visited National Park as a unique thing to do in Gatlinburg,' within the parks lush 522,427 acres lies plenty of under-the-radar hiking trails, scenic drives, and picnic areas. Get in touch with your creative side when you witness the ancient art of basket weaving, oil painting, and more at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Copyright 2023 TourScanner | All rights reserved. This one-of-a-kind observation tower provides guests with 360-degree views of the smoky mountains. It was OK. Throughout summer and fall, choose from a number of beautiful hiking trails, plus an Alpine Slide and water rides. Officially Gatlinburgs oldest and spookiest haunted house, this three-story Victorian mansion on River Road has been welcoming brave visitors for over 35 years. Stop by one of the five wineries (or all five!) Take the tram to the top of the overlook with views of the Smoky Mountains. Non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg - Sevier County Forum Craft beers have soared in popularity over the years. ATV tours are available with these pros too, and the quads can seat two people. With bright, airy and classy interiors, couples and families love the River Edge Inn. Make sure to also visit the elk of Cataloochee Valley. If youre looking to do your swimming workout or play a basketball game in the water with friends, this water park has the Swimming Hole for you. Or pick up a bottle of Pigeon Forge blush to go. Be amazed at Gatlinburgs No. Looking for excitement? Then warm up afterward with a cup of hot chocolate at the Sugar Bears Caf And Creamery. Prepare to get wet, so bring swimwear or a towel, and dont forget to book online to reserve a spot to make sure you can start the fun as soon as you get there. Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville locals enjoy the shows and attractions that visitors do, but they also have some favorite spots that are a little less crowded and involve fewer sightseers. Choose from three different tracks, including a combined tunnel and zigzag course, a speedy roll, and an extreme zigzag course. A little over an hour away, Knoxville is an easy drive to Gatlinburg. ), HOLIDAY INN CLUB VACATIONS SMOKY MOUNTAIN RESORT. They have amazing vegan options. Well, there are plenty of non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, as well. The Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area is open 365 days a year. During the winter months from mid-December to mid-March, skiers and snowboarders hit the slopes and even non-skiers enjoy . For those keen to go behind the scenes and learn about the drinks distillery process and historical significance, sign up for a walking tour. If you're looking for more ideas of places to visit in the Smoky Mountain area, check out these attractions in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. Pingback: Things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Park Ranger John . You can reach the mountaintop resort by taking the aerial tramway at Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg, which allows you to admire the marvelous scenery during the 2.1-mile transport. Let us know by sharing in the comments, we love hearing about your experiences. It is included as one of the best and most fun things to do in Astoria. If youd prefer for one of the locals to show you the ropes, wine tours take guests through to two wineries, as well as a traditional moonshine distillery even if youre not a fan, its an interesting endeavor, youre in the South after all. Get in touch with your creative side when you witness the ancient art of basket weaving, oil painting, and more at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Its also a shop offering a wide selection of puzzles and board games that you can take home. What started out as a quest to find the best salt shakers turned into an insatiable hobby for the founders of this museum, and when no space was left in their home to keep their collections, the unique Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum was established. Zip a dee doo all day long when you strap in for an hour of high-flying adventure with, Zipline Tours with Rafting in the Smokies. 8 Best Non-Touristy Things To Do In Pigeon Forge, Tennessee - Trip101 In Summer Swing by this monument to see the sweetheart of the Smokies and take a picture with her in downtown Sevierville! Sporting 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains, with downtown Gatlinburg beneath your feet, the 407-foot tall Space Needle is the premier inner-city observation deck. Bring that camera or fully charged phone, as youll want to capture endless selfies of you and your new best friend. They are the only species in America that can synchronize their flashing light patterns and this only happens one time a year usually a two-week window so this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The vegan scene is one of the best in the country, there are an immeasurable amount of amazing hiking opportunities and the whole town practically lives by a support local practice. Feel all the romance when checking into your room at the Gatlinburg Town Square by Exploria Resorts with its own fireplace and private jacuzzi, and from the balcony, you might even get lucky and spot a bear or two! Strap into a gravity-propelled cart, designed to gleam and slide along a single track, and cruise through the mountains, with nature in abundance all around you. 12 Things To Do in Gatlinburg and the Best Places To Stay . Great for business travelers, appreciate the spacious rooms and convenient locale of the Edgewater Hotel and Conference Center. During the snowy wintery months (typically early December to mid-March), it transforms into a magical skiing and snowboarding resort complete with indoor ice skating and wildlife encounters. This interactive game tests your ability to solve puzzles and discover clues, so you can escape death like avoiding the cannibals who are ready to devour you if you cant escape the cellar in 60 minutes. Grab a spot around the patios fire pit for an unforgettable night. 8 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg | U.S. News Travel TourScanner is the worlds largest website to search for tours & travel activities. A second spot whose name helps paint a picture; The Place of a Thousand Drips is one of the waterfalls in the park accessible by car, with no hiking needed to reach it. Immersed within the beautiful greenery of the Smoky Mountains, CLIMB Works provides adventurous visitors the chance to explore the stunning natural landscape in two equally exciting ways the breathtaking Mountaintop Zipline and the top-rated Treetop Zipline. Quirky museum featuring salt & pepper shakers from various eras made from a range of materials. We don't want to do Ripleys or any of the kitchy dinner shows.anyone know of any off-the-beaten-path things to do? 318 places sorted by traveller favourites. For a dazzling experience, hop on a group raft through the Rainbow Revenge with translucent tubes that create different colors as you go down. Why not stop in to watch it at the Smoky Mountain Brewery? Hear the sinister stories, view real haunted photographs and even test out some actual ghost-hunting equipment. Accompanying the themed displays are little stories that shed some light on the tool or information about the artists behind the creation. Its not hard to get thrilled in this family-friendly attraction that offers plenty of realistic simulated rides and experiences. Synchronous Fireflies of the Great Smoky Mountains. photo credit: Burg Steakhouse via Facebook. Address: 458 Brookside Village Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA, Website: Smoky Mountain Farms Jelly House. Theyre impressive historical towns that emit a vibrant atmosphere of eras gone by. Located off of the East Parkway, this 8-mile loop is home to a variety of shops, galleries, and studios that showcase the work of our talented local artisans. Ascend thousands of feet in one of the more fun things to do in Gatlinburg the famous Aerial Tramway. Diverging into plentiful small cascades, its a spectacular sight to behold. A brand new wine trail just opened in Gatlinburg. photo credit: Blue Moose Burgers and Wings via Facebook. 70 Fun Things To Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge - MommyPoppins Do you have what it takes? Hi! Fill your days with race car events, state mountain park explorations and city sightseeing from museums to interesting architecture. Pick from themes like the Indiana Jones adventure, the Haunting of Hyde House, the Realm of Illusions, and even the MoonshineHill Hootenanny! Calling all craft heads! Moving away from the Smokies, visit Charlotte in North Carolina. 9 Non-Touristy Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains - Home - Mobile Brochure One of the most touristy things to do in Tucson is going for a relaxing bike ride in downtown Tucson.