So you probably already know that Gatlinburg is a bustling mountain resort town surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains. Wondering why you should visit? Gatlinburg, Tennessee offers opportunities and experiences like no place else in the country. With breathtaking views and exciting attractions, visiting this city is definitely something you should add to your bucket list! Check out these five reasons why Gatlinburg is a must-visit.
Cades Cove
If hiking isn’t your forte, you can take in some of Gatlinburg’s most beautiful scenery from the comfort of your automobile. This isolated valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most visited attractions in the area. The valley makes for great wildlife viewing, with visitors frequently coming face-to-face with black bears, elk, turkey, deer and coyotes. The automobile tour encompasses a 11 mile one way loop, allowing you to sight see at your own pace. Make sure you stop at the historic home sites to catch a glimpse of the “old” Gatlinburg!
Ole Smoky Mountain Moonshine
Where else can you purchase completely legal and authentic moonshine? Ole Smoky Mountain prides themselves on their mountain-made moonshine, using recipes that have been practiced and perfected for 200 years. Catch a glimpse at what it takes for the distillery to make the powerful liquid and purchase a jar home to enjoy later. The business offers seasonal flavors such as grape and peach in addition to the white lightening flavor, as well as year-round varieties like apple pie and cherry.
Clingman’s Dome
This attraction requires a little hiking, but we promise the work will be worth it! Clingman’s Dome is settled atop the highest peak east of the Mississippi River. The trail is easy to access by everyone from the children to the elderly, with wide, paved trails that strollers and wheelchairs can navigate. The trail is only one mile in length, and the views from the top are spectacular! On clear days, expect views of 100 miles and into seven states!
Fall Foliage
We believe that Gatlinburg is one of the best places in the country to view the awe-inspiring fall colors. Fall foliage can be viewed from October to November with changing beginning in the higher elevations, then working its way down the foothills of the mountains later in the fall season. The variety of maple, hickory, oak and birch trees provide vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow that will leave you with pictures and memories for years to come.
Ripley’s Aquarium
The most visited aquarium in the country will take your breath away with its variety of displays and wildlife. With more than 10,000 exotic sea creatures this aquarium has more fish than Gatlinburg has residents! Ripley’s Aquarium provides and up-close and personal look at the underwater world with hands on experiences and glass tunnels that walk you through the deep blue sea. Check out their Penguin Playhouse to encounter some frisky penguins, their Shark Lagoon for the best shark exhibit in the country, and live feeding and diving shows in Stingray Bay.