Located in the heart of Tennessee's Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are perfect retreats for both nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. These picturesque towns feature stunning mountain landscapes, beautiful hiking trails, bustling downtown areas filled with local shops and eateries, and much more.
There's no shortage of attractions and things to do in these Smoky Mountain gems. To help you organize your itinerary, we've curated a list of the top things you can't miss in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge in this blog.
At Stony Brook, we're all about making your vacation unforgettable. We offer an amazing selection of vacation cabins and chalets in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Cosby, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Smoky Mountains. For amazing local tips, dive into our destination blog. Whether you're looking to savor delicious local cuisine or indulge in some great shopping, we've got the scoop on all the top spots in the region.
Ready for breathtaking mountain views and plenty of fun? Let's dive in!
Top Attractions You Can't Miss In Gatlinburg
1. Immerse in nature through Hiking Trails
Gatlinburg offers access to a wide variety of hiking trails, many of which are located in the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These trails range from easy, family-friendly walks to challenging hikes that lead to breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, and historic sites. Popular trails include the Alum Cave Trail, which offers stunning views and leads to Mount LeConte, and the Laurel Falls Trail, known for its beautiful waterfall and relatively easy path. The trails in Gatlinburg provide a perfect opportunity to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Smoky Mountains, making it a top destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Get an adrenaline rush with whitewater rafting.
Whitewater rafting in Gatlinburg is an exhilarating way to experience the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains. The nearby Pigeon River is the main hub for rafting adventures, offering both thrilling rapids and gentler flows, making it suitable for all experience levels—all while taking you through stunning mountain scenery. For those seeking a more relaxed adventure, there are also calmer sections of the river perfect for a scenic float.
3. Engage in mountaintop adventure and fun at Anakeesta.
Anakeesta is the perfect spot for outdoor fun while you're in Gatlinburg. Perched high in the Smoky Mountains, this scenic park features breathtaking vistas and a host of exciting attractions, including zip-lining, gondola rides, and the TreeTop Skywalk, a unique treetop play area with several hanging bridges.
Be sure to stay past sunset for Astra Lumina, a whimsical night walk through the forest showcasing incredible light installations and projections. Anakeesta also provides an array of charming boutiques, souvenir shops, and dining venues where the whole family can enjoy a meal and keep energized for more exploration.
4. Explore the underwater world at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies.
Gatlinburg's Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a haven for marine enthusiasts, with over 10,000 exotic sea animals on display. This captivating aquarium promises a full day of fun and discovery for visitors of all ages, immersing them in a vibrant underwater environment.
Highlights of the aquarium include penguin encounters, allowing kids to shake flippers, pet the penguins, and snap memorable photos. Guests can also pet stingrays, feed Sally the Sea Turtle, enjoy live dive shows, engage in educational programs, and explore Ripley's Glass Bottom Boat Adventure. The Shark Lagoon, with its close-up views of majestic sharks, is often a favorite among visitors.
5. Explore nature and wildlife at Ober Mountain Ski Area & Amusement Park
Ober Mountain Ski Area & Amusement Park in Gatlinburg is a year-round destination offering a mix of winter sports and family-friendly activities. In the winter, it features skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing, while the warmer months offer activities like alpine slides, scenic chairlift rides, mini-golf, and wildlife encounters. The park also provides stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and a variety of dining and shopping options.
6. Boost your creativity at the Arts & Crafts Community.
The Arts & Crafts Community in Gatlinburg is the largest independent community of artisans in the United States, located along an 8-mile loop just outside the town. This historic area is home to numerous studios, galleries, and shops where local artists and craftsmen create and sell their handmade works, including pottery, jewelry, paintings, woodwork, and more. You can watch artisans at work, purchase unique souvenirs, and experience the rich Appalachian culture and traditions that have been preserved for generations.
Top Attractions You Can't Miss In Pigeon Forge
7. Enjoy winter fun all year round at Pigeon Forge Snow.
Year-round snow fun awaits you at Pigeon Forge Snow, the first indoor snow park in the U.S. This popular attraction features over ten snow tubing lanes covered in real, powdery snow for all ages to enjoy. Thanks to innovative snow-making technology, you can experience winter no matter the season. If you're traveling with kids, they'll have a blast building snowmen, creating snow forts, and engaging in snowball battles. If you feel like grabbing a bite, there's a snack bar where you can recharge before heading back into the snow.
