non touristy things to do in gatlinburg

Capture that essence with a timeless photo by dressing up as a cowboy or cowgirl at Old Town Photos or Miss Sadies in Gatlinburg. This rustic, family-style diner is the perfect place to get food that really sticks to your ribs. Please note that the road is closed in winter. So sit back and revel in the sounds of acoustic guitar, country, and rock as you sip a draft beer or glass of Dollys sangria. With secret passageways, winding staircases and creepy dark corridors, this is the place to go, especially if youre planning to release any bottled-up screams. With joystick in hand, riders can spin in circles around the rink or smash (safely) into their friends before finishing off and making a beeline for Obers Alpine Slide or Mountain Coaster. In addition to a huge 196-acre park, there's a whole host of non-touristy things to do at Ally Pally. Keep those eyes peeled, as you won't want to miss a single 360-degree turn, curve, or tunnel. Or, visit the restaurant during lunch time and your stomach will stop complaining after you savor the ordered dishes. Subscribe to our newsletter for inspiring travel guides and articles from around the world! Lantern-led walking tours in Southwest Virginia and Eastern Tennessee operate daily and/or nightly throughout Southern Appalachia from the Great Smoky Mountains to the Southwest Virginia Highlands. Long has Gatlinburg been known for its paranormal forces, with ghosts and ghouls rumored to inhabit the citys streets. For those that consider themselves connoisseurs in the category, stop by the best breweries and be your own judge of the local brews on offer. You can choose from a selection of jams to bring home. Whether you seek stunning vistas or solitary hikes, Gatlinburg delivers a cornucopia of creative attractions. Not only fun but as you putt-putt your way through 45 holes (if playing both courses), learn about the history of Gatlinburg dating to its first settlers. We cant wait to see you there. The Gatlinburg location boasts two unique experiences that will leave a lasting impression on you and your family: the Mountain Glider and the Alpine Coaster! Visit museums, adventure parks, arcades and forbidden caverns, and the travel time between the two towns is merely 15 minutes by car. Now in its tenth season [mid-May to mid-October], the market provides Tennessee grown produce, local products, and foods in a friendly social environment. Before heading out for a hike, check trail conditions at the front door. Witness snowflakes falling in winter, or snap pictures of the trees in a sea of autumn colors from October to November. Cute Instagrammable Places in London. Gatlinburg is certainly better than Pigeon Forge, which is beyond tacky, but Gatlinburg. Whats more Tennessee than Moonshine? It features over 500 unique exhibits encompassing interactive installations, wacky tidbits, optical illusions and a space shuttle made from jelly beans. You will get the chance to taste some delectable wine and moonshine in at least six distilleries and wineries, and gain insights into the local breweries and distilleries. for a free tasting, or enjoy a glass of your favorite in our tasting rooms. Ascend the relatively easy three-quarter-mile track to Mingo Falls, or hike the Alum Cave Trail to Mount LeConte which takes up to six hours with gorgeous landscapes and scenery along the way. Many of the distilleries in Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Gatlinburg offer unique cocktails made with their spirits. The live actors, spooky makeup and frightening special effects combine to make this one of the scariest attractions in Tennessee. Permit the worlds fluffiest llamas to carry your gear while you meander through the scenic Smoky Mountain foothills, flowered fields, and babbling brooks. Though the winery sells original blends, its known for its soft and delicious fruit-infused wines, such as the Blueberry Bammer, Proper Peach, Fine Blackberry and White Knuckle Grape. A beloved local eatery for residents and tourists alike, Pancake Pantry has been dishing up piping hot plates for over half a century and is yet to put a foot wrong. photo credit: Burg Steakhouse via Facebook. Outdoors store providing quality and affordable outdoor supplies to the 11 million annual visitors of The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. For an extra sour souvenir, pick up a jar of their famous Ole Smoky Pickles to go. The Cat House is also a great place to make some feline friends, as many of the owner's cats live at the shop. If your visit happens to align with the holiday season, check the calendar for the annual Christmas on Ice events. Choose from the rafting packages which include ziplining and great deals for visiting other attractions such as the Ober Gatlinburg, Dollywood and Anakeesta. The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 407 feet tall observation tower. Tennessee Jeds may be nothing fancy, but this locally owned and sourced sandwich shop is a go-to stop for hungry hikers in the know. . Regardless of the time of the year you visit, picnicking at Parc Monceau is one of the fun non-touristy things to do in Paris! An indoor shopping center with 36 uniquely themed shops located in the heart of Gatlinburg. Their Pigeon Forge outpost focuses on quality tunes merged with local food and drink. We know we want to do some hiking in the. 318 places sorted by traveller favourites. Bigger groups can even