By Lars Tramilton
Gatlinburg, Tennessee is part of Sevier County, and is often referred to as being the "Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains." It is a popular
family vacation destination, with its authentic rustic charm, and there is no shortage of exciting things to see and do. Some of the popular tourist draws include the massive Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the theme park and skiing
resort called Ober Gatlinburg.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is probably the most famous attraction in Gatlinburg. This part of the Rocky Mountains spans 500,000 forest acres and is home to a diverse array of wildlife and plants. There are many things to do while at this vast park, including examining wildlife, hiking, camping, cycling, exploring historic structures (there are about 80 historic buildings, including grist mills and barns), viewing gorgeous waterfalls and picnicking.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
107 Park Headquarters Road
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Tel: (865) 436-1200
Ripley's Believe it or Not! Aquarium
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies consists of an astounding 10,000+ aquatic creatures, representing over 350 different species. There are more sea creatures residing at this aquarium than there are individuals residing in Gatlinburg. Some of the interesting exhibits at this aquarium include Shark Lagoon, Coral Reef, Tropical Rainforest, Stingray Bay, and the interactive display Touch a Ray Bay. Kids and adults alike will enjoy themselves.
Ripley's Believe it or Not! Aquarium
88 River Road
Gatlinburg, Tennessee 37738
Tel: (865) 430-8808
Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is an amusement park and ski resort that is open all year long. Located on a mountaintop, this park has rides and attractions like bumper cars, miniature golf, water rides, a wildlife encounter, indoor ice skating, an aerial tramway, pirate ship, and many others, all appropriate for the whole family. Ober Gatlinburg is excellent for winter activities, especially skiing and snowboarding.
Ober Gatlinburg
1001 Parkway
Gatlinburg TN, 37738
Tel: (865) 436-5423
Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community has existed since 1937 and consists of over 120 studios, small shops and galleries. There are also cafes, restaurants and even a tearoom. The artisans of this community carve, paint, sew, whittle and weave, to create crafts such as quilts, candles, jewelry, ceramics, dolls, brooms, stained glass, watercolors and more.
Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
805 Glades Road
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Tel: (865) 436-4315
World of Illusions
World of Illusions is an unusual entertainment center that children will particularly adore. It is full of interactive displays, magic and baffling illusions. From waving your hand and halting tornadoes immediately to watching levitating genies and making people disappear right in front of your eyes, this is an intriguing place to spend the day.
World of Illusions
716 Parkway
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Tel: (865) 436-9701
About the Author:
Lars Tramilton has been writing professionally since 2007. His work has appeared in a variety of online publications, including CareerWorkstation. Tramilton received a bachelor's degree with a focus on elementary education from Kean University.
