Gatlinburg remains one of the most visited destinations in the Smoky Mountains, offering a wide mix of attractions, dining, shopping, and outdoor experiences. From walkable downtown activities to nearby mountain attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Gatlinburg in 2026 for families, couples, and groups. Whether you’re planning a short getaway or a longer stay, this guide highlights popular activities and experiences to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Gatlinburg.
What’s New in Gatlinburg in 2026
Gatlinburg continues to add new attractions, dining options, and experiences alongside its well-known favorites. In 2026, visitors can explore a mix of recently opened spots and updated experiences that add variety to a Gatlinburg itinerary. These additions give returning visitors new reasons to explore the area.
Speedwerkz Exotic Car Experience
Located right on the Parkway, Speedwerkz Exotic Car Experience offers a unique indoor attraction where visitors can get up close with some of the rarest exotic and supercars in the world. This locally owned experience gives guests the chance to explore an impressive collection of hypercars, supercars, and classic exotics displayed with professional lighting and sound effects.
The exhibit features vehicles like the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport, Ferrari Enzo, McLaren 765LT, Porsche GT3 RS models, Lamborghini Countach, and several other high-performance cars that most people only ever see online. Cars are displayed on rotating platforms, making it easy to view details from every angle.
Beyond the displays, Speedwerkz also offers interactive experiences. Guests can try racing simulators for a realistic driving experience or sit inside a Lamborghini for a photo opportunity. These hands-on options make it a popular stop for families, car enthusiasts, and anyone looking for something different to do in Gatlinburg.
Address: 467 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Reopens seven days a week starting March 1
Adults (13–62): $21.99
Kids (6–12): $14.99
Seniors (63+): $17.99
Service Members: $17.99
Locals: $15.99
Children 5 and under: Free
Additional experiences like racing simulators and in-car photo sessions are available for an extra fee. Buy tickets here.
Smoky Mountain School of Cooking & Appalachian Store
Located in Calhoun’s Village near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Smoky Mountain School of Cooking & Appalachian Store offers a hands-on way to experience Appalachian food traditions. Visitors can take live cooking classes focused on Appalachian-inspired recipes, with options ranging from chef-led demonstrations to fully hands-on cooking experiences.
Classes are designed for all skill levels and often include a sit-down meal at the end, making this a unique activity for couples, families, and small groups looking for something different to do in Gatlinburg. Private classes are also available for special occasions, group trips, and celebrations.
Not taking a class? The on-site Appalachian store is worth a stop on its own. Guests can shop for freshly made fudge, warm donuts on weekends, jams, salsas, honeys, sauces, nut butters, and locally made crafts. Many items make easy souvenirs or gifts to take home from the Smokies.
Address: 1004 Parkway, Suite 301, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Parking: Free with validation at Calhoun’s Village | Hours: Sunday–Saturday, 12:00 PM–8:00 PM
To book your class, click here.
Goo Goo Chocolate Co. (Gatlinburg)
Located on the Parkway, Goo Goo Chocolate Co. brings one of Tennessee’s most iconic candies to downtown Gatlinburg. This 1,000-square-foot shop features classic Goo Goo Clusters, branded merchandise, and an interactive experience where visitors can design their own custom candy bar.
Guests can create a personalized candy bar using digital kiosks, then watch chocolatiers make it fresh in front of them. Each handmade, quarter-pound candy bar takes about 15 minutes to complete, making this a fun and unique stop for families, couples, and anyone looking for a hands-on activity while exploring Gatlinburg.
This location works especially well as a walkable dessert stop along the Parkway and adds something interactive to a downtown itinerary.
Address: 716 Parkway #114, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: 615-944-3974
Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–8:00 PM (closed Christmas Day)
For more information, click here.
Alibi Cocktail Lounge
Tucked behind a hidden entrance inside The Coffee Syndicate, Alibi Cocktail Lounge is a prohibition-inspired cocktail lounge with a vintage, Gatsby-era feel. Once inside, guests will find an extensive bourbon and whiskey collection, a curated wine cellar, and carefully crafted cocktails in an intimate, low-lit setting.