rent out special areas, like the Yee-Haw Brewing Co. Bar. Only 1.5 hours away, Asheville is a place that everyone should visit at least once. Try out the baked cheese, decadent desserts and, of course, their signature Plum Tea. At the family-fun center, catch a fantabulous Magic Show performed by a top mentalist and magician, or ride a glass elevator to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle tower for panoramic city views. The Greystone Lodge is family-owned and located in a very convenient location downtown. Games take place from the fall until the spring. Museum of the Dukes of Hazzard TV show with indoor go-kart & mini-golf, run by actor Ben Jones. Transport yourself to the Tinseltown backlot in this unique museum, with 40 authentic vehicles from films like The Dukes of Hazzard and Fast and Furious lining the floor. Mountain Mall Mountain Mall With its wooden architecture and kitschy, country-style shops, the Mountain Mall isn't your average shopping mall. This relatively quick cruise provides a sneaky way to avoid downtown traffic. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. If youre looking to do your swimming workout or play a basketball game in the water with friends, this water park has the Swimming Hole for you. If shopping and Christmas are your things then a visit to the largest Christmas store in Gatlinburg is necessary. Find Lodging Attractions Besides the 18-hole and nine-hole courses, the facility also boasts a fully-equipped pro shop to upgrade your kit. So long as you dont get too motion sick, tumbling down that 1,000-foot tall hill in a giant bubble is undeniably one of the most fun things to do in Gatlinburg. While theres no shortage of things to do within the Gatlinburg city limits, the citys true selling point is its proximity to some of the nations most beautiful natural hiking trails. There is a bar and plenty of seating for you to kick back, relax, and sip on your shine. Keep in mind, being an outdoor park, Splash Country is only open from May to September (the summer months). Townsend is often called the "quiet side of the Smokies" in contrast to the bustling and often crowded tourist areas of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. - this nationally ranked outfitter is the ideal stop for rafters looking for a challenge. Little Bear Winery features favorites such as two berries wine which is the perfect blend of blueberry and blackberries as well as their rhubarb wine. From Americas most visited distillery to crazy pastry-inspired flavor combinations, each establishment brings a unique spin to its tasting tours: Need a break from amusement park antics and big chain restaurants? Secure your season passes for the entire family to experience many more exhilarating slides. This may be one of the most unique things to do in Gatlinburg! You can also spend time in the park exploring hidden gems, like the House of Fairies or Elkmont Ghost Town! Visiting Roaring Fork is done by a paved one-way, 5.5 mile drivable loop, located near Gatlinburg and one hour away from Cades Cove. Prepare to brave the combo slide The Edge Watercoaster which provides an almost 200 meters long ride. Use of this website constitutes acceptance of Tripster's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The rooms have comfortable finishes and are well-equipped. This 8-mile loop of artisans is overflowing with artistic talent, from candle makers to quilt stitchers and potters. The soaring 36-meter-high Mingo Falls can be found just outside the National Parks perimeters, and its one of the tallest waterfalls in the area. Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg 775 Walking Tours from 25.57 per adult Impossibilities Magic Show at the Iris Theater Ticket 256 Theatre Shows from 23.82 per adult Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour 365 Wine Tours from 40.91 per adult Moonshine Mountain Coaster Ride 48 Attractions & Museums from 14.49 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* If youre in Gatlinburg, pay a visit to the cocktail bar on the back porch of Sugarlands Distilling Company. Bask in the supernatural presence with a 1-mile, two-hour walking tour under the moonlight (a ghosts favorite time of day). For an amazing show seldom found anywhere else, Paula Deens Lumberjack Feud puts on a 1.5-hour extravaganza. For even more puzzling adventures, Ripleys Marvelous Mirror Maze is a treat. Youll be blown away by the number of elk and beautiful scenery. With over 100 nostalgic pinball machines and retro arcade games lining its walls, Gatlinburg Pinball Museum is one of the best activities in Gatlinburg. Each time we have pretty much driven as quickly as possible trough pigeon forge and Gatlinburg . You will have fun watching the game live. Whether you are hitting the Smoky Mountain trails or just strolling around downtown, a day full of unique things to do in Gatlinburg is not complete without an incredible meal. Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area. An old-world-style teahouse serving tea, sandwiches & muffins in a rustic mountain setting. We recommend stopping by Shine Girl in Sevierville for a selection of moonshine unlike any other place in town and delicious cocktails. You can hike via the Alum Cave Trail which is roughly a 10.5 in and out hike. In addition to the six wonder zones, this attraction also boasts laser tag, an indoor ropes course and a 4D simulator! This Pigeon Forge-based venue brings a whole lot of fun to the entire family with timeless songs and outstanding performances. Make sure to check out the fun things to do in Pigeon Forge right next door. They lead different walks, backpacking trips, and more. But I'm wondering if. On the Ski Mountain Coaster, you twist down 3,750 feet of the mountain at speeds of up to 25 miles per hour (or at their own pace, of course). These are just some of the many ways that you can experience Gatlinburg as the locals do. Cross swimming bridges 150 ft high as you take in a resplendent ten-acre wooded island in the middle of Big Pigeon River. Each time we have pretty much driven as quickly as possible trough pigeon forge and Gatlinburg . Easy to reach by car, its considered one of the greatest free viewing locales in Gatlinburg. Dont toss up between the clear day or sparkling night views, head to the top just before sunset for the best of both worlds. At 6,593 ft it is the third highest peak in the national park, behind Clingmans Dome and Mount Guyot. Watch in awe as these vintage 1940 machines slice, wrap, and twist the taffy closed. Or opt for a Llama Farm Visit to skip out on the physical exertion all together. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the spacious campground and picnic facilities and the Hen Wallow Falls Day Hike. The Rainbow Falls Trail is an American hiking trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. photo credit: Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community via Facebook. Top Free Things To In London. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is a collective of artisans who offer many different pieces of arts and bespoke goods for you to collect and explore. Get a birds-eye view of the Great Smoky Mountains from the top of 60-foot tall AnaVista Tower, the downtowns highest point. Home to over 600 critters originating from rainforests all over the world, this family-friendly Smoky Mountains attraction should be high atop any animal lovers bucket list. Knoxville is one of the bigger cities in Tennessee but still has a very small-town feel. Its easily one of the best things to do in downtown Gatlinburg. Load up on sweet delights such as Choco Moo or Moon Pie Banana Cream. Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg 1. A free 20-minute movie provides an overview of everything you'll need to know about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park before you embark on your own adventure! Luckily, there are many non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg. Get in touch with your creative side when you witness the ancient art of basket weaving, oil painting, and more at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Many tourists say its an unforgettable experience, but that depends on how much you drink. Experience some powerful magic while facing challenges at the escape room Masters of Magic located at Gatlins Escape Games. Look above to see a ceiling of sparkling stars, or follow the red zigzagging lit-up pathways for an escape out of the labyrinth. The Gatlinburg Craftsmens Fair hosts Artisans and Craftsmen from all over the nation. For some of the best views of both the town and mountains, Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook is smack bang between Gatlinburg Spur (connecting the city with the nearby Pigeon Forge) and the Great Smoky Mountains (along the Gatlinburg Bypass). Its only about a 35-minute drive from Gatlinburg but has plenty of shopping, dining and activities to offer. Drinking often leads to rumbling bellies fact and if youre feeling peckish, ask for the menu and build your own pizza. You can often find locals at Holstons Kitchen, Smoky Mountain Brewery, Junction 35 Spirits, and Seasons 101. Delve into the breathtaking natural landscape that will make you forget everything else around you. Seeking to challenge your quads? Explore the evolution of the shaker which was created way before you would imagine. The three-floor building is hard to miss its the absolutely oddest thing you can find at Parkway. Here are some of the best activities, indulgences and adventures that locals cant get enough of. Test your puzzle-solving abilities and prove once and for all who the smartest family member is with a 60-minute detective challenge in one of Gatlinburgs immersive, always-entertaining escape rooms. Open since 1991 and boasting 11 local locations, they sure know a thing or two about food. Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum. Paddle through frothing white water rapids, tuck into a hearty platter of smoked meats or soak in the spellbinding scenery from a Mountain Coaster. Located next to the entrance of the charming European-inspired The Village, the restaurant can be a great stop before or after exploring the artisanal shops. This is a must-visit for nature lovers, as the Cataloochee Valley is one of the only places that you can spot wild elk in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Theres a lot of handmade candy taffy especially so taking some time to find some vegan candy may be worthwhile. From happy hour to a nightcap, no day in Gatlinburg is complete without a stop to our very own Gatlinburg Wine Trail. photo credit: Blue Moose Burgers and Wings via Facebook. Visitors are able to see the distilling process up close while learning about the history of moonshine production in the Smoky Mountains. Visiting Tennessee for a short escape? Here are the best places to stop off in Gatlinburg for a delicious bite to eat or something refreshing to drink. . 