things to do in smoky mountains tennessee

Head to the park to explore 7 miles of diverse landscape, catch views of the Smoky Mountains off in the distance and spot many kinds of wildlife. The riverboat is a popular setting for a variety of events, from black tie occasions to a tailgate or celebration during football season. For more information on this and other motor trails in the park, pick up a copy of the booklet, Auto TouringGreat Smoky Mountains National Park. 16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Tennessee, 17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nashville, TN, 15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Memphis, TN, Best Time to Visit the Great Smoky Mountains, 16 Best Hiking Trails near Gatlinburg, TN, 12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN, 15 Top-Rated Things to Do in Pigeon Forge, TN, 14 Best Campgrounds near Pigeon Forge, TN, 12 Top-Rated Things to Do in Sevierville, TN, 17 Top-Rated Things to Do in Knoxville, TN, 16 Top Attractions & Places to Visit in Asheville, 13 Top-Rated Things to Do in Hendersonville, NC, 10 Top-Rated Things to Do in Blue Ridge, GA, 13 Top-Rated Things to Do in Johnson City, TN, 8 Stunning Beaches on the Makarska Riviera, 24 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, hikes in the Smokies and outside the national park, attractions and things to do in downtown Gatlinburg, Average minimum and maximum temperatures for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN in, Average monthly precipitation totals for Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN in. Listed in the Guiness Book of World Records, The Lost Sea in Sweetwater, Tennessee is the country's largest underground lake. Highlight: 11-mile, one-way loop road through rolling countryside with historic sites. Biking and hiking around the loop itself is a popular activity, and the area is home to many other trailheads leading to places like Abrams Falls, Russell Field, and Gregory Bald. Those of you that know what you're doing and have the proper equipment and sport bike for the ride, however - this is a must-do. As a family-owned enterprise, they strive to make every last guest feel at home in their eatery. On each tour, you'll ride in an open-air Pink Jeep Wrangler. Broken Arrow Antiques is a shop for people who looking to be in an antique store filled with different things. WebThe Gatlinburg Trail This easy and totally kid-friendly hiking trail starts right on the edge of downtown Gatlinburg. GSMNP was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, and it became an International Biosphere Reserve 5 years later. READ MORE:The 7 Best Hikes on the Appalachian Trail in North Carolina. Pick your era and choose a costume to get started with the fun of Wild Gals Old Time Photo. Newfound Gap Overlook is centrally located in the national park, around 15 miles from both the Sugarlands Visitor Center (near Gatlinburg) and Oconaluftee Visitor Center (near Cherokee). The drive offers lovely views of Fontana Lake along the way, with several overlooksworth stopping for. In addition to a main gallery, the center museum introduces you to a village of 13 historic buildings. This "trail" is a one-way 5.5-mile loop road. The large, covered auditorium at the center hosts concerts and other cultural events during warmer months. From the high woodsman challenge to loggersports and the new "Flying Ox" zipline coaster, there's an activity for everyone. The Visitor Center is the newest of the GSMNP collection and offers park information, restrooms, souvenirs, and historical exhibits. The train departs from Bryson City, NC and winds through the small towns, rushing rivers and serene Smoky Mountains. 09/28/2022 0 Attractions Outdoors Things to do If you're coming to the mountains for a vacation, try to do something you can't do anywhere else. WebHiking From a walk among wildflowers to a serious backcountry trek, hikers of all skill levels begin memorable Appalachian adventures in Gatlinburg on Smoky Mountain hiking trails. You can pull off here to appreciate the view at Santeetlah Overlook. Many motorcyclists enjoy taking on the parkway, but you can enjoy it just as easily by car. The Women's Basketball Hall of Fame is a non-profit organization whose mission is to "honor the past, celebrate the present, promote the future of women's basketball." Things To Do. Visitors stop at each of the wineries on the trail and receive free wine samples and a passport stamp. Sign up for a lesson and learn how to make a knife out of a horseshoe or a railroad spike! Pancake houses are an extremely popular dining option in the Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg area.Frizzle Chicken Farmhouse Cafe on the Pigeon Forge parkway is a unique and truly family friendly option, with an atmosphere that includes