Gatlinburg, set amidst the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, is an idyllic destination for families seeking fun, adventure, and a chance to unwind in Tennessee. Offering a fantastic array of activities to suit all ages and interests, from whiskey tasting adventures to thrilling outdoor theme parks, Gatlinburg caters to all tastes and guarantees precious memories with your loved ones.
Whether you're looking for a luxurious cabin with modern amenities, quaint chalet rentals in serene natural settings, or somewhere close to the major family-friendly attractions, our guide will help you navigate Gatlinburg's accommodation options, ensuring an unforgettable holiday for you and your family.
Things to do
From enchanting theme parks immersed in nature to delectable whiskey tastings, Gatlinburg promises a world of fun for everyone in the family. Here, we've gathered our top recommendations on what not to miss during your visit.
- Anakeesta, an outdoor family theme park, offers unlimited scenic rides, treetop skywalk, and panoramic views from the AnaVista Tower. Explore the Firefly village filled with shopping, dining and relaxation options for the entire family.
- Ole Smoky Barrelhouse, a destillery boasting a range of whiskey delights, is a wonderful experience for parents with live bluegrass music while kids can revel in the country store atmosphere.
- Fireside Chalet & Cabin Rentals, situated near Pigeon Forge, provide family vacation accommodations in various sizes and include amenities such as hot tubs, mountain views and access to discounted tickets to Dollywood and Dolly's Splash Country.
- The Great Smoky Mountains, renowned for their natural beauty, provide fantastic outdoor opportunities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and exciting mountain white-water rafting.
- Festivals and events always make Gatlinburg fun and vibrant. Whether enjoying the Mayfest celebrations, parades in July or the Winter Magic Tour of Lights, there's always something to look forward to.
When to visit
Gatlinburg is a fabulous destination for families all-year-round, with distinct seasonal charm offering different experiences. Embrace autumn's vibrant foliage and cultural festivals but expect higher prices, while the quieter wintertime invites peaceful snowshoeing and hiking. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and marvellous scenic views, while May offers superb weather perfect for Mayfest celebrations. July might be crowded, but the Independence Day parade and thrilling rafting more than make up for it. With fantastic fall colours in September and October, low prices in winter months, and the Winter Magic Tour of Lights adding sparkle to the season, there's never a wrong time to visit.
As always, it's ideal to plan your family holiday during school breaks to avoid any complications. The lowest accommodation rates can be found from January to March, providing great options on a budget.
Things you'll love...
- Immerse yourselves in charming firefly village and treetop adventures at Anakeesta theme park
- Discover the secrets of whiskey making at Ole Smoky Barrelhouse, a family-friendly distillery
- Experience Pigeon Forge's comfort and nature in Fireside Chalet & Cabin Rentals
- Explore the Great Smoky Mountains and enjoy exhilarating outdoor activities
- Delight in seasonal festivals and events ranging from Mayfest to Winter Magic Tour of Lights
Main airport
- McGhee Tyson Airport