Gatlinburg, Tennessee Travel Guide

Discover Gatlinburg, where the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains meets charming attractions and rich cultural experiences in the heart of Tennessee.

Nestled at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a picturesque town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and charming attractions. As you stroll through its quaint streets, you'll find a plethora of boutique shops, cozy cafes, and fascinating museums that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. Gatlinburg is an outdoor lover's paradise. Visitors can explore the scenic trails of the Smoky Mountains, embark on thrilling white-water rafting adventures, or enjoy a peaceful day fishing in one of the many pristine streams. For those seeking a bird's-eye view of the stunning landscape, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge and the Space Needle offer breathtaking panoramas. Family-friendly attractions abound in Gatlinburg. The Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-visit, featuring a mesmerizing collection of marine life. For a touch of whimsy, the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre provides delightful live performances that will entertain audiences of all ages. Don't forget to sample some of the local cuisine, from mouth-watering Southern barbecue to delicious homemade fudge.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Gatlinburg.

Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and catch the stunning sunrise.
Purchase a multi-attraction pass to save money on popular sites like the Ripley's Aquarium and the Space Needle.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the town is best explored on foot.
Try local specialties like Tennessee whiskey and Southern-style barbecue at the many eateries around town.
Check the local event calendar for seasonal festivals and events that offer unique cultural experiences.

Explore Gatlinburg: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Gatlinburg

Top-rated picks

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The Island in Pigeon Forge

Discover the fun and excitement of The Island in Pigeon Forge, where thrilling rides, live entertainment, and delicious dining await you in the heart of Tennessee.

4.7

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a must-visit destination for every nature enthusiast.

4.9

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, a captivating underwater adventure in Gatlinburg, featuring diverse marine life and interactive exhibits for all ages.

4.6

Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort

Discover entertainment, luxury, and relaxation at Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort, your ultimate getaway in the heart of North Carolina's mountains.

4.3

Best landmarks in Gatlinburg

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Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Experience the wonders of marine life at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, where adventure and education meet in a breathtaking underwater world.

4.6

Gatlinburg SkyPark

Discover breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains at Gatlinburg SkyPark, where nature and adventure come together in a stunning landscape.

4.6

Anakeesta

Experience the thrill of adventure and the beauty of nature at Anakeesta, a premier theme park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

4.3

Ober Mountain

Discover Ober Mountain, Gatlinburg's thrilling amusement park and year-round adventure destination, perfect for family fun and breathtaking mountain views.

4.2

Best restaurants in Gatlinburg

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Ole Red

Discover Ole Red in Gatlinburg: A vibrant restaurant blending delicious Southern cuisine with unforgettable live music experiences.

4.1

Crockett's Breakfast Camp

Experience Southern hospitality at its finest with hearty breakfasts at Crockett's Breakfast Camp in Gatlinburg.

4.7

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Experience delicious seafood at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., where coastal charm meets cinematic magic in Gatlinburg.

4.2

Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina

Experience vibrant Tex-Mex cuisine and lively atmosphere at Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina in Gatlinburg.

4.2

Best bars in Gatlinburg

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Ole Red

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Ole Red in Gatlinburg, TN, where live music meets delicious Southern cuisine in a lively bar setting.

4.1

Smith & Son Corner Kitchen

Experience the best of American cuisine at Smith & Son Corner Kitchen in Gatlinburg, TN, where hearty meals and a lively bar atmosphere await.

4.2

LandShark Bar & Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at LandShark Bar & Grill in Gatlinburg, where a beach atmosphere meets mountain charm.

4.1

TGI Fridays

Savor the best of American cuisine at TGI Fridays in Gatlinburg, where flavor meets fun in a vibrant atmosphere tailored for everyone.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Gatlinburg

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TGI Fridays

Experience vibrant American dining at TGI Fridays in Gatlinburg, where great food meets a lively sports bar atmosphere for all ages.

4.1

Shamrock Pub

Discover Gatlinburg's vibrant nightlife at Shamrock Pub, where great food and live entertainment create unforgettable memories.

3.9

Dude's Daiquiris

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing daiquiris at Dude's Daiquiris, a must-visit bar in the heart of Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

3.7

SHINE SHACK

Discover Shine Shack in Gatlinburg: a lively bar where you can enjoy local brews, creative cocktails, and vibrant entertainment in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.0

Best shops in Gatlinburg

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The Village Shops

Explore The Village Shops in Gatlinburg for a unique shopping experience, featuring 27 boutiques and delightful dining options amidst stunning mountain scenery.

4.7

Mountain Mall

Discover the unique shops, delicious eateries, and vibrant atmosphere of Mountain Mall in Gatlinburg, a must-visit destination for tourists.

4.4

The Mountain Mile

Experience the vibrant shopping, dining, and amusement rides at The Mountain Mile in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, a perfect family-friendly destination.