22 Absolutely Free Things to Do in Gatlinburg, 5 Budget-Friendly Gatlinburg Vacation Tips, 7 Spectacular Things to Do in Gatlinburg at Night, 11 Most Romantic Restaurants in Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg Hidden Gems: 7 Secret Spots You Don't Want to Miss, Ultimate Guide to Ober Gatlinburg: Coupons, Discounts, and Deals, 16 Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Adults You Don't Want to Miss, Ultimate Guide to Anakeesta Coupons, Discounts, and Deals, Sip & Sample at Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries in Gatlinburg. If youd prefer for one of the locals to show you the ropes, wine tours take guests through to two wineries, as well as a traditional moonshine distillery even if youre not a fan, its an interesting endeavor, youre in the South after all. As the name suggests, Off-Road Gatlinburg is all about the off-road experience and tours with this company favor different areas like the Appalachian Mountains and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Theres no better way to appreciate the spruce-fir forest and mountain views than from atop its observation deck. Order up an assorted box, and chew away on flavors like black walnut, butterscotch, and cotton candy. At Outdoor Gravity Park, youll zorb down a 1,000 ft. hill for an incredible ride youll never forget. The Gatlinburg Bypass is owned and maintained by the National Park Service and is considered part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Spanning 680 feet across the forest canopy and standing 140 feet tall, the Gatlinburg Skybridge is North America's longest pedestrian suspension bridge. 811 East Parkway, P.O. Stock up on local and naturally made skincare, observe a blacksmith at work or pick out a leather creation by Gary McCoy. Nestled in downtown Gatlinburg lies the Smokies most unique shopping destination, The Village district. Some of the roads in Gatlinburg (for example, the Tail of the Dragon) dont allow UTVs, but not to fear, this adventure rental company also has Jeeps, Slingshots, Vanderhall and Rykers which you can rent to drive these parts instead. Make sure to check its opening schedule so you can time your visit and have a wonderful time in the city. Sevierville is famous for high-end outlet shopping, cool places to stay in the Smoky Mountains and hometown girl, Dolly Parton. The disorientating abode is just one of the many whimsical illusions on display at Wonderworks, self-proclaimed as an amusement park for the mind.. Answer 1 of 14: Hey there, My husband and I recently moved to Knoxville and we have of course been to Smoky Mountain Ntl Park a couple of times. About | Privacy Policies | Business Resources | Sitemap | Made with by IMEG. 903 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 There are few places in Gatlinburg that so perfectly display the spirit of mountain life like the Ole Smoky Moonshine distillery. You can even bring your pets along to Four Sisters Old Time Photos. We pride ourselves on serving innovative, tasty wines with an East Tennessee flair. Home to the largest outdoor snow tubing hill in Tennessee, during the wintery months, grab an inflatable tube and hit the slopes laden with real snow thanks to the parks special snow-making machines. 6. As you control your speed, take a glimpse of the stunning mountain views and forests around you. It's a popular destination and is a great opportunity to remember to slow down and allow yourself to enjoy the atmosphere. However, sometimes you want to get off the beaten path, especially if youre wanting to stay away from the tourist crowds or youve already seen all the sites in East Tennessee. Be amazed at Gatlinburgs No. The Smoky Mountain Art Gallery supports local artists practicing and living in the Great Smoky Mountains. After perhaps spending a couple of hours across the road at the Ripleys Aquarium, the Tennessee Cider Company is the perfect spot to sit back and unwind. Race against the clock and outwit your competition by exploring this Southern city in a fast-paced competition, one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg. Its 680 feet across and you can look 140 feet down through the glass floor halfway through. Super fun for all ages, the attraction is family-friendly. Some of the most beautiful roads to cruise along include Newfound Gap Road, Roaring Fork Motor Trail, Little River Road, Clingmans Dome Road and Cades Cove Loop. Address: 336 Wa Floy Way, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA Website: Trish's Mountain Diner Opening hours: 7am - 2.30pm (closed on Sun) Price: under 10 USD 5. Hear the sinister stories, view real haunted photographs and even test out some actual ghost-hunting equipment. In the midst of a hemlock forest discover the seven-meter-high Grotto Falls, accessible via the Trillium Gap Trail. Address: 2440 North . Begin at the bottom of the mountain, and first be pulled up to the top of the hill at an altitude of 76 meters, and then zoom along the one-kilometer track. From snow tubing through the mountains, to dizzying escape mazes to themed mini-golf courses kids love it here! Rent out a UTV from Rocky Top Adventure for two hours, or more, and zoom around their recommended routes like Cades Cove and Clingmans Dome. If youre the type who cant go without your Sunday golf outing, you wont be deprived while in Gatlinburg. Neighboring