Gatlinburg Family Vacation: Guide to Smoky Mountain Memories
Planning a family vacation to Gatlinburg? Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is a fantastic destination for families seeking adventure, relaxation, and a touch of mountain charm.
With its scenic trails, interactive attractions, and unique experiences, Gatlinburg offers something for everyone in the family to enjoy!
If you’ve never visited this area, you might wonder about the differences between Gatlinburg and its neighboring town, Pigeon Forge, and what each has to offer.
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Located just 8 miles apart via the Great Smoky Mountains Parkway, both towns are packed with family-friendly restaurants and attractions but have their own unique vibes.
Gatlinburg is known for its walkable downtown, the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and attractions like Anakeesta, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and the scenic SkyBridge.
Meanwhile, Pigeon Forge is famous for Dollywood, The Island, dinner shows, and a range of entertainment options.
Keep reading to find out how to navigate Gatlinburg with ease including tips on the best places to stay, eat, and play, along with everything else you need to know for an unforgettable family vacation in the Smoky Mountains.
Best Time to Go to Gatlinburg
Vacationing in the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area is great any time of year, with each season offering its own unique experiences and benefits.
We’ve visited a couple of times- once in March and another in July.
While July was busier, I loved seeing Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains in full greenery. However, the cooler temperatures in March made exploring more comfortable!
I know the fall is absolutely gorgeous with all of the leaf color, and the weather is typically ideal as well.
The winter season may offer the perfect opportunity to cozy up in a cabin and take in the amazing views of the snowy mountains.
Overall, I really think you can’t go wrong with the time of year to visit. There are advantages for visiting in each season.
Expert Tip
When deciding which time of year you want to go, I would think about what exactly you want to do and see there. Also, factor in the type of season you wish to embrace for your Gatlinburg getaway.
If you want to spend some time at Great Smoky Mountain National Park you probably want to go during June, July, August or early fall.
When we were there in March there were still a few parts of the park closed from winter.
No matter when you go, there are SO many attractions you can visit and enjoy in this area year round.
How Long to Stay
A 4-day stay in Gatlinburg is certainly doable, but if you want to fully experience all the area has to offer, at least 5 days would be ideal.
Between exploring Gatlinburg’s charming downtown, venturing to the attractions in nearby Pigeon Forge, and driving through Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there’s more than enough to fill your days.
In fact, if you have the time, a week-long vacation would allow you to spend more time in each spot and explore the entire area more thoroughly.
With an abundance of miniature golf courses, mountain coasters, quirky museums, unique stores, and fantastic restaurants, the options feel endless.
You’ll never run out of new things to discover and places to enjoy!
Where to Stay in Gatlinburg
The Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area offers a wide range of fantastic vacation rental options, making it an exciting destination for finding the perfect home away from home.
We’ve stayed in a beautiful cabin in Sevierville, just a 20-minute drive to Gatlinburg and 13 minutes to Pigeon Forge.
Sevierville is a charming mountain town with breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, and our VRBO cabin did not disappoint!
It was secluded with unobstructed mountain views, huge windows, and decks on each level to take it all in.
The cabin also featured a hot tub, pool table, and a fun jukebox that our kids loved!
We also recently stayed in another vacation rental less than a mile from the Great Smoky Mountains Parkway in Pigeon Forge, and it was another great experience.
With so many unique vacation rental options to choose from, you really can’t go wrong in this area.
Expert Tip
When choosing a vacation rental, make sure to read the entire listing carefully. I also recommend going through all the reviews, as they provide valuable insights into the rental and its surroundings. If I come across too many negative reviews, I move on to another option.
If you are leaning towards a hotel or resort, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa is a top pick.
Their junior suites can accommodate up to six guests, making it one of the most family-friendly resorts around.
The resort offers stunning indoor and outdoor pools and plenty of activities for all ages.
For a more budget-friendly option with great amenities, consider the Residence Inn Pigeon Forge. We stayed there for a couple of nights and LOVED it!
It offers free breakfast, an excellent pool area complete with a zer0 entry and hot tub, and a convenient location across from The Island.
No matter what you’re looking for, there are plenty of great hotels and resorts in the area to suit your needs.
Choosing Where to Stay
When choosing where to stay, consider factors like space, amenities, and proximity to key attractions. If you want to spend most of your time in downtown Gatlinburg or be near the National Park, a hotel in Gatlinburg might be perfect for your family.
For more space, scenic views, and a quieter atmosphere-while being okay with a bit of driving– a vacation rental further out could be ideal.
If you prefer to be close to the action but not right on the busy Parkway, a hotel near The Island in Pigeon Forge may be a great choice! It all depends on the experience you’re looking for!
Getting Around Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Exploring Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge often requires a fair amount of driving, especially if you’re planning to venture into Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Be prepared for traffic, which can be heavy during peak hours or busy seasons.
While this shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the area, it’s something to keep in mind when planning your day. Starting early will help you avoid the worst of it.
For a stress-free alternative, consider taking the local trolleys.
