Have you been thinking about traveling to the Smokies during the holidays? There are plenty of special activities that will make your romantic getaway or family vacation extra memorable! Check out these 7 unique things to do in Gatlinburg this holiday season:
1. Winterfest
Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg light up during the holiday season with beautiful displays along the Parkway. You can take several guided tours or just take a scenic drive at your own pace to admire the stunning displays. You’ll be amazed at how the Smoky Mountain area is transformed into a winter wonderland!
2. Lights Over Gatlinburg
Experience the Winterfest Christmas lights like never before! Lights Over Gatlinburg at Gatlinburg SkyPark is a special nighttime experience included in the general admission ticket, so you can explore the SkyPark during the day and then go back in the evening to see the thousands of Christmas lights. It’s an entirely different experience you won’t want to miss!
3. Fun Activities at Ober Mountain
Ober Mountain’s winter activities are fun for all ages and ideal for celebrating the holiday season in the Smokies. Ice skating, skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing are just a few of the things you can do, and the ride up to the top on the Aerial Tramway is one of the best ways to experience those incredible Smoky Mountain views!
4. Festival of Trees
Another annual event in Gatlinburg is the Festival of Trees. Admission to this festival is free; however, donations to the Boys and Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains are encouraged. It’s located at the W. L. Mills Conference Center, and besides gorgeous Christmas trees and wreaths, you will find children’s play and craft areas and photo opportunities with Santa!
5. Holiday Shopping
Another thing to do in Gatlinburg is shop for holiday and birthday gifts– places like Santa’s Claus-et are fun to browse! The Great Smoky Mountain Arts and Crafts Show takes place at the Gatlinburg Convention Center in November and December, featuring local artisans and their unique handmade items. You can find beautiful quilts, pottery pieces, artwork, jewelry, wood crafts, leather goods, candles, and ceramics, just to name a few. Also, along the downtown strip, there are plenty of unique shops selling a variety of gift items you won’t find anywhere else. You’ll be able to find something for everyone on your list and maybe something for yourself, too!
6. Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade
Every year, the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade celebrates the arrival of the holiday season and, of course, Santa Claus! Downtown Gatlinburg becomes a hub of holiday cheer– you’ll want to get your spot on the Parkway early and make sure to wear your Santa hats to show your Christmas spirit!
7. Dinner at The Greenbrier
A trip to Gatlinburg for the holidays isn’t complete without a unique dining experience! At the Greenbrier restaurant in Gatlinburg, we pride ourselves on giving our customers a fine dining experience in a cozy mountain lodge setting with peaceful, scenic views of the Smokies. We are happy to suggest delicious food and drink pairings, such as the dry-aged New York strip steak and our signature cocktail, The Dylan. Other favorite menu items include the crispy skin salmon, cavatelli pasta, and chicken marsala, all of which are served with decadent sauces and sides. These dishes are one-of-a-kind and created by the talented chefs at our Gatlinburg restaurant, so you’re guaranteed to have a meal unlike any other, and you’ll be thinking about it for weeks afterward!
We hope you’ve gotten some inspiration from this list of unique things to do in Gatlinburg! We know you’ll love visiting the Smoky Mountains during the holiday season and create lasting memories you’ll cherish forever. Take a look at what to do in Gatlinburg for couples, and don’t forget to stop by our restaurant for a delicious dinner during your stay!
