Landmarks in Gatlinburg

Tours Day Trips & Excursions in Gatlinburg - Things to do in Gatlinburg

Discover the best experiences and adventures in Gatlinburg. Explore our curated selection of top-rated tours, activities, and excursions that showcase the beauty and culture of this destination.

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37 Available Tour Excursions in Gatlinburg

Free Cancellation
(29 reviews)

Spend an afternoon reconnecting with Mother Nature through fun games designed to awake enthusiasm, focus attention and create conditions conducive to deeper insights. We will get our hands dirty playing in the earth, exploring creeks while looking for salamanders, tasting nature's foods and soaking up the fresh air and sounds of the woods. This course is the cure for Nature Deficit Disorder. Be aware, part of the fun is getting muddy and wet!

Price: $55.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(9 reviews)

Customize your Smokies experience with our private day hike option. When you meet your guide they will provide you with an array of options from hikes with waterfalls and views, to history strolls, and stops at scenic vistas for photos. Your adventure might be a mix and match of multiple short experiences, or one long hike that covers it all! All you have to do is pick the best adventure for you, and then sit back, relax and follow your guide on the adventure of a lifetime. Picnic lunch of a deli sandwich, chips, and cookies included.

Price: $325.00

Duration: 8 hours

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Free Cancellation
(8 reviews)

Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park on a hike that takes you along a pristine mountain river, viewing a series of cascades and 2 waterfalls before returning. As you walk along a mountain trail, learn about the environment from a naturalist guide. This walk is considered moderate. This tour is lead by a highly trained and skilled professional naturalist guide who is passionate and knowledgeable about the Smokies.  For your safety and peace of mind, your guides are certified as Wilderness First Responders and in non lethal bear aversion techniques. ***Please note: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park will require parking tags for any vehicle stopping longer than 15 minutes.

Price: $105.00

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(7 reviews)

“The Mountaineers Way” tour is a casual stroll with a local/professional guide. Hear the stories of how the first settlers entered this area when the Native Indians were still using the land. This area was a large mountain community. We will have the opportunity to see physical structures used for farming, cemeteries, and beautiful streams along the way.

Price: $240.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(7 reviews)

On this hike a knowledgeable guide will take you down the famous Appalachian Trail to one of the best views in the entire Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Along the way guests will learn about the history of the early settlors in the mountains, the flora and fauna of the Southern Appalachians, and the founding of the most visited national park in the country.

Price: $460.00

Duration: 6 hours

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Free Cancellation
(4 reviews)

Walk on an old roadbed, alongside a pristine cascading stream. This guided walk in the woods blends the abundant history of the Smokies with the beauty of a riverside trail. As we amble through the woods we’ll explore a spring-house, cabin, old rock walls and see cascading whitewater. This guided tour is a great introduction to the Smokies. Please note that, while we do our best to follow the itinerary listed, we may need to pivot due to road closures or events outside of our control.

Price: $77.00

Duration: 3 hours

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(3 reviews)

Authentic Appalachian cooking in a home-style kitchen—hands-on fun, rich history, and a meal to savor!"

Price: $115.00

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(1 reviews)

Celebrate the magic of the season this year with Holly Jolly Hunt. Holly Jolly Hunt is an app based scavenger hunt that you can play anywhere of your choosing. Explore the city and look for holiday related items, both traditional and not so traditional. Take a photo through the app to score points for your scavenger hunt team. Perform fun, holiday challenges that will bring laughter to your team. See your score on the leaderboard compared to other teams from all over. Holly Jolly Hunt is guaranteed to provide lasting holiday memories. Whether you play with friends, family, or even co-workers, Holly Jolly will put a smile on your face for the rest of the year!

Price: $20.00

Duration: 1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(1 reviews)

Step into the shadows of the Smoky Mountains with Grave Intentions, an adults-only walking tour blending haunting true crime, Southern ghost stories, and historical legend. Designed for ages 16 and up, this 90-minute nighttime tour takes you beyond the tourist charm and deep into Gatlinburg’s darker past.

Price: $34.99

Duration: 1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(187 reviews)

Our Gatlinburg location is right along the Parkway conveniently close to countless entertainment options, perfect for adding an escape room to a day or night out! Some of our top spots for a meal are Mellow Mushroom and Smith & Son Corner Kitchen. The Escape Game Gatlinburg features five unique games including The Depths, our underwater-themed escape room, and Prison Break, our hardest game. Each family-friendly option includes multiple rooms and can hold up to 8 players. These adventures offer a one-of-a-kind premium experience. Follow clues and solve puzzles to complete your mission together. We offer the best escape rooms and the fastest customer support. Come see why our escape rooms win awards.

