The South is renowned for dishes enhanced by flavors created by smoking techniques; Bennetts Pit Bar-B-Que is one of the top places in town to experience all the smoky goodness. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is a collective of artisans who offer many different pieces of arts and bespoke goods for you to collect and explore. We like weird things so much, we even created a second site all about it. Your email address will not be published. What if you prefer something non-touristy? When traveling the scenic loop road, plan to get out and visit the restored buildings that include three churches, log homes, cantilevered barns, and a working mill. The mountain views are beyond compare. Within walking distance from the Mysterious Mansion (making for the perfect back-to-back itinerary), Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies fuses with the amazing interactive experiences of Ripleys museum. For some of the best views of both the town and mountains, Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is smack bang between Gatlinburg Spur (connecting the city with the nearby Pigeon Forge) and the Great Smoky Mountains (along the Gatlinburg Bypass). If you want to see more than 20,000 salt and pepper shakers from . 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. Please note that the road is closed in winter. Plowing through a mix of classic games and newer ones sporting interactive features, from pinball to Halo to claw games, racing cars and hundreds more, build up your gold collection and cash it in afterward for mega rewards. 9. Quaint coffee shop offering traditional beverages along with pastries & a variety of gifts for sale. Theyre impressive historical towns that emit a vibrant atmosphere of eras gone by. From wine to wildflowers, Gatlinburg hosts several spring festivals. Guide to Orlando's Top Non-Touristy Treasures - Diary of a Debutante Maybe theres a game that you just need to catch on the TV. Theres also an on-site restaurant to refuel after a few hours of practicing your drives. Streams, rivers, and waterfalls appear along hiking routes that include a segment of the Appalachian Trail. Following the trailhead with the same name as its 24-meter-high waterfall, Rainbow Falls gains its nickname because when the sun is shining, a rainbow glimmers in the air around it. A quick, entertaining activity during any day of exploring the main Gatlinburg strip, the 7D Dark Ride Adventure is an immersive, exciting activity for kids and adults alike. Many tourists say its an unforgettable experience, but that depends on how much you drink. 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! An amazing theme park located in Pigeon Forge and co-owned by Dolly Parton, Dollywood is definitely worth a visit. If shopping and Christmas are your things then a visit to the largest Christmas store in Gatlinburg is necessary. If you happen to be visiting around Christmas time, the holiday show receives nothing but glowing reviews. The best thing about this restaurant is that you can indulge in those dishes without having to spend more than 10 USD. From happy hour to a nightcap, no day in Gatlinburg is complete without a stop to our very own Gatlinburg Wine Trail. 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! 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. Fine gifts imported from Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the Celtic Heritage Company is the perfect spot for Celtic music, foods, jewelry, accessories, kilts, and more. The oldest craft brewery in East Tennessee is a great spot for happy hour or watching the game. No matter how strong youre appetite for adventure, its a great day out for the whole family and one of the most fun things to do in Gatlinburg. Rowdy Bear Mountain is home to two amazing thrill rides including the First Mountain Glider in the world. Contact: (888) 991-9040 Monday through Sunday 9AM-11PM. Sunrises are favored for witnessing a blanket of mist rise above the city, the afternoon has the clearest visuals, or stand under the stars at night and enjoy the crisp-clear air and views of sparkling lights. Sleeping six guests revel in peace and tranquility. Unsubscribe in one click. Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg 1. These buggies can tackle the harsh off-road terrain with ease, allowing you to witness areas untouched by the majority of locals and tourists. So long as you dont get too motion sick, tumbling down that 1,000-foot tall hill in a giant bubble is undeniably one of the most fun things to do in Gatlinburg. For an amazing show seldom found anywhere else, Paula Deens Lumberjack Feud puts on a 1.5-hour extravaganza. Cammerer Fire Tower. Spend time on your visit experiencing places that the locals go on a regular basis! Required fields are marked *. 