Planning a family trip to Gatlinburg? You’re in for a treat! This charming mountain town in Tennessee offers an ideal mix of fun attractions, natural beauty, and unique spots that both kids and parents will love. Whether it’s exploring downtown or discovering the stunning views of the Smokies, Gatlinburg has something for everyone.
To help you plan your best trip, here’s an itinerary of family-friendly things to do. From enchanting museums to outdoor exploration, you’ll discover more than enough avenue for quality time by your side and memories to cherish.
Morning Adventure: Discovering Downtown Gatlinburg
Explore the center of Gatlinburg. It’s easy to get your family vacation rolling with some of the region’s top attractions when you have so much to do in walking distance.
Start with Pancakes and Stroll Through Downtown: Pang; but you must attempt these pancake houses at least once on a visit to Gatlinburg (more on that later!) That’s a tasty way to kick off a morning, especially if you plan to spend the afternoon in downtown Gatlinburg. Post brunch, take a poke along
If your family loves movies, your next stop should be the Hollywood Car Museum TN! This museum in downtown Gatlinburg is home to some of the most recognizable vehicles from TV shows and movies. Here, you’ll find the Batmobile, Back to the Future’s DeLorean, and cars from the Fast and Furious franchise. Kids and parents alike will get a thrill seeing these cars up close, and you’ll also have the chance to snap a souvenir photo with your favorites.
Where to Stay: If you’re looking for a convenient and comfortable place to stay nearby, Old Creek Lodge is a fantastic option. Located just a short walk from the museum and other downtown attractions, this family-friendly lodge provides a peaceful retreat while keeping you close to all the action. With mountain stream views, a free continental breakfast, and a seasonal outdoor pool, it’s the ideal spot for families who want a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Afternoon Fun: Nature and Adventure in Gatlinburg
Once you’ve explored downtown, it’s time to enjoy some of Gatlinburg’s beautiful natural scenery. An afternoon in nature is a great way to give kids a break from indoor attractions while soaking in the Smoky Mountain landscape.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Just minutes from downtown, you’ll find one of the most visited national parks in the country, perfect for family-friendly outdoor activities. The Gatlinburg Trail is ideal for families, as it’s a relatively flat, stroller-friendly path that winds along the Little Pigeon River. This trail offers gentle terrain and beautiful views, making it easy for young kids to keep up and enjoy the experience. Pack a few snacks or a picnic to take along, and you’ve got an afternoon of outdoor fun ready to go.
Gatlinburg SkyPark:If your kids get excited by heights, you have to visit the Gatlinburg SkyPark! The SkyLift transports you to the top of Crockett Mountain, where you can cross the SkyBridge, North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge. The bridge has sweeping views of the Smokies and downtown Gatlinburg, and while it sounds a bit daring, it’s totally safe and kid-friendly. There are even glass panels in between for an added scare if you dare! The Gatlinburg SkyPark is an awesome way to experience a little adventure and get spectacular mountain views at the same time.
Evening Activities: Dinner and Entertainment
After a day of exploration, your family will probably be ready to wind down with a good meal and some easy-going evening entertainment.
Family Dining in Downtown Gatlinburg: Gatlinburg is full of restaurants that welcome families with open arms and kid-friendly menus. Options range from Southern-style comfort food to pizza places where kids can pick their favorite toppings. You might enjoy a cozy meal at a local spot or grab a takeout for a more relaxed dinner at your accommodation. Many downtown eateries also have outdoor seating, so you can enjoy the mountain air while dining with your family.
Arcades and Games: After dinner, keep the fun going by visiting one of Gatlinburg’s many arcades or mini-golf courses. Arcades are scattered around downtown, offering everything from classic games to the latest interactive experiences. Mini-golf is another family favorite, and Gatlinburg has several courses with fun themes and creative obstacles that kids of all ages will love. These spots are a great way to let the kids blow off some energy and maybe even win a few prizes before heading back to the lodge.
Additional Tips for Families Visiting Gatlinburg
Here are a few practical tips to make your family vacation as smooth and enjoyable as possible:
Parking Tips: Parking in downtown Gatlinburg can be challenging, especially during the peak travel season. If you’re staying somewhere in the vicinity, you’ll be a short walk from most attractions, which also sidesteps the parking hassle. If driving in, she suggested searching for public parking lots near the downtown hub, or opting to trolly service which is an inexpensive and easy way to maneuver through town..
Stroller-Friendly Spots: Gatlinburg is generally stroller-friendly, especially in downtown areas and at the Gatlinburg Trail in the national park. However, some attractions may require strollers to be parked outside or folded up. It’s a good idea to bring a compact or lightweight stroller for easier navigation through busy areas.
Best Times to Visit: If you want to escape the crowds, try to hit up Gatlinburg in early spring or late fall, which tend to be slower periods in the area. Not only will you encounter less traffic and shorter queues, you could even score lower rates on lodgings and excursions.
Gatlinburg is the perfect getaway for a family hoping to experience unique attractions, gorgeous scenery, and welcoming locals. This travel guide hits the highlights while also offering options for every interest: fro movie-influenced museums to jaw-dropping views in the wild.
All of the activities present something each member of your family will never forget, ensuring that your next trip to Gatlinburg will be one for the books. So buckle up for a great Smoky family adventure!