singing robotic chickens. Flowers bloom all year long. Take in the forest and mountain views along the way as you explore the outdoors in a new way. There's plenty to do within the 11 mile Cades Cove loop area. Camping in the backcountry is not for rookie backpackers. The road reaches a graffiti-covered tunnel, and then it stops. The Sugarlands Visitor Center is opened daily except onChristmas Day, opening at 9AM and closing around dusk (closing times change for each season). Highlight: Winding road trips on scenic riverside byways with stops for picnics and photos. ET) while we enhance your online experience. This is a great and popular activity for all ages. While you ride, you'll be treated to incredible views of Knoxville. The Chimney Tops pinnacles were recently damaged by fire, and the last 1/4-mile of the trail has been temporarily closed to the public due to safety issues that occurred in its wake. You'll find challenging mountaineer hazards on both of the 18 hole mini golf courses. Townsend is home to the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center. Walk across a bridge above the roaring confluence of the Lynn Camp Prong and Thunderhead Prong. Cades Cove Loop Road near Townsend draws visitors who like to experience nature and scenic views within the relaxed comfort of their vehicle. The Cataloochee Valley also offers primitive camping, hiking, and trout streams for fishing. Tubers can float down the rapids of Deep Creek, past the waterfalls, and back to the rental office. Ziplining in the Smoky Mountains is a thrilling experience. 2915 Island Home Ave, Knoxville, TN 37920. The one of a kind Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is home to North America's first Alpine Flyer, a two seated suspended coaster that swings, dips and soars through the ridge. Afterward you can even head south down Forney Ridge Trail to Andrews Bald. They first lived in Brevard, where Jonathon taught writing at Blue Ridge Community College and extensively explored the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest. Enjoy a generous scoop of your favorite flavor and head down the road a bit further to see the astounding views of the mountains behind Douglas Lake. The Space Needle also offers an arcade and pizza shop inside. 2. Located about a 1/2-mile into the park from the Oconaluftee Visitor Center in Cherokee NC, Mingus Mill is a fascinating stop for Appalachianhistory buffs. Straddling the boundary of North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park encompasses over 500,000 acres and is the most visited of all the U.S. National Parks. The dream child of country star Dolly Parton, this theme park attracts international acclaim, year after year. 1949 Winfield Dunn Pkwy, Sevierville, TN 37876. A trip to the top offers rewarding views of the mountains and downtown area. If you have questions or need assistance, please visit the. This two-lane thoroughfare crosses high crests, plunges into deep forested valleys, and connects Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park. The park has three main entrances inCherokee NC, Gatlinburg TN, and Townsend TN, and it remains open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Visit a replica of the simple two-room cabin where Dolly got her start in life, then read all about it in the Chasing Rainbows Museum. Its a 3.5-mile round-trip trek that has a huge 1,400-foot elevation change. While there are plenty of places to stay on the outskirts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, theres nothing quite like camping in the most visited of all U.S. National Parks. You can even purchase great gifts like handmade pottery, cookbooks and pantry items from the shop. Hillbilly Golf, voted best mini golf in the area more than once, is the world's most unusual golf course. Today it is a landmark on the main street of the downtown area. Highlights: Subterranean waterfalls, colorful light shows, and huge stalagmites. Keep an eye out for wildlifebears and deer are common. Web Visit website. Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant. The Great Smoky Mountains portion of the Appalachian Trail is an awesome segment to try for those who don't want to backpack all 2,143 miles from Georgia to Maine. 