Planning a Gatlinburg Weekend Getaway

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is the ultimate mountain-view destination for all things adventurous! You deserve to make the most of your limited time off, so we’re sharing everything you need to know about visiting the Gatlinburg area for a weekend trip!

Key Takeaways

Make a list of the attractions you’d like to visit during your weekend getaway in Gatlinburg.
Plan ahead to save time and money.
Thoroughly research available accommodations and try to stay within close proximity to the attractions.
Make plenty of price comparisons before you leave – considering attractions, restaurants, shows, and accommodations.
Remove the stress of vacation planning by planning early.

Importance of Planning a Smoky Mountains Vacation

We understand if you love the thrill of unplanned, spur-of-the-moment weekend getaways! However, there are plenty of reasons to plan your Gatlinburg weekend getaway before becoming immersed in everything the area has to offer (and it’s a lot!). The options are limitless when it comes to entertainment. You may choose an exhilarating white water rafting trip, a scenic hike through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or deep dive into the shops, restaurants, and entertainment districts.

If you carefully plan in advance, you can make the most of your time and enjoy more of these incredible experiences ensuring that you don’t miss out on any of the great things the Gatlinburg area has to offer. Planning beforehand will also help you secure activities and experiences at the best prices instead of paying more at the last minute.

Furthermore, planning your trip will help give you something to get excited about as you count down the days until your Gatlinburg weekend getaway! Get ready to learn more about planning a quick trip that can be anything you make it – adventurous, relaxing, and refreshing! The point is that you have fun and return recharged with many new beautiful memories to take home!

Key Attractions in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is filled with countless unique and exciting attractions. In fact, the number of things to do can be overwhelming if you don’t have somewhat of a plan going into town. We’ve curated a list of places to look into as you plan your Gatlinburg Weekend Getaway.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: If you love to experience nature, don’t miss the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! It boasts beautiful trees, plants, and waterfalls with some of the most gorgeous expansive views you’ll ever see.

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park: The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park offers a chairlift ride to the top of Crockett Mountain, where you can spend time on the Sky Bridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America.
Rafting in the Smokies: Experience white water rafting adventures on the Upper Pigeon River, Lower Pigeon River scenic family float trips, the ropes challenge course, zipline canopy tour, or spend a little time at the family adventure island!
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: This top-rated aquarium features a variety of sea creatures and an underwater tunnel that provides an unforgettable and immersive experience.
Dollywood: Dollywood is an amusement park owned by Dolly Parton. Experience traditional country culture with modern amusement rides, live entertainment, a waterpark, and more. You can make an entire day out of Dollywood!
Smoky Mountains Alpine Coaster: This unique roller coaster lets you control your speed as you wind down the mountain. It’s the longest downhill ride in the United States, and the gorgeous panoramic views are well worth the wait if there’s a line.
Gatlinburg Space Needle: The Space Needle is 407 feet tall and boasts a breathtaking observation tower that provides panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains.
The Village Shops: The Gatlinburg Village Shops is a collection of unique boutiques, eateries, and galleries in the heart of Gatlinburg. There’s something for everyone to see and experience.
Sugarlands Distilling Company: For the 21-and-up crowd, try an exciting visit to this local distillery! Sugarlands offers free tastings and tours with an overview of how they make their moonshine.

Deciding the Perfect Time to Visit

Tennessee seasonal considerations

As you plan your trip, know that Gatlinburg, Tennessee offers a unique appeal across all four seasons, each presenting a fantastic view of its charm.

Spring brings an immersion of color as wildflowers blanket the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. At the same time, summer provides perfect weather for outdoor adventures, such as white water rafting on the Big Pigeon River or hiking the park’s extensive trails.

Fall in the Gatlinburg area is arguably the most picturesque season, with the vibrant fall foliage transforming the mountains into a spectacular array of reds, oranges, and yellows. It’s also a great time to explore the arts and crafts community.

