Welcome to the Great Smoky Mountains, where adventure, entertainment, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable vacation experience. Amongst the scenic landscapes of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Wears Valley, you’ll find a treasure trove of activities and attractions that cater to all interests. From exploring Great Smoky National Park, to indulging in world-class entertainment, savoring mouthwatering Southern cuisine, and experiencing the thrill of the local amusement parks, the Smokies has it all. As you start to plan your vacation to the Smokies, we hope this activity guide will help you decide what to do so that you can make the most of your visit!
Gatlinburg Activities
Gatlinburg Space Needle
A breathtaking 360-degree view of the stunning Smoky Mountains is what you get when you visit the Gatlinburg Space Needle. This 407-foot-tall observation tower provides you an opportunity to gaze at the natural beauty that surrounds Gatlinburg.
Ober Gatlinburg
Offering a unique blend of ski slopes and amusement park rides, Ober Gatlinburg is an entertainment hub for the entire family. Experience the thrill of the slopes, or enjoy year-round ice-skating, wildlife encounters, and more.
Anakeesta
Anakeesta is an outdoor family experience perched high above Gatlinburg with panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains. It features a scenic Chondola ride, treetop skywalk, zipline adventure, and more.
Gatlinburg Skypark
Soar above Gatlinburg at the SkyLift Park, home to the SkyBridge – the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Enjoy the breathtaking views, the thrill of the height, and an experience to remember.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Immerse yourself in the vibrant undersea world at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. From the playful penguins to the mesmerizing jellyfish, this aquarium offers an unforgettable journey into the aquatic world.
Sugarlands Distilling Company
Experience a sip of authentic Tennessee moonshine at Sugarlands Distilling Company. This distillery provides an intriguing glimpse into the craft of moonshine making.
Hillbilly Golf
Play a unique round of mini-golf at Hillbilly Golf, where the game is combined with a mountainous adventure in a one-of-a-kind setting. It’s a fun-filled experience for the whole family.
Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg
Delve into the supernatural with the Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg. This spooky tour uncovers the town’s hidden haunts and chilling local legends.
Moonshine Mountain Coaster
Feel the wind in your hair as you zip down the mountainside on the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster. This coaster gives you an adrenaline-pumping ride through the beautiful Smoky Mountain scenery.
Downtown Gatlinburg
Take a stroll in Downtown Gatlinburg, a vibrant area brimming with shops, eateries, and entertainment. Discover local crafts, enjoy delicious local cuisine, or simply soak in the charming mountain town atmosphere.
Pigeon Forge/Sevierville Dining
Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud
Witness the raw strength and skill at Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud, a high-energy, entertaining showdown between lumberjacks. This interactive experience is full of thrilling stunts and competitive spirit.
Pigeon Forge Snow
Pigeon Forge Snow offers a unique indoor snow experience, allowing you to enjoy snow tubing and snow play year-round, no matter the weather outside. A great place for some frosty fun!
The Comedy Barn
For a night filled with laughter, look no further than The Comedy Barn. Enjoy a family-friendly variety show featuring comedians, musicians, and even performing animals.
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
Feel the thrill of the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, the longest downhill ride in the US with over a mile of track. Enjoy the ride at your own pace, and take in the beautiful surrounding scenery.
The Island in Pigeon Forge
Discover a world of entertainment at The Island in Pigeon Forge, an amusement park featuring retail shops, restaurants, and various attractions such as the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud
Step into the world of the famous feuding families at the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud. Enjoy a hearty meal while watching a hilarious and high-spirited hillbilly feud.
Dollywood
Experience the spirit of the Smokies at Dollywood, a theme park co-owned by country music legend Dolly Parton. Enjoy thrilling rides, live music, and cultural exhibitions all in one place.
Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Uncover the dark side of American history at the Alcatraz East Crime Museum. Dive into the world of crime, law enforcement, and forensics through interactive exhibits and authentic artifacts.
Titanic Museum
Experience the tragic beauty of the Titanic at the Titanic Museum, a half-scale replica of the original ship. Explore the hallways, parlors, and cabins, and learn about the passengers who embarked on the ill-fated journey.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede
Witness an impressive spectacle of horse riding stunts, special effects, and musical productions at Dolly Parton’s Stampede. Enjoy a four-course meal as you immerse yourself in the friendly North vs. South competition.
Wears Valley Dining
Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing
Experience the tranquility and thrill of river tubing with Smoky Mountain River Rat Tubing. Glide down the scenic Little River and enjoy the beauty of the Smoky Mountains from a unique perspective.
Walden’s Creek Stables
Experience the joy of horseback riding through the picturesque trails of the Smoky Mountains at Walden’s Creek Stables. Suitable for riders of all levels, it’s a great way to connect with nature.
Metcalf Bottoms Park Entrance
Enter the enchanting realm of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park through Metcalf Bottoms Park Entrance. Enjoy picnicking, hiking, and exploring the historic buildings within the park.
Headrick Chapel
Take a step back in time at the historic Headrick Chapel, a quaint and charming chapel that stands as a testament to Wears Valley’s history.
Tennessee Moonshine Distillery
Sample the authentic spirit of Tennessee at the Moonshine Distillery. Learn about the rich history and traditional techniques of moonshine making while tasting a variety of flavors.
Wears Valley Zip Line Adventures
Soar above the treetops at Wears Valley Zip Line Adventures. Experience the thrill of speed and height, while enjoying panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains.
Harper Bros. Mountain
Situated along Wears Valley Road, on the edge of the Smoky Mountains, you’ll find Harper Bros. Mountain. Explore a trove of treasures in the General Merchandise Store, experience panoramas of the Smokies via our Hawk SkyLift and enjoy scenic equestrian excursions on our winding trails.
Foothills Parkway
Drive along the scenic Foothills Parkway, known for its panoramic vistas of the Smoky Mountains. It’s the perfect place for a scenic drive, a leisurely bike ride, or a relaxing picnic.