How to Plan the Ultimate Gatlinburg Vacation

Chapter 1: Lodging

 

The first thing to consider when planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains is where you will stay. There is certainly a range of options out there for you, but we always feel it best to rent a cabin. While there are many great hotels available throughout the region, Gatlinburg cabins combine the best that nature has to offer, with the addition of every modern amenity that you may crave.

 

Begin by determining how much you are comfortable spending on your holiday. Whether you are looking for something small and basic, or for a large cabin with luxury amenities, we have cabins to fit every budget. Consider the time of year you are traveling, as holidays and peak seasons usually see higher rates across the board than in the off-seasons. As you explore, check out our Diamond Deals for all the ways you can save.

 

You will also want to consider which cabin amenities are important to you or your group, which should help you narrow down your choices for lodging. Some popular amenities include:

• Close to Downtown – If you are more of a city person that likes to be close to all the action, perhaps staying closer to the downtown area of Gatlinburg will appeal to you. You will be closer to many of the main dining venues and attractions.
• Close to the National Park – Many people come to the Smoky Mountains to escape the city and be close to nature. If that is you, you will want to look for Gatlinburg cabin rentals near the national park.
• Mountain View – As you will read in this guide, there are some spectacular mountain views to be seen in Gatlinburg. Imagine sitting out on your deck enjoying the sunrise or sunset over those mountains!
• Waterfront – If you enjoy the sounds of the river outside your door, or even some quiet fishing, look for a cabin that sits close to the water.
• Secluded – There are times when you just want to get away from it all, and a secluded cabin is the perfect escape.
• Pool Access – Don’t forget the summer months can heat up in Gatlinburg. If you and your family want to get in your fair share of swimming, look for a cabin with pool access.
• Fireplace – Equally important for some will be a fireplace to keep nice and cozy during those brisk or downright cold fall or winter evenings.
• Hot Tub – Imagine sitting out on your deck in your hot tub, all the while enjoying the spectacular views. Many Gatlinburg cabins have this as an amenity, so be sure to look for it if that appeals to you.
• Pet Friendly – If you plan on bringing your pet with you, make sure that the cabin can accommodate. We have several pet-friendly rentals available and we provide a large dog crate in each one. Later in this guide, we have more helpful information about traveling with your pet.
• Game Room – Many cabins have a dedicated game room. This is a great way to do some family or group bonding and to have fun without spending any extra!

 

Making a reservation for cabins in Gatlinburg is a relatively simple and seamless process, but the key is to plan. This is particularly true during any major holiday, as cabins tend to be snatched up pretty quickly. Here are three things to keep in mind as you go to make your reservation:

• Selecting Dates – The first step to securing your lodging is to decide on the dates of your trip. If you have your heart set on a particular cabin, you will want to get your reservation in as soon as possible. Remember that holiday rental periods are particularly busy. If you have your heart set on that, consider booking up to a year in advance.
• Deposit – Nearly all Gatlinburg cabin rentals will require a deposit. Make sure to read the terms and ensure that you are comfortable with the amount and what is expected payment-wise.
• Cancellation Policy – Things happen that may cause you to cancel your trip. We know that, and so do cabin owners. At the same time, cancellation policies are in place to protect their business. Just make sure you know what the policy is and note it on your calendar.
   

**Bonus Tip: Ask about the exterior access to the cabin so you can be prepared. Depending on where you decide to say, you could find that the road coming in is steep, single lane, paved, gravel, or that you will need a four-wheel drive vehicle. None of these are reasons to pass on the cabin of course, but it is best to be prepared with the proper vehicle and equipment.

 

Chapter 2: Great Smoky Mountains National Park

 

We highly recommend that you visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during your escape to Gatlinburg, TN. No matter how big your traveling party is, there is bound to be something fun for everyone in the park. You might find the most difficult part of the planning process to be deciding what to do!

 

Different Ways to Explore the Smokies

It is only natural that you will want to get outside and explore the Smoky Mountains. Here is just a glimpse of the outdoor activities that you and your group can enjoy nearly year-round.

• Hiking
• Horseback Riding
• Biking
• Auto Touring
• Camping
• Swimming
• Fishing

 

Trail Guide

For the novice and experienced hikers alike, there are enough trails around the Smokies to keep everyone entertained. The trails are well-maintained and provide spectacular views of the region. We have listed some great hikes for you to consider, based on your desired level.