The Gatlinburg trolley is free, and a huge perk is the ability to park at the Park-n-Ride lot at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center. From there, you can hop on the trolley and avoid the hassle of finding and paying for parking downtown.
The Pigeon Forge trolley offers an all-day fare for just $3. It covers over 200 stops throughout Pigeon Forge, making it a super affordable and convenient way to explore the area.
Both trolley systems are excellent options if you’d rather relax and enjoy the ride instead of driving.
They’re especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the area or prefer to avoid the stress of navigating traffic.
What To Do in the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge Area
There is SO much for families to enjoy in the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area.
While this list isn’t exhaustive, it includes all the activities we personally experienced.
Take a Photo with Every Bear Statue You See
This was not on our original list of activities to do on our trip, but our boys quickly noticed that there were statues of bears everywhere we went.
They decided they wanted a picture with each one.
It became an unexpected, fun activity that kept them entertained and excited the entire trip.
I highly recommend turning this into a family game- it’s a great way to keep the kids engaged while exploring Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge!
Meander Through Downtown Gatlinburg
The main strip in Gatlinburg is just .8 miles long but offers so much to explore!
Packed with unique shops, restaurants and attractions, downtown is a hub of activity.
You’ll find plenty of touristy spots selling Smoky Mountain souvenirs, locally crafted goods, and sweet treats like homemade fudge.
For a family friendly adventure, stop by Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies or take the Chondola up to the mountaintop theme park, Anakeesta.
If you’re looking for indoor fun, downtown Gatlinburg offers a variety of options, including arcades, mirror mazes, laser tag, and even some quirky museums.
As you walk through downtown, you’ll surely spot a few bear statues along the way- perfect for a quick photo op!
DISCOVER DOWNTOWN GATLINBURG: Everything You Need to Know for Your Visit to Downtown Gatlinburg
Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies has been voted the best aquarium by USA Today, multiple times, so we had to check it out- and it didn’t disappoint!
We had an amazing time exploring the exhibits.
One standout feature is the Penguin Parade, a unique experience where penguins waddle through the aquarium a couple of times a day. It was such a fun and impressive sight!
Our kids also loved the play structure, spending plenty of time burning off energy there.
Another highlight is the Penguin Playground, where children can crawl through tunnels and get an up-close view of the penguins in both their indoor and outdoor habitats.
The Penguin Playground allows you to see the penguins both in their indoor and outdoor habitats.
If you’re in Gatlinburg, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-visit, especially for families.
Be sure to add it to your list!
Anakeesta
Anakeesta is a must-do when visiting Gatlinburg!
It was my favorite attraction in the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area, and you’ll see why once you experience it. This mountaintop theme park is amazing!
To reach the summit, you have two options: ride the Chondola or take the Ridge Rambler Adventure Vehicle.
We opted for the Chondola up and took the Ridge Rambler down, giving us two fun experiences.
Once at the top, there’s plenty to explore.
Admission includes access to the AnaVista Observation Tower, the Treetop Skywalk, challenge courses for kids, the Treehouse Village Play Area, and the newest attraction, BirdVenture.
For those looking for extra thrills, Anakeesta also offers zip lining, two mountain coasters, gem mining, and the magical Astra Lumina, a nighttime walk experience.
With a variety of shops, dining options, bear statues, and breathtaking views of the Smokies, Anakeesta truly has something for everyone.
Be sure to carve out time to visit—you won’t regret it!
EXPERIENCE ANAKEESTA: Ultimate Guide to Anakeesta
The Island at Pigeon Forge
The Island in Pigeon Forge is an outdoor shopping and entertainment complex that offers endless fun for families. There’s so much to do here, and I definitely recommend adding it to your itinerary!
One of our favorite things was the Fountain Show, which runs every half hour, featuring two songs synchronized with water and lights.
It’s super entertaining and a great way to take a break while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
The Island is also home to a variety of amusement rides and activities.
Our two-year-old loved the toddler ropes course, while our six-year-old took on the larger ropes course, which was a big hit!
We also tried the Mirror Maze and SkyFly: Soar America, an immersive flying experience that takes you on a virtual journey over famous American landmarks—it was a blast!
Beyond the attractions, there’s plenty of shopping, from unique boutiques to souvenir shops.
You’ll also find tons of great restaurants and snack spots, perfect for grabbing a quick treat or a full meal between activities.
Whether you’re there for the rides, entertainment, shopping, or dining, The Island offers something for every member of the family!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No trip to the area is complete without a visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park—it’s the main reason many people come here!
As the most visited national park in the U.S., it’s truly a must-see.
Even if you don’t plan to spend a lot of time here, I recommend at least getting a photo in front of the National Park sign and taking a short drive or enjoying one hike.
Start your visit by snapping that essential family photo in front of the iconic National Park sign—this is a tradition for us!
Then, head to the visitor center to get your national park passport stamped, pick up a junior ranger booklet for the kids, browse for souvenirs, and check out the exhibits.
