Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is such a fantastic family destination, with a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and fun activities for kids. Here’s a delightful 5-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and create some wonderful family memories!

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Downtown Gatlinburg

Morning:

• Arrive in Gatlinburg and check into your accommodation. There are plenty of family-friendly hotels and cabins to choose from!

Afternoon:

• Head to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Take a scenic chairlift ride up to the top of Crockett Mountain. The views are breathtaking, and the SkyBridge (the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America) is a must-see! Kids will love walking across it and taking photos.

Evening:

• Stroll down the Gatlinburg Strip. There are tons of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Grab dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse for a family-friendly meal. Don’t forget to try their famous salad bar!

Day 2: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Morning:

• Pack a picnic and head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Start at the Sugarlands Visitor Center to get maps and information. The kids will love the interactive exhibits!

Afternoon:

• Go for a family-friendly hike on the Laurel Falls Trail. It’s a 2.6-mile round trip and leads to a beautiful waterfall. Perfect for some family photos!

Evening:

• After your hike, return to Gatlinburg and enjoy a casual dinner at Mellow Mushroom for some delicious pizza.

Day 3: Adventure and Fun

Morning:

• Start your day at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. It’s one of the best aquariums in the country, and the kids will be fascinated by the underwater tunnel and interactive exhibits.

Afternoon:

• After the aquarium, head to Gatlin’s Escape Games for a fun family escape room experience. Choose a family-friendly room that everyone can enjoy!

Evening:

• Treat the family to dinner at Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que. The kids will love the BBQ, and there are plenty of options for everyone.

Day 4: Outdoor Adventures

Morning:

• Spend the day at Anakeesta, an outdoor adventure park. Take the scenic chairlift or the treetop skywalk to explore the beautiful gardens and enjoy the views. There’s a playground for the kids, and you can even zip line if you’re feeling adventurous!

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at The Cliff Top Grill & Bar in Anakeesta, where you can enjoy a meal with a view. Afterward, let the kids play in the Anakeesta Treehouse Village.

Evening:

• Head back to Gatlinburg and enjoy a family movie night at your accommodation or catch a show at Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre for some family-friendly entertainment.

Day 5: Relaxation and Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Pancake Pantry—a Gatlinburg classic! The kids will love the variety of pancakes.

Afternoon:

• Before you leave, visit the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community. It’s an 8-mile loop filled with local artisans and crafts. You can pick up some unique souvenirs and let the kids explore the art!

Evening:

• Depending on your departure time, you might squeeze in a quick visit to the Gatlinburg Space Needle for one last panoramic view of the Smokies before heading home.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly, especially for outdoor activities.
• Consider purchasing a Gatlinburg Attraction Pass for discounts on multiple attractions.
• Don’t forget to take lots of pictures and enjoy every moment!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family trip to Gatlinburg! If you have any other questions or need more suggestions, feel free to ask! Safe travels! 🌲🏞️✨