Top 4 Reasons To Visit And Explore Gatlinburg

Perched amid lush greenery and enveloped by the majestic Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a town that lures visitors from far and wide with its endless outdoor activities, natural beauty, and welcoming charm. With many things to do, sights to see, and flavors to savor, it’s no surprise that Gatlinburg has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the States. Whether skimming for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or an adventure-packed trip, Gatlinburg is the perfect destination to escape the hustle of life and immerse yourself in a world of stunning scenery, vibrant culture, and memorable experiences.

So come along for the ride as we take you on a trip through the top things to visit and explore in Gatlinburg.

Before mentioning the reasons for visiting the city, it is important to discuss the accommodation. Regarding accommodations, Gatlinburg offers a broad range of options to suit every taste and budget. But for those seeking a luxurious and private experience, chalets are a perfect choice. Chalets in Gatlinburg are known for their picturesque locations, cozy interiors, and top-notch amenities. They offer an ideal escape for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a unique and comfortable vacation experience. These chalets have luxurious features, including hot tubs and Jacuzzis, which offer the perfect relaxing way after a lengthy day of exploring the Great Smoky Mountains.

Chalets also feature pool tables, air hockey tables, arcades, and home theatres, providing endless entertainment options for guests of all ages. Chalets in Gatlinburg also feature cozy fireplaces, creating a warm and inviting ambiance, making them ideal for chilly mountain nights. Guests can snuggle up before the fire, read a book, or watch their favorite movie. In addition to their amenities, chalets in Gatlinburg offer free admission tickets to some of the local attractions making it a great way to save money while exploring some of the best attractions in the area.

Now coming to the reasons to visit and explore Gatlinburg:

1.    The Ober Gatlinburg

Ober Gatlinburg is an all-season destination that offers various activities for visitors throughout the year. Visitors can hit the slopes in the winter months and experience the thrill of skiing or snowboarding on the resort’s ski slopes.

In the summer, Ober Gatlinburg transforms into a mountain adventure park with various activities, including an alpine slide, a mountain coaster, and a chairlift that takes visitors to the mountaintop for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The chairlift ride is an unforgettable experience, as visitors can relish panoramic views of the town and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, the resort offers ice skating, shopping, and dining options. The ice-skating rink is a perfect activity for families or couples, and the shops at the resort feature unique and locally made items for great souvenirs. The dining options include everything from quick bites to fine dining, and the menus feature Southern cuisine and international fare.

2. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Immerse yourself in marine life at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, an educational and entertaining attraction. Located in the core of downtown Gatlinburg, the aquarium is home to various aquatic creatures, including colorful fish, sea turtles, stingrays, and even sharks.

One of the popular exhibits is the Shark Lagoon, where visitors can meet with these magnificent creatures face-to-face. The underwater tunnel allows visitors to walk through the exhibit and see the sharks swimming overhead, giving a sense of what it’s like to be in the ocean with them.

For those who want a more hands-on experience, there are interactive exhibits such as Touch-A-Ray Bay, where visitors can feel and feed stingrays, and Penguin Playhouse, where visitors can watch the playful antics of the aquarium’s resident penguins.

3. Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community

The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts society is a hub of creativity and artistic expression in the Great Smoky Mountains. This eight-mile loop road is home to over 100 artists and craftspeople specializing in various mediums, from pottery and glassblowing to painting and woodworking.

Visitors can explore the unique studios and galleries, each offering a glimpse into the artists’ creative process. Watch as a potter spins a lump of clay into a beautiful vase or a woodworker carves intricate designs into a piece of furniture. Many artists are happy to answer questions and share their techniques with visitors.

The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Society is also a great place to find unique gifts for special occasions. Whether it’s a unique piece of pottery for a wedding gift or a hand-carved wooden box for a birthday present, the community has various options that are sure to impress.

4.    Gatlinburg Sky Lift Park

Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains at the Gatlinburg sky Lift Park. This iconic attraction has been a staple of Gatlinburg since 1954, offering visitors an unforgettable view of the surrounding landscape.

The sky Lift is a scenic chairlift ride that takes visitors 1,800 feet up to the top of Crockett Mountain. Passengers can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains along the way. At the top, visitors can step off the chairlift and explore the Skydeck, which offers even more breathtaking views.

But the adventure doesn’t stop there. The Skybridge, North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, stretches 680 feet across a deep valley and offers views, not for the faint of heart. With glass panels in the middle of the bridge, visitors can look straight down at the forest floor below, creating a thrilling and unforgettable experience.

For those exploring for a more immersive experience, the Sky Trail offers a hike through the wooded area at the top of the mountain. The trail is a one-mile loop that provides stunning views of the surrounding area and an up-close look at the mountain’s natural beauty.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a beautiful destination with many activities and attractions for visitors to appreciate. From the thrilling experience of Ober Gatlinburg to the laid-back and friendly atmosphere of the Smoky Mountain Brewery, there is something for all in this charming mountain town. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, Gatlinburg is a great place to visit.