Looking for fun things to do in Gatlinburg in August? This Gatlinburg vacation guide has you covered! Today we list down the best attractions to activities you shouldn’t miss this time of the year.
From live music and entertainment to hiking trails and swimming spots, you’ll never run out of ideas to enjoy your summertime vacation in the Smoky Mountains.
If you’re looking for the perfect summer getaway destination, look no further than Gatlinburg, Tennessee!
This beautiful mountain town is nestled in the Smoky Mountains and offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, relaxation, and family fun.
Where To Stay In Gatlinburg, TN?
Embark on a new adventure in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of the Smoky Mountains with a stay at Bear’s Wilderness Lodge, exclusively offered by GSM Family Vacations.
Nestled amidst the serene wilderness, this charming cabin offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary, inviting you to discover the true essence of mountain living.
Is August A Good Time To Go To Gatlinburg?
The weather in August is generally hot and humid, with temperatures averaging in the low 90s. However, there are plenty of things to do in Gatlinburg to beat the heat.
Many family attractions, such as Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and Ober Gatlinburg, offer air-conditioned indoor spaces.
And there are plenty of summer activities to enjoy outdoors, like hiking and whitewater rafting.
Gatlinburg is a little less crowded in August than during the peak summer months. With fewer people in the area, you may have an easier time getting around and finding parking spots.
If you want to enjoy summertime attractions but want to avoid the large crowds, August is a great time to plan your vacation in the Smokies!
With that, here are the best things to do in Gatlinburg in August.
Things To Do In Gatlinburg in August
Check out the best things to do in Gatlinburg in August!
For incredible views of the Smoky Mountains, take a trip up the Gatlinburg Space Needle! The needle stands at 407 feet tall, and the Observation Deck is located at 400 feet. From here, you can see all of the beauty of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains.
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains is by taking a drive through the national park. The park offers many different routes that offer stunning views of the Smokies, so there is something for everyone.
The Gap Road, Cades Cove, and Little River remain open year-round, so don't miss the chance to visit these spots when you visit in August.
Ober Gatlinburg is a ski resort and amusement park all in one! In the summer, you can ride the aerial tramway up to the resort, which offers beautiful views of Gatlinburg and the mountains. Once you're at Ober Gatlinburg, you can enjoy rides, arcades, shopping, and more.
For an adrenaline-pumping experience, go white water rafting on the Pigeon River! The upper section of the Little Pigeon River has Class III and IV rapids, so it's perfect for those looking for a thrill. There's also the lower Pigeon River which offers Class I and II rapids ideal for scenic family float trips.
Many different companies offer guided tours, so you can sit back and relax while someone else does the work.
One of the best things to do in Gatlinburg is go hiking! There are many different trails located in the area, so you can find one that fits your skill level. Be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as some of the trails can be quite challenging.
Bear’s Wilderness Lodge at GSM Family Vacations is the perfect place to enjoy your downtime and explore the beauty of nature. With serene wooded views, incredible amenities, and plenty of entertainment options – you’ll never want to leave this cozy hideaway.
And you don't have to leave your pup behind because this cabin is dog friendly too!
Anakeesta is a great place to spend the day with family and friends. The park offers many different activities, such as zip lining, mountain coasters, shopping, and more.
You can also take a scenic chairlift ride to the top of the mountain for stunning views of Gatlinburg.
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is one of Gatlinburg's most popular attractions. The aquarium is home to many different fish, sharks, turtles, and more.
Join Ripley’s colony of African penguins as they parade around the Aquarium, get a closer view of the sharks from a glass bottom boat and more!
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Gatlinburg is by going horseback riding. There are many different companies that offer guided tours which are open from mid-March through late November.
There are 4 riding stables in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park that offers guided horseback riding;
For a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy, play mini golf at one of Gatlinburg's many courses! There are courses themed after pirates, dinosaurs, and even the Titanic. Mini golf is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening in Gatlinburg.
Festivals and Events in Gatlinburg in August
Gatlinburg Songwriter’s Festival
August 15 – 16, 2025 @The Historic Gatlinburg Inn
The event features live music from some of the best songwriters in the country. There is also a variety of food and drink available for purchase.
Anakeesta’s United Tastes of America
May 23, 2025 – August 10, 2025
This event celebrates the diversity of American cuisine and promises a delightful blend of food, music, and memorable experiences for all visitors.
Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary
I understand how difficult it can be to plan a trip, especially if it’s your first time going. That’s why I created this 7-day itinerary for the Smoky Mountains. It outlines all of the best places to go in the area and comes with insider tips that will save you a lot of stress–trust me, they saved me when I was planning my own trip!
- Our 7-day itinerary takes you to the best places in the Smoky Mountains.
- You’ll get to see all the best sights and attractions with driving directions
- The itinerary is designed to show you the most scenic routes.
- Packing Checklist for every season.
- You’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
- Insider Tips!
Here’s a quick overview of our Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary.
- Day 1: Cades Cove Loop
- Day 2: Rich Mountain Road
- Day 3: Cataloochee Valley
- Day 4: Newfound Gap Road
- Day 5: Roaring Fork Motor Trail
- Day 6: Little River Road
- Day6: Foothills Parkway
Get Your Free Summer Packing List For the Smoky Mountains!
Recommended Gatlinburg Vacation Resources
- Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg in March
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
More Related Resources
Looking for more ways to enjoy your summer vacation in the Smokies? Read on our post on the best Things To Do In The Smoky Mountains In The Summer!
And to keep the kids busy while traveling, you can get this printable Smoky Mountains National Park Coloring Page from PhotoJeepers.
Don’t Miss Our Smoky Mountains Web Stories!
