Welcome to Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Nestled at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a charming mountain town that perfectly blends natural beauty with small-town Appalachian culture. With a population of just 4,000 residents but over 11 million visitors annually, it's become one of America's most beloved vacation destinations. At 1,289 feet elevation and just steps from the park entrance, Gatlinburg offers stunning views, excellent dining, and attractions for every age.
Quick Facts
Gatlinburg is Perfect For...
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Top Attractions in Gatlinburg
Must-see experiences and activities
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Best Restaurants in Gatlinburg
Local favorites and dining spots
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking, nature & outdoor fun
Must-Do Experiences
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
Ride the iconic aerial tramway for stunning views and walk across North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge.
Ripley's Aquarium
One of the best aquariums in the Southeast with over 10,000 exotic sea creatures and walk-through underwater tunnels.
Ober Gatlinburg
Year-round mountain adventure with skiing, ice skating, and the new aerial tramway.
Anakeesta
A mountaintop adventure with tree canopy walks, zip lines, and stunning panoramic views.
Insider Tips for Gatlinburg
Arrive early (before 9am) to find parking in downtown—it fills up fast
The Gatlinburg Trolley is free and connects major attractions
Book popular restaurants like The Peddler in advance, especially on weekends
Consider staying mid-week for lower prices and fewer crowds
Download the NPS app before visiting the park—cell service is spotty inside
Visit Cades Cove on Wednesday or Saturday morning when the loop is open only to bikes/walkers
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Gatlinburg?
Fall (October-November) offers stunning foliage, but expect crowds. Spring (April-May) brings wildflowers and fewer tourists. Summer is busiest but great for waterfall hikes. Winter offers skiing at Ober Gatlinburg and smaller crowds.
Is Gatlinburg walkable?
Yes! Downtown Gatlinburg is very walkable with shops, restaurants, and attractions along the main Parkway. However, some attractions like Ober Gatlinburg require a car or trolley.
How far is Gatlinburg from the National Park?
Gatlinburg sits directly at the park entrance. You can walk from downtown to the park boundary in just a few minutes—it's the closest town to the park.
Are there free things to do in Gatlinburg?
Absolutely! Great Smoky Mountains National Park is free to enter, and downtown offers free trolley rides, scenic drives like Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, and window shopping along the Parkway.
How far is Gatlinburg from Pigeon Forge?
Gatlinburg is just 7 miles (about 15 minutes) from Pigeon Forge. Many visitors stay in one town and visit both during their trip.
What's the difference between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge?
Gatlinburg is smaller, more walkable, and directly borders the National Park. It has a charming downtown feel. Pigeon Forge is more spread out with larger attractions like Dollywood, dinner shows, and go-kart tracks.
How many days do you need in Gatlinburg?
Plan 2-3 days to explore Gatlinburg's main attractions plus National Park highlights. Add more days if you want to hike extensively or visit Pigeon Forge attractions too.
Is Gatlinburg expensive?
Gatlinburg is moderately priced for a tourist destination. Expect to pay $100-200/night for hotels, $15-30 per person for dining, and $30-50 for major attractions. The National Park is free to enter.