Summertime in the Smokies is packed with opportunities to do so many fun things, ranging from outdoor activities to once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The possibilities are endless! To help you plan your summer vacation in the Smokies, we’ve put together this list of can’t-miss fun things to do in Gatlinburg in the summer.
1. Get a Bird’s-Eye View
Have a fear of heights that you want to conquer this summer? Love being up high in the sky? Gatlinburg has so many great places where you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the town and the surrounding Smoky Mountains! Visit the Gatlinburg SkyPark and walk across the SkyBridge, take a ride to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or explore Anakeesta’s AnaVista Tower. You can also take a drive to the Kuwohi parking area and walk up to the top of the observation tower to get a break from the heat and enjoy panoramic views from the highest point in the Smoky Mountains. Still not high enough? Connect with Scenic Helicopter Tours and take an aerial tour of the area!
2. Take a Hike
Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg in the summer! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has more than 800 miles of hiking trails that range from easy to strenuous. Before you head out, you can stop at NOC in downtown Gatlinburg and let the staff help you find the perfect trail to hike for your interests. Doing a little research will put you on a trail that suits your level of difficulty and preferred sights, such as panoramic vistas, waterfalls, or historical sites. From our downtown Gatlinburg hotel, you can walk to the Gatlinburg Trail, which will take you over to the Sugarlands Visitor Center as well as Cataract Falls.
3. Ride the River
Are you looking for adventurous things to do in Gatlinburg in the summer? You should definitely add a ride down the river to your itinerary! Take a drive to nearby Townsend or Hartford to find a number of outposts that offer trips down the Pigeon River. You can experience the thrills of white water rafting with Smoky Mountain Outdoors, or take a leisurely float trip on a tube down the river with River Rat. Getting out on the river is a great way to cool off and have fun in the Smokies in summer! As an added bonus, you’ll see beautiful, scenic views while you drive to these locations!
4. Connect with Locals
A more laid-back approach to fun things to do in Gatlinburg in the summer is to simply relax and connect with the locals. Take a day to wander the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community and sign up for a workshop with a local artist or craftsman. Seek out local restaurants and unique shops. Connect with Smoky Mountain Angler or Smoky Mountain Guides and let a local give you a guided tour of their favorite areas of the park. Time with the locals will give you a greater appreciation for the area, and it will also support them at the same time!
Now that you know the best things to do in Gatlinburg this summer, it’s time to book your stay! Browse our selection of Gatlinburg hotel rooms to find the perfect accommodations for your summer vacation!
