Are your family cabin fever levels sky-high? Ready to get away and explore a new destination together? We’ve got just the ticket a weekend trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee!
Packed with scenic views of the Great Smoky Mountains, charming local shops, unique restaurants, and plenty of exciting activities for all ages you’ll have no trouble filling your two days here.
So, grab your walking shoes (and swimsuit if you’re brave enough), jump in the car, and let’s explore from one end of this mountain town to the other.
It’ll make for an unforgettable weekend adventure!
Things to Take Care of Before You Go
The success of your family trip depends on how well you plan your trip. From budgeting to picking the right lodging, here are a few tips to ensure you have the best time possible.
Budget:
Before anything else, make sure you create a budget for your trip and stick to it. It will help you avoid overspending.
If you make your bookings in advance, you might get good discounts on lodging, entertainment, and other activities.
Accommodation:
Gatlinburg offers plenty of options for lodging. Consider your group size before you make your reservations. If you’re traveling with family, you’ll need more space, right? So look into renting Gatlinburg group cabins.
These cabins offer plenty of amenities and the perfect balance between privacy and togetherness. Look for properties that have fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and a back porch with breathtaking views.
Know What You Need Out of Your Trip
Since you only have two days to explore the abundance of Gatlinburg attractions, decide what you need from your trip. Do you want to hike? See the wildlife? Take a dip in the lake?
Find out what your family would like to do so that you can plan accordingly.
Day One in Gatlinburg
1)Enjoy a Hearty Breakfast:
Gatlinburg is a hub of outdoor goodness, so you will need plenty of energy for the planned activities. Start your first day with a hearty breakfast before venturing out. Visit any one of the local restaurants to fuel up your morning.
The Pancake Pantry is one of the most promising spots for breakfast, serving delicious pancake dishes with various flavors and toppings. The wild berry crepes and the continental French toast with maple syrup will melt in your mouth.
2) Ride the Aerial Tramway:
Views of Gatlinburg from above are simply breathtaking! Enjoy a scenic ride up the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway. The cable car will take you from downtown to the top of Mount Harrison in minutes.
From there, you can explore the Ober Gatlinburg Theme Park or take in the views from the mountain. We recommend you wear your walking shoes and take the self-guided wildlife encounter tour.
3) Visit Ripley’s Aquarium:
The Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-visit for anyone exploring Gatlinburg. The aquarium is home to thousands of marine creatures and interactive exhibits. You can stroll through its underwater tunnel, touch starfish, and learn more about the creatures at the Shark Lagoon.
You can also feed the turtles and watch their adorable antics. It is an educational adventure for people of all ages.
4) Grab Some Lunch:
Don’t let the glucose levels dip! Once you’re done exploring the aquarium, grab some lunch at one of the local eateries. The Alamo Steakhouse is a great spot to try out delicious steaks, fresh seafood, and succulent ribs. End your meal with their famous Apple Crisp Skillet.
5) Laugh your Heart Out:
Before you retire for the day, visit the Comedy Barn. It is a renowned comedy theater in Gatlinburg and features some of the best comedians in the business. You’ll laugh your heart out with hilarious skits and musical numbers until you can’t take it anymore.
Day Two in Gatlinburg:
1) Explore the Great Smoky National Park:
Start your second day with a bang! Plan an early morning hike or bike ride. You can explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and take in some stunning views from the rolling hills. If you’d rather stay closer to the city, visit the Gatlinburg Trail and take a stroll along its 3.8 miles of trails.
Keep your eyes peeled for some of the local wildlife when in the park. Spotting bears, deer, and turkeys is not uncommon in this area!
2) Head to Anakeesta for Adventure:
The Anakeesta theme park has something for everyone. It is the perfect spot to get your adventure fix, from thrilling ziplines and canopy walks to nature trails and mountain coasters. If you’re feeling brave, try their Dueling Zipline and race down the mountainside with your family.
3) Shop from Local Artists:
After a fun-filled day, take the time to wander around downtown Gatlinburg and shop from some of the local artists. Peruse the local galleries and pick up some original artwork to take home.
You can also grab a few souvenirs from The Village Shops, where you’ll find a variety of artisanal goods, handmade jewelry, and crafts. Remember, bargaining is vital if you want the best deals!
4) Take a Ghost Tour:
End the night with a spooky ghost tour. Hear stories of hauntings and paranormal activity as you walk through the haunted streets. If you have kids, you can skip the tour and opt for a firefly tour instead. It’s a great way to cap off your 2-day visit to Gatlinburg.
5) Dine at the Cherokee Grill:
End your day on a high note by dining in style. The Cherokee Grill is the perfect spot for a delicious dinner.
The restaurant offers traditional American fare with a touch of Southern hospitality, so try their hickory-smoked ribs and finish your meal with their signature fruit cobbler.
Final Thoughts
That’s it! Enjoy your two days in Gatlinburg and all the city’s fun activities. From exploring underwater wonders to learning about whiskey-making, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.
Don’t forget to bring your camera and capture the memories. We also recommend packing layers as the weather can be unpredictable. Until next time, Gatlinburg!
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