2001 - 2023 Tripster. NON-touristy gimmicky things in Gatlinburg - Tripadvisor Secure your season passes for the entire family to experience many more exhilarating slides. We love their hearty half-pound burgers and their rotating selection of seasonal and craft beers. Visiting Gatlinburg next weekwhat fun (but not touristy) things are 10 Best Hotels With Indoor Pool In Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 15 Unique Things to Do in Sevierville and the Smoky Mountains NON-touristy gimmicky things in Gatlinburg - Tripadvisor The Soul of Motown and Terry Evanswood Magic Show are each high-energy favorites, while the Hazzard Hoedown is a regular comical delight. While there are plenty of questionable brews out there, by far some of the highest-quality samples can be found at Americas most visited distillery Ole Smoky and the rustic award-winning Sugarlands Distilling Company. Non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg - Sevier County Forum Embrace almost 10 minutes of high-speed thrills as you ride the longest coaster in East Tennessee. You can have any trip that youd like, from a relaxing, week-long getaway to a jam-packed weekend with your best friends. A second option is to ditch the walking shoes and instead, embark on a scenic drive around the National Park. Witness the wonder of blooming violets, lady slipper orchids, and showy orchis species by foot or car. Suit up for a 3-hour scenic tour of the Smokies as you splash your way through Class III and IV rapids. Elevate your next Gatlinburg evening when you reserve a table at the Burg Steakhouse. With not one, but five putt-putt courses, playtime at Ripleys Davy Crockett Mini-Golf ensures exciting corners to tee off from, as well as hours of laughter. 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. 9 Unusual Things To Do In Gatlinburg That Are Totally Worth It For fall foliage and beautiful weather visit from September to October. Townsend, Tennessee: The "Quiet" Side of the Smokies With joystick in hand, riders can spin in circles around the rink or smash (safely) into their friends before finishing off and making a beeline for Obers Alpine Slide or Mountain Coaster. Explore nearly 30 intriguing boutiques, restaurants and galleries, all brought together with an old-timey European flare. Smoky Mountain Llama Treks lets you get up close and personal with these professionally trained creatures. Infuse your Gatlinburg getaway with plenty of fresh air, adrenaline, and homespun culture when you step outside of the tourist zone. Even if you are not into baseball, you will still be entertained by the game and youll have a lot of fun with the crowd. . everything you need to know about seeing the fireflies, Tips For Working Remotely When Traveling To Big Cities In The US, 15 Fun Things To Do In Nashville TN For Couples, Dont Go to the Kentucky Derby Why Horse Racing is a Cruel Tradition, Destination Russia: Extra-Ordinary Encounters from a Land Full of Stories, Four Beach Holiday Destinations for Vegans. The three-floor building is hard to miss its the absolutely oddest thing you can find at Parkway. Skip out on the tourist traps, and instead feast like an insider when you dine at any of the most lauded local hangouts: Catch up on the game, chow down on award-winning jumbo wings, and keep the kids entertained at Pigeon Forges only family sports grill and bar. As you arrive at Laurel Falls, spot mountain laurel blossoming along the trail and around the waterfall in shades of soft pinks (in May). Prepare to brave the combo slide The Edge Watercoaster which provides an almost 200 meters long ride. With an elevation gain of 1,640 feet, it can be a challenging hike, but its worth every step. Proudly selling Learn about the history of prohibition, sample moonshine, and tackle tranquil trails in Wears Valley. The sprawling landscape includes incredible lush forests and an abundance of wildflowers that bloom year-round. Get some help from well-trained coaches from World Axe Throwing League, which unites all groups dedicated to this competitive sport. Tenissa is a content writer, translator and editor. Keep reading to learn more about the top ones. Embrace almost 10 minutes of high-speed thrills as you ride the longest coaster in East Tennessee. Waterfall lovers will be stunned by the beauty of the Laurel Falls trail, while those who love mountain views will want to hike the West Prong Trail, with its elevation gain of 1,375 feet. wants to go to Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cataloochee Valley promises an unforgettable nature retreat. Another small town that is worth exploring is the Pittman Center. The majestic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains, settled by the Scots-Irish and steeped in history, intrigue, and tales of witchcraft. Knoxville is one of the bigger cities in Tennessee but still has a very small-town feel. If possible, do all the non-touristy things mentioned above, although you should also do the touristy things. 