4.7

Earthbound Trading Co.

Explore Earthbound Trading Co. in Gatlinburg for unique gifts, fashionable accessories, and artisan jewelry that capture the essence of adventure.

4.5

Explore Gatlinburg on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Gatlinburg, mapped for you.

Gatlinburg Essentials

Gatlinburg is located in eastern Tennessee, nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains. The nearest major airport is McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) in Knoxville, approximately 45 miles away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Gatlinburg. Alternatively, if you're driving, you can reach Gatlinburg via U.S. Route 441, which connects to Interstate 40. For those coming from further afield, Greyhound buses serve the nearby cities of Knoxville and Asheville, with connecting services to Gatlinburg.
Once in Gatlinburg, you have several transportation options. The Gatlinburg Trolley system offers an affordable and convenient way to explore the town, with multiple routes covering key attractions. Trolley passes can be purchased for unlimited rides. For more flexibility, car rentals and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available. Walking is also a great option, as many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short distance from the town center.
The official currency in Gatlinburg, as in the rest of the United States, is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout the town. It's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or for use in more remote areas where card payments may not be accepted.
Gatlinburg is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables in your car and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. While Gatlinburg is considered safe, certain areas may have higher incidences of petty crime. Staying in well-lit, populated areas and being aware of your surroundings can help ensure a safe visit.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Gatlinburg has a local police department and fire department ready to respond to emergencies. The nearest hospital with emergency services is LeConte Medical Center, located in nearby Sevierville. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as weather in the mountains can change quickly. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the town and hiking trails. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially in family-friendly areas. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and establishments. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer seats to elderly passengers on the Gatlinburg Trolley. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. Southern hospitality is a big part of the local culture. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like barbecue and southern comfort food. Don't forget to tip your servers, as tipping is customary in the United States.
To experience Gatlinburg like a local, visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Take a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers trails for all skill levels and stunning natural beauty. Check out local events and festivals, such as the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair or the Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share tips on the best places to eat, shop, and explore.

When is the best time to visit Gatlinburg?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Gatlinburg

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Gatlinburg. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [see yuh lay-tur]
- YesYessir
  [yes-ur]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/no problem]
- Thank youThank ya
  [thank yuh]
- Excuse me/SorryScuse me/My bad
  [skews me/my bad]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [how y'all doin']
- Fine. And you?I'm good. How 'bout you?
  [ahm good. how 'bout yuh]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [y'all speak english]
- I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [ah ain't catch-in' on]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [can ah see the menu]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [ah don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseReady to settle up
  [ready to settle up]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Git gone!
  [git gone]
- Call the Police!Call the law!
  [call the law]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get uh doc]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [ahm turned around]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [ahm feelin' poorly]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ah wanna buy]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just browsin']
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [how much duz it cost]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit steep
  [that's uh bit steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya bring the price down?
  [can yuh bring the price down]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [what's the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [it's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [what's the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [can yuh show me (on the map)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [when's the next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh ticket (to)]

History of Gatlinburg

Before European settlers arrived, the region around Gatlinburg was inhabited by the Cherokee people. They called the area 'Tsiya’hi', meaning 'Otter Place,' and it was a significant hunting ground and a place of spiritual significance. The Cherokee utilized the abundant natural resources, and their culture and traditions left a lasting impact on the area.
The first European settlers arrived in the early 1800s, led by William Ogle. Ogle and his family built a cabin in the area, which still stands today as a testament to the early pioneer spirit. These settlers were attracted by the fertile land and abundant timber, and they established small farms and homesteads in the region.
During the Civil War, Gatlinburg experienced significant turmoil. The area was strategically important due to its location near the border of Union and Confederate territories. Both sides conducted raids in the region, and Gatlinburg's residents were divided in their loyalties. The war left lasting scars on the community, but it also showcased the resilience of its people.
The establishment of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in 1934 was a pivotal moment for Gatlinburg. The park, which spans over 500,000 acres, was created to preserve the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Smoky Mountains. Gatlinburg became the gateway to the park, attracting millions of visitors each year and transforming the town into a bustling tourist destination.
Tourism has played a crucial role in shaping Gatlinburg's economy and culture. From the early 20th century, when the first hotels and lodges were built, to the present day, Gatlinburg has evolved into a vibrant town with a wide array of attractions. The development of attractions like the Gatlinburg SkyLift, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, and the Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort has cemented the town's reputation as a premier travel destination.
In November 2016, Gatlinburg faced one of its most challenging moments when wildfires swept through the area. The fires, fueled by extreme drought conditions and high winds, caused extensive damage to homes, businesses, and the surrounding natural landscape. The community's response to the disaster was one of unity and resilience, with efforts to rebuild and recover beginning almost immediately.