The rangers are always helpful with maps, recommendations, and answering any questions.
Once you’ve explored the visitor center, it’s time to find your adventure!
We hiked the Laurel Falls Trail, a 2.5-mile round trip that’s perfect for families and beginner hikers. The trail is beautiful, and the reward at the end—an 80-foot waterfall—is breathtaking.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers countless trails and scenic spots to explore, so whether you’re hiking, wildlife spotting, or simply soaking in the natural beauty, you’re in for an unforgettable experience!
Expert Tip
It’s a good idea to plan ahead for your visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Decide how much time you want to spend there and create a bucket list of hikes or sights you’d like to see. That way, if certain areas are crowded, you can easily shift to something else on your list and return to your original spot later.
Having a flexible plan will help you make the most of your time in the park!
Ober Mountain Aerial Tramway
The Ober Mountain Aerial Tramway offers breathtaking views as you ascend to the top of Ober Mountain.
Once you reach the top, you’ll find a ton of activities to enjoy with a purchased activity wristband.
Attractions include a mountain coaster, ice skating, ice bumper cars, mini golf, amusement rides, alpine slide, snow tubing, jump pillow, rock wall, among many others.
Note: Some of these attractions are available year round and some are seasonal.
FIND OUT MORE: Ober Mountain vs. Anakeesta: Which is the Better Family Attraction
Gatlinburg Space Needle
You can ride the glass elevators to the top of the observation tower for a 360 degree view of the surrounding area.
It has educational exhibits and there is also a large arcade and some other attractions onsite.
Gatlinburg Sky Bridge
The SkyBridge spans nearly 700 feet, offering a thrilling walk across with a unique feature in the middle—a glass floor that lets you see right through!
Located in downtown Gatlinburg, the SkyPark’s base is easily accessible.
You’ll take the SkyLift up to explore all the attractions, including the SkyTrail, SkyBridge, SkyDeck, and more.
This is one of the most stunning spots to take in panoramic views of Gatlinburg. Enjoy a drink, listen to live music, and relax with your family.
As the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America, crossing the SkyBridge is an unforgettable experience, especially when you reach the glass floor.
It’s a must-try adventure!
Dollywood Theme Park
This is another great option for a way to spend a day or two in the area.
Dollywood has tons of fun rides, attractions, restaurants, and more. The theme park is also known for being very friendly!
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Mini golf
There are a ton of themed mini golf courses in the area.
This is a great activity to be a little more spontaneous.
If you are driving around and see a unique miniature golf course, stop and play or put it on your list to return to later!
Horseback riding
Did you know that you can go horseback riding in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park?
There are four stables throughout the park that offer guided horseback rides.
Additionally there is even a hayride around Cades Cove Loop Road that you can make reservations to do through Cades Cove Riding Stables.
This would be another fun and unique way to see parts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
So Many Fun Museums in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge both have a ton of unique museums that are fun for families to check out. Below is a list of museums that I put together:
- Titanic Museum (Pigeon Forge)
- Hollywood Wax Museum (Pigeon Forge)
- Hollywood Stars Cars Museum (Gatlinburg)
- Gatlinburg Pinball Museum (Gatlinburg)
- Alcatraz East Crime Museum (Pigeon Forge)
- Beyond the Lens! Family Fun (Pigeon Forge)
- Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum (Gatlinburg)
- Wonderworks (Pigeon Forge)
- Bush’s Baked Beans Visitor Center (Chestnut Hill) FREE
DISCOVER MORE: Top 10 Free Things to do in Gatlinburg for Families
Where to Eat in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
The Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area offers plenty of great dining options.
During our stay, we ate at our vacation rental a few times, taking advantage of the stunning views from the large picnic table on our deck, and also grabbed takeout on occasion.
We dined at a couple of restaurants at The Island in Pigeon Forge, which was a fun experience.
One night, we enjoyed dinner at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen—it was amazing!
They can easily accommodate large families like ours, which is a big plus.
Be prepared for a wait though, so consider going early or put your name in and explore The Island while you wait.
We also ate at Timberwood Grill at The Island.
The food was delicious, and the service was excellent.
Like Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, it’s great for large groups, with huge round tables that easily fit a big family.
On our most recent trip, we visited Cookie Dough Monster in Pigeon Forge.
It’s located on the same road as the Residence Inn and not far from The Island.
This is a counter-service spot, but be aware—you might have to wait a bit since it’s super popular and always busy. But the food is worth it!
Cookie Dough Monster’s menu offers a wide variety, but they’re best known for their burgers, shakes, and of course, the delicious cookie dough bites!
Gatlinburg is the Perfect Family Vacation
The Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area is the ultimate family vacation destination.
There are numerous fantastic options for places to stay, family friendly dining choices, and endless things to do and see to make your family vacation unforgettable.
I hope this guide gives you a glimpse of the incredible array of activities and sights awaiting you in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Plus it offers valuable tips and insights to assist in planning your next incredible family adventure.
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May you LOVE your adventure! KW