Price: $45.81

Duration: 1 hours

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Free Cancellation
(40 reviews)

This tour meets at the Sugarlands Visitors Center. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park contains the largest collection of human artifacts of any park in the country. Travel back to a bygone era as we visit remnants of an early 1900's town following the gorgeous, yet, misnamed, Little River. This tour is lead by a highly trained and skilled professional naturalist guide who is passionate and knowledgeable about the Smokies.  For your safety and peace of mind, your guides are certified as Wilderness First Responders and in non lethal bear aversion techniques. **All vehicles will need a 'Park it Forward' Parking Pass**

Price: $85.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(778 reviews)

What’s included in the Mountaintop zipline tour? 11 Unique Adventures 6 SIDE-BY-SIDE ZIPLINE RUNS Zip higher and ride longer than ever before on our six dual lines that allow you to enjoy the experience right next to friends or family. Our platforms stand high above the treetops to offer panoramic mountain views you won’t find anywhere else. 4 SKY BRIDGES AND FUN ENDING Along the 2 hour tour you’ll traverse high above the ground on four aerial bridges and end your adventure by rappelling from the final platform. But don’t worry, we send you down at a steady controlled speed! ATV RIDE TO THE TOP Start the tour off with an ATV ride (6 passenger) up the mountainside where you’ll gain 400 vertical feet over a half mile.

Price: $112.19

Duration: 2 hours

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Free Cancellation
(24 reviews)

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is home to some of the best trout fishing in the Southeast. Whether you are a first-timer or a lifelong fly fisher, let Smoky Mountain Guides take you to the best fishing spots in the park. Once booked, our guide will contact you to arrange the details of your trip. We’ll work with you to plan a four-hour fishing trip based on your fish preference (rainbow, brown, or brook trout) and your hiking preference. SMG provides all the gear needed for fishing, including rods, flies, line, waders, and boots. Participants should bring a valid fishing license issued by either Tennessee or North Carolina and a Great Smoky Mountains parking pass.

Price: $162.50

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(18 reviews)

On this hike a knowledgeable guide will discuss the plant and animal life of the Great Smoky Mountains as well as the history of the people that called this area home. We'll hike the highest section of the Appalachian Trail through dense spruce-fir forest and climb the Clingmans Dome observation tower at 6,643 feet for a 360 degree view of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Price: $240.00

Duration: 4 hours

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Free Cancellation
(261 reviews)

This trip begins as we pickup at our location in Gatlinburg, TN. We travel in comfortable and eco-friendly vans to our first stop at the remains of a long-gone resort town dating back more than 100 years. We'll learn about the history of logging in the Smokies, the lives of the early Appalachian pioneers, and the founding of the national park. From here we'll travel up the mountains on one of the most scenic roads in the southeast. Along the way we'll stop at scenic overlooks for pictures, questions, and interpretation of the area. Finally we arrive at Newfound Gap and the 5,000 foot-high boarder between Tennessee and North Carolina. Here we will learn about the 2,200 mile-long Appalachian Trail and the the site where President Franklin Roosevelt gave the park dedication in 1940.

Price: $85.00

Duration: 3 hours

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(438 reviews)

Check out our reviews! This is an experience not offered like any other and cannot be experienced the same way on your own. Visit multiple distilleries...not just one! We created this tour to share our passion of local (SMALL BUSINESS) moonshine and wine locations! People love this tour because you will be visiting as friends! From private VIP backstage to sampling, its all included! I will be showing you real life working stills and getting behind the scenes where people can't go. You will be treated as VIP guests at all the locations we visit. During our walk we will have a couple of stopping points where we will go over the fun (NOT DRY) history and tidbits of moonshine and of course talk about "how the old-timers did it". This tour will be action packed for the full 3 hours you are with me with the goal of trying different wines and over 15 different flavors of all proofs and even a moonshine cocktail!

Price: $51.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(114 reviews)

Sightseeing in the “high elevations” of the Great Smoky Mountains can be an experience that won’t soon be forgotten. We travel past the Appalachian Trail and traverse the Crest of the Smokies as we take in the sights above 5000 ft. You will gain facts of the area from your guide that will make these mountains come alive with Native American stories and geographical facts. We travel into the North Carolina side of the National Park to take in the vistas and learn about the impact logging had to the area. You will be amazed how the forest has reclaimed itself over the years. Our goal for this trip is to arrive at the Clingmans Dome parking area and gift shop. This is the highest point in the National Park at 6,643′. If the weather permits, we'll take an optional short walk through the spruce-fir forest and learn about this unique environment.

Price: $85.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Free Cancellation
(153 reviews)

With 3100 miles of streams in the Smokies, there are thousands of beautiful stretches of white water. Adventure awaits as you explore the magic of pristine cascades and waterfalls on a little-known trail. We'll warm up on a more popular trail, pausing to enjoy smaller cascades before turning onto a less traveled section of the Park. In the winter, we'll enjoy beautiful glimpses of the surrounding mountains, during the spring we'll pause to enjoy our famous wildflower display, summer brings refreshing swimming holes, and in autumn the beauty of changing leaves. This hike is considered moderately adventurous as we gain elevation, climb over downed trees and get our feet wet. **Please note: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park will require parking tags for any vehicle stopping longer than 15 minutes.