8. Have a blast at Dollywood.
Co-owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, Dollywood is a must-visit destination for anyone in Pigeon Forge. Offering a unique blend of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and traditional Appalachian culture, the park entertains people of all ages. Whether you get an adrenaline rush from Dollywood's roller coasters and water slides or immerse yourself in local culture through craft demonstrations and musical performances that reflect the rich heritage of the Smoky Mountains, this will certainly be one of the highlights of your visit.
Tip: Keep an eye on the park's seasonal events, such as the Harvest Festival and Smoky Mountain Christmas. They add an extra layer of magic to Dollywood and offer unique activities for the entire family to enjoy together.
9. Find history and retail therapy at The Old Mill Square.
The Old Mill Square is a historic and charming area centered around the iconic Old Mill, which dates back to the 1830s. This beautifully preserved site features a working gristmill, where you can see cornmeal and flour being ground using traditional methods. The square is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and boutiques that offer locally made goods, Southern cuisine, and handcrafted items. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the Old Mill Restaurant or the Pottery House Café, explore the General Store, and browse for unique gifts, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.
10. Meet captivating creatures at Parrot Mountain and Gardens.
Parrot Mountain and Gardens in Pigeon Forge is a beautifully landscaped sanctuary where you can experience close-up encounters with a variety of exotic birds. The gardens are lush and vibrant, featuring a wide array of tropical plants, flowers, and waterfalls that create a serene atmosphere for relaxation and provide scenic backgrounds for pictures.
Interacting with colorful parrots, toucans, and other bird species, and even feeding them or letting them perch on your arm, is the highlight of every visit. The park also has a nursery where you can see baby birds and a peaceful prayer garden, making it a unique and tranquil destination for nature and bird lovers.
11. Admire the mountain while riding the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster.
This thrilling attraction is one of the longest downhill rides in the United States, and if you like adventure, you can't miss the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster in Pigeon Forge. A unique feature of this ride is that it allows you to control your speed as you navigate twists, turns, and drops along a mile-long track through the scenic Smoky Mountains.
The coaster is open year-round, offering a unique experience whether you're racing through lush summer landscapes or gliding down a snow-covered track in winter. For a different experience, make sure to visit at night when the coaster tracks are illuminated by colorful lights.
12. Indulge in the superb dining scene in both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are known for their exceptional dining scene. Both cities offer everything from classic Southern comfort food to fresh seafood and modern American cuisine. You'll find a wide range of restaurants, many of which are nestled along scenic streams and surrounded by lush greenery, providing diners with picturesque mountain views. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty breakfast, a casual lunch, or a fine dinner, there are plenty of options to suit every taste.
Some of our favorite picks in Gatlinburg include Crystelle Creek, The Peddler Steakhouse, Tom & Earl's Back Alley Grill, and Howard's Restaurant. The latter is the town's oldest restaurant where you can savor stellar traditional Southern fare.
In Pigeon Forge, we love The Old Mill Restaurant, Local Goat, Bullfish Grill, and Puckett's Grocery & Restaurant — also serving mouthwatering Southern cuisine and featuring live music to make any dine experience more special.
13. Make a toast to the delightful mountain charm at a local brewery.
Celebrate the allure of the Smoky Mountains with a refreshing local beer in hand. The brewery scene in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is thriving, offering a mix of craft breweries that capture the spirit of the Smoky Mountains.
From traditional ales to creative seasonal brews, often inspired by the local landscape and culture, even those who don't usually drink beer may be tempted to try some unique creations. Many breweries feature cozy taprooms where you can relax, enjoy a pint with scenic mountain views, or listen to live music.
Here are some must-visit breweries in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge:
Gatlinburg Brewing Company, Gatlinburg
Yee-Haw Brewing Company, Pigeon Forge
Smoky Mountain Brewery, both in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Are you wondering where to stay in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the Smoky Mountains?
Why not enhance your vacation with the stunning backdrop of the Smoky Mountains in a great rental property?
At Stony Brook, we offer an exceptional array of cabins and chalets in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Cosby, ranging from one to 16 bedrooms. As a family-owned service, we guarantee you'll have the best experience in the Smokies!