Winter offers an incredible beauty often blanketed with snow, making it perfect for skiing, snowboarding, or simply enjoying the festive decorations during the Winterfest celebration.

However, regardless of the season, Gatlinburg’s welcoming atmosphere, variety of attractions, and stunning natural beauty make it a delightful destination throughout the year.

Popular events and festivals

Spring:

Wildflower Viewing: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known as the “Wildflower National Park,” in spring, it bursts with color. Popular spots include the Cove Hardwood Nature Trail and Gregory’s Bald.
Smoky Mountain Winefest: In April, local wineries offer samples of their best alongside food from local restaurants.

Summer:

White Water Rafting: The Big Pigeon River offers exciting white water rafting adventures, usually from May to September.
Gatlinburg’s 4th of July Midnight Parade: This is the country’s first 4th of July parade (kicking off at 12:01 am) and is a highlight of the summer season in Gatlinburg. This parade has been named one of the top 10 parades to see in the United States!

Fall:

Autumn Leaf Viewing: The fall foliage in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is stunning. Popular spots include the Clingmans Dome and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Winter:

Winterfest: Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville all participate in this event with millions of holiday lights and decorations.

Choosing Your Gatlinburg Accommodations

Hotels and Resorts

Choosing a hotel or resort in Gatlinburg allows you to experience comfort, convenience, and amenities during your weekend getaway. Where you stay depends on budget, but you can choose anything from luxury resorts with full-service spas, heated pools, and fine dining to something more budget-friendly. Always consider the location of your accommodations compared to the attractions you’d like to visit. Booking a stay downtown is always a great choice! You’ll be near all the shops and dining, surrounded by rich history and incredible views with easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Cabins and Chalets

Local cabins and chalets provide an incredible Smoky Mountains experience. Renting a cabin or chalet is an excellent way to experience a cozy home-away-from-home feel. You can find anything from tiny homes to one-bedroom cabins and luxurious, spacious cabins with enough bedrooms to accommodate 20-30 people. While many options are available, your trip accommodations ultimately depend on your budget and needs. A cabin rental is great for romantic getaways or family trips. You’ll experience the seclusion of mountain living and the convenience of modern amenities.

Campgrounds

If you love the great outdoors, camping in Gatlinburg is an unforgettable experience. Several campgrounds in the area offer a great natural experience with the added perk of restrooms, picnic dining places, and firepits. Some campgrounds can also accommodate RVs with electricity and other conveniences. You can easily immerse yourself in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains with the benefit of being enveloped in the sights and sounds of nature. Be sure to plan early because campground rentals get booked up fast!

Things to Consider When Selecting Getaway Accommodations

Proximity to Attractions

Before you book a place to stay, consider the value of proximity, especially when staying in a popular weekend destination like Gatlinburg. Always thoroughly research your options and read the fine print before booking so there are no surprise costs when you arrive. Above all, the best accommodation choice will depend on your needs, preferences, and budget.

Convenience: Being close to the places you’d like to visit will reduce travel time and make your trip more enjoyable. You can spend more time enjoying everything quickly and less in traffic (which can be heavy at times).
Cost savings: If you can walk to the attractions on your list or at least take advantage of public transport, you’ll save on rental cars, gas, parking permits, and Uber/Lyft services.
Flexibility: Staying near the attractions will give you more flexibility. If you’re close enough, you can visit any time of day or flex your schedule if something needs to be changed last minute. You can also quickly return to your hotel or lodge if necessary.
Reduce stress: Navigating unfamiliar roads (especially in the mountains) can be stressful! If you stay in a centralized area, the need to travel to unfamiliar places will be reduced, and you can relax.