• Beginner Hikes – An easy-going hike that brings great views along the way can be found on the Andrews Bald Trail. This hike is an easy 1.8 miles and can be taken throughout almost the entire year, the exception being the coldest months.
• Intermediate Hikes – If you want a hike with a bit of adventure, yet you would rather not need several days to recover after, Porters Creek Trail is a great option. You can take this hike at any time during the year thanks to its relatively low elevation and mild slopes.
• Advanced Hikes – If you are an advanced hiker looking for a bit of strenuous activity, head to the Rocky Top/Thunderhead Mountain Trail. You will gain more than 3,600 feet of elevation during this hike, culminating with an out-of-this-world view of the Smokies.

 

Best Places to See Spectacular Views in the Smokies

Once you turn your eyes on the Smokies, you will immediately realize why so many paintings have been commissioned and stories told throughout the years. As you plan your vacation, you will want to make special note of the following places which offer some of the best views possible:

• Clingmans Dome: The highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park that provides an observation deck high in the sky.
• Mount Leconte: Mt. LeConte is a majestic mountain in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here you can hike to the top and find burst of color with panoramic views.
• Newfound Gap Road: Ride along the lowest drivable pass in Great Smoky Mountains National Park to see expansive mountain views at your leisure.
• Chimney Tops: A favorite place to hike to in the Smokies is The Chimneys. Here you will find outcroppings to stand on and look out towards and into the depths of the drop offs
• Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway: See unbelievable views of the Smoky Mountains while onboard the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway.
• Space Needle: Travel to the top of the Space Needle by elevator to witness a 360-degree view of the Smoky Mountains.
• Gatlinburg Overlook: A favorite view among travelers is the Gatlinburg Overlook which allows you to peek right into the center of downtown Gatlinburg.

 

 

Waterfalls

More than 200,000 visitors every year enjoy the small and large waterfalls within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Some of the most popular are Laurel Falls, Abrams Falls, and Rainbow Falls. Keep in mind that the larger waterfalls tend to draw the biggest crowds, but the smaller ones are very beautiful in their own right. You will find these coming out of almost every river and stream located throughout the park. The falls are derived from an average rainfall total of 85 inches. You do not want to miss seeing at least one of these dramatic sights.

 

Wildlife

If you enjoy seeing wildlife, you will love your visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You will need to look closely since a dense forest surrounds much of the area, but there are some places where you will be able to spot some of the most beautiful creatures around. Head to Cataloochee and Cades Cove to potentially see white-tailed deer, black bears, elk, raccoons, wild turkeys, woodchucks, and more.

Bird watching is another fun activity in the Smokies. The National Park is home to over 240 species of birds. If you love to observe birds, definitely bring your binoculars along as you will not tire of the variety of feathered creatures in the region.

 

Scenery

If you enjoy a leisurely drive, make plans to experience some of the most spectacular scenic drives in the country during your visit. Some of the most popular scenic drives are:  

• Cades Cove
• Balsam Mountain Loop - Heintooga Ridge Road
• Cataloochee Valley
• Newfound Gap Road
• Clingmans Dome Road

 

Aside from these scenic drives, almost everywhere you look throughout the National Park will have you gazing upon nature as you have never seen it before. Make sure to have your camera charged and ready, as you will surely be using it!

Chapter 3: Shopping

 

After participating in so many outdoor activities, you will welcome the opportunity to head indoors for some great shopping in Gatlinburg. There are many handcrafted items native to this region that you will want to buy to memorialize your trip. Here are just some of the most popular shopping destinations in Gatlinburg.

• The Village – At the Village Shoppes, you will find 27 different and unique boutiques and specialty shops. This is a great place to buy those regional souvenirs to remember the trip, and to grab some great gifts for those you left back home.
   
• Arts & Crafts Community – Named as the largest group of independent artisans in all of North America, you are in for a special treat when you visit the Arts & Crafts Community. This is an eight-mile historic loop located in Gatlinburg, and it should be on your ‘must-do list. It is something special, and you will almost certainly find a craft or three to buy and take home with you.
   
• Tanger Outlet Mall – If you have the itch to buy some brand-name items at rock-bottom prices, you will want to hit up the Tanger Outlets in Five Oaks.

