10 Things to Do in Gatlinburg with Kids
Published Nov 16, 2019
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is a popular tourist destination for a reason—it has something for everyone. If you're looking for a fun family vacation spot, look no further than Gatlinburg. There are plenty of things to do in Gatlinburg with kids, and most of them are free or very affordable. In this blog post, we'll share our top 10 picks for things to do in Gatlinburg with kids. Keep reading to find out more!
1. Treat the Kids to an Amazing Gatlinburg Cabin
Kids love staying in a Gatlinburg cabin rental. From fun and exciting game rooms to amazing theater rooms and swimming pools, our Gatlinburg cabins offer something for everyone to enjoy. With luxurious amenities, tasteful furnishings and décor, and all of the most sought-after features, your kids will have a blast in their Gatlinburg cabin rental.
2. Ride the Aerial Tram
Soar through the sky on the Ober Mountain Aerial Tram. Start from downtown Gatlinburg and ascend to the Ober Mountain mountaintop in the fully enclosed aerial tramway. Kids love riding the tram as it cruises above the tree canopy with breathtaking mountain views from every angle. The Gatlinburg Aerial Tram operates daily and is a memorable experience for all.
3. Meet a Park Ranger
Share the wonders of nature with your children in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and introduce them to one of the Park Rangers. Park Rangers are stationed throughout the park, but the best place to meet them is at Sugarland’s Visitor Center. Sugarland’s Visitor Center is located just outside of downtown Gatlinburg and features an interactive nature exhibit, gift shop, and personnel on hand to answer your questions about the Smoky Mountains. When visiting, be sure to ask about the Junior Ranger program, your kids will thank you.
4. Go for a Kid-Friendly Hike
While you’re out and about exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, make sure to take your kids out in the woods on an incredible hike. Choose from a waterfall hike or one with magnificent mountain views, the choice is yours. When hiking with kids, we highly recommend an easy to moderate hike, and there are many great options to choose from when hiking in the Smokies.
5. Take in the View at the Gatlinburg Space Needle
Towering above downtown Gatlinburg, over 400 feet in the air, is the famous Gatlinburg Space Needle. Take your kids on a journey to the very top, where you’ll find an enclosed overlook offering some of the most beautiful views of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains that you and your family will ever see.
6. Splurge at Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen
What kid doesn’t have a sweet tooth? When in Gatlinburg, make sure to take your kids to the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen. This amazing candy shop makes taffy on-site, the old-fashioned way along with candy apples, fudge, milk chocolates, and more. They’ve been doing it that way since 1950.
7. Start Your Day at the Pancake Pantry
The Pancake Pantry in Gatlinburg is the perfect way to start the day! Kids love eating their breakfast meal here and can choose from a variety of kids’ favorites like chocolate chip pancakes, French toast, M&M pancakes, and more!
8. Shop for a Gift at The Village Shops
Modeled after a historic European Village, The Village Shops provides your children with a whimsical atmosphere to enjoy a little shopping while in Gatlinburg. Stop into the Sock Shop, U Name It, Pop Culture (gourmet popcorn), or Cartoons and Toys for a great gift for your kids. They’ll love exploring The Village Shops.
9. See the Underwater World at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies has been consistently recognized as one of the top aquariums in America since its opening. This breathtaking aquarium features a shark lagoon, sting ray bay, and other exhibits to immerse yourself in the creatures of the sea. From funny penguins to hands-on interaction with sea life, Ripley’s Aquarium is great for the entire family.
10. Spend Quality Time Together in Gatlinburg
Just being in Gatlinburg is enough to put a smile on someone's face, especially a child's. Go for a stroll down the Gatlinburg strip and take in the scenery, smells, and ambiance of this amazing mountain town. It will be memories both you and your children will forever cherish.