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. Enjoy some seriously soft cuddles when you get friendly with everyones favorite South American mammal. This rustic, family-style diner is the perfect place to get food that really sticks to your ribs. Or day, if youre feeling ambitious. Sure, moonshine tastings and tours are a big hit with tourists, but have you ever stopped to enjoy some specialty moonshine cocktails at the distilleries? You can choose from a selection of jams to bring home. Inspired by the fun childhood moments of the entertainer Dolly Parton, this water park sits beside the Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge. For some of the best ice cream you'll ever have, you have to visit Cruze Farm. For the younger crowd, head on over to Rowdy Ridge Playground with interactive features from slides to climbing nets for children (the minimum age requirement is two years old and kids must be chaperoned at all times). For Christmas lights and festivities, November and December. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. For those keen to go behind the scenes and learn about the drinks distillery process and historical significance, sign up for a walking tour. Riding the glass elevator, take time to admire the surrounding greenery and dynamic colorful villages below. For the most truly authentic mountain-living feels, book out the entire home of The Fish House at Norton Creek, boasting a beautiful location next to a stream. Please see my disclosure. The first 1,000 participants will get discounted vouchers that can be spent at the counter to obtain child tickets. End the night with a lively outing to Luco Burro, a TexMex restaurant known for its margaritas and tacos. Did you ever think youd go tubing down snowy mountains in the South? With over 100 artists and craftsmen lining its corridors, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is officially the countrys largest independent artisan organization. The Greystone Lodge is family-owned and located in a very convenient location downtown. For even more puzzling adventures, Ripleys Marvelous Mirror Maze is a treat. 18 Amazing Things To Do in Gatlinburg With Kids - Virtual Smokies Its not hard to get thrilled in this family-friendly attraction that offers plenty of realistic simulated rides and experiences. Whether youre a newbie or a seasoned pro, the extra-large ice skating rink at the center of Ober Gatlinburgs enclosed mall is an ideal activity for anyone to spend an hour or two. Choose from the rafting packages which include ziplining and great deals for visiting other attractions such as the Ober Gatlinburg, Dollywood and Anakeesta. HILTON GARDEN INN GATLINBURG - 120 Photos & 92 Reviews - Yelp While technically located in Pigeon Forge, Wonderworks is just 15-20 minutes from Gatlinburg, making for an easy afternoon activity that the kids (and adults) will love. While the food is fantastic and the drinks are cold, the best part of Luco Burro is the rooftop patio overlooking downtown Gatlinburg. Veteran outpost offering guided white-water rafting & float tours, plus zip lining & a ropes course. The trail ascends Mount Le Conte, the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi River, and passes Rainbow Falls before absorbing the Alum Cave Trail and terminating near the LeConte Lodge. Packed with super limited edition ones, this largest collection of pinballs in the city can easily fill up all your day with excitement. Ascend thousands of feet in one of the more fun things to do in Gatlinburg the famous Aerial Tramway. Located next to the entrance of the charming European-inspired The Village, the restaurant can be a great stop before or after exploring the artisanal shops. Top Things To Do In Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge, TN - Vacations Made Easy ), HOLIDAY INN CLUB VACATIONS SMOKY MOUNTAIN RESORT. Old-fashioned country store featuring housemade liquor varieties & a tasting room. This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. It also features Glow in the Dark mini golf where you can play in an underwater theme with brightly colored creatures, including a mermaid, giant octopus and dolphins. Located at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, our city is jam-packed with family-friendly attractions. It features over 500 unique exhibits encompassing interactive installations, wacky tidbits, optical illusions and a space shuttle made from jelly beans. So far, her favourite destination is Switzerland. You are going to love this place. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Welcome to the most popular national park in the country! Or, visit the restaurant during lunch time and your stomach will stop complaining after you savor the ordered dishes. The reason I really love Gatlinburg is the proximity to nature. The trail travels 1.9 miles one-way from the Sugarlands Visitor Center to the outskirts of the city of Gatlinburg, TN. Go white water rafting on the Little Pigeon River (from USD 43.0) Show all photos What do you think of water rafting? There are plenty of things to do that are not touristy but if thats your thing, Gatlinburgs got it. The largest collection of pinballs and retro games in the Smokies. NON-touristy gimmicky things in Gatlinburg - Gatlinburg Forum 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. Non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg - Sevier County Forum 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. If you are not a baseball lover, maybe you are an art lover. Best Italian Cafe and Pizzaria This casual Italian cafe in the heart of Gatlinburg has earned quite the following over the years. Use our epic guide to get an insiders peek into the locals only section of Gatlinburg today! Inspired by the ghosts and ghouls of Gatlinburgs past, it creates an atmosphere thats delightfully spooky. Astoria Riverfront Trolley. 