Chapter 4: Things to Do and Attractions

 

Proving that the Smoky Mountains have more to offer than just spectacular views (although that is a great attraction in and of itself), take a look at the following attractions that are sure to be a hit with everyone in the family.

 

Ripley’s Attractions

For lovers of the Ripley franchise, and for those of you who would like to experience firsthand what all the fuss is about, the following attractions will provide more than a little excitement.

• Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
• Ripley’s Believe It or Not
• Ripley’s 5D Moving Theater
• Ripley’s Haunted Adventure
• Ripley’s Mirror Maze
• Ripley’s Davy Crockett’s Mini Golf

 

Seasonal Attractions

Proving that Gatlinburg has something special in store for you no matter what time of the year you visit, take a look at the following attractions open during certain seasons.

• Aerial Tramway
• Shopping
• Ice Skating
• Wildlife Encounter
• Skiing
• Snowboarding
• Snow Tubing
• Alpine Slide

 

Mini Golf

There is no need to carry a bag of clubs to enjoy a round of golf. Pay a visit to any or all of these mini golf facilities and have a great time with family and friends.

• Treasure Quest Golf
• Circus Golf
• Gatlin’s Mini Golf
• Hillbilly Golf

 

Other Attractions Worth Visiting

Take a look at the below list of things to do in Gatlinburg to help aid in your planning as well. There is something for everyone in the Gatlinburg area!

• Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster
• Space Needle
• Gatlinburg Sky Lift
• Whitewater Rafting
• Gatlin’s Escape Rooms
• Hollywood Star Cars Museum
• Fannie Farkle’s
• World of Illusions
• Bent Creek Golf Course
• Gatlinburg Golf Course
• Gatlin’s Laser Tag and More
• Mysterious Mansion
• Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
• Ziplines
• Distilleries
• Dollywood Theme Park & Dollywood’s Splash County
• Soaky Mountain Water Park

 

In addition to all of the attractions already mentioned, you can also enjoy a new feature release movie at one of the two movie theaters in the area: Governor’s Crossing in Sevierville and Walden’s Landing in Pigeon Forge. 

 

**Bonus Tip: Decide ahead of time what your must-see attractions are so you can be sure to pack accordingly. Don’t forget that you can also split your traveling party up on certain days to accommodate the wishes of everyone.

Chapter 5: Dining

 

While most Gatlinburg cabins will be outfitted with a fully functioning kitchen area, there are times when you will want to head out with family and friends for a hearty meal. The Smoky Mountains is full of great dining options, no matter what type of cuisine you are in the mood for. We have put together a list for you that should aid in your planning process.

• Barbecue – Three popular choices to get some down-home BBQ to include Hungry Bear Barbecue, Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que, and Delauder’s BBQ.
• Breakfast/Pancake house – Head over to the Log Cabin Pancake House on Historic Nature Trail for a breakfast that will set you up for the rest of the day.
• Café & Deli – Parton’s Deli in Gatlinburg is the place to go for some traditional sandwiches, along with a few unique creations that are sure to fill you up after a morning of adventure.
• Steakhouse – The three top choices in Gatlinburg for a nice, juicy steak are The Peddler Steakhouse, Cherokee Grill & Steakhouse, and Howard’s Steakhouse.
• Seafood – Consider Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., Smoky Mountain Trout House, or Captain Jim’s Seafood Buffet when you are craving some nice fish or lobster.
• Mexican – Three good options for Mexican food in Gatlinburg are No Way Jose’s Mexican Cantina, Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina, and El Changarro.
• Italian – We especially love The Best Italian on the Parkway, Taste of Italy, and New York Pizza & Pasta when we want to sample the cuisine of Italy.
• Coffee House – For a nice cup of joe and good company, head to Coffee & Company, Burg Coffees, or The Village Café and Creamery.

 

**Bonus Tip: Order some takeout at the end of a meal and bring it back to your cabin. You will be glad to have some quick food to eat when you return tired after activity and don’t have the desire to cook anything yourself.

Chapter 6: Packing Checklist

 

Now that you have your lodging picked out, you know what attractions you want to see and activities you want to participate in, and you have some dining options in mind, it is time to start packing. We have put together a detailed packing list that will make sure you are prepared for almost every eventuality on your trip.

