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- This Town is the Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains... 🚠🌄 - Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
This Town is the Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains... 🚠🌄 - Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
Today: Banjos, Cabins like no other, and the SkyLift!
Trey Shuey & Random Towns
June 17, 2024 • Estimated Reading Time: 7 minutes
In partnership with
Today’s destination is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains! See the views below ⬇️
Picture this: you're driving into a cozy mountain town with the Appalachian Mountains all around you. Gatlinburg, Tennessee, sits right at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most beautiful and diverse natural areas in the country. As you wind your way into town, the air is crisp and fresh, filled with the scent of pine trees and wildflowers. The blue ridges of the Smokies sprawl out for miles in the distance — each valley more notable than the last
Downtown Gatlinburg is surely worth the visit. The buildings, often decorated with twinkling lights, give the place a storybook feel. You can hear the gentle sound of nearby streams and the occasional strum of a banjo from a street performer.
No matter the season, Gatlinburg is worth the visit. In spring, the greenery is vibrant and fresh, while autumn brings a blaze of red, orange, and yellow leaves. The natural beauty here is simply breathtaking.
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As winter nights fall, Gatlinburg transforms. The town lights up, creating an inviting glow across the town. The sky is filled with stars, offering a perfect opportunity for stargazing without the interference of city lights. It's a place where you can truly relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature.
What makes Gatlinburg special is its perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town hospitality. Whether you're hiking the trails of the Smokies, exploring the downtown attractions, or just relaxing in a cozy cabin, Gatlinburg makes you feel right at home. They know how to take in visitors, as the region is a favorite amongst vacationers, and it’s no surprise because it’s one of the most beautiful landscapes in America.
What to See!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The most visited national park in the United States, offering essentially endless outdoor activities such as:
Hiking: Over 800 miles of trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail and scenic hikes like Alum Cave and Chimney Tops.
Wildlife Viewing: The National Park is home to black bears, elk, deer, and numerous bird species for you to see, just use caution and be safe!
Scenic Drives: Enjoy breathtaking views on routes like Newfound Gap Road and Cades Cove Loop Road.
Camping: Numerous campgrounds and backcountry sites are available for an immersive nature experience.
Ober Gatlinburg
A year-round amusement park and ski resort offering more than just skiing.
More than a Ski Resort:
Winter Sports: Skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing during the winter months.
Summer Fun: Alpine slide, scenic chairlift, ice skating, and a wildlife encounter featuring native animals.
Aerial Tramway: A scenic ride from downtown Gatlinburg to the resort, providing stunning views of the mountains.
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
An award-winning aquarium featuring thousands of sea creatures and interactive exhibits.
Highlights:
Shark Lagoon: A walk-through tunnel with views of sharks, rays, and other marine life.
Penguin Playhouse: Interactive exhibit with African penguins!🐧
Touch Tanks: Hands-on experience with stingrays, horseshoe crabs, and jellyfish.
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
Some of the best views in Gatlinburg are from the iconic SkyLift and SkyBridge. You have to visit when you come to Gatlinburg
SkyLift: Ride the chairlift 500 feet up to the top of Crockett Mountain. From there, you’ll be able to experience the SkyBridge and SkyDeck.
SkyBridge: The SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. It is equipped with intermittent glass floors that make it a thrilling walk, to say the least.
SkyDeck: Observation area with panoramic views and a relaxing setting where you can view the mountains and the town below.
Family-Friendly Activities
Anakeesta
An outdoor adventure park with a huge variety of thrills and activities.
Treetop Skywalk: A series of connected sky bridges high above the forest floor.
Dueling Zipline: A dual zipline course with spectacular views.
Treehouse Village: Play area for children featuring treehouses and bridges.
Vista Gardens: A peaceful botanical garden with walking trails and scenic overlooks.
Gatlinburg Space Needle
A 407-foot observation tower with a 360-degree view of the Smoky Mountains and downtown Gatlinburg.
Features:
Observation Deck: Accessible via glass elevators, offering stunning views day and night.
Arcade & Theater: Family-friendly entertainment with games and live performances.
Hollywood Star Cars Museum
A museum showcasing famous cars from movies and TV shows.
Highlights:
Iconic Vehicles: See the Batmobile, DeLorean from "Back to the Future," and cars from "Fast & Furious."
Interactive Displays: Learn about the history and making of these famous cars.
Dining and Shopping
The Village Shops
A charming shopping area designed to resemble a European village.
Highlights:
Specialty Stores: Unique boutiques offering everything from handmade crafts to gourmet food.
Dining: Enjoy local treats at coffee shops, bakeries, and casual eateries.
Pancake Pantry
A legendary breakfast spot known for its delicious pancakes and Southern hospitality.
Menu Highlights:
Pancakes: Variety of flavors, including blueberry, buttermilk, and buckwheat.
Southern Breakfast: Biscuits, country ham, and grits.
Smoky Mountain Brewery
A popular restaurant and microbrewery offering a casual dining experience.
Menu Highlights:
Craft Beers: Wide selection of locally brewed beers.
Pub Fare: Burgers, pizzas, and hearty entrees.
Accommodations
Lodges and Cabins
Gatlinburg offers a range of lodges and cabins, perfect for a cozy stay in the mountains.
Variety: Options range from rustic cabins to luxurious lodges with all the necessary amenities and more.
Locations: Many accommodations offer stunning views of the Smokies and easy access to outdoor activities.
Unique Features:
Seclusion: You can find many cabins in secluded spots, offering privacy and a true escape into nature.
Luxury Amenities: High-end cabins often come equipped with hot tubs, game rooms, home theaters, and gourmet kitchens.
Pet-Friendly Options: Some cabins welcome pets, making it easy to bring your furry friends along.
Romantic Getaways: Many cabins are designed for couples, featuring cozy fireplaces, private decks, and scenic vistas perfect for a romantic retreat.
Family-Friendly: Larger cabins can accommodate big groups or families, with multiple bedrooms, spacious living areas, and outdoor spaces for kids to play.
Adventure Access: Proximity to hiking trails, fishing spots, and outdoor adventure activities, making it easy to explore the natural surroundings.
Events and Festivals
Gatlinburg Winter Magic
An annual event transforming the town into a winter wonderland with millions of lights.
Highlights:
Light Displays: Beautiful light installations throughout downtown.
Events: Holiday parades, live music, and seasonal festivities.
Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales
A summer-long street performance festival featuring musicians, storytellers, and artisans.
Highlights:
Live Performances: Enjoy nightly entertainment along the Parkway.
Interactive: Engage with performers and learn about Appalachian culture.
See you in Gatlinburg, Tennessee!
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