5. Ole Smoky Moonshine - head to either of their two Gatlinburg locations for an authentic, barrel-aged American whisky experience. For those that consider themselves connoisseurs in the category, stop by the best breweries and be your own judge of the local brews on offer. Home to over 600 critters originating from rainforests all over the world, this family-friendly Smoky Mountains attraction should be high atop any animal lovers bucket list. Big outdoor adventure hub offering zip lining, gondola rides, a treetop play area and more. At 6,593 ft it is the third highest peak in the national park, behind Clingmans Dome and Mount Guyot. Gatlinburg is a great location for a romantic getaway, a group of friends, and families with small kids. Its an experience that manages to be exhilarating and relaxing simultaneously. She looks (Do a quick search on the following sites). Or, why not try them all? . The crowds favor the Gatlinburg brewery for its authentic feel, designed as an amalgamation between a ski lodge and a Bavarian beer hall, looking out onto the Great Smoky Mountains. For a dazzling experience, hop on a group raft through the Rainbow Revenge with translucent tubes that create different colors as you go down. One of the nations few theme parks built with a dedication to replicating that classic Southern charm is the amusement park co-owned by famous entertainer Dolly Parton. These attractions can be visited by senior citizens without any hassle. Cross swimming bridges 150 ft high as you take in a resplendent ten-acre wooded island in the middle of Big Pigeon River. These are some of the best non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge if you want to explore the Smokies like a local. As you hike along the trail, you will see some historical buildings including outbuildings and two churches from the 19th and 20th centuries. Victorian-style haunted house featuring year-round self-guided tours & spooky surprises. 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. With over 100 nostalgic pinball machines and retro arcade games lining its walls, Gatlinburg Pinball Museum is one of the best activities in Gatlinburg. Winning over hearts thanks to its location, guests love the running river alongside the Greystone Lodge on the River, the mountain backdrop, and the short distance to restaurants and shops. Its easily one of the best things to do in downtown Gatlinburg. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area. Its forests provide perfect shade for a day on the upper Pigeon River as you zoom down the class 3 and class 4 with rapids with the water splashing in all directions. The entire journey takes about 10 minutes, dropping visitors off at Ober Gatlinburg, home to must-do activities like ice skating and the Alpine Slide. Get an ultimate fun pass which includes a tour in this famous haunted house any time of the year. A trip to the mountains isnt complete without ziplining. From the end of November to the end of January, the specially designated trolleys carry their guests on a memorable journey through downtown and adjacent East Parkway, allowing everyone to experience the magical wonder of Gatlinburg Winter Magic. One spot you can't find anywhere else in the world is the Dolly Parton Statue! 5. Amp up your adrenaline and reach speeds of up to 30 mph when you power through unparalleled Smoky Mountain Scenery on the. While in Gatlinburg, why dont you spare the time to meet some local artists at Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community? It is included as one of the best and most fun things to do in Astoria. Gatlinburg, TN 37738. You can also spend time in the park exploring hidden gems, like the House of Fairies or Elkmont Ghost Town! On the Alpine Slide, youngsters race against their friends in sled-like carts across a winding 1,800-foot long track. Theyre located two blocks off the main parkway, free on-site Parkway, and walking distance to a trolley stop. 17 Fun Non-Touristy Things To Do In Paris For an Amazing Trip If you must go to a non-child-friendly attraction, . Thats not a typo, the theater at Ripleys Gatlinburg really ismoving! The RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo houses over 140 species, including reptiles, birds, adorable primates and plenty more. The murals and granite plaza are later included in this beautiful historical monument. With an area designed to replicate the landscapes and mountain ranges of Tennessee, offering two 18-hole courses with a touch of humor into the mix. You can often find locals relaxing and enjoying a drink at one of these spots! Lantern-led walking tours in Southwest Virginia and Eastern Tennessee operate daily and/or nightly throughout Southern Appalachia from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Southwest Virginia Highlands. Dont putt too hard your ball might roll down the mountain! Want to walk across the top of Gatlinburg? Only 30 minutes away, Sevierville is an easy side trip from Gatlinburg. 