Alibi is a popular evening stop for couples and adults looking for something more refined than the typical Parkway bar scene. Entry is part of the experience — guests find the red rope outside The Coffee Syndicate, where a doorman guides them through the hidden entrance.
This lounge works best as a nighttime activity and pairs well with dinner plans or a late evening walk through downtown Gatlinburg.
Location: Inside The Coffee Syndicate
Address: 968 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 204-0800
Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 4:00 PM until late
Parking: Limited on-site parking available
The Coffee Syndicate
Located in Elk’s Plaza on the Parkway, The Coffee Syndicate is an espresso and dessert bar known for creative coffee drinks, affogatos, shakes, and house specialties. The menu features classic espresso drinks alongside flavored lattes, cold brew, specialty shakes, and dessert-forward options that work well as a mid-day stop in downtown Gatlinburg.
The Coffee Syndicate is also the daytime counterpart to Alibi Cocktail Lounge, which operates as a hidden speakeasy inside the space later in the evening. During the day, guests can enjoy coffee, desserts, and a relaxed café atmosphere before the space transitions at night.
This spot is ideal for morning or early afternoon breaks while walking the Parkway and pairs well with nearby shopping and attractions.
Location: Elk’s Plaza
Address: 968 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–2:30 PM
Parking: On-site parking available at Elk’s Plaza
Sugarbaby Sweet Shop
Located on the Parkway, Sugarbaby Sweet Shop is a colorful dessert spot known for over-the-top milkshakes, extreme sundaes, and playful cotton candy creations. This walk-in sweet shop is designed to be fun and visually memorable, making it a popular stop for families, groups, and anyone with a serious sweet tooth.
The menu features oversized “Sugar Shakes,” specialty drinks, and shareable desserts, with optional boozy add-ins available for adults. Sugarbaby also offers cotton candy characters and large, celebration-style desserts that work well for group visits and birthdays.
Its central Parkway location makes it an easy stop while exploring downtown Gatlinburg, especially for afternoon or evening dessert breaks. Click here to learn more.
Address: 727 Parkway #1, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 277-7102
Hours:
Sunday–Thursday: 1:00 PM–8:00 PM
Friday–Saturday: 1:00 PM–9:00 PM
Smokin’ Banjo Wine Company
Located on the Parkway across from The Village, Smokin’ Banjo Wine Company is a wine and cider tasting stop featuring bubbly, sparkling wines and hard ciders with bold, Southern-inspired flavors. Visitors can sample a wide variety of options, including popular flavors like Banjo Blues, Sweet Heat, and Granny Smith.
This tasting room is part of Gatlinburg’s wine and cider trail and sits between Tennessee Cider Company and Tennessee Homemade Wines, making it an easy addition to a walkable downtown itinerary. With more than 50 wine and cider flavors available, there’s something for nearly every palate, from sweet and fruit-forward to crisp and refreshing.
Smokin’ Banjo is best suited for adults looking for a relaxed tasting experience while exploring the Parkway and nearby attractions.
Address: 631 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 252-5618
Location Note: Across from The Village in downtown Gatlinburg | Open Daily 10AM – 11PM
PizzaRio | The Brazilian Way
Located on the Parkway, PizzaRio | The Brazilian Way offers a Brazilian-style continuous dining experience that blends pizza service with tableside presentation. Instead of ordering a single dish, guests are served a rotating selection of freshly made pizzas delivered directly to the table, creating a social, shareable dining experience.
The menu focuses on a wide variety of flavors, paired with handcrafted sangrias, cocktails, and a curated wine list. The atmosphere is lively but comfortable, making it a strong option for families, groups, and couples looking for something different from traditional Gatlinburg dining.
