Unique Things You’ll Only Find in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is one of the most beloved mountain towns in the country, offering an unforgettable combination of breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and charming local attractions. While the Great Smoky Mountains National Park draws millions of visitors each year, there are plenty of things that make Gatlinburg a truly one-of-a-kind destination. From quirky local attractions to hidden gems, here are some things you’ll only find in Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

1. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Entrance

While there are many entry points into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg serves as the most popular gateway to this natural wonder. Just steps away from the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, the entrance to the park provides instant access to over 800 miles of hiking trails, scenic drives, and incredible wildlife viewing.

• Why It’s Special: Gatlinburg’s proximity to the Smokies makes it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely drive through Cades Cove or a challenging hike to the summit of Mount LeConte, this is the perfect starting point for your Smoky Mountain adventures.

Must-Do Experience: Take a scenic drive along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail or hike to Rainbow Falls, one of the park’s most beautiful waterfalls.

2. The Gatlinburg SkyBridge

As the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, the Gatlinburg SkyBridge is a must-see attraction that offers a thrilling experience and unparalleled views of the Smoky Mountains. Stretching 680 feet across a valley with a glass-bottom section in the middle, the SkyBridge gives you a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.

• Why It’s Special: Walking across the SkyBridge is an experience you won’t find anywhere else. The 360-degree views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains are nothing short of breathtaking, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Must-Do Experience: Visit the SkyBridge at night, when it’s illuminated with thousands of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere high above the town.

3. Ober Mountain

Ober Mountain is Tennessee’s only ski resort and a year-round destination for adventure and family fun. In the winter, visitors can ski, snowboard, and snow tube, while the warmer months offer activities like alpine slides, scenic chairlifts, and wildlife encounters.

• Why It’s Special: The combination of winter sports and year-round attractions makes Ober Mountain a unique draw for visitors to Gatlinburg. From skiing down the slopes to riding the Aerial Tramway for a bird’s-eye view of the mountains, there’s always something exciting to do here.

Must-Do Experience: Even if you’re visiting in the warmer months, ride the scenic chairlift for stunning mountain views, and don’t miss the Wildlife Encounter, where you can see black bears, river otters, and other native animals.

4. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Consistently ranked as one of the top aquariums in the country, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers an incredible underwater experience right in the heart of Gatlinburg. With exhibits ranging from a shark lagoon to a penguin playhouse, this aquarium provides an up-close look at marine life from all over the world.

• Why It’s Special: The aquarium’s unique setting in a mountain town is part of what makes it so extraordinary. Its interactive exhibits, like the underwater tunnel, where you can walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks and sea turtles, make it a standout attraction.

Must-Do Experience: Take part in the Penguin Encounter for a chance to meet these adorable creatures up close, or try the Shark Lagoon dive if you’re feeling adventurous.

5. Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts

For over 100 years, Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts has been a center for artistic learning and expression. This nationally recognized school offers workshops and classes in a variety of media, including painting, ceramics, woodworking, and jewelry-making.

• Why It’s Special: Arrowmont is one of the few places in the country where you can take a hands-on art class or workshop in such a beautiful mountain setting. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or just looking for a creative outlet, Arrowmont offers a chance to learn from master artisans.

Must-Do Experience: Stop by the Arrowmont gallery to admire the work of students and professional artists, or sign up for a short workshop to try your hand at creating something unique.

6. The Village Shops

The Village Shops is a collection of unique boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores nestled in a European-style village setting. With cobblestone streets, fountains, and quaint architecture, this hidden gem offers a one-of-a-kind shopping experience.

• Why It’s Special: The Village Shops transport you to a charming European town right in the heart of Gatlinburg. You’ll find everything from handmade crafts and gourmet foods to clothing, jewelry, and home decor—all from local artisans and small businesses.

Must-Do Experience: Don’t leave without grabbing a pastry or coffee from The Donut Friar, a local favorite that has been serving freshly baked goods for decades.

7. Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery

Gatlinburg is home to Tennessee’s first legal moonshine distillery—Ole Smoky Moonshine. Here, you can learn about the art of moonshine-making, sample a variety of flavors, and take a behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery.

• Why It’s Special: Moonshine has deep roots in Appalachian history, and Ole Smoky celebrates that legacy with a modern twist. Visitors can sample traditional moonshine flavors like apple pie and blackberry or try seasonal varieties you won’t find anywhere else.

Must-Do Experience: Try a moonshine tasting flight to sample several flavors, and enjoy live bluegrass music right outside the distillery.

8. Gatlinburg’s Craftmen’s Fair

Twice a year, Gatlinburg hosts the Craftmen’s Fair, bringing together over 200 artisans and craftspeople from across the country. This event is a celebration of Appalachian craftsmanship, with booths featuring everything from handmade quilts and pottery to woodwork, jewelry, and paintings.

• Why It’s Special: The Craftmen’s Fair is more than just a shopping event—it’s an immersive experience where you can watch artisans at work, learn about traditional crafting techniques, and take home one-of-a-kind pieces.

Must-Do Experience: Plan your trip around the fall or summer Craftmen’s Fair to experience the best of Appalachian art and craftsmanship in a festival-like atmosphere.

9. Gatlinburg SkyPark

The Gatlinburg SkyPark is home to not only the iconic SkyBridge but also the SkyTrail, a scenic walkway with observation areas and a sky bridge that stretches across the mountain, giving visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the Smokies.

• Why It’s Special: The combination of the SkyBridge and SkyTrail makes Gatlinburg SkyPark a unique destination for outdoor lovers and thrill-seekers. The park offers both relaxing and adventurous ways to soak in the natural beauty of the area.

Must-Do Experience: Walk the SkyTrail to enjoy the most scenic route along the mountain, and don’t forget to stop at the Tulip Tower for incredible photo opportunities.

Gatlinburg is more than just a gateway to the Smokies—it’s a destination full of unique attractions, experiences, and cultural gems that you won’t find anywhere else. From thrilling skywalks and charming village shops to moonshine distilleries and art schools, Gatlinburg offers a little something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for adventure, relaxation, or a taste of local history, there’s always something special waiting to be discovered in this mountain town.