From adventurous outdoor pursuits to tranquil moments spent strolling historic downtowns, the Great Smoky Mountains offer something for everyone. With world-class attractions, beautiful national parks, and endless outdoor activities, it’s no wonder millions of people visit this region every year. Here is a list of some of the top things to do in the Great Smoky Mountains, according to the folks at Capital Vacations.
Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning landscape that attracts visitors from all over the world. Views of the majestic mountains reach far beyond the horizon, and miles of trails lead to hidden coves, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking overlooks. You can enjoy scenic drives, horseback rides, and hikes on one of many easy trails suitable for all skill levels. Wildlife viewing will also leave you speechless—keep an eye out for deer, elk, and black bears! Keep in mind that permits may be required for various activities within the park.
Enjoy The Natural Beauty at Cades Cove
Cades Cove is nestled in Tennessee’s enchanting foothills and offers a spectacular look into frontier life in America more than 200 years ago. This isolated valley features old mountain churches, log cabins, and peaceful scenery surrounded by wildlife such as wild turkeys and white-tailed deer. You can drive along its 11-mile loop or bike around its roads less traveled at your own pace while taking in some of your favorite sights. Don’t forget your camera!
Unwind at Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge offers so much fun you won’t know where to start! Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation (or both), this popular destination has something for everyone – from go-karts to outlet shopping centers, whitewater rafting to mini golf courses, zip lines to historic museums – you can find it here! If you’re looking for music entertainment, The Island is home to concerts, shows, and other events throughout the year while also boasting over 60 retail stores, restaurants, and attractions like The Escape Game Pigeon Forge and WonderWorks indoor amusement park.
Take In Some History At Downtown Gatlinburg
This mountain city offers amazing architecture and great shopping opportunities on the main street as well as interesting side streets filled with souvenir shops offering unique keepsakes made by local artisans located nearby. You can explore art galleries or stop by Ole Red Gatlinburg, where eateries serve up southern favorites like moonshine pies or caramel apple cakes alongside lively shows on their stage inside the building’s rustic walls. When night falls, come alive when lights sparkle throughout downtown’s iconic towers creating stunning reflections off buildings carved right into the sides of hillsides surrounding them.
Visit An Moonshine Distillery
Step back in time with a tour at one of many moonshine distilleries located in Tennessee’s oldest settlements – Townsend! Learn about real moonshiners during guided tours as they talk about techniques used during their production while tasting samples during tastings that are held inside old barns turned tasting rooms set against rolling hills lined with pastures full of roaming livestock below them far beyond its wooden doors. Afterward, make sure to check out local shops selling everything from specialty foods to homemade preserves before heading back home feeling like you experienced an honest glimpse into a life long gone but not forgotten quite yet despite all the passing years.
