Evander Jones
Gatlinburg’s location at the edge of the Smoky Mountains makes it a gateway to some of America’s most stunning sights. Add in a collection of dynamic parks, museums, and scenic rides, and the town becomes a rare combination of mind-blowing adventure and charm. These ten attractions highlight why Gatlinburg remains a beloved destination.
Gatlinburg SkyPark
The Gatlinburg SkyBridge spans about 680 feet across a deep valley and is North America’s longest pedestrian cable bridge. At its highest point, visitors walk across glass panels suspended 140 feet above the forest floor. The SkyLift ride to the top starts right on Gatlinburg’s main strip, offering gorgeous views of the town and surrounding mountains.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Covering over 520,000 acres, Great Smoky Mountains National Park surrounds Gatlinburg with lush forests and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can hike over 800 miles of scenic trails, including the famed Alum Cave Trail and Clingmans Dome. This UNESCO World Heritage Site remains America’s most visited national park and draws over 12 million people annually.
Ober Mountain Adventure Park & Ski Area
Ober Mountain offers year-round fun, from winter skiing and snowboarding to summer tubing and mountain biking. The Aerial Tramway, departing from downtown Gatlinburg, climbs 2.1 miles up to the resort, giving panoramic views. Opened in 1962, it’s one of America’s oldest continuously operating ski areas in the South.
Sugarlands Visitor Center
The Sugarlands Visitor Center is the gateway to the Smokies, located just two miles south of Gatlinburg. Visitors find natural history exhibits, a free 20-minute park film, and trailheads for popular hikes like Laurel Falls. Rangers at the center provide maps and other helpful information, like real-time weather updates, making it a smart first stop.
Ripley’s Aquarium Of The Smokies
Known as one of the best aquariums in North America by USA Today, Ripley’s Aquarium features over 10,000 exotic sea creatures across 10 themed galleries. The Shark Lagoon’s moving walkway carries visitors under a 340-foot-long tunnel surrounded by sand tiger sharks, green sea turtles, and giant stingrays. Daily penguin encounters and dive shows add even more excitement.
Anakeesta
Anakeesta is an outdoor adventure park that sits atop a 600-foot summit and is accessed by the scenic Chondola lift or Ridge Rambler truck ride. Anakeesta’s Tree Canopy Walk includes 16 hanging bridges suspended 50-60 feet in the air. The park also features Astra Lumina, an immersive nighttime journey through a starlit forest unique to only a few locations worldwide.
Gatlinburg Space Needle
Soaring 407 feet above downtown, the Gatlinburg Space Needle delivers 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and the city skyline. Two glass elevators transport guests to the observation deck, where free viewfinders and educational panels highlight landmarks. The base of the tower also houses Arcadia, a 25,000-square-foot arcade packed with games and attractions.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
A one-way, 5.5-mile loop road, Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail offers a peaceful drive through ancient forests, rushing mountain streams, and preserved 19th-century cabins. Stops along the trail include the Noah “Bud” Ogle historic farmstead. The area gets its name from the fast-flowing Roaring Fork stream that parallels much of the route.
Hollywood Star Cars Museum
Automobile lovers flock to this museum to see more than 40 famous vehicles from movies and TV shows. Highlights include the original Batmobile from the 1966 “Batman” series, the DeLorean from “Back to the Future,” and the General Lee from “The Dukes of Hazzard.” Each car is displayed in recreated scenes for a full cinematic experience.
Wild Bear Falls Water Park
This massive indoor water park spans over 60,000 square feet, offering year-round swimming under a retractable roof. Attractions include Cades Cove Lazy River, Clingmans Dome waterslide, and Little Pigeon River play area for kids. It is located inside Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort and features heated water and a rustic mountain lodge atmosphere.