PizzaRio works well for longer dinners and group meals, especially for visitors who want a sit-down experience without committing to a fixed menu. Click here for more
Address: 373 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 280-0900
Hours:
Tuesday–Sunday: 1:00 PM–10:00 PM
Monday: Closed
Tennessee Tea Jars
Located in Morning Mist Village along the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community loop, Tennessee Tea Jars is a specialty tea shop offering loose-leaf teas sourced from around the world. The shop features a wide range of blends, from fruity and floral to classic and cozy, along with tea accessories that make thoughtful gifts or souvenirs.
Tennessee Tea Jars is locally owned and focuses on small-batch blends and full-flavored teas you won’t typically find in grocery stores. This stop is ideal for visitors looking for a slower-paced experience outside of the Parkway, especially those interested in local shops and handcrafted goods.
The shop fits well into a visit to the Arts and Crafts Community and works as a relaxing break between galleries, studios, and scenic drives.
Address: 601 Glades Road, Suite 17, Morning Mist Village, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 654-4060
Hours:
Tuesday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Sunday–Monday: Closed
Hat Characters
Located in Morning Mist Village along the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community loop, Hat Characters is a handmade crochet shop known for playful hats, bags, and amigurumi creations. Every item is crafted by hand, with designs for both people and pets, making this a great stop for unique, personality-filled souvenirs.
Visitors can often watch live crochet demonstrations inside the shop, adding an interactive element to the experience. Hat Characters also offers crochet classes by request, making it a fun stop for creative-minded visitors exploring the Arts and Crafts Community.
Address: 601 Glades Road, Suite 18, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (423) 714-6313
Hours:
Tuesday–Saturday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Sunday–Monday: Closed
Breakout Games Gatlinburg
Located on the Parkway, Breakout Games Gatlinburg offers a fast-paced escape room experience where groups have 60 minutes to solve puzzles, crack codes, and uncover clues to complete themed rooms. Each game is a private experience, making it ideal for families, friends, and group trips looking for an interactive indoor activity.
Rooms accommodate up to eight players, with pricing set per person. Difficulty levels are flexible, allowing groups to control the challenge by choosing how many hints they use, which makes it accessible for both first-timers and experienced players.
Address: 631 Parkway, Suites A9 & A10, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 325-2230
Hours: Daily; times vary by booking and availability
Pricing: $35.99 per person (2–8 players per room; rates may increase during peak times)
Booking: Advance reservations recommended – Book here.
Popular Attractions in Gatlinburg
If you’re planning to explore more of the area, Gatlinburg is home to a wide mix of attractions that appeal to families, couples, and first-time visitors alike. From scenic mountaintop parks and observation towers to interactive museums and family-friendly experiences, there’s no shortage of things to do just steps from the Parkway. We’ve put together detailed guides on some of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions to help you plan your visit, understand what to expect, and decide which stops fit your trip best.
Ober Mountain
Ober Mountain is a year-round adventure park located above downtown Gatlinburg on Mount Harrison and is one of the area’s most well-known attractions. It combines seasonal outdoor activities with indoor attractions, making it a flexible stop no matter the weather or time of year.
Ride the iconic Aerial Tramway from downtown Gatlinburg
The tram travels approximately 2.1 miles up the mountain
Offers panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains during the ride
Guests can also drive up via Ski Mountain Road
Skiing and snowboarding (Tennessee’s only ski area)
Snow tubing with multiple lanes
Seasonal snow play areas for kids and families
Year-Round & Indoor Attractions
Indoor ice skating rink
Ice bumper cars
Scenic chairlift rides with mountain views
Wildlife habitat featuring native Smoky Mountain animals
Shopping areas and mountain-top dining options
Mountain coaster
Alpine slide
Seasonal outdoor attractions depending on weather conditions
Families looking for a full-day attraction
Couples wanting scenic views and low-key adventure
Visitors traveling with kids of mixed ages
Travelers looking for activities beyond the Parkway
Ober Mountain works well as a half-day or full-day experience and is especially popular for visitors who want both adventure and scenic views without leaving Gatlinburg.
