Things To Do In Gatlinburg + Attractions - Pigeon Forge
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Gatlinburg, TN is a destination for all ages and interests. Just south of Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg borders the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with all kinds of rustic mountainside attractions. Downtown Gatlinburg is very walkable, making it a great spot to spend the entire day shopping and sightseeing. You’ll find so many things to do, places to eat, and thousands of different ways to spend your vacation.
Where is Gatlinburg?
Getting there is simple: It’s just a seven mile jaunt down the Parkway from the center of Pigeon Forge, which means you don’t have to travel very far at all to enjoy some big Gatlinburg attractions and adventures! Because it’s nestled just outside the national park, the Great Smoky Mountains give Gatlinburg a unique, alpine feel – all with a unique Tennessee twist.
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Things To Do In Gatlinburg
From downhill skiing to world-class attractions, you’ll stay busy in Gatlinburg during all four seasons: Winter turns the area into a veritable wonderland with Smoky Mountain skiing and sledding; spring’s mild temperatures make hiking the area’s 600+ miles of trails pleasant; summer’s sunny skies are perfect companions for rafting the mountain rapids; and fall brings a symphony of colors to behold and the mountains changes hues.
Gatlinburg AttractionsGatlinburg Hotels
The AppyGatlinburg Hotels
Opting to stay in the Gatlinburg area? Check out our list of top Gatlinburg hotels and condos. A hotel is a great lodging option if you’re looking for amenities like continental breakfast, daily housekeeping services, and close proximity to the many things to do in Gatlinburg on the parkway.
Gatlinburg HotelsGatlinburg Cabin Rentals
Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals
If you’re looking for a bit of seclusion and gorgeous mountain views, consider browsing our selection of Gatlinburg cabin rentals. A scenic log cabin in this part of the Smoky Mountains makes for a wonderful getaway especially if you’re aiming to spend more time in the national park, which is extremely close by, than other attractions.
Gatlinburg Cabin RentalsGatlinburg Restaurants
Gatlinburg Restaurants
Get a bite to eat downtown. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are all delicious when you’re dining at one of these fabulous Gatlinburg restaurants. There are spaces to accomodate parties of all sizes for any occasion. Walk down the strip and choose from the many tasty establishments.
Gatlinburg RestaurantsGatlinburg Hikes
Gatlinburg Hikes
There are tons of great places to go hiking in Gatlinburg. You can start at the visitor center for a bunch of easier options, or dive right into the tough stuff after taking a scenic drive down Newfound Gap Road. Blaze a trail on the very mountains you can see from your cabin. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just south of this little mountain town.
Gatlinburg HikesGatlinburg Wine Trail
Gatlinburg Wine Trail
Sip your way through downtown Gatlinburg on the Gatlinburg Wine Trail. This self guided tasting tour includes five local wineries and a hard cider house, all just steps apart. For only $10, you can grab a wine trail pass that gets you VIP tastings at each stop. It’s a fun and budget friendly way to sample a variety of local wines, discover new favorites, and maybe even bring a bottle or two home.
Gatlinburg Wine TrailNational Park Visitor Centers
Sugarlands Visitor Center
Nestled just inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Sugarlands Visitor Center is the perfect place to begin your mountain adventure. Learn about park activities, get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna, and even talk with a ranger at this NPS-operated center.
Visitor CentersGatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community
Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community FacebookGatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community
Gatlinburg’s Arts & Crafts Community is an 8 mile loop full of over 100 artists and makers. You’ll find everyone from potters and painters to basket weavers and stained glass workers working right in their studios. It’s the perfect spot to discover unique, handcrafted souvenirs while getting to know the people behind them.
Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts CommunityGatlinburg Web Cams
Gatlinburg Web Cams
Can’t get enough of the Smokies? Whether you’re counting down to your next trip or just dreaming of the mountains, these live webcams let you peek at some of your favorite Gatlinburg spots anytime. From scenic views to popular attractions, check out the different views and enjoy a little Smoky Mountain magic.
Gatlinburg Web CamsRocky Top Sports World
Rocky Top Sports World FacebookGatlinburg Sports
Located near Gatlinburg-Pittman High School and just north of the national park, Rocky Top Sports World is host to many football, lacrosse, basketball, volleyball and soccer tournaments. Many traveling teams come to the area to compete. With Mount LeConte serving as the backdrop to the outdoor facilities, the location is unique in its mountain setting.
