The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 407-foot observation tower in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offering 360-degree views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the city below. Built in 1969 and officially opened in 1970 with a parade and celebration, it’s been a landmark for over 50 years, attracting millions of visitors and becoming a symbol of Gatlinburg’s growth as a tourist destination.
Whether you’re a family looking for fun, a couple wanting a romantic view, or a group seeking adventure, this tower has something for everyone. The ride to the top is through glass elevators, and it’s wheelchair accessible with ramps, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience. Let’s explore why it’s a must-visit and how to plan your trip.
Pricing and Information
Location and Address: It’s at 115 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, right in downtown, easy to find off traffic light #8.
The Gatlinburg Space Needle offers a variety of ticket options to suit different visitors:
General Admission
- Adult Ticket: $15.95
- Child Ticket: $9.95
- Senior Ticket: $12.95
- Military Ticket: $12.95
- Tickets can be purchased directly from the official website
Tickets for the Gatlinburg Space Needle can be purchased directly from the official website. These virtual tickets are not shipped; instead, they must be redeemed in person at the Space Needle ticket booth by providing your name and a valid ID. Additionally, each ticket allows for a second entry within 24 hours of the initial visit, enabling guests to experience both daytime and nighttime views from the observation deck.
Group Admission: For groups of 20 or more, discounted rates are available:
- 20-39 people: $1.00 off per person
- 40-59 people: $2.00 off per person
- 60-99 people: $3.00 off per person
- 100+ people: $4.00 off per person
- Group tickets can be purchased here.
- Group tickets can be purchased here.
Special Packages:
- Family Pass: $36.95
- Includes two adult and two child admissions, allowing for one daytime and one nighttime visit.
- Details and purchase options are available here.
- Includes two adult and two child admissions, allowing for one daytime and one nighttime visit.
- Family Entertainment Package: $67.95
- Offers two adult and two child admissions to the observation deck, plus four $10 play cards for the arcade.
- More information can be found here.
- Offers two adult and two child admissions to the observation deck, plus four $10 play cards for the arcade.
- VIP Package: $34.95
- Includes two adult admissions and a $20 arcade play card.
- Details and purchase options are available here.
- Includes two adult admissions and a $20 arcade play card.
For the most current information and to purchase tickets, please visit the Gatlinburg Space Needle’s official website.
Parking
Finding convenient parking near the Gatlinburg Space Needle enhances your visit to this iconic attraction. Here are some nearby parking options, including their locations, costs, and approximate walking distances:
McMahan Parking Garage
- Address: 520 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 3773
- Distance: Approximately 0.3 miles (about a 5-minute walk) to the Space Needle
- Cost: $10 per day
- Details: This garage offers 366 spaces for passenger vehicles and provides a flat daily rate, making it a convenient choice for all-day parking.
- Address: 520 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 3773
Aquarium Parking Garage
- Address: 161 Greystone Heights Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Distance: Approximately 0.5 miles (about a 10-minute walk) to the Space Needle
- Cost: $10 per day
- Details: Located near Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, this garage offers 364 spaces and is a short walk from various downtown attractions.
- Address: 161 Greystone Heights Road, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Bear Skin Parking Lot
- Address: 955 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Distance: Approximately 0.4 miles (about a 7-minute walk) to the Space Needle
- Cost: Typically around $8 to $10 for all-day parking
- Details: This private lot offers ample space and is conveniently located along the Parkway, providing easy access to downtown attractions.
- Address: 955 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Reagan Drive Parking Lot
- Address: 220 Reagan Drive, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Distance: Approximately 0.2 miles (about a 3-minute walk) to the Space Needle
- Cost: Rates may vary; typically around $8 to $10 for all-day parking
- Details: This lot offers convenient access to the Space Needle and other nearby attractions.
Shade Tree Parking Lot
- Address: 120 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
- Distance: Approximately 0.1 miles (about a 2-minute walk) to the Space Needle
- Cost: Rates may vary; typically around $8 to $10 for all-day parking
- Details: Located very close to the Space Needle, this lot provides easy access to the attraction and nearby venues.
- Address: 120 Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Free Park & Ride Lots
- Locations:
- City Hall Complex on Highway 321
- Gatlinburg Welcome Center on the Spur Road
- City Hall Complex on Highway 321
- Distance: These lots are located outside downtown Gatlinburg.
- Cost: Parking is free; Gatlinburg Trolley rides are $0.50 per person per ride or $2 for an all-day pass.
- Details: These lots offer free parking with affordable trolley service into downtown Gatlinburg, making them a budget-friendly option if your plans align with the trolley schedule.
Tips:
- Arrive Early: Parking spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. Arriving early increases your chances of securing a convenient spot.