13 in the world 7-Line Zipline Experience in Sevierville: No. READ MORE: The 15 Best Things to Do in Bryson City NC & Swain County. Laurel Falls, Rainbow Falls, Grotto Falls, Abrams Falls, and Twin Falls are the best of the hiking trails with waterfalls. The bridge is well-maintained and can hold 4 adults at a time. The annual Great Smoky Mountain Wildflower Pilgrimage is about more than just flowers. Goliath Zipline is one of the longest and fastest zips in the country. See winners from every year of the contest. Clingmans Dome is the tallest mountain in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and should definitely be considered a Smoky Mountains must-see. The Village Shops in downtown Gatlinburg are a great place to go shopping. You'll find arcades, laser tag, classic carnival rides, and some unique things to do in Smoky Mountains like The Track's Blaster Boats, a fun and competitive take on bumper cars. This is an event for any nature lover. If youre looking to balance nature with modern pizzazz, there are numerous Smoky Mountains gateway towns for a fix, particularly in East Tennessee. Pictured: The ramp to Clingmans Dome in the national park (photo by Marie Graichen/TheSmokies.com) The cave system has a cavern nearly the size of a football stadium, and its home to Silver Falls, the tallest underground waterfall in the Eastern U.S. Tuckaleechee Caverns are privately owned, and admission costs $22 per adult and $10 for kids ages 5 to 11 to explore. If you're looking for something a little spookier, try the nighttime haunted maze or the zombie paintball adventure! Over 100 artists and craftsmen create their work and sell it in shops that can be found on an 8-mile loop. Guests can walk among the critters, which include camels, kangaroos, zebra, goats, reindeer, Elk, emu, deer, horses, cattle, Watusi, donkeys, zonkies and even more. The on-site Visitor Information Center and Store offers Old Smoky souvenirs and gifts that you'll only find here. Guests enjoy amenities like a huge outdoor pool, hot tub, a modern bath house, playground, fitness room and WiFi in the lounge. Stop by this adorable ice cream shop about 5 miles off Winfield Dunn Parkway. Just make sure you have a fishing license! For the last several years they have lived just off the BRP near Elkin, Southwest Virginia, and the NC High Country. Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum Over 20,000 sets of spice shakers reveal the surprisingly telling history of our most basic spices. Perhaps some of the most notable are the Ripley's attractions. Visitors to Pigeon Forge have a new way to get around the Parkway thanks to the family behind the Holiday Inn Theres more to Pigeon Forge than the neon lights that line the Parkway. Check on trips offered by Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) in Gatlinburg. Owner Guide. Social history runs deep, as you will see in the churches, rustic homes, and other structures that remain after the last pioneers died in 1999. Take your time to complete the drive. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN and NC Great Smoky Mountains | Photo Copyright: Colin J. McMechan Highlights: More than 900 miles of hiking and There are endless things to do in the Smokies. The University of Tennessee Gardens are the official botanical gardens of the state of Tennessee. Read on for our guide to the 15 best things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The Apple Barn Village is located just off the Pigeon Forge parkway and offers a variety of dining, shopping and tasting options. Written by Colin J. McMechan Updated May 11, 2023. 938 Alder Branch Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876. Fontana Lake is located in Western North Carolina and is the highest dam east of the Rocky Mountains. WebRafting (27) Specialty Museums (18) Movie Theaters (17) Horseback Riding (15) Art Gallery (15) In that case, check out the many backcountry campsites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 230 Apple Valley Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862. Kids under age 5 get in free. You might have climbed several hills along trails in the Smoky Mountains. Many of the best Smoky Mountainsattractions are located within the parks boundaries, and many of the most popular things to do in the Smoky Mountains involve exploring its magical landscape. READ MORE:Camping in Nantahala National Forest (Campgrounds & Backcountry). You'll find exhibits that delve into the profiles of our country's most notorious criminals, the mysteries surrounding them, and more than 100 interactive activities. Ruby Falls is 145 feet tall and truly a sight to be seen. Music from Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales will fill the Gatlinburg streets. On June 20, Tripadvisor announced the fourth category in its Travelers Choice Awards for 2023, revealing the Best of the Best Things to Do for 2023. Roaring Fork is the name of the stream that you will see during your drive. In addition to glimpses into the lives of homesteaders, the valley is a thriving habitat for animals and birds. Visiting for only a few days or an entire week, your time in the Smoky Mountains might start before you even get here. Go early to get parking and bring along a picnic, sunscreen and your own tubes and floats. Web100 + Free Things to Do in The Smoky Mountains Your Whole Family Will Love. This is known to be the largest subterranean space in the eastern United States. Some of the popular events include guided hikes, an edible mushroom walk, photography and gardening workshops, and even a nighttime bat walk and owl prowl. We've got horses, pirates, family feuds, murder mysteries, and more to choose from. To get to the top, you ride The Chondola .its a chair/gondola like youd take when skiing. 