Rocky Top Sports World
Gatlinburg Shopping
Gatlinburg is packed with fun shopping spots all along the Parkway and downtown strip. You’ll find everything from handmade goods to quirky souvenirs as you explore. It’s the perfect way to break up your day between attractions, meals, and mountain views.
Bear Safety
Bear Safety
Seeing a black bear in the Smoky Mountains is exciting but it’s important to stay safe. Always keep your distance, never feed them, and store food and trash properly. Respect their space so everyone, bears included, can enjoy the mountains safely.
Bear SafetyMake the most of your next Pigeon Forge vacation by spending some quality time with plenty of things to do in Gatlinburg, TN with all of the amazing sites and attractions! Learn more about Smoky Mountain attractions and things to do in East Tennessee by clicking through PigeonForge.com.
Upcoming Events in Gatlinburg
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Sat, Jan 10, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Wed, Jan 28, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Sat, Feb 14, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Wed, Feb 25, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts
Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain Wine Fest
Sat, Mar 14, 2026
The Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain Wine Fest is back at the Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts! Sip wines from over 10 local and regional wineries, savor food pairings from local chefs, and watch talented a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Sat, Mar 14, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Wed, Mar 25, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sleep With The Sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium
Sat, Mar 28, 2026
Do sharks sleep? Find out for yourself when you spend the night at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. After a fun-filled night including a late night snack, scavenger hunt, and late night activity, dri...
Event Details →
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Breakfast With A Mermaid
Thu, Apr 2, 2026
Have you ever wanted to meet a mermaid? Now is your chance! Join us for Breakfast with a Mermaid at Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg. Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, bacon, biscuits, potatoes, juice...
Event Details →
Gatlinburg
Mountain Man Memorial March
Apr 10 through 11, 2026
We thank the Mountain Man Memorial March faithful who have been the bedrock in the continued growth of our event and Veteran & Gold Star community which continues to Honor our Fallen and support our G...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Sat, Apr 11, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage
Apr 22 through 25, 2026
The Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage is an annual nonprofit event in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that offers professionally guided walks, exhibits, and educational opportunities to explore the...
Event Details →
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Pints & Penguins
Fri, Apr 24, 2026
Pints & Penguins is an adult-only sleepover event full of animal experiences, delicious bites, a full bar, and more! Start your night off with appetizers and drinks, followed by a behind-the-scenes to...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Wed, Apr 29, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →
Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
Hands On Gatlinburg
May 1 through 31, 2026
Hands-on arts and crafts workshops from artist and craftsmen in the community. Spring into the new season by getting in touch with your creative side during Hands On Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Month in...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Sat, May 9, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sleep With The Sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium
Sat, May 23, 2026
Do sharks sleep? Find out for yourself when you spend the night at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. After a fun-filled night including a late night snack, scavenger hunt, and late night activity, dri...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Wed, May 27, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Breakfast With A Mermaid
Thu, Jun 4, 2026
Have you ever wanted to meet a mermaid? Now is your chance! Join us for Breakfast with a Mermaid at Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg. Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, bacon, biscuits, potatoes, juice...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Breakfast With A Mermaid
Thu, Jun 18, 2026
Have you ever wanted to meet a mermaid? Now is your chance! Join us for Breakfast with a Mermaid at Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg. Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, bacon, biscuits, potatoes, juice...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sleep With The Sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium
Sat, Jun 27, 2026
Do sharks sleep? Find out for yourself when you spend the night at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. After a fun-filled night including a late night snack, scavenger hunt, and late night activity, dri...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Breakfast With A Mermaid
Thu, Jul 2, 2026
Have you ever wanted to meet a mermaid? Now is your chance! Join us for Breakfast with a Mermaid at Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg. Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, bacon, biscuits, potatoes, juice...
Event Details →
Downtown Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg’s July 4th Fireworks Finale
Sat, Jul 4, 2026
Celebrate America at Gatlinburg's July 4th Fireworks Finale in Downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to mark our nation's "Independence Day" with an amazing fireworks show starting at 11:00pm. The fireworks...
Event Details →
Downtown Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg 4th of July Parade
Sat, Jul 4, 2026
Gatlinburg celebrates the 4th of July in a big way and this year will be no exception with the first Independence Day Parade in the nation. The parade has been named as a "Top Ten Parade to see in the...
