Top things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Home to ancient mountains draped in mist and vibrant forests that shift colors over seasons, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the crown jewel of the region. With over 800 miles of trails, its vast wilderness invites hikers of all levels to connect with nature, whether it's through the serenity of Laurel Falls or the panoramic grandeur atop Clingmans Dome. The crisp mountain air and the melodic chirps of native birds turn each step into an experience of immersion and wonder.

Beyond hiking, the park offers scenic drives like the Newfound Gap Road, where every curve unveils sweeping views and calls you to stop wildlife like elk and black bears. For a quieter escape, consider exploring Greenbrier, a less traveled area with peaceful picnic spots and hidden cascades. From sunrise to sundown, this national treasure offers countless reasons to pause, breathe and simply take it all in.

From snow-covered slopes to mountain views, Ober Gatlinburg delivers all-season excitement wrapped in alpine charm. In winter, the resort becomes a snowy playground with skiing, snowboarding and tubing for all levels, a rare experience in the South. When the snow melts, the fun doesn't stop. The amusement park comes to life with rides, a wildlife encounter, and the famous aerial tramway that climbs above the treetops, offering spectacular views of the Smokies.

It's the perfect blend of thrill and scenery, whether you're gliding down a mountain trail or sipping hot chocolate by the rink. And if you're planning a family visit, consider signing up for ALL - Accor Live Limitless. With free membership, you'll enjoy exclusive perks on your stay while making unforgettable memories on and off the slopes.

Just a few minutes from the bustling downtown, an eight-mile loop winds through one of the most authentic cultural gems in the Smoky Mountains. The Arts & Crafts Community is home to the largest independent organization of artisans in the United States, where over 100 studios and galleries open their doors to visitors. This is where tradition breathes, in handwoven baskets, carefully turned wood, glazed ceramics and delicate lacework crafted with devotion and skill passed down through generations.

More than a place to shop, it's an opportunity to connect. Visitors are invited not only to browse but to engage: to watch, ask, learn and appreciate the artistry that defines the Smoky Mountain spirit. It's a quieter, richer way to explore the region, far from the usual tourist bustle, and a perfect way to take home something truly personal.

In Tennessee, flavor is a way of life. And in Gatlinburg, that flavor is bold, smoky and unmistakably Southern. The town is full of small-batch distilleries where the legacy of Appalachian moonshine lives on in gleaming copper stills and slow-dripped spirits. Visitors can sample infused blends of locally crafted whiskey, fruit-flavored moonshine and barrel-aged bourbons that warm from the inside out. From Ole Smoky to Sugarlands, each sip tells a story steeped in tradition.

And where there's a good drink, there's always something delicious nearby. That's a fact when we're talking about this place, where the barbecue joints fill the air with the scent of hickory smoke, serving tender pulled pork, juicy ribs and tangy sauces that locals swear by. It's a culinary experience made for sharing, whether you're on a laid-back lunch stop or an evening feast after a day of exploring.

After a day uncovering the charms of Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains, nothing beats retreating to a space that inspires and restores. Just a scenic drive away, the 21c Museum Hotel Durham blends contemporary comfort with cultural curiosity, offering guests an immersive stay surrounded by thought-provoking art and refined hospitality. It's the kind of place where every detail feels intentional, every room invites pause and the journey continues even after you've set your bags down. From here, the region becomes a perfect balance between natural wonders and artistic discovery.

To make every getaway even more rewarding, you can join ALL - Accor Live Limitless. Free to sign up, the program opens doors to exclusive rates, perks and privileges that travel with you, from your first check-in to your next adventure. Whether you're sipping moonshine in the Smokies or exploring a gallery before dinner, ALL turns each moment into something more. Why just travel, when you can live limitless?