Gatlinburg and the Smokies offer endless possibilities for places to visit and explore on your vacation. We wanted to help get you started with 6 of our favorite places to visit in Gatlinburg. Staying with us at our downtown Gatlinburg hotel will allow you to access many of the destinations easily, some locations are within walking distance of the hotel.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
While in Gatlinburg, taking a trip into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an absolute must! Enjoy a scenic drive, explore the historic district of Elkmont, bike Cades cove or take a hike. The park is free to enter, although a $5 daily parking pass is required if you plan to park your vehicle for more than 15 minutes. You’ll find plenty of ways to connect with nature and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Smokies. For ideas and tips check out 3 Ways to Explore the Great Smoky Mountains.
Ripley’s Aquarium
Ripley’s Aquarium sits in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg and is the perfect place to get up close to 10,000 beautiful creatures of the sea! Check their website for details on special experiences like “Splash With The Rays” or “Sleep With The Sharks”. If you’re wanting to explore the aquarium while you’re in town, check out our vacation packages for a special deal! Ripley’s Aquarium Vacation Package at The Appy Lodge.
Mount LeConte
If you’re looking for a true Smoky Mountains adventure and time on the trail while staying at our downtown Gatlinburg hotel, consider hiking to Mount LeConte. The hike to LeConte isn’t for a first-time hiker, but if you’re prepared and experienced, it’s a hike that you won’t want to miss. Three of the top access trail for Mount Leconte are located within 15 minutes of our hotel. The Rainbow Falls Trail, Bullhead Trail and Trillium Gap Trail in the Roaring Fork area of the park. Making it convenient for you to have breakfast with us at 7 a.m and then head off to the trailhead by 8 a.m. Fuel up, hike up and soak up the views from the third highest peak in the Smokies.
Ober Mountain
Ober Mountain is Tennessee’s only ski resort and one of Gatlinburg’s most loved destinations. Ober isn’t just for winter fun though, you’ll find year-round activities to keep you busy during your visit. From snow fun to fun runs, an Easter sunrise service, and many more events, there’s something for everyone!
Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
If you’re looking to explore the arts and culture of Gatlinburg, the Smoky Mountains, and Appalachia, take time to check out the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community on your next visit. With over 100 artists and craftsmen, it’s the largest independent organization of artisans in the country. The history of the area is alive and thriving through the art that you’ll find along the way. Not only will you discover a wide diversity of crafts, but you’ll also have a chance to speak with many artists about their gifts and the story behind their journey in the community.
The Gatlinburg Strip
During your trip to Gatlinburg you should absolutely roam outside the boundaries of the city, but make sure that you spend at least one day exploring the Gatlinburg strip. Family attractions and fun line the streets.There are restaurants that are loved by many and you’ll find numerous shops. However, tucked away in the midst of all of the hustle and bustle is the history and art of Gatlinburg and the Smokies as well. Little pieces of Gatlinburg’s charm can be found around every corner. Take a morning, evening or a day and tour all that the city has to offer.
Are you ready experience Gatlinburg and The Smokies?