Event Details →
Gatlinburg Convention Center
Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair
Jul 10 through 19, 2026
A unique characteristic of the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair is the fact that artisans not only make their art available for viewing and sale, but also demonstrate their special talents and skills durin...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Pints & Penguins
Sat, Jul 11, 2026
Pints & Penguins is an adult-only sleepover event full of animal experiences, delicious bites, a full bar, and more! Start your night off with appetizers and drinks, followed by a behind-the-scenes to...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Breakfast With A Mermaid
Thu, Jul 16, 2026
Have you ever wanted to meet a mermaid? Now is your chance! Join us for Breakfast with a Mermaid at Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg. Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, bacon, biscuits, potatoes, juice...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sleep With The Sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium
Sat, Jul 18, 2026
Do sharks sleep? Find out for yourself when you spend the night at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. After a fun-filled night including a late night snack, scavenger hunt, and late night activity, dri...
Event Details →
Gatlinburg Convention Center
Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference
Sat, Jul 25, 2026
Get ready for the annual Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Conference! This conference is not just for Bigfoot enthusiasts, but for anyone who wants to believe. Join us as we take you on a journey to unravel the...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Breakfast With A Mermaid
Thu, Aug 6, 2026
Have you ever wanted to meet a mermaid? Now is your chance! Join us for Breakfast with a Mermaid at Ripley's Aquarium in Gatlinburg. Breakfast includes scrambled eggs, bacon, biscuits, potatoes, juice...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Sat, Aug 8, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Pints & Penguins
Sat, Aug 15, 2026
Pints & Penguins is an adult-only sleepover event full of animal experiences, delicious bites, a full bar, and more! Start your night off with appetizers and drinks, followed by a behind-the-scenes to...
Event Details →
Gatlinburg Convention Center
The Mountain Music Festival
Aug 21 through 23, 2026
Formally Monsters on the Mountain, The Mountain Music Festival is a 3 day music event at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. It will feature 3 days of rock music on several stages.
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Wed, Aug 26, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Sat, Sep 12, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sleep With The Sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium
Sat, Sep 26, 2026
Do sharks sleep? Find out for yourself when you spend the night at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. After a fun-filled night including a late night snack, scavenger hunt, and late night activity, dri...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Wed, Sep 30, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →
Rocky Top Sports World
Smoky Mountain Anime Fest
Oct 2 through 3, 2026
Introducing Smoky Mountain Fan Fests first ever Anime Fest! Join us for a weekend full of fun! Vendors, Anime Guests, Cosplay, Games, and more! October 2nd & 3rd, 2026 at Rocky Top Sports Complex, in...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Sat, Oct 10, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Pints & Penguins
Sat, Oct 17, 2026
Pints & Penguins is an adult-only sleepover event full of animal experiences, delicious bites, a full bar, and more! Start your night off with appetizers and drinks, followed by a behind-the-scenes to...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Wed, Oct 28, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →
Downtown Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg Chili Cookoff
Thu, Nov 12, 2026
Gatlinburg's Annual Chili Cook-off and Winter Magic Celebration returns November 12, 2026 on the Parkway between the Mountain Mall and Gatlinburg Sky Park in Downtown Gatlinburg Celebrate the start of...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Sat, Nov 14, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →
Gatlinburg Convention Center
Bluegrass Christmas In The Smokies Music Festival
Nov 19 through 21, 2026
Every year hundreds of fans pour into the Gatlinburg Convention Center to come to the Christmas In The Smokies Bluegrass Festival. While the bluegrass festival is enough fun for anyone, there is so mu...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Wed, Nov 25, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →
Downtown Gatlinburg
Fantasy Of Lights Christmas Parade
Fri, Dec 4, 2026
Gatlinburg's annual Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade will roll through Downtown Gatlinburg in celebration of the holiday season and the arrival of the man in the red suit himself, Santa Claus. The e...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Sat, Dec 12, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sleep With The Sharks at Ripley’s Aquarium
Sat, Dec 26, 2026
Do sharks sleep? Find out for yourself when you spend the night at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. After a fun-filled night including a late night snack, scavenger hunt, and late night activity, dri...
Event Details →Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Sensory-Friendly Days At The Aquarium
Wed, Dec 30, 2026
Join us for a quieter experience at Ripley's Aquarium! Several days throughout the year, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg hosts sensory-friendly events which offer welcoming lighting, a...
Event Details →Gatlinburg Space Needle
Gatlinburg New Year’s Eve Ball Drop & Fireworks
Dec 31, 2026 through Jan 1, 2027
Ring in 2027 in Gatlinburg, TN with the Annual New Year's Eve Ball Drop, Fireworks & Drone Show Gatlinburg, Tennessee, will welcome 2027 in unforgettable style with its annual New Year's Eve Ball Drop...
Event Details →For more events in the area, be sure to check our our full Smoky Mountain events calendar.
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