The 5 Best Places to Watch Fireworks in Gatlinburg
Published Jun 11, 2021
Gatlinburg lights up the night on July 4 with a fireworks finale at 10 p.m. Where are the best viewing spots to see the show? Try one of these spots.
1. Downtown Gatlinburg
The spectacular fireworks explode over the heart of Gatlinburg, so you can see the festive display from all over town! Take in the fireworks from Ripley’s Aquarium Plaza (bonus: listen to a military band play, starting at 9 p.m.!). Along the Parkway, get a spot between stoplight #3 and stoplight #5 for optimum viewing. An ideal location is the intersection of the Parkway and the Historic Nature Trail.
2. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
Imagine seeing fireworks from above! You’ll feel like you’re floating over the spectacular display. The mountaintop SkyLift Park is directly across from, and 100 feet above, the fireworks’ launching pad atop the Space Needle. Watch from the SkyBridge or perch at the SkyDeck for gasp-worthy views of exploding colors over the town below you. SkyLift Park’s viewing party is popular--get tickets soon so you don’t miss a thing.
3. Anakeesta
Perched on a mountainside, this nature-themed park is a delightful place to overlook Gatlinburg by day or night. Spend July 4 here, take in the music of Midnight Run from noon until 3 p.m, enjoy dinner at Cliff Top Restaurant or drinks at The Bar at the Top of the World, and stay for fireworks at the day’s end.
4. Ole Red
This lively country music venue hosts a fireworks viewing party from 9 p.m. until midnight, with reserved spaces for great views. Your tickets get you a choice of dinner from a special menu, plus two drinks and a guaranteed viewing spot. Of course, you’ll hear terrific, up-and-coming music acts all evening too. Book now because the Ole Red fireworks party fills up fast!
5. Gatlinburg Space Needle
The July 4 fireworks finale blasts off right here. The town shoots off its dazzling display from the top of the Space Needle, more than 400 feet above street level. Hang out near the Needle while you wait--there’s plenty to do, like playing into the night at Arcadia, the area’s largest family fun arcade, located at the base of the Space Needle. Just be sure to head outside in time to look up and gasp at the best show in the Smoky Mountains.
Celebrate an unforgettable Fourth in friendly Gatlinburg. Book your Independence Day cabin vacation today.