- Check for Event Schedules: Special events may affect parking availability and rates. It’s advisable to check local event calendars when planning your visit.
- Consider Walking or Trolley Services: Downtown Gatlinburg is pedestrian-friendly, and the Gatlinburg Trolley offers an alternative to driving and parking downtown.
By choosing the parking option that best fits your plans, you can enjoy a hassle-free visit to the Gatlinburg Space Needle and its surrounding attractions.
Prices are subject to change. Please check the official website for the most current information.
Inside the Gatlinburg Space Needle
Step inside the Gatlinburg Space Needle and discover more than just amazing views! From the exciting ride to the top in glass elevators to the panoramic observation deck, this iconic landmark offers a unique perspective of the Smokies. Plus, enjoy family-friendly fun at the Arcadia arcade. There’s something for everyone to enjoy!
The Ride to the Top
Your journey begins with a ride on one of the glass elevators, soaring over 400 feet to the observation deck. The walls are see-through, so you get a sneak peek of the scenery unfolding below, with the city streets and mountain peaks coming into view. It’s smooth, safe, and exciting for all ages, with two elevators to keep things moving even when busy. If you’re worried about heights, don’t be—the ride is quick, and it’s all worth it for the views.
The Observation Deck
Once you reach the top, prepare to be amazed. You can see all around—360 degrees of mountains, trees, and Gatlinburg below. Free viewfinders help you spot distant landmarks like Mount LeConte or maybe even a black bear roaming the forests. The deck is big enough to walk around, and it’s designed to sway a bit in the wind, which is safe but can feel fun and thrilling. There’s also Higher Learning, an educational exhibit with fun facts about Gatlinburg’s past and the Smokies, like how it started as a logging town. It’s wheelchair accessible with ramps, so everyone can enjoy the views and learn something new.
Learning About the Smoky Mountains
The Space Needle isn’t just about views—it’s a way to learn about the Smokies. Did you know Gatlinburg started in 1806 when William Ogle settled here, calling it “White Oak Flats”? Or that after the Civil War, it turned into a logging hub before becoming famous for tourism? The Higher Learning exhibits tell these stories, plus facts about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which sees over 12 million visitors a year and is known for its diverse plants and animals. It’s an easy, fun way to get the scoop on the area’s history and nature, right there on the deck.
Arcadia: Arcade Fun for Everyone
After the views, head to Arcadia, a huge arcade—25,000 to 30,000 square feet of games! It’s got over 100 things to play, like video games, simulators, and escape rooms where you solve puzzles to get out. You can win eTickets for prizes at the redemption counter, and kids (and grown-ups) love it. They’ve got Eat and Play deals with yummy New York-style pizza from Slice Pizza Bakery right there, so you can grab a slice while playing. It’s perfect for families, with something for all ages, and it’s wheelchair accessible with wide spaces for moving around, ensuring everyone can join in the fun.
Gatlinburg Space Needle Webcam
Get a sneak peek of the stunning views before you visit! The Gatlinburg Space Needle’s live webcam lets you see real-time footage from the observation deck. Whether you’re checking the weather or just craving a glimpse of the Smoky Mountains, the webcam is a great way to experience the sights from anywhere.
It’s not just the views that make the Space Needle worth visiting—it’s the whole experience. Whether you’re taking in the scenic mountaintop perspective, playing games at the arcade, or catching a comedy show, there’s something for everyone. Plus, it’s located right in downtown Gatlinburg, making it easy to fit into your day of exploring.
So, whether you’re looking for family fun, a romantic view, or just a unique way to see Gatlinburg, the Space Needle has it all.
Visit the Official Website for More Info: Gatlinburg Space Needle
More Gatlinburg Attractions
Make the most of your Gatlinburg adventure by exploring these nearby attractions:
- Anakeesta: A mountaintop adventure park with stunning views, ziplining, and treetop walks.
- Gatlinburg SkyPark: Walk the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, and take in panoramic mountain views.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Dive into an underwater world with interactive exhibits and marine life from around the globe.
- Ober Gatlinburg: Experience year-round fun with skiing, ice skating, and mountain coaster rides.
- The Village Shops: An European-inspired shopping plaza filled with locally owned boutiques, coffee spots, and specialty stores just off the Parkway.
- Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community: Explore the nation’s largest group of independent artisans, offering handmade goods, studios, and galleries along an 8-mile scenic loop.
Cabins Near Gatlinburg Space Needle
Looking for a cozy place to stay near the Gatlinburg Space Needle? Choose from a variety of nearby cabins that offer stunning mountain views, hot tubs, and easy access to downtown. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family adventure, these cabins put you just minutes from the Space Needle and all the local attractions.
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