The Smoky Mountains are calling! If you’re looking for a summer destination that will fit any budget, it’s time to add Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to your bucket list. Known for being charming, touristy and a bit quirky, this mountain town is a great spot for a day trip or weekend getaway. From luxury helicopter tours to cruising downtown on a trolley, check out this guide to experience Gatlinburg at ANY price.
Gatlinburg Attractions
Premium Ticket Experiences Up to $300
Embark on a full-day hiking adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains with a knowledgeable naturalist guide leading the way. Navigate rugged terrain with a small group as you travel to a towering waterfall tucked deep in the old-growth forest. Along the way, marvel at giant trees, moss-covered boulders, and the scenic beauty of the West Prong Little Pigeon River. If you’re looking to get up close and personal with the great outdoors, this excursion delivers.
Treat yourself to a birds-eye view of Gatlinburg on a helicopter ride with Scenic Helicopter Tours. Bring your camera and soar over downtown Gatlinburg, Sevierville, the Pigeon Forge Parkway, and Mount LeConte, one of Tennessee’s highest mountains. On the 36-mile tour, your pilot will point out popular attractions and landmarks like the Gatlinburg Space Needle, Anakeesta, and Dollywood.
Grab your drinking buddies and get ready to sip your way along Gatlinburg’s Rocky Top Wine Trail. Indulge in a VIP tour like the Taste of the Smokies Tour. You’ll visit three unique wineries, a bourbon and whiskey distillery, and a moonshine distillery. Indulge in the region’s best beverages in style with expedited service, special samples, and an included lunch from Amico Deli.
Budget-Friendly Attractions Under $50
Fun awaits at Anakeesta, an adventure park in the mountains. Here, you can zipline, ride thrilling mountain coasters, and mine for treasure in a gem sluice. Wander through lush botanical gardens, traverse the treetop skywalk, and enjoy 360⁰ views of the Smoky Mountains from the observation tower.
Uncover the secrets of moonshine distillery at The Holler, Ole Smoky Moonshine’s first distillery (and the most visited distillery in the United States). On a behind-the-scenes tour, see how their famous spirits are crafted from start to finish. Indulge in a generous 13-sample tasting of their finest moonshine and whiskey, all made on-site, and discover unique flavors that capture the spirit of Gatlinburg’s rich distilling heritage like Apple Pie, Blackberry and Hunch Punch Lightnin’ (it tastes like pineapple and cherries).
For the best views in Tennessee, look no further than Gatlinburg SkyPark, where awe-inspiring scenery is the name of the game. Cross the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America for mesmerizing mountain views, or relax on the SkyLift for a leisurely ride to the top. Pro tip: Take the SkyLift at night for unparalleled views of downtown Gatlinburg’s twinkling lights.
Free Fun in Gatlinburg
Hop on the Gatlinburg Trolley and cruise around downtown, taking in the sights and sounds —all for free! Use this old-fashioned ride as a convenient (and economical) way of getting to popular attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and the Ole Smoky Moonshine distillery, local shops, and restaurants.
You don’t need to spend a dime to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Go hiking on the Appalachian Trail, visit one of the many cascading waterfalls, and walk through vibrant wildflower fields (in season). You can even enjoy the sights without leaving your car with a scenic drive on Newfound Gap Road.
If you’re a lover of the arts, you won’t want to miss a trip to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, an eight-mile loop filled with more than 100 shops, studios, and galleries showcasing local artisans. Watch skilled craftsmen at work. Admire unique handmade creations, from pottery and wood carvings to hand-blown glass. And soak in the creative atmosphere while immersing yourself in Gatlinburg’s rich artistic heritage.
Gatlinburg Dining At Any Budget
Fine Dining Up to $150
Looking for a rustic yet elegant meal on the water? Make your way to The Peddler Steakhouse. This historic log cabin-turned-steakhouse serves hand-cut steaks and a fresh salad bar. Don’t skip an appetizer of baked brie topped with honey and roasted pecans. The blackberry cobbler is a must for those looking to end the night with something sweet.