Anakeesta
Anakeesta is a year-round mountaintop adventure park overlooking downtown Gatlinburg, offering a mix of scenic views, outdoor attractions, and family-friendly experiences. The journey to the top is part of the experience, with guests accessing the park via scenic rides from the Parkway.
Ride the Chondola, which offers open-air chairlift seating or enclosed gondola cabins
Take the Ridge Rambler, a guided, off-road vehicle ride through the forest
Both options provide elevated views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains
Treetop Skywalk – A series of suspended bridges that wind through the forest canopy
AnaVista Observation Tower – The highest point in downtown Gatlinburg, offering 360-degree mountain and city views
Mountain Coasters – High-speed rides with twists, turns, and scenic overlooks
Dueling Zipline Adventure – Side-by-side zipline runs through the treetops
BirdVenture – A treehouse-style play area designed for younger visitors
Elevated walking paths and scenic overlooks
Botanical gardens and landscaped green spaces
Quiet seating areas for relaxing and taking in the views
Multiple mountaintop dining options with indoor and outdoor seating
Restaurants and bars offering mountain views
Firefly Village, featuring shops, snacks, and gathering spaces
Holiday light displays and themed seasonal events
Special programming throughout the year that changes with the season
Families looking for a full-day attraction with variety
Couples seeking scenic views and relaxed exploration
Visitors who want outdoor adventure without leaving Gatlinburg
Anakeesta works well as a half-day or full-day experience and is one of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions for visitors who want a mix of adventure, scenery, and downtime.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is one of Gatlinburg’s most popular family attractions, offering immersive aquatic exhibits and interactive experiences in an easy-to-navigate facility near the Parkway. It appeals to visitors of all ages with hands-on encounters, themed galleries, and opportunities to learn about marine life from around the world.
Penguin Playhouse – Watch playful penguins in a climate-controlled exhibit that mimics their natural environment
Shark Lagoon – A massive underwater tunnel where you can see sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles swimming overhead
Tropical Rainforest – Brightly colored fish, reptiles, and amphibians from lush river habitats
Coral Reef Gallery – Vibrant reef ecosystems teeming with marine life and colorful coral formations
Touch Pools – Hands-on areas where guests can feel stingrays, bamboo sharks, and other friendly sea creatures
Glass-bottom boat rides over the shark tank (seasonal)
Scheduled feedings and animal encounters that deepen the learning experience
Educational talks about conservation and species behavior
Plan for 2–3 hours to see the full aquarium at a relaxed pace
Check scheduled feeding and show times when you arrive
Indoor location makes this ideal for rainy or hot days
Families with kids who enjoy tactile and visual exhibits
Couples and groups looking for a weather-proof activity
Visitors who want a mix of entertainment and education
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies combines engaging animal exhibits with immersive environments, making it one of the top attractions in Gatlinburg for all ages.
Gatlinburg SkyPark
Gatlinburg SkyPark is a mountaintop destination known for its scenic views, family-friendly attractions, and outdoor experiences above the town. Perched on Lookout Mountain, it combines thrill features with nature-focused activities, offering something for visitors of all ages.
Guests ride scenic chairlifts or take the SkyBridge SkyLift
The ride up offers panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the Smokies
Easy access from the Parkway makes it convenient to combine with other downtown stops
SkyBridge – The longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, spanning over 600 feet with stunning valley views
SkyTrail Ropes Course – A multi-level ropes and challenge course above the treetops
SkyDeck – Elevated viewing platforms with unparalleled mountain vistas
ZipRider – High-speed zip line that launches guests across the valley
Nature Trails – Scenic walking paths for relaxed exploration
Observation Areas – Multiple lookouts perfect for photos, picnics, and sunset watching
Activities are designed for families, couples, and adventure seekers
Thrill rides are available for those who want an adrenaline boost
More relaxed options let visitors enjoy nature without rushing through
Families who want a mix of views, activities, and outdoor fun
Couples seeking scenic spots for photos and sunset views
Visitors who prefer open-air experiences above the hustle of downtown
Gatlinburg SkyPark blends scenic beauty and adventure into one of Gatlinburg’s most versatile attractions, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking mountain views, outdoor challenges, and memorable moments.