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? If youre searching for fun things to do in Gatlinburg, its hard to go past an up-close experience with the real 1966 Batmobile! Downtown I get a little upset when people go here and only stay in town. The Appy Lodge is located at the entrance of Gatlinburg and includes free parking, free breakfast, a laundry facility, an indoor and outdoor pool and much more! 1. 903 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 There are few places in Gatlinburg that so perfectly display the spirit of mountain life like the Ole Smoky Moonshine distillery. 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. To keep the kids entertained, the facility offers immersive, educational activities and even a petting zoo! Whether youre looking for some fun or wanting to improve your competitiveness, youve come to the right place. Ripley's Moving Theater 721 Amusement & Theme Parks By Tercott86 Family fun!! Mynatt Park 117 Parks By PrimeSteak86 The park itself has a huge pavilion, that you must reserve; as well as several wide open picnic tables. 22 December 2022. Visit museums, adventure parks, arcades and forbidden caverns, and the travel time between the two towns is merely 15 minutes by car. As most are located inside the Great Smoky Mountains range, there is a bit of hiking required to reach the waterfalls, so decide on the one that best suits you in terms of time, distance and strenuosity. Relaxation and rejuvenation are whats on the menu in Wears Valley. Pingback: Things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park | Park Ranger John . 10 Best Non-Touristy Things To Do In Gatlinburg, Tennessee Be amazed at Gatlinburgs No. The beloved Impossibilities Magic Show combines hilarious mayhem with optical illusions. Regardless of the time of the year you visit, picnicking at Parc Monceau is one of the fun non-touristy things to do in Paris! The folks over at Smoky Mountain Brewery know what theyre doing when it comes to manufacturing excellent craft beer they are the oldest brewery in East Tennessee after all! All Rights Reserved. Find accommodation, read accommodation reviews, and check flight prices.Book attractions, tickets, or guides in advance. Ziplines and whitewater rafting, world-class golf and fishing, and 800 miles of hiking trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is one of America's premier outdoor destinations. Home to the largest outdoor snow tubing hill in Tennessee, during the wintery months, grab an inflatable tube and hit the slopes laden with real snow thanks to the parks special snow-making machines. Popular breakfast restaurants for locals are Lil Black Bear Cafe and Elviras Cafe, and popular lunch spots for locals are Chubbys Deli, Frank Allens Market, and Blue Moose. Take precaution on the rocks around the waterfall as they tend to get super slippery. Keep an eye out for wild turkeys, deer and even tree-climbing black bears! Stock up on local and naturally made skincare, observe a blacksmith at work or pick out a leather creation by Gary McCoy. If youre in Gatlinburg, pay a visit to the cocktail bar on the back porch of Sugarlands Distilling Company. Close by to Pigeon Forge and plenty of other mountain towns that are great for day tripping, take advantage of the unique scenery and wildlife during buggy excursions or walks to waterfalls. If youre the type who cant go without your Sunday golf outing, you wont be deprived while in Gatlinburg. Pigeon Forge is just a few minutes away and is great for families and outlet shopping. Every year, this Tennessee-based mentalist and professional entertainer does more than 200 shows at the Iris Theater in downtown Gatlinburg. Nantahala Outdoor Centre is located at the Gatlinburg entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are other mountain-themed outdoor pursuits to try at Rowdy Bear Mountain, including axe-throwing activities, and the riveting Ski Lift Shootout Coaster a suspended Alpine coaster with two-seater swing chairs attached. Visiting Tennessee for a short escape? Held the month of October at Ober Gatlinburg. Answer 1 of 14: Hey there, My husband and I recently moved to Knoxville and we have of course been to Smoky Mountain Ntl Park a couple of times. It has reached the halfway point in Philadelphia, Tennessee. Theres a lot of handmade candy taffy especially so taking some time to find some vegan candy may be worthwhile. Besides the film cars, the museum also showcases the former rides of celebrities like Paul McCartney and Elvis Presley! Hiking in the Smokies is one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg. In addition to famous destinations like Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the nearby Dollywood theme park, there is a number of unique things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge that are worth visiting. Let us know by sharing in the comments, we love hearing about your experiences. You need to assemble in the activity zone near the park entrance and have your get-up approved by the staff.