Table of Contents
Google Maps Gatlinburg Tn
Introduction
Gatlinburg, TN, is a charming town nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking for a relaxing getaway. With the help of Google Maps, exploring Gatlinburg and its surroundings has never been easier. This travel guide will provide you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Gatlinburg, including the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, and more.
Top Attractions
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit attraction in Gatlinburg. It is one of the most visited national parks in the country, and for good reason. The park is home to over 800 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, waterfalls, and wildlife. Be sure to visit Cades Cove, a historic valley that offers stunning views of the mountains.
Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is a ski resort and amusement park that offers year-round fun for the whole family. In the winter, you can hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. In the summer, you can enjoy a variety of activities, including an alpine slide, mountain coaster, and water raft rides.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a great attraction for families. It features over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles. The aquarium also has interactive exhibits and a glass-bottom boat ride.
Hidden Gems
Greenbrier
Greenbrier is a secluded area of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that is less crowded than other areas of the park. It features hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas. It is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the beauty of the mountains.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a scenic drive that takes you through the mountains and past historic homesteads. It features waterfalls, old-growth forests, and wildlife. It is a great way to experience the beauty of the mountains without having to hike.
The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is a quirky museum that features over 20,000 salt and pepper shakers from around the world. It is a fun and unique attraction that is worth a visit.
Food Scene
Pancake Pantry
Pancake Pantry is a Gatlinburg institution. It has been serving up delicious pancakes since 1960. The menu features a variety of pancake flavors, as well as other breakfast items like omelets and waffles.
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que
Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que is a great place to satisfy your barbecue cravings. The menu features ribs, pulled pork, and brisket, as well as sides like mac and cheese and baked beans.
The Peddler Steakhouse
The Peddler Steakhouse is a fine dining restaurant that specializes in steaks. The menu features a variety of cuts of beef, as well as seafood and chicken dishes. The restaurant also has a great wine list.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visit in the Off-Season
Gatlinburg can be crowded and expensive during peak season. If you visit in the off-season, you can save money on lodging and attractions. The off-season is also a great time to enjoy the natural beauty of the mountains without the crowds.
Take Advantage of Free Activities
There are plenty of free activities in Gatlinburg, including hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and exploring downtown Gatlinburg. You can also visit the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum and the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community for free.
Eat at Local Diners
There are plenty of affordable diners in Gatlinburg that serve up delicious food. Check out local favorites like the Log Cabin Pancake House and the Little House of Pancakes for breakfast, and the Smoky Mountain Brewery for lunch and dinner.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking
Gatlinburg is a hiker’s paradise. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has over 800 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to challenging summit hikes. Some popular hikes include the Alum Cave Trail, the Rainbow Falls Trail, and the Chimney Tops Trail.
White Water Rafting
If you’re looking for a thrill, try white water rafting on the Pigeon River. There are several outfitters in the area that offer guided rafting trips for all skill levels.
Ziplining
Ziplining is a great way to get a bird’s-eye view of the mountains. There are several zipline courses in the area, including the Gatlinburg Zipline and the Legacy Mountain Zipline.
Family-Friendly Activities
Gatlinburg SkyBridge
The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. It offers stunning views of the mountains and the city of Gatlinburg. The bridge is 680 feet long and 140 feet high.
Dollywood
Dollywood is a theme park owned by Dolly Parton. It features roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment. It is a great place to spend a day with the family.
WonderWorks
WonderWorks is an interactive science museum that is sure to entertain the whole family. It features over 100 hands-on exhibits, including a hurricane simulator and a bed of nails.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Clingmans Dome
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The hike to the top is only 0.5 miles, but it is steep and strenuous.
Forbidden Caverns
Forbidden Caverns is an underground cave system that is over 200 million years old. It features stalactites, stalagmites, and underground streams. Guided tours are available.
Ghost Town in the Sky
Ghost Town in the Sky is an abandoned theme park that is now a ghost town. It is located on top of a mountain and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Guided tours are available.
Natural Wonders
Cades Cove
Cades Cove is a historic valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It offers stunning views of the mountains and is a great place to see wildlife like deer and black bears.
Mingo Falls
Mingo Falls is a 120-foot waterfall located in Cherokee, NC, just a short drive from Gatlinburg. The hike to the falls is short but steep, and the reward is a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush forest.
Cliff Tops
Cliff Tops is a scenic overlook located on the Appalachian Trail. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a great place to watch the sunset.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Smoky Mountain Brewery
The Smoky Mountain Brewery is a great place to grab a beer and some pub food. The brewery offers a variety of craft beers, as well as live music on the weekends.
The Peddler Steakhouse Lounge
The Peddler Steakhouse Lounge is a great place to enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine after dinner. The lounge has a cozy atmosphere and offers a variety of drinks.
Ole Smoky Moonshine
Ole Smoky Moonshine is a popular moonshine distillery located in downtown Gatlinburg. They offer a variety of moonshine flavors, as well as live music and events.
Local Markets
Gatlinburg Farmers Market
The Gatlinburg Farmers Market is held on Saturdays from May to October. It features local produce, baked goods, and crafts.
Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community
The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community is a group of over 100 local artisans who create and sell their work. The community is located in a historic area of Gatlinburg and is a great place to find unique souvenirs.
Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is a group of over 200 local artisans who create and sell their work. The community is located on an 8-mile loop road and is a great place to find handmade pottery, jewelry, and other crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
Clingmans Dome
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