Shopping in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg offers a wide range of shopping experiences, from walkable Parkway storefronts to locally owned artisan shops just minutes away. Visitors can browse everything from souvenirs and specialty foods to handmade art, crafts, and unique gifts created by local makers. Whether you’re looking for something quick to take home or want to spend time exploring boutique shops, Gatlinburg’s shopping scene adds an easy and enjoyable layer to any trip.
Gatlinburg’s shopping scene goes beyond traditional souvenir stores, offering a mix of retail, artisan shops, specialty food stops, cafés, and walkable shopping districts. Many shopping areas are designed so visitors can browse, eat, and explore all in one place, making shopping an easy and enjoyable part of any trip.
Major Shopping Areas & Centers
The Village Shops – A pedestrian-only shopping area with boutique stores, galleries, gift shops, clothing, jewelry, and specialty items in a charming, European-style setting.
Baskins Square – An outdoor plaza combining specialty shops, restaurants, and casual retail stops right off the Parkway.
Mountain Mall – A multi-level indoor mall featuring dozens of shops with crafts, teas, gourmet foods, leather goods, and souvenirs, ideal for rainy or colder days.
Reagan Terrace & Nearby Plazas – Open-air shopping areas that blend retail, dining, and attractions into one convenient stop.
Arts, Crafts & Handmade Goods
Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community – An eight-mile loop of independent studios and galleries featuring handmade pottery, woodwork, jewelry, metal art, textiles, paintings, and photography.
Local artisan shops offering live demonstrations and one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find elsewhere.
Studios where visitors can meet makers, watch items being created, or even participate in hands-on experiences.
Specialty & Food-Focused Shops
Candy stores known for fresh fudge, chocolates, taffy, and sweet treats made on-site.
Specialty food shops offering jams, hot sauces, teas, honey, and Smoky Mountain–inspired flavors.
Wine, cider, and tasting shops featuring locally made beverages and giftable bottles.
Coffee Shops & Snack Stops While Shopping
Coffee houses and cafés located inside shopping villages and along the Parkway.
Dessert shops serving milkshakes, ice cream, donuts, and seasonal treats.
Easy places to take a break between browsing stops without leaving the shopping area.
Shopping in Gatlinburg is designed to be relaxed and flexible, whether you want to spend an afternoon browsing artisan studios or quickly grab gifts, treats, and local goods while exploring town.
Where to Eat in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg’s food scene is as varied and inviting as its mountain views, with everything from hearty Southern breakfast joints and casual family spots to elevated steakhouses, seafood grills, and lively themed restaurants. Whether you’re fueling up before a day of sightseeing or planning a special dinner after exploring the Parkway, the options here span classic local comfort food to modern favorites.
Top Dinner & Main Dining Spots
Cherokee Grill – Mountain lodge–style restaurant with grilled steaks, seafood, and Southern-inspired entrees in a cozy setting.
The Peddler Steakhouse – Iconic steakhouse overlooking the Little Pigeon River, known for custom-cut steaks and a generous salad bar.
The Greenbrier Restaurant – Upscale dining with refined Southern cuisine and elevated entrees, ideal for date nights or celebrations.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Company – Casual seafood and American fare with a fun movie-themed atmosphere that works well for families.
Breakfast
Crockett’s Breakfast Camp – A local favorite for hearty Southern breakfast classics like corned beef hash and giant griddlecakes.
Log Cabin Pancake House – Another breakfast staple known for pancakes, waffles, and other morning favorites.
Cozy diners and café spots dotting the Parkway offer quick, comforting meals throughout the day.
Barbecue and Southern comfort draws crowds to laid-back spots with smoked meats and big portions perfect for groups.
Specialty sandwich shops and casual eateries provide quick, flavorful options for families and hikers alike.
