If you’re looking for a relaxing yet fun getaway, there’s no other place as perfect as Gatlinburg to plan it. This mountain town in eastern Tennessee is easily one of the most popular holiday destinations, and once you get there, you’ll know exactly why!
Several features of Gatlinburg make it such a popular holiday destination, whether for a quick getaway or an entire vacation. This resort city is a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and according to a recent study, it welcomed around 14 million visitors in 2021 alone. Although the size of the land it’s on is not very vast, the surrounding mountains and greenery offer peaceful and breathtaking views.
But contrary to popular belief, just because you’re in a mountainous region of Tennessee doesn’t mean you’ll have to attempt backcountry camping. From popular amusement parks to several historical sites, there’s plenty to do here. Unfortunately, many people miss out on some of Gatlinburg’s best gems.
And so, if you, too, are planning a trip to Gatlinburg but don’t know what to do there, don’t worry. Here, we enlist the top seven ideas that are sure to make your getaway fun, relaxing, and well worth it!
1. Rent a cabin
For a true Gatlinburg experience, renting a cabin nestled between the stunning Smoky Mountains is the only way to go. This quaint, serene, peaceful town is the perfect setting to refresh your mind, body, and soul. To enjoy the quiet solitude of your surroundings, search online for Tennesse cabins with indoor pools for a welcome escape from the regular hustle and bustle of daily life.
Many of these large cabins offer plenty of amenities for the guests. So, even if you don’t feel like venturing outdoors, you can just stay in, relax, and let nature work its magic on you.
2. Book a walking tour
Like most small towns, Gatlinburg is rich in history and culture. Add to that a gorgeous landscape and endless views; there’s nothing better than taking a walking tour around the city. Although you don’t necessarily have to book a tour, having a guide with you can help you learn about the rich history of each place you visit.
And since you’ll be on foot, you can take it in the surroundings at a relaxed pace without any rush or crowd pushing at you. Furthermore, since many of Gatlinburg’s hidden gems are best known by the local tour guides, you don’t want to miss an opportunity of discovering them.
3. Go on a hike
You might be thinking, ‘Hiking? Relaxing?’ Trust us on this, there’s something oddly therapeutic about hiking here in Gatlinburg. There’s a veritable smorgasbord of trails to choose from. You can find anything from a leisurely jaunt in the woods to something that’ll have you panting and questioning your life choices. It’s really up to you. There’s just something about the rustling leaves, the chirping birds, the scent of the wild that seems to have an instant calming effect. And wait till you get to the waterfalls – they’re like Mother Nature’s own dramatic stage performances. It’s more than just a hike, it’s an adventure!
4. Head up to Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is a family-friendly amusement park and ski area that offers all kinds of relaxing and exciting activities for various age groups. Since it’s located high in the Smoky Mountains, a trip from Gatlinburg is only a short route away. Although there are several rides and attractions here you can go to, one of the majorly popular ones is the chairlift. This ride offers visitors a scenic landscape view as they ascend to the mountaintop and through the forest. If you don’t want to go on any rides, you can simply sit back and relax in any spot you choose. Wherever you settle down, there will be stunning mountain views all around you, and the peaceful ambiance of Ober Mountain will help you relax in no time at all.
5. Visit the Gatlinburg Space Needle
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a tall observation tower in Gatlinburg that offers a 360-degree view of the surrounding Smoky Mountains and the rest of the resort city. To get to the top, a smooth elevator ride takes you to the observation deck, where spectacular views beyond your wildest imagination greet you. Being at the top here provides you the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the worries and stresses of everyday life and just immerse yourself in the moment.
Here at the Space Needle, you can drink a relaxing cup of coffee, breathe in the fresh air, and unwind for as long as you want to. This spot also features educational exhibits for history enthusiasts if you’re looking to gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the place.
6. Explore Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is the highest accessible part of the Great Smoky Mountains and is a spot you can’t miss. To get there, you can drive through the mountains, and after arriving at a certain point, a short, invigorating hike takes you to the summit. Although spectacular views surround the entire town, the awe-inspiring and serene environment of Clingmans Dome remains unmatched. The vast expanse of surrounding mountains, waterfalls, valleys, and forests stretching for endless miles evokes a sense of calm within you. Taking in panoramic views like this puts everything in perspective and allows you to reflect and connect with nature.
Before leaving for the drive, check the forecast to ensure your clothes are weather-appropriate for the trip. Since it’s so high up the mountains, there’s often light rain, so it’s better to keep a light jacket with you if temperatures drop further in colder seasons.
7. Take a late-night stroll
The sun might’ve called it a day in Gatlinburg, but don’t you think the town’s gone to sleep? It transforms into this magical realm, with quiet lanes, a serene ambiance, and soft lighting that makes the whole place look like it’s straight out of a storybook. It’s the perfect setting for an unhurried evening stroll, a little window shopping perhaps, maybe a souvenir haul for the folks back home. Or how about sitting back in a cozy café, watching the world go by, drink in hand? If that’s not your cup of tea, then just find yourself a nice, quiet spot, look up, and lose yourself in the inky expanse above. The best part? No crowds, no rush, just you and the charming allure of a small town.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg, small as it might seem, has more things to see and do than you’d imagine. If it’s tranquillity you’re after, this place has got you covered. Take it from us, you can’t go wrong with these ideas. So get planning, and remember to leave some room for spontaneity – you never know what unexpected delights you might stumble upon!
