Should You Visit Gatlinburg?

Is Gatlinburg worth visiting?

This city is a good place to visit for days. During our first trip to Gatlinburg in 2014, we fell in love with its light hearted, don't take yourself seriously atmosphere. We've come back several times since then to experience it even more. Gatlinburg is not only the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but it's a destination in and of itself. The town has positioned itself as a tourist spot that attracts crowds looking to have a good time and enjoy quirky, and sometimes tacky, entertainment venues. While some visitors never leave the town's main drag, others head into the surrounding nature to enjoy hiking and scenic trails.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Reasons to Visit Gatlinburg

Nightlife
Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

Resorts
There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Hiking
You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Skiing
Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Museums
Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

Shopping
There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

Is Gatlinburg worth visiting in the Summer?

The high season for travel in Gatlinburg is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This is an extremely popular destination, and in the high season it's busier than usual as this is when most people are able to travel. Expect large crowds of tourists, longer lines, and higher prices for hotels. On the other hand, you'll find that everything is open and you'll have a wide array of activities, things to do, and places to eat.

The weather in Gatlinburg is fairly warm during summer, and stays around 27°C (81°F). But it can get as warm as 33°C (91°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.

The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. During this season it's fun to experience the hiking, the museums and landmarks, and the resorts. Also, you can experience the nightlife.

Is Gatlinburg worth visiting in the Autumn?

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 17°C (63°F).

The peak season for travel is autumn in Gatlinburg, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is very popular with tourists, and in the high season it's even busier than usual as this is when most people like to visit. Expect tourist crowds to be very large, and prices to be higher than normal. However, there's plenty to do here this time of year, too.

This is a great time of year to wander through the museums and go hiking.

Is Gatlinburg worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the shoulder season for travel in Gatlinburg. This is an extremely touristy destination, so in the shoulder season you'll still see plenty of other tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found on hotels and tours.

The weather in Gatlinburg can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 5°C (40°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to hit the ski slopes, browse through museums, and enjoy the evening activities.

Is Gatlinburg worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Gatlinburg. As a very touristy destination, even in the shoulder season you'll see plenty of tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found at this time of year.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 17°C (62°F).

During this season it's fun to experience the many shops, the famous sights and museums, and the nightlife scene.

Things to Consider Before Visiting Gatlinburg

Food: Gatlinburg doesn't top the list for most foodies. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

Lots of Tourists
Gatlinburg sees a high number of visitors every year, which means you might have to wait in line and deal with large crowds during your visit.

Not As Family-Friendly
While there are some family activities, it's not as child-friendly as other destinations.

The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Gatlinburg might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Gatlinburg here or see if Gatlinburg is expensive here.

Related

What is Gatlinburg most famous for?

Gatlinburg is most famous for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. People visit this impressive city for its great nightlife. It is also known for its great resorts and hiking. And many visitors also come to this city for its skiing, museums, and shopping. It is often described as flashy, high energy, and wild.

What is the most famous sight in Gatlinburg?

The most popular sight in Gatlinburg is the Gatlinburg Strip. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Gatlinburg on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for the Gatlinburg Strip and other attractions here.

How touristy is Gatlinburg? Is it a popular city to visit?

Gatlinburg is a very touristy city that attracts travelers from around the globe. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

• High Points Driving Tour: $85
• The Escape Game 60 Minute Adventure: $45
• Winterfest Scenic Evening Tour: $68
• Helicopter Ride in Smoky Mountain Sevierville Douglas Lake Tour: $102
• Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee: $150
• 3-Hour Nantahala River Fully Guided Rafting Experience: $65
• Scenic Helicopter Tour of Wears Valley, Tennessee: $158
• The Escape Game: Epic 60-Minute Adventures in Pigeon Forge: $45

How long should I spend in Gatlinburg?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Gatlinburg is days. Since Gatlinburg has a variety of activities such as nightlife, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Gatlinburg?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Gatlinburg?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Gatlinburg?.