Gatlinburg is famous for outdoor adventures, Southern heritage and family fun. If you are looking for the best things to do in Gatlinburg for adults, familties, and kids, we got you! Gatlinburg is a perfect vacation destination for adults seeking a little bit of everything– from hiking, bar-hopping, and white water rafting to seeing the best of Gatlinburg’s theatre shows.
The majority of entertainment, attractions and dining in Gatlinburg are designed to include the youth or young at heart.
11 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Adults in 2024
1. Ride the Aerial Tramway at Ober Gatlinburg
Riding the Aerial Tramway will take you up 2,813 feet above sea level! That’s 1,000 feet higher than any other cable lift in Gatlinburg (or the entire state of Tennessee). During the 2.1-mile ride to Ober Gatlinburg’s amusement park and ski area, you’ll see clear aerial views of the surrounding nature with nothing blocking your sight.
2. Test Your Skills on Outdoor Sports at Ober Gatlinburg
You’ll always find plenty of fun things to do in Gatlinburg for adults. Staying near Ober Gatlinburg for a few days lets you make the most of your time doing outdoor activities! In winter, Ober Gatlinburg offers ice skating, skiing, tubing, and snowboarding. During spring and summer, you can enjoy activities like riding the Mountain Coaster and Aerial Tram or tubing.
There are also lots of places to eat and shop at Ober Gatlinburg, making it a great spot for adults. For more info about outdoor adventures in Gatlinburg and things to do in Gatlinburg for adults.
3. Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Trail
Besides the cost of gas and any supplies you bring, there’s no fee to enter the historic Roaring Fork Motor Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Named after a powerful stream, this 5.5-mile loop road offers beautiful views and old buildings. It’s a great thing to do in Gatlinburg for adults.
Along the way, you can see wildflowers, streams, and a big forest. Heading to Rainbow Falls, you’ll find well-preserved cabins and mills. The hike to the waterfall is 5.4 miles roundtrip, so make sure you’re dressed appropriately.
4. Watch the Best Theater Shows and Plays
Theatre lovers in Gatlinburg have lots of options! You can catch “Elvis & the Superstars,” a tribute show to Elvis Presley featuring songs from other famous artists like Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers. If you’re into live music and fun performances, check out the Country Tonite Theater for their Country Tonite Show.
It’s filled with singing, dancing, comedy, gospel, and patriotic acts. There are also other shows like the Patty Waszak Show, Soul of Motown, and Hit Parade that are great things to do in Gatlinburg for adults.
5. Tour Whisky & Moonshine Distilleries
Spirits fans can have a blast in Gatlinburg, where bar hopping is a popular Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Adults activity. One top spot is the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, known for its traditional and unique flavours. You can tour the distillery and try their signature moonshine for a small fee. Another great option is the Sugarlands Distilling Company, offering award-winning moonshine and free tours.
They also have tasty cocktails and seasonal drinks on their Back Porch. And don’t forget about English Mountain Spring Water, where you can taste fresh water right from the source. For more drinks, check out Doc Collier Moonshine Distillery, where you can sample craft whiskey and flavoured moonshine. It is actually one of the fun things to do in Gatlinburg for adults.
6. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
If you are looking for things to do in Gatlinburg for adults, then nothing compares to the breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Fun Fact: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. It had over 14.1 million visitors in 2021.
If this is your first time exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, we recommend booking a Pink Jeep Tour. Ride an open-air jeep wrangler and visit the top spots in the park, as well as hidden gems that your local tour guide would know of.
7. Get a Kick Out of Horseback Riding
At Five Oaks Riding Stables provides guided backcountry trips suitable for all ages. You can enjoy a horseback ride through the foothills of the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Experience breathtaking scenery, catch glimpses of roaming wildlife, and feel the tranquillity of nature.
A tip: The horseback riding tour at Five Oaks Riding Stable typically lasts around an hour. It’s a great way to start your day, followed by exploring more of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on a Pink Jeep Tour. So, do not forget to explore this one of best things to do in Gatlinburg for adults.
8. Live it Up with White Water Rafting
Escape the city and spend a day on the water! White water rafting is a favourite activity during summer vacations in the Smokies and ranks among the top things to do in Gatlinburg for adults.
Admire the mountain scenery, and have a blast with a group of friends! Along the Pigeon River, you’ll find several agencies offering exciting white water excursions, such as Rafting with Smoky Mountain Outdoors and Rafting in the Smokies.
9. Shop at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community yet, you should check it out! It’s the largest group of independent artisans in the US, and they offer 8 miles of cool stuff to see and buy.
It’s a great thing to do in Gatlinburg for adults. You can find over 100 artists selling all sorts of items that reflect Tennessee culture. Whether they’re carvers, potters, painters, or something else, you’ll be impressed by the talent and passion of the people here.
10. Travel to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle
Check out the Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Adults Space Needle for a one-of-a-kind experience you can’t get anywhere else. Ride glass elevators over 400 feet to the top for amazing views of downtown Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. It’s about the view – you can also learn about the area through exhibits, try escape games, or catch a show at the Iris Theater.
Tip: Use the Gatlinburg Trolley for easy parking. The Space Needle is open every day and is a top thing to do in Gatlinburg for adults.
11. Play, Relax, and Unwind in Anakeesta
Take a ride to the top of Anakeesta Mountain to visit Firefly Village and the popular outdoor adventure theme park. The only way to reach the park is by taking a scenic ride on the Chondola to the summit. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Downtown Gatlinburg and Mt. LeConte at the top.
On your journey to or from Anakeesta, you can also visit the Gatlinburg Skylift Park, just a 2-minute drive away via the Parkway. It is one of the crazy things to do in Gatlinburg for adults. The Sky Lift Scenic Chairlift Ride will take you to the top of Crockett Mountain, where you can admire panoramic views of the breathtaking Smoky Mountains and the charming town of Gatlinburg.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg provides a bulk of exciting and memorable activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, enjoying thrilling rides at its amusement parks, exploring the sparkling arts and crafts scene, or simply taking in the stunning natural beauty from atop Anakeesta Mountain or the Gatlinburg Space Needle, there’s something to do in Gatlinburg for adults.
With its unique and beautiful blend of culture, nature, and entertainment, Gatlinburg truly stands out as a top destination for travellers looking to create unforgettable experiences. So, pack your bags, plan your journey , and get ready to have an unforgettable adventure in Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Adults!
