7 day itinerary for Gatlinburg

Itinerary

Gatlinburg is a beautiful destination with plenty of activities to keep you busy for 7 days. Here's an ideal itinerary for your trip:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

• Arrive in Gatlinburg and check into your hotel or vacation rental.
• Take a stroll down the main strip, explore the shops and restaurants, and get a feel for the town.
• Visit the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, for stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

Day 2: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

• Spend the day exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is just a short drive from Gatlinburg.
• Hike one of the many trails, such as the Alum Cave Trail or the Chimney Tops Trail, for breathtaking views of the mountains.
• Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it at one of the park's scenic overlooks.

Day 3: Dollywood

• Head to nearby Pigeon Forge to visit Dollywood, a theme park owned by country music legend Dolly Parton.
• Enjoy roller coasters, live shows, and delicious Southern food.
• If you're visiting during the summer, be sure to cool off at Dollywood's Splash Country water park.

Day 4: Cades Cove

• Drive through Cades Cove, a scenic valley in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that's known for its wildlife and historic buildings.
• Stop at the various pull-offs to take in the views and snap some photos.
• If you're feeling adventurous, rent a bike and cycle the 11-mile loop road.

Day 5: Arts and Crafts Community

• Explore the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community, an 8-mile loop road that's home to over 100 artists and craftsmen.
• Watch artisans at work, shop for unique souvenirs, and learn about the history of the area's arts and crafts.
• Stop for lunch at one of the community's restaurants, such as the Wild Plum Tea Room or the Morning Mist Cafe.

Day 6: Ober Gatlinburg

• Take a scenic ride on the Aerial Tramway to Ober Gatlinburg, a ski resort and amusement park.
• Enjoy activities such as ice skating, skiing, and snow tubing (depending on the season).
• Visit the Wildlife Encounter to see black bears, river otters, and other animals native to the Smoky Mountains.

Day 7: Departure

• Spend your last day in Gatlinburg relaxing and enjoying the town.
• Have breakfast at one of the local cafes, take a final stroll down the main strip, and pick up any last-minute souvenirs.
• Depart for home with memories of a wonderful week in the Smoky Mountains.