Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is such a charming destination, especially for families. With its stunning mountain views, fun attractions, and outdoor adventures, you’re in for a treat! Here’s a delightful 2-day itinerary that’s packed with family-friendly activities.

Day 1: Explore the Town and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast at Pancake Pantry: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this iconic spot. Their pancakes are legendary, and they have plenty of options for everyone in the family. Don’t forget to try the famous strawberry pancakes!

• Gatlinburg SkyLift Park: After breakfast, head over to the SkyLift Park. Take a scenic chairlift ride up to the top of Crockett Mountain. The views are breathtaking, and you can stroll across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America! It’s a great photo op, so be sure to capture some family moments.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at The Peddler Steakhouse: After your morning adventures, enjoy a hearty lunch at The Peddler. It’s a family-friendly steakhouse with a lovely view of the river. The salad bar is a hit with kids and adults alike!

• Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Post-lunch, dive into some underwater fun at this fantastic aquarium. It’s consistently rated as one of the best in the country! The interactive exhibits and the underwater tunnel where you can see sharks swimming overhead are sure to wow the kids.

Evening:

• Dinner at Smoky Mountain Brewery: Wind down your day with a casual dinner at this family-friendly brewery. They have a great selection of pizzas and burgers, plus some local brews for the adults (and root beer for the kids!).

• Stroll along the Parkway: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Parkway. The lights and sounds of Gatlinburg in the evening are magical. You can pop into some shops for souvenirs or grab a sweet treat from one of the many candy stores.

Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at Donut Friar: Treat your family to some delicious donuts at this local favorite. The cinnamon rolls are a must-try, and the cozy atmosphere is perfect for a relaxed morning.

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park: After breakfast, head into the national park for some outdoor fun! You can choose a family-friendly hike like the Laurel Falls Trail, which is about 2.6 miles round trip and leads to a beautiful waterfall. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Afternoon:

• Picnic Lunch in the Park: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in one of the park’s scenic picnic areas. It’s a great way to relax and soak in the natural beauty around you.

• Ober Gatlinburg: After your picnic, make your way to Ober Gatlinburg. In addition to skiing in the winter, they have a variety of summer activities, including an alpine slide, a wildlife encounter, and a mountain coaster. It’s a blast for the whole family!

Evening:

• Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant: For your final dinner, take a short drive to Pigeon Forge and dine at The Old Mill Restaurant. The atmosphere is charming, and the Southern comfort food is delicious. The cornbread and fried chicken are crowd-pleasers!

• End with a Sweet Treat: Before heading back to your accommodation, stop by The Old Mill Creamery for some homemade ice cream. It’s the perfect way to end your Gatlinburg adventure!

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly, especially for outdoor activities.
• Consider purchasing tickets for attractions in advance to save time.
• Don’t forget to take breaks and enjoy the beautiful scenery!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family getaway in Gatlinburg! Enjoy every moment! 🌲🏞️🍩