Price: $77.00

Duration: 3 hours

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Key Info for Visitors

  • Currency: USD
  • Languages: English, Spanish (commonly spoken by tourists)
  • Climate: Humid subtropical
  • Timezone: America/New_York
  • Population: Approximately 4,000 residents
  • Best Time to Visit: times to visit are spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Visa Requirements Visitors to Gatlinburg must comply with U.S. visa regulations. Citizens from visa waiver countries such as the UK, EU member states, Canada, Australia, and Japan can enter the United States for tourism without a visa for up to 90 days under the ESTA program. Other travelers may require a tourist visa (B-2). U.S. citizens do not need a visa. It is advisable to check the latest U.S. visa policies before travel.

About Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a charming mountain town nestled at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. Known for its stunning natural beauty, it offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and quaint small-town charm. Visitors are drawn to its scenic mountain views, vibrant arts and crafts community, and a wide variety of attractions and activities. The town serves as a gateway to the Smokies, providing easy access to hiking, wildlife viewing, and waterfalls. Gatlinburg’s lively downtown features shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues that reflect Appalachian culture. Its year-round appeal includes winter skiing, summer festivals, and colorful autumn foliage. This combination of nature, culture, and hospitality makes Gatlinburg a compelling destination for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Gatlinburg Tours & Experiences

  • Top Attractions: Highlights of Tennessee
  • Duration Range: Custom Durations
  • Group Size: Flexible group sizes
  • Difficulty Level: Beginner to Advanced
  • Recommended For: The best times to visit are spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Pack layers as mountain weather can change quickly. Respect wildlife and stay on marked trails in the national park. Carry cash as some small shops and eateries may not accept cards. Be prepared for busy weekends and holidays by booking accommodations early. Use sunscreen and insect repellent for outdoor activities.

Average Tour Price: $80

Lowest Price Tour: $50

Highest Price Tour: $200

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2. Check Details

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3. Book Online

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4. Enjoy Your Experience

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Important Tour Information

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing
  • Check tour cancellation and refund policies
  • Arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes early
  • Carry valid identification and tour booking confirmation

Top Attractions

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park – The most visited national park in the U.S., offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking vistas. 2. Ober Gatlinburg – A ski area and amusement park with year-round activities including skiing, ice skating, and alpine slides. 3. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies – A top-rated aquarium featuring underwater tunnels and interactive exhibits. 4. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park – Offers a scenic chairlift ride and a sky bridge with panoramic mountain views. 5. Sugarlands Visitor Center – The main gateway to the national park with educational exhibits and trail access.

Popular Activities

Visitors can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and wildlife watching in the national park. Adventure seekers can try zip-lining, whitewater rafting, and skiing in winter. The town also offers cultural experiences such as visiting artisan shops, attending music festivals, and exploring local museums. Family-friendly activities include visiting aquariums, mini-golf, and amusement parks. Food tours and craft distillery visits provide a taste of local flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit is spring and fall when the weather is mild and the fall foliage or spring blooms are at their peak.

Yes, Gatlinburg offers many family-oriented attractions such as aquariums, nature trails, and amusement parks.

Pets are allowed in certain areas but must be kept on a leash and are not permitted on most hiking trails.

We have tours designed for various age groups and fitness levels. Each tour description includes specific requirements and recommendations.

Local Food & Cuisine

Gatlinburg’s cuisine reflects Southern Appalachian traditions with hearty dishes like barbecue, trout, and country ham. Signature foods include biscuits and gravy, fried green tomatoes, and cornbread. Local specialties often feature fresh mountain trout and wild game. Popular dining spots include The Peddler Steakhouse for steak lovers and The Pancake Pantry for breakfast classics. Visitors should try local moonshine and craft beers for a true taste of the region.

Getting Around

Gatlinburg is accessible by car via U.S. Highway 441 and is about an hour’s drive from McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville. Local transportation includes trolley services that connect major points in town and the national park. Walking is popular downtown due to the compact layout. Taxi and ride-share services are available but limited. Parking is available but can be challenging during peak seasons.

Travel Tips

The best times to visit are spring and fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Pack layers as mountain weather can change quickly. Respect wildlife and stay on marked trails in the national park. Carry cash as some small shops and eateries may not accept cards. Be prepared for busy weekends and holidays by booking accommodations early. Use sunscreen and insect repellent for outdoor activities.

Culture & Customs

Gatlinburg’s culture is rooted in Appalachian traditions with a strong emphasis on hospitality and community. Visitors will find friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life. Important customs include polite greetings and respect for nature. Annual events such as the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair and Winter Magic Festival celebrate local arts and heritage. It is customary to tip service workers generously, reflecting Southern hospitality.

About The Author

Calvin Author

Calvin has loved travel and adventure since first visiting Los Angeles with a suitcase in 1992 at the age of 20. He ditched the suitcase and got a backpack pretty fast.
He hates leaving after any trip and has to console himself by writing and sharing articles on it. You can find and connect with him on linked in here.

Likes
Travel, Gaming, Scuba Diving, Skiing and anything to do with water.

Dislikes
Exact luggage sizing police and being tired in an airport and many more..

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