Any time of the year is truly a great time to visit the Smokies, but the summer is especially fun! With long sunny days and perfect temperatures the possibilities for how to spend your time are endless. Since groups of all ages and interests come to the Smokies, you can always count on a variety of entertainment options to be available to you. While there are hundreds of ways to spend your time, we've compiled 4 of our favorite things to do in the Smoky Mountains below to help you get started on deciding where you'll make memories during your stay:
1. Dollywood & Dolly's Splash Country
One of the top things to do in the Smoky Mountains for visitors of all ages is spending a day or two at Dollywood and/or Dolly's Splash Country. You also won't want to miss Dolly's Nights of Many Colors, a nightly fireworks show synchronized to music that can be seen throughout the park and will be taking place through August 7. If you're in need of a break from the summer heat, hop on over to Dolly's Splash Country and cool off on one of the many water rides or in the large wave pools. 
2. White Water Rafting
Do you love exploring the great outdoors but need a way to beat the heat? Head out to one of the area's many white water rafting companies and see for yourself why a trip down the Pigeon River is one of the coolest things to do in the Smoky Mountains this summer! Smoky Mountain Outdoors has rafting trips available for visitors of all ages and experience levels - from relaxing, scenic float trips down the lower Pigeon River, to the challenging class 3 and 4 rapids of the upper Pigeon River, there's a trip that is sure to appeal to every group's needs.
3. Visit Local Markets and Festivals
Another great thing about taking a summer vacation here is all of the unique things to do in the Smoky Mountains that you won't find anywhere else, including the opportunity to visit local events and festivals that feature arts, culture and more! One thing you won't want to miss is the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair, which takes place July 15-24 and features more than 150 booths and live demonstrations, as well as live music. Be sure to check out the Smoky Mountain events calendar for more awesome ways to spend your time during your stay in our Smoky Mountain cabin rentals. 
4. Celebrity Concerts
If you're a music lover, then Country Tonite's Celebrity Concert Series is one of the can't-miss things to do this summer! The series will feature artists such as T.G. Sheppard & T. Graham Brown, Neal McCoy and more at the state-of-the-art Country Tonite theatre. You can also visit Country Tonite for their regular show with our free Smoky Mountain Family Fun Pass.There are plenty of awesome things to do in the Smoky Mountains during your summer vacation, so what are you waiting for? Book your stay with us today and make sure you check out our Smoky Mountain specials for more money-saving lodging and attraction packages! 