Gatlinburg’s restaurants also include breweries, pizzerias, and themed dining choices that mix food with atmosphere.
What to Know Before You Go
Breakfast gets busy early — Popular pancake houses and breakfast cafés often have lines by mid-morning.
Reservations help for dinner — Upscale and popular dinner spots fill up fast on weekends and holidays.
Parking can be limited downtown — Walking or using rideshare helps avoid parking stress near many restaurants.
Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite on the go or sitting down for a multi-course dinner, Gatlinburg’s dining options offer a taste of local tradition and variety that fits every appetite and occasion.
Lodging in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg offers a wide range of lodging options designed to fit every type of traveler, from cozy mountain stays to spacious accommodations for families and groups. Whether you want to stay close to the Parkway, enjoy peaceful mountain views, or have quick access to top attractions, Gatlinburg makes it easy to find a place that fits your trip style.
Types of Lodging Available
Cabins and vacation rentals offering privacy, mountain settings, and home-style amenities
Downtown lodging within walking distance of restaurants, shopping, and attractions
Family-friendly stays with multiple bedrooms, game rooms, and shared living spaces
Group accommodations ideal for reunions, retreats, and celebrations
Pet-friendly options for travelers bringing their dogs along
What to Expect From Gatlinburg Lodging
Locations ranging from secluded mountain roads to central Parkway access
Amenities like hot tubs, fireplaces, full kitchens, indoor pools, and scenic decks
Flexible options for short getaways or extended stays
Easy access to Pigeon Forge, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and local attractions
How to Choose the Right Stay
Stay downtown for walkability and convenience
Choose mountain cabins for privacy and views
Look for larger homes if traveling with groups or multiple families
Prioritize pet-friendly lodging if bringing animals
With so many options available, lodging in Gatlinburg allows visitors to shape their stay around comfort, location, and experience — whether you’re planning a quick weekend trip or a longer Smoky Mountains getaway.
Traveling with a large group — whether it’s family, friends, or a retreat team — brings its own set of planning challenges, but the Smoky Mountains make it easier with spacious, well-appointed lodging options designed for bigger gatherings. The region’s inventory of cabins and vacation rentals supports groups of all sizes with ample space, amenities, and layouts that keep everyone comfortable under one roof.
Why the Smoky Mountains Are Ideal for Groups
Centrally located for many travelers coming from across the eastern U.S., reducing drive times
A wide range of activities and attractions that accommodate diverse interests and ages
Easy access to downtown Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge attractions, national parks, and outdoor adventures
Group-Friendly Lodging Features
Multiple bedrooms and bathrooms to give families, couples, and individuals private sleeping areas
Large common gathering spaces like oversized living rooms and extended dining areas that keep everyone together without feeling crowded
Fully equipped kitchens, allowing groups to prepare meals together and manage budgets without eating out every night
Entertainment amenities such as game rooms, home theaters, and indoor pools to keep everyone engaged on-site
Outdoor decks and seating areas for grilling, morning coffee, or evening sunsets with mountain views
Ample parking space, which is crucial when several vehicles arrive together
Cabin Layouts That Work for Groups
4–5 bedroom cabins – Great for smaller extended families or groups traveling together
6–8 bedroom cabins – Mid-size options with expanded living spaces and entertainment features
9+ bedroom cabins or connected properties – Best for reunions, corporate retreats, and multi-family vacations where space and privacy are essential
Benefits vs. Hotels
More space and privacy under one roof compared to multiple hotel rooms
Shared indoor and outdoor spaces make group meals, meetings, and activities easy
Fully outfitted kitchens and roomy common areas foster togetherness and lower overall trip costs
Large cabins in the Smoky Mountains provide a flexible, comfortable home base for reunions, retreats, birthdays, and other large gatherings. Their layouts and amenities allow groups to connect, relax, and create shared memories without feeling spread out or rushed.
If you’re looking for a cabin for large groups, please check out our cabin Summit Luxe Resort