Budget and Preferences

Room Rates: This is the most obvious cost. Prices vary widely depending on the accommodation type (hotel, cabin, bed and breakfast, campground, etc.), location, time of year, and specific amenities. Be sure to check for any special deals or packages.
Taxes and Fees: Be aware of the added costs of taxes and other fees, which can be substantial. A resort, parking, or payment for using specific amenities might exist.
Food and Drink: If your accommodation doesn’t include breakfast or if you plan to dine in their restaurant, factor this into your budget. Some places might have cooking facilities, which can save money on eating out.
Transportation Costs: Consider how close you’ll be to the attractions you want to visit. If you’re further away, you might have to budget for a rental car, fuel, taxis, or public transportation. If you’re driving your car, consider parking costs.
Gratuities: Tips for housekeeping, room service, meal gratuities, and any other service staff should also be accounted for in your budget.
Pet Fees: If you’re traveling with a pet, some hotels have additional charges for pet-friendly rooms or require a pet deposit. Also, make sure to determine upfront if pets are allowed.
Internet Access: While many accommodations offer free Wi-Fi, some still charge. If you need internet access, check on this ahead of time.
Hotel/Lodge Amenities: Some accommodations offer amenities like pools, fitness centers, spa services, or guided tours. While some might be included in the room rate, others could have additional charges.

Exploring Gatlinburg’s Top Attractions on Your Trip

Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is essential in Gatlinburg. This expansive forest is the most visited national park in the United States, offering a stunning display of trees, flowers, streams, gorgeous mountain views, and a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural history. From witnessing the mesmerizing fireflies in early summer to exploring Cades Cove’s historical buildings or driving the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, the park presents a unique outdoor experience year-round.
Hiking and Biking Trails: Gatlinburg is the gateway to over 800 miles of well-maintained hiking trails in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. Hike to Rainbow Falls, Abrams Falls, or Charlies Bunion for unforgettable views, or stroll around the tranquil paths of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. Biking enthusiasts can enjoy the 11-mile loop at Cades Cove, which is car-free on Wednesday mornings from early May through late September.
White Water Rafting: For adrenaline seekers, white water rafting on the Big Pigeon River with Rafting in the Smokies is an exciting way to beat the summer heat. Located just a short drive from Gatlinburg, you’ll encounter exciting III and IV rapids interspersed with class I and II serene floats through beautiful scenic gorges. These adventures are suitable for beginners and experienced rafters.
Zipline Tours: Ziplining is another exhilarating way to experience Gatlinburg’s breathtaking natural scenery. Soar through the treetops and across valleys on a zipline tour, enjoying panoramic views of the mountains and forest. Whether you choose a thrilling high-speed course or a more family-friendly option, ziplining offers a unique perspective of the area’s beautiful landscape and a fun experience for thrill-seekers of all ages.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: This top-tier aquarium offers a comprehensive underwater experience in downtown Gatlinburg, where visitors can get close to sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish. The Penguin Playhouse, Touch a Ray Bay, and interactive discovery areas provide engaging experiences. Regular feeding demonstrations and dive shows make Ripley’s Aquarium an essential stop on your Gatlinburg getaway.
Anakeesta: Anakeesta is a mountaintop theme park that perfectly blends outdoor adventure and relaxation with breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Anakeesta is accessed by a scenic gondola ride or Ridge Rambler adventure trucks; the park offers a range of activities such as ziplining, walking among the treetops on the Skywalk, and strolling through Vista Gardens. Children can enjoy the Treehouse Village Playground, while adults may relax at the Cliff Top Grill & Bar or around the fire pit. The highlight of Anakeesta is undoubtedly the AnaVista Tower, the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg, offering 360-degree views of the Smoky Mountains and surrounding areas.
Scenic River Floats: Float down the lower section of the Big Pigeon River, which has calm Class I and Class II rapids.

Gatlinburg’s Culinary Scene

Local specialties and popular dishes

Gatlinburg is an excellent treat for food lovers! You can find diverse local specialties rooted in southern and Appalachian cuisine. There are many great places to try fresh southern-style fish, biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, and pulled pork. You’ll also find more pancake houses than you can imagine! If sweets are more your thing, get some Smoky Mountains saltwater taffy to take home (and some to give as a gift). There are many places to purchase decadent locally-made fudge as well. While in the area, check out the Ole Smoky Moonshine or Sugarlands Distilling Company, where you can buy traditional Tennessee spirits! It can be busy during peak tourist season, so making reservations is often a good idea, especially for dinner.