the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the best hikes are through the mountainous landscape. One hike you have to try is Charlies Bunion. With a menu offering both sweet and savory covering everything from Old Fashioned Buttermilk Pancakes to Sweet Potato Pancakes, Pecan Pancakes, and Georgia Peach Crepes (perfect for the sweet tooth) theres a stack for every palate. Swing by this monument to see the sweetheart of the Smokies and take a picture with her in downtown Sevierville! Entering what seems like endless hallways and rooms creating hundreds of reflections, maze-runners, try to make your way through the flashing LED lights and an infinity of mirrors. Walk Across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge. Between the pick of ways to sightsee the Smokies and things to do in Gatlinburg, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster is among the top unique attractions. Hiking in the Smokies is one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg. I'm the Founder and Editor-in-Chief at Wild Hearted. Tackle 1,500 feet of elevation gain on the Rainbow Falls Trail with a stunning waterfall reward at the finish line. The 18,000-square-foot Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC) is the largest and closest outfitter to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at the south end of the Gatlinburg Strip. Then relax your body in a 42-inch hot tub at the Grotto Falls. The library also hosts special events and free things to do like movie nights, afterschool clubs, holiday parties, and more! You can enjoy a display of artworks, including ceramics, potteries and paintings. The fun doesnt have to end here Besides Arcade City, Arcadia is another awesome choice for gamers whether young or old and the prizes up for grabs are pretty mental! Contact: (888) 991-9040 Monday through Sunday 9AM-11PM. Meanwhile, the Sky Lift soars 500 feet to the top of Crockett Mountain, offering even more incredible vistas. Whet the appetite with an order of pimento cheese and bacon jam crostini before tearing into a Smoked BBQ platter or plate of Cajun chicken pasta. Wine homemade from a variety of fruits offered in a rustic, country-style space with tastings. For the ultimate thrill-seeker, get in line for the Fire Tower Falls! While available separately, grab the combo ticket for the best bang for your buck. Do not forget to enjoy the remarkable views of the Smoky Mountains as you are doing all those fun activities. See all Great Smoky Mountains National Park Self Driving Tour 93 Adventure Tours from C$20.86 per adult Mountaintop Zipline 2-Hours Activity 126 from C$153.00 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg 775 Walking Tours from C$41.75 per adult Superb day trips (or overnight stays) from Gatlinburg include Asheville approximately a 1.5 hours drive or lively Chattanooga. Children from the ages of three and upwards, and over 96 centimeters tall are allowed to ride the coaster with a parent. The buildings are also open for taking tours, this a fantastic open-air museum. As the biggest flea market in Tennessee, you can explore local goods, thrift shopping, and farm-fresh produce from over 1000 vendors. Go to a non-Gatlinburg entrance to GSM park and do some hiking. . While we would never describe the nations most visited National Park as a unique thing to do in Gatlinburg,' within the parks lush 522,427 acres lies plenty of under-the-radar hiking trails, scenic drives, and picnic areas. See the marvelous mountain ranges with a 360 degrees view, which extends to 100 miles in a clear sky. The sprawling landscape includes incredible lush forests and an abundance of wildflowers that bloom year-round. Atlanta is four hours from Gatlinburg and playing a pivotal role in local American history and culture, its well worth visiting. See our privacy policy for more information on how we use your data. Econo Lodge Pigeon Forge Riverside . Infuse your Gatlinburg getaway with plenty of fresh air, adrenaline, and homespun culture when you step outside of the tourist zone. For non-touristy stuff, you're gonna need to drive away from the area, I think. We like weird things so much, we even created a second site all about it. Quaint coffee shop offering traditional beverages along with pastries & a variety of gifts for sale. 25 Best Things To Do In Gatlinburg, Tennesee, You Shouldn't Miss Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park Great Smoky Mountains National Park spreads out over 800 square miles in the Southern Appalachian Mountains. For almost 50 years, Smoky Mountain Candy Makers have been supplying Tennessee with delicious homemade taffy. Whether youre looking for some fun or wanting to improve your competitiveness, youve come to the right place. Well, there are plenty of non-touristy things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, as well. While the food is fantastic and the drinks are cold, the best part of Luco Burro is the rooftop patio overlooking downtown Gatlinburg. For some of the best ice cream you'll ever have, you have to visit Cruze Farm. Wild Bear Falls Water Park. A recreation of the doomed ocean liner in the middle of the Smoky Mountains. Zoom down the zipline, take a relaxing gondola ride, take a selfie with a (fake) bear, or overcome obstacles in the treetop play area.

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non touristy things to do in gatlinburg

non touristy things to do in gatlinburg