Blog for Zipline Attraction in the Smoky Mountains
Located in Pigeon Forge, TN and near Gatlinburg and Sevierville.
How to Spend a Fun-Filled Day in Gatlinburg with Kids
By Ross Bodhi Ogle
Posted on December 31, 2024
Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers an incredible mix of outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, and unique experiences that will keep your kids entertained and excited all day long. Whether you're looking to explore nature, enjoy quirky attractions, or indulge in some sweet treats, there's something for everyone in this charming mountain town. Here's a guide on how to spend an unforgettable day in Gatlinburg with your little ones.
Morning: Nature and Exploration
1. Start the Day at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A visit to Gatlinburg wouldn't be complete without immersing yourself in the stunning beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park offers countless hiking trails suitable for families, with easy to moderate options that even young kids can enjoy.
Gatlinburg Trail: A flat, 1.9-mile trail that begins right at the edge of downtown and leads you along the Little Pigeon River. It's a great way to get started and offers scenic views of the river, with plenty of wildlife spotting opportunities.
Sugarlands Visitor Center: Before hitting the trails, stop by the Sugarlands Visitor Center for interactive exhibits, a short film about the park, and friendly advice from park rangers. The center has a small gift shop, restrooms, and information about the best family-friendly trails.
Tip: Pack a backpack with water, snacks, sunscreen, and maybe a camera to capture the breathtaking views.
2. Take a Scenic Drive through the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
If your little ones aren't up for a long hike, consider taking the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a 5.5-mile loop that provides a beautiful, winding drive through old-growth forests. Along the way, you can stop at various points to stretch your legs, spot wildlife, and explore old cabins, giving your kids a glimpse of what life was like in the Smokies a century ago.
Mid-Morning: Indoor Adventures and Fun Attractions
3. Visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
Next, head over to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park for a thrilling ride with jaw-dropping views of the town and surrounding mountains. The SkyLift takes you up to the top of Crockett Mountain, where you'll find the SkyBridge - the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Your kids will love the swaying bridge and the opportunity to take some incredible family photos.
Tip: If your kids enjoy a bit of adventure, have them try walking across the glass panels in the SkyBridge for a unique (and slightly heart-pounding) experience!
4. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
After the SkyLift Park, make your way down to one of Gatlinburg's most popular family attractions - Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. This incredible aquarium offers a range of interactive exhibits and stunning sea creatures, including sharks, rays, penguins, and jellyfish.
Kids will be mesmerized by the 340-foot-long underwater tunnel, where they can walk through a glass tube as sharks and sea turtles swim overhead. The Penguin Playhouse allows kids to get up close to playful penguins in a chilly environment that feels like the Arctic!
Tip: Don't miss the touch pools, where kids can get hands-on with stingrays and horseshoe crabs under the guidance of aquarium staff.
Lunch: Fuel Up for More Fun
After a busy morning, it's time to recharge. Gatlinburg offers a variety of family-friendly dining options.
The Pancake Pantry: A beloved breakfast spot offering delicious pancakes, waffles, and other classic breakfast options. It's a great place to fuel up before continuing your adventure.
Crockett's Breakfast Camp: Another great option for a hearty breakfast or lunch, with a rustic cabin vibe and a wide selection of comfort food like biscuits and gravy, pancakes, and bacon.
Early Afternoon: More Fun and Quirky Attractions
5. Explore the Gatlinburg Space Needle
After lunch, take a quick trip to the Gatlinburg Space Needle. This 407-foot-tall observation tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and the town below. The ride to the top is quick, and once you're at the top, your kids will love the chance to see the entire area from above.
Inside the tower, there's also a fun arcade with games, perfect for entertaining younger kids. You can spend a little time here before moving on to your next adventure.
6. Visit the Hollywood Star Cars Museum
For a fun, quirky experience, head to the Hollywood Star Cars Museum. This museum features life-size replicas of famous cars from movies and television shows. Kids can marvel at the Batmobile, the DeLorean from Back to the Future, and many other iconic vehicles. It's a great place to snap some fun photos and spark your kids' imaginations.
Late Afternoon: Sweet Treats and Relaxation
7. Stop by a Taffy Shop or Candy Store
No trip to Gatlinburg would be complete without indulging in some local treats. Take your pick from one of Gatlinburg's many candy stores and taffy shops. Old Smoky Candy Kitchen is a must-visit for freshly made taffy, fudge, and other confections. Your kids will love watching the candy makers at work and can even pick out a few goodies to take home.
8. Take a Stroll Down the Parkway
Finish off the day by taking a leisurely walk along the Parkway, Gatlinburg's main street. Here you'll find a mix of family-friendly shops, arcades, and ice cream parlors. If your kids still have energy to burn, stop by an arcade for a round of games, or enjoy a refreshing ice cream cone as you soak in the lively atmosphere.
Evening: Relax and Wind Down
For dinner, choose from Gatlinburg's variety of family-friendly restaurants. Consider visiting The Smoky Mountain Trout House for a delicious seafood meal or head to The Peddler Steakhouse for a classic family dinner with a view of the Little Pigeon River.
If your kids are still up for a little more adventure after dinner, play in a retro arcade or explore the local shops for unique souvenirs.
Final Tips for a Day in Gatlinburg with Kids:
Plan for breaks: Gatlinburg offers a lot of walking, so make sure to pace yourself and take plenty of breaks to keep your kids from getting too tired.
Check weather conditions: Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so be sure to pack layers, sunscreen, and rain gear.
Buy tickets in advance: Some attractions, like the SkyLift Park and Ripley's Aquarium, offer discounts for online ticket purchases, so it's worth checking ahead.
With its combination of nature, adventure, and fun attractions, Gatlinburg is the perfect destination for a family getaway. No matter what your kids' interests are, you'll find plenty to do to make this day in the Smoky Mountains one they won't soon forget! And when the weather gets a bit warmer in spring, don't forget about a zip line adventure in nearby Pigeon Forge.