Top Gatlinburg dining spots and restaurants to try:

The Peddler Steakhouse is well-known for its custom-cut steaks and scenic views of the Little Pigeon River.
The Pancake Pantry: The Pancake Pantry is Tennessee’s first pancake house (established in 1960) and an unforgettable breakfast spot. Their menu features 23 different varieties of pancakes. This is a must-try experience!
The Park Grill: This rustic, lodge-like eatery is very popular and serves a range of hearty meals, including steaks, ribs, and locally caught trout.
The Wild Plum Tea Room: Located in the Arts and Crafts Community, this unique restaurant has a quaint, cozy atmosphere and offers a lunch menu inspired by Austrian tea houses.
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que: Bennett’s is a local favorite, offering melt-in-your-mouth slow-smoked barbecue ribs, chicken, pork, and beef.
Alamo Steakhouse: Known for its hand-cut, aged steaks, it also serves seafood, sandwiches, and salads that you’ll love!
The Greenbrier Restaurant: This historic restaurant is located off the beaten path and is famous for its wild game dishes and exquisite views.
Smoky Mountain Brewery: Perfect for beer lovers, this local microbrewery serves a variety of craft beers alongside a menu of pizzas, sandwiches, and entrees.

Shopping in Gatlinburg

Visit a great selection of local shops and boutiques.

Downtown Gatlinburg is a paradise for weekend shoppers! You’ll love the unique blend of artisan shops, boutiques, and gift shops along the strip. Enjoy the scenic mountain views while you shop. Visit the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Trail, which showcases North America’s largest group of independent artists. Purchase handmade pottery, jewelry, art, and much more. Also, you won’t want to miss the village shops, a collection of 27 boutiques set in a European-style village atmosphere.

Vacation Tips and Tricks

Review our tips and tricks for securing the best accommodations when planning your trip.

Making reservations

Research Your Options: Determine your preferred accommodations (hotel, cabin, bed & breakfast, campground, etc.). Then, research various options online using travel websites, review sites like TripAdvisor, and the official websites of the accommodations themselves.
Consider Location: Look at the proximity of accommodations to the attractions or activities you’re most interested in. Staying close to your desired spots can save travel time and transport costs.
Check Availability and Prices: Once you’ve narrowed down your options, check the availability for your travel dates and compare prices. Remember to check for any additional fees or taxes.
Read Reviews: Review previous guests’ reviews to understand what to expect. Pay attention to comments about cleanliness, service, amenities, and location. Remember to take each review with a grain of salt; one bad review doesn’t necessarily mean a bad overall experience.
Book Directly or Use a Third-Party Site: Sometimes, booking directly through the hotel or accommodation’s website can get you the best deal or perks like free Wi-Fi, but other times, third-party booking sites like Expedia or Booking.com may offer better rates or package deals.
Call to Confirm: After you’ve made your reservation, it’s a good idea to call the accommodation directly to confirm your booking. This allows you to ask any questions and ensure no issues with the reservation.

Plan for Other Aspects of Your Trip: Once your accommodations are booked, remember to plan for other aspects of your trip, like dining, activities, and transportation. Some activities or dining options may also require reservations, especially during peak seasons.

Now you’re ready to plan a weekend getaway to remember in Gatlinburg. Get ready to experience diverse experiences, from hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to exploring local shops, eateries, and even thrilling white water rafting adventures.

If you want an unforgettable experience, don’t forget to book your white water rafting trip with Rafting in the Smokies! It’s an adventure you will want to experience visiting Gatlinburg. Book now to secure your spot and make memories that will last a lifetime. Safe travels!