 

Let’s begin with a list of travel essentials you will want to make sure you have with you. Some of these items you may need every day, while others you may not need but should bring just in case. We will continue with several other categories of items that you should put on your packing checklist.

 

Travel Essentials

• Wallet
• Driver’s License
• Debit and Credit Cards (Cash if desired)
• Health Insurance Cards

• All Lodging Confirmation Numbers
• Cell Phone and Charger
   

Outerwear

• T-shirts
• Sweaters 
• Shorts
• Pants
• Sandals
• Water Sport Accessories
• Swimsuit
• Jacket
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Backpack for Hikes
• Hiking Shoes
• Tennis Shoes
   

Accessories

• Prescription Medication
• Over-the-Counter Pain Remedies
• Sunscreen
• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Hand Sanitizer
• Insect Repellant
• Umbrella
• Lotion
• Hairbrush

 

This is a good general list of what nearly everyone should bring with them on a trip to Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains.

 

**Bonus Tip: Make sure to add anything to your packing checklist that is particular to you so that you don’t forget anything. You do not want to have to be spending a great deal of time trying to locate a store to buy these items when you are supposed to be out communing with nature!

Chapter 7: Mapping Out Your To-Do List

 

We have given you so many tips and possible things to do in Gatlinburg that it would take you a decade to get through everything. That is ok because you can keep coming back as often as you would like. However, for this trip, you will want to map out a to-do list that gives you the best possible roadmap for a stellar and epic adventure.

 

Make a List of a Few Things You Want to Do

As you can tell, there is much more to do in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains than you can do on one vacation. Most people would be hard-pressed to do everything within their lifetime. What you will want to do is make a list of the few items that you and your family (or traveling party) want to see and do. That will help you make sure that you don’t leave anything out and return home disappointed.

 

Make Sure You Leave Time to Relax

You want to make sure that you leave time to relax. This is a vacation, after all. Do not plan your daily schedule so tight that you collapse into bed exhausted at the end of every day. It is important to structure it sometime just to see what happens. This will allow you to experience things that you never knew existed. This is one trip where spontaneity truly will add some spice to your life.

 

Create a Schedule

Remember that list of things you want to do that you just made? If you want to make sure you accomplish even 1/10 of the items there, you will need to create a schedule. Take the major activities and attractions and assign them to a day. Unless it is something that is time sensitive, you can leave the exact time that you do each item up in the air. The important thing is to have an idea of where in your trip each thing on your to-do list will fit. Everything after that point will eventually come together.

 

**Bonus Tip #1: You could decide to group your activities by their locations, and visit several on your list that is nearby each other. That can save time to do other things further down your list.

 

**Bonus Tip #2: If you’re an early riser, get in a hike or two before the others in the cabin wake up. You will feel fresh and ready to tackle the day when everyone else is still trying to roll out of bed!

Chapter 8: Bringing Your Pets Along for the Ride

 

If you have a pet, it is likely just as much a part of your family as anyone else. There are times when you just do not want to leave your four-legged friend at home while you go on vacation, so you should consider bringing your pet along for the ride. There is plenty for him/her to do, and you will not be worried about how he is doing back at home. We have a variety of pet friendly cabins available, full of awesome amenities, and ready to host your entire family! 

 

Finding Pet-Friendly Gatlinburg Cabins

We offer many cabins in Gatlinburg that are pet friendly. We provide a large dog crate in each pet-friendly unit for your convenience and your pet’s safety and comfort.

 

Tips for Traveling with Your Pet

You will be doing a lot of driving on this trip, so make sure your pet is up for the adventure (and most are!). Bring along your pet’s favorite carrier and some comfort items to keep him/her occupied.

 

Pet Packing Checklist

You need to be sure you bring a leash with you at all times. In addition, have plenty of ‘poop’ bags to clean up after your pet, and do not forget the water and food dishes. While you’re at it, remember to bring your normal pet food with you, as it is important to retain as much of your pet’s normal routine as possible. For your convenience, we provide a large dog create in each pet friendly unit so you don't have to worry about packing one!

 

**Bonus Tip: Bring some comforts from home to make your pet feel at ease. Beds, toys, and special blankets can all help your four-legged friend better adjust to their new, albeit temporary, home.