We can’t talk about historic log cabins without also mentioning The Greenbrier Restaurant, a local hotspot with a chef-driven menu and an in-house dry-aging process that makes the beef extra mouthwatering. The Greenbrier blends modern dining with Southern charm and Appalachian tradition for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re craving lobster risotto, seared duck breast, or a hearty ribeye, you can find it all here.
For European-inspired small plates and an extensive wine selection, there’s nowhere in the Smokies quite like Red Oak Bistro. Indulge in popular menu items like Mediterranean flatbread, chicken pate, and salmon roe caviar. Fancy an al fresco meal? Dine on the patio at one of the covered tables or on a couch by the fire.
Budget-Friendly Dining Under $50
Start your day at Little House of Pancakes, a low-key breakfast and lunch joint known for its generous portions and Southern hospitality. Choose from a lengthy selection of American classics like fluffy pancakes, French toast, omelets, and breakfast plates. Craving comfort food? Order the biscuits and gravy or country-fried steak.
For delicious sandwiches, hot dogs, and Frito pies, Tennessee Jed’s is a must-visit. Dig into hearty menu items like the hot ham-n-swiss or a classic BBQ sandwich at the laid-back eatery to find out why it’s a favorite among the locals. Do yourself a favor and get a side of homemade potato salad! It’s creamy, smoky, and better than your mama’s!
Looking for a true down-home meal? Savor the flavors of home-cooked goodness at Mama’s Chicken Kitchen, where fried chicken and comfort food reign supreme. Enjoy cozy dishes like the crispy fried chicken, savory chicken pot pie, and creamy mashed potatoes. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a side of the fried chicken livers. Pro tip: Order a chicken bucket meal to-go for an epic picnic in the Smoky Mountains.
Top Gatlinburg Accommodations
Luxury Hotels & Resorts Up to $400
Located just a stone’s throw from downtown Gatlinburg, The Lodge at Buckberry Creek is a convenient choice for a luxurious stay. Relax in spacious rooms with fireplaces and soaking tubs for the perfect blend of rustic comfort and elegance. Take advantage of the on-site hiking trails or unwind in the outdoor gathering area by the fire pit. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll love the peaceful environment as much as the upscale amenities.
Immerse yourself in the Smoky Mountain charm of Historic Rocky Waters Inn, a 36-room property offering ample views of Little Pigeon River. Enjoy rooms adorned with nature-inspired décor and modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and stylish stay. You can also book outdoorsy experiences directly through the property, like guided hikes to local waterfalls and riverside strolls along Little River.
Looking for a tranquil escape outside of the action without venturing too far? Thirty minutes from Gatlinburg, Berry Springs Lodge is located in nearby Sevierville on more than 30 acres of rolling hills. Unwind in suites with cozy fireplaces, explore scenic hiking trails, and try your hand at fishing in the lodge’s private ponds. With complimentary breakfast and a serene atmosphere, this lodge offers a luxurious getaway just a short drive from Gatlinburg.
Budget-Friendly Stays Under $200
For a classic Gatlinburg bed and breakfast, stay at Buckhorn Inn, conveniently located less than a mile from Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Relax in rooms decorated in vibrant flowers, and enjoy delicious breakfasts (the brie-stuffed French toast with banana walnut maple sauce is a game changer). You’ll also have access to all the nearby activities and attractions, from hiking to arts and crafts and outlet shopping. And nothing beats the views of the surrounding hemlock forest.
Alternatively, stay at the Gatlinburg Mountain Inn, a 4-star hotel with endless mountain views and easy access to family-friendly attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Unwind in comfortable rooms outfitted with modern amenities like room service, free WiFi, and private parking. Its prime location and affordable rates make it an excellent choice for families looking to explore all that Gatlinburg has to offer.
The family-owned Greystone Lodge on the River is nestled in downtown Gatlinburg and offers a variety of executive rooms, suites, and cottages. Bask in the soothing river views from a private balcony or patio and the convenience of being within walking distance of Gatlinburg’s top attractions. Splash around in the outdoor pool, enjoy daily breakfast, and work out in the 24-hour fitness room.
