By Diane Steinbach
Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN
It's hard to find something to dislike about Tennessee and the Gatlinburg area is no exception. The perfect blend of natural beauty with amusements and diversions to keep your days full, Gatlinburg Tennessee is a terrific choice for a
family vacation. Whether you like to spend your days hiking the famous Appalachian trail or giving your credit card a work out at the Great Smoky Arts Community, the friendly people of Gatlinburg have plenty to share with you.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Spend the day driving or hiking through this scenic gem. Talk to the hikers coming off of the famous Appalachian Trail. Enjoy the regional flora and fauna or bring your fishing gear to catch dinner. Outdoors lovers can ride their bikes around the Cades Cove loop or take a guided ride through the park with the Smoky Mountain Stables and Sugarlands Riding Stables. You'll find restaurants along the way as well, so get there in the morning and spend the whole day.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
107 Park Headquarters Road
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-1200
Fax: (865) 436-1220
Gatlinburg Space Needle
A lot of bang for your buck, the Gatlinburg Space Needle is not only a fabulous way to see the Great Smoky Mountains, but the amusement park will keep the kids smiling for another day. After you finish your 400 foot ride up to the top to enjoy the beautiful Tennessee vistas, spend some time on the bottom at the Arcadia where you can play lazer tag, take an old time photo or ride the virtual roller coaster. Finish your visit off with lunch at the Slice of Heaven Italian restaurant.
Gatlinburg Space Needle
115 Historic Nature Trail
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865) 436-4629
Fax: (865) 430-7844
Ripley's Aquarium
Wander through the underwater tunnel to feel like part of the ocean floor. A perfect stop for a family tour, the Ripley Aquarium will amaze you with the wide range of fish including sting rays, sharks and a stunning coral reef display. Make sure you stay to see the Aquarium staff feed the fish in their scuba gear. A bit pricey for a large family, it's still a great way to get out of the heat and see a beautiful fish collection.
Ripley's Aquarium
88 River Road
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (888) 240-1358
Fax: (865) 430-8818
Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
Enjoy this quaint village atmosphere while you ride the trolley from artisan to artisan. You definite get that Appalachian Mountain feeling when you check out the hand made artwork and crafts such as third generation broom maker, woven baskets and simple children's toys. An eight mile loop of shops you are sure to find something to buy or eat. A really nice way to spend a great-weather day. Follow the signs and you'll find it about three miles from downtown Gatlinburg.
Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
PO Box 807
Gatlinburg, TN 377383
Phone: (800) 565-7330
Shops located off East Parkway Hwy 321N and Glades Road
About the Author:
Diane Steinbach has been writing for a variety of professional, educational and entertainment publications for over 15 years. Her work consists of three books on art therapy including : "Art as Therapy: Innovations, Inspiration and Ideas" (Steinbach, 2005.) She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in art therapy and behavioral science from Mount Mary College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Photo Credits:
pfly flickr.com, Elite PhotoArt flickr.com, Brent and MariLynn flickr.com, jimg944 flickr.com,