2. You will find plenty of things to do in the Smoky Mountains during your Pigeon Forge, Sevierville or Gatlinburg vacation. Check out their online photo gallery to get an idea of the kind of photo you'll want framed on your wall forever. Activities At Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud, Appalachian Trail through the Smoky Mountains. Browse all Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg condos. The peaceful side of the Smokies in Townsend, TN now has it's very own low-key brewery. Cades Cove is an 11-mile road that circles a lush, fertile valley. Highlights: More than 900 miles of hiking and biking trails in America's most popular national park. Popular wildlife sightings include songbirds, hawks, waterfowl and owls. Its known as a true antique journey.. You can see high above Douglas Lake or the French Broad or even soar over our very own Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At 5,860 feet in elevation, Andrews Bald is the highest bald in the national park. The Ridge Outdoor Resort offers luxury camping and glamping experiences in the Smoky Mountains. 1. Bush's Visitor Center is where the legacy of the Bush's brand began. It takes roughly 3 hours to tour, and possibly more for those who want to get out for a bit of exploration on foot. Located in Bryson City NC, the Deep Creek section of GSMNP isextremely popular for its stunning, easily accessed waterfalls and tubing opportunities. Visitors can also explore the Mountain Farm Museum, a free living history attraction that features several old log cabins, a barn, as well as a smokehouse, apple house, and corn crib. Other things the resort offers: cooking & gardening classes, a clay course, fly fishing, paintball, water sports, hiking, cycling, carriage rides, and horseback riding! Their award winning creamery and classic Appalachian candy kitchen are favorite stops amongst visitors of all ages. Address: U.S. Route 441. Around the center, youll find several nice walking paths and trails, including access to Cataract Falls, the Fighting Creek Nature Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail. 131 Island Drive, Suite 9139, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. Some of the most popular hikes are Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Bluffs, Andrews Bald, Rainbow Falls, and Chimney Tops. Great Smoky Mountains, the most popular national park in the United States, might become one of your favorites. Arranged in a pastoral setting, they reflect pioneering life in the Smokies. If you're staying in a Smoky Mountain cabin, odds are that you won't have to look far to find a unique little antique shop. Studies show that there are two Black Bears for every square mile in the park. The Sinks is a picturesque spot in the Smoky Mountains where the river turns and creates natural, crystal clear pools with a waterfall near by. Not a fan of loud cars going in circles? It's a great weekend destination for beer lovers and only about an hour and a half drive from Knoxville, Tennessee. For more information please read our privacy policy. Visitors often see black bears and deer foraging near the road. It towers above all of your favorite attractions, shops and restaurants. This famous 75 foot golden glass sphere is impossible to miss in downtown Knoxville, Tennessee. The Smoky Mountains are not all about looking up into the hills. Voted best restaurant in 2020, their delicious dining experience isn't the only thing you'll find at this historic location. This historic movie palace was built in 1928 in the building considered Knoxville's first skyscraper. Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. You can witness this rarity for yourself in the summer by winning the lottery to reach the viewing area. Its most notable feature, the Big Room, could accommodate an entire football stadium. Although you might feel isolated in a remote place or get out of cell range while visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the conveniences are never far away. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Davy Crockett was more than just a guy wearing a raccoon on his head; he was a politician, a soldier and a pioneer. Brian Hoffman's Remembering Red - A Tribute to Red Skelton. There are 6 levels of rapids in the area with something for beginners and experienced rafters. The Blue Ridge Parkway is more of an experience than a drive to get from A to B. The overlookhas a large parking area, restrooms, walking paths, and the Rockefeller Memorial, with the Appalachian Trail running right through it. 7D Dark Ride Adventure is a one of a kind interactive gaming experience that you can try at two different locations in the Smokies. There are 5.8 miles of hiking trails leading up to the highest point in Knox County, Tennessee. Take a scenic ride through the forests of North Carolina on board the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. When you visit, you'll have an opportunity to meet many of the artists, see their creations and experience pieces of Appalachian culture. Travelers favorites include #1 Great Smoky Mountains National Park, #2 Mountain Moonshine Tastings and more. Guests who get all of their passport stamps will receive a free gift at the last winery on their trek. With average temperatures fluctuating between 54 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit, the summer is the perfect time to go hiking, take a dip in waterfalls, and spend the day at Dollywood. You can go paddle boarding or kayaking in Mead's quarry, mountain bike the 10 miles of biking trails, hike along the water and through the forest, or work out in one of their "primal" playgrounds. Soaky Mountain Waterpark is a 50 acre playground with all the classic wet and wild activies you look for in a waterpark: a wave pool, lazy river, state-of-the-art waterslides, and even the Avalaunch, a first of its kind watercoaster. Farther east, you come to the parking lot at The Sinks, a picturesque waterfall. Highlight: Hiking trails with epic cascades, including Rainbow Falls and Laurel Falls. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy in the town. Highlights: Tasty food, amusement park rides, museums, and souvenir shops. Day-hikes on the Appalachian Trail do not require permits, but thru-hikers and backcountry campers in GSMNP will need permits. Highlight: Iconic 469-mile road filled with pretty foliage and stunning views of nature. 7967 E. Lamar Alexander Pkwy, Townsend, TN 37882. There's plenty of food options and a relaxed environment where all (including pets) are welcome to enjoy. From Annakeesta to Ripleys Aquarium, many of our areas most popular attractions can be pretty pricey. This beautiful location in Knoxville, Tennessee offers something for every kind of lover of the outdoors. Once you catch it, they'll cook it up for you and you can enjoy a delicious meal. There's a handfull of waterfall hikes in the park, but this might be the only one where you get the chance to see some llamas. It is a 23-mile scenic drive from Gatlinburg to Clingmans Dome. One reason visitors hike in the Smoky Mountains is the reward of a waterfall. The beautiful mountain town of Gatlinburg, TN offers countless things to do in Smoky Mountains on the parkway. Family entertainment theaters showcase comedians, cowboys, musical entertainment, and magic. Mingus Mill is powered by Mingus Creek, and the waterwheel is still turning today. With a capacity of 162,000, it is the third largest sports venue in America. WebOutdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking and biking trails, fishing in the river, and exploring the majestic mountains. It's considered one of the best motorcycle rides in North America, but you can also enjoy the sweeping mountain views and forested mountainsides by car. The 8 mile roundtrip hike to Charlies Bunion via the Appalachian Trail is certainly not the easiest hike in the national park, but the destination is worth it. The one and only Dollywood theme park in Sevierville is the biggest ticketed tourist attraction in the state of Tennessee. At times of the year, the sound from the gushing water reflects its ferocious name. After visiting North Carolina for the first time, Senior Writer Jonathon Engels and wife Emma spent 2 years exploring Western NC in search of a homestead property. Grab a ticket, board a gondola and take a ride to see mountain views during the day and the cities twinkling lights at night. The UT Gardens are great to visit for a walk, picnic or even one of the educational events that they host throughout the year. The historic facility has since been converted into a crime museum offering self-guided tours that you will certainly never forget. Norris Lake is a beautiful body of water located north of Knoxville, Tennessee. Test your skills with a single flight session or participate in their personalized coaching program. Wears Valley is a great place to start. TIME TO SPEND. Foxfire Adventure Park in Sevierville is designed to take mountaintop experiences to new heights. The caverns get nearly 10,000 visitors a year, and have been open to the public since 1953 (with a short stint in 1931 that ended due to the Great Depression).

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