Gatlinburg has a lot to offer, and trying to coordinate everything with the family can make even the easiest days feel challenging without preparation. Fortunately, we're here to cover the
What Makes Gatlinburg a Good Fit for Families?
It's not one thing or the other that makes Gatlinburg an excellent fit for families. It's the entire city, and the pace you can enjoy that makes your vacation experience. Some key facts about
- Gatlinburg is walkable: Compact downtown area that includes the Village Shoppes and easy access to major attractions on foot.
- Range of energy: Gatlinburg is slow and easy while also being a source of big thrills, making it more flexible than other cities.
- Mountain equals cabins: This city lets you enjoy the mountain cabin feeling the way you imagined when you first started thinking about a Smoky Mountain vacation.
Making Gatlinburg Exciting for the Family
Now that we've covered how easy it is to determine your own pace, let's explore the options for
Anakeesta has added a lot of new things over the years, so if it's been a bit since your last visit, it's time to revisit this theme park. Some highlights of this attraction include:
- Glass-bottom Crystal Express Lift
- Expanded Treetop Skywalk
- Year-round Firefly Experience
In addition to the new items, the standing thrills like the mountain coasters, dueling ziplines, and more are all still there, ensuring the whole family finds something to do while at Anakeesta.
Another incredible attraction worth the visit with the whole family is the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park and the SkyBridge, especially if you like the heights and views the Smoky Mountains have to offer.
During your visit, you'll enjoy seeing things like the record-setting SkyBridge itself with its glass-floor panels for unparalleled views. However, there are newer additions like Clayton's Landing overlook and the Tulip Tower for more ways to see the Smokies. The attraction is reachable on foot, so you only have to park once in the city, and you're golden.
Slower-Paced Days in Gatlinburg
What about those days you want a slower pace or maybe not everyone in the group can keep up with the big thrills? You're in luck! There are plenty of fun opportunities that include everyone.
First on the list is Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. This attraction is appropriate for all ages and works no matter the weather, making it a can't-miss for those slower days. One moment, you're walking through the shark tunnel and seeing the penguins, and the next, you're visiting one of the newer exhibits currently available, which is the Dragons gallery.
Do you want more options? The Village Shoppes are the best way to slow down without leaving downtown. This old-world style walkable enclave is all about going at your own pace. Whether you're grabbing donuts and coffee at the Donut Friar or checking out the souvenir shops as the kids visit the toy shops, this is one area you and the kids will enjoy visiting.
Gatlinburg Cabins as Your Home Base
Not every location in Gatlinburg is created equal. The downtown area is separate from the arts and crafts community, for example. As such, one of the best ways to make your vacation work is to choose family-friendly cabins in Gatlinburg that put you where you want to play.
Are you excited about the downtown area? Stay in the mountains just minutes away in a Chalet Village cabin for mountain views and easy access. Do art and fun souvenirs sound like a good time? A cabin in the Glades is an excellent choice.
In addition to the location itself, your cabin rental also serves as a grounding point. When you want pure relaxation, a cabin with a hot tub does wonders to get you ready for another fun day. If the kids want to play while you nap, then go ahead and secure a cabin rental with a game room.
Pro tip: Make sure the bedroom layout fits the type of group you're bringing. Kids might love a bunk bed room while grandparents would likely prefer a king bedroom with a private bathroom.
Make Your Family Vacation to Gatlinburg Happen Today
If you're ready for another Smoky Mountain vacation packed with the
