When you visit Gatlinburg for the first time, you’re guaranteed to fall in love. From delicious restaurants to exciting attractions, there are so many things you’ll want to try while you’re here. To help you decide what to do during your first trip, we’ve come up with the top 4 things to do in Gatlinburg for first-time visitors.
1. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-see when you visit Gatlinburg. Not only has it been voted one of the top aquariums in the country, but it also allows guests to interact with the sea life! There are a number of unique experiences that let you get up close with the animals. You can waddle with penguins, splash with stingrays, touch a jellyfish, and even feed a sea turtle! One of the best things to try at the aquarium is the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure, during which you’ll venture out into the middle of Shark Lagoon with just 3 inches of glass separating you from all the animals that call the lagoon home. You can see 12-foot sharks and a variety of colorful marine life swimming below you.
Find out how you can save money with our discount tickets to the Gatlinburg aquarium!
2. Ober Mountain
Ober Mountain is another attraction that you won’t want to miss; in fact, many families consider it a Gatlinburg must do! Whether you visit in the winter to hit the slopes or in the summer to go ziplining, you’ll have a blast any time of the year at Ober. A mountaintop of fun awaits you at this attraction! We recommend riding the Aerial Tramway to get there, which departs regularly from downtown Gatlinburg. The tram takes you on a breathtaking 2.1-mile ride up to the park. Once at the top, you can control your own speed on the mountain coaster, race down the mountain on the Alpine Slide, or see your favorite wildlife in the Wildlife Encounter! You’ll never run out of things to do at Ober Mountain Gatlinburg.
Save money on your ticket for the Aerial Tramway when you buy it through Gatlinburg TN Guide!
3. Anakeesta
Anakeesta is an exciting outdoor experience that people of all ages will enjoy. You’ll be able to appreciate the true beauty of the Smoky Mountains when you visit this attraction. To get to the park, you’ll ride in a scenic Chondola to the summit, where all of the exciting things to do at Anakeesta await you. You can stroll along a 16-bridge Tree Canopy Walk, watch the kids play on the TreeVenture and BirdVenture obstacle courses, or ride on a dueling zipline! There are also plenty of opportunities to shop, relax, and enjoy stunning views of the Smoky Mountains, from eating at one of the delicious restaurants to climbing the AnaVista Tower, which is the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg!
Learn more about discount tickets and our Anakeesta coupons!
4. Gatlinburg Space Needle
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a well-known attraction in Gatlinburg that you don’t want to miss. It’s been a popular place for visitors for years, which is why it’s on our list of things to do when you visit Gatlinburg for the first time. The Space Needle is a 407-foot observation tower that offers 360-degree views of downtown Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. You’ll ride in a glass elevator to the top of the tower, which means you don’t have to climb any stairs, and you can enjoy the views on the way up! There is also a Higher Learning educational experience at the top that teaches you more about the Smoky Mountains. Once you take in the views, ride the elevator back down, and enjoy the arcade and pizza place!
These are just some of the many incredible things to do in Gatlinburg that you have to try when you visit! Browse more things to do in the area and start planning your first trip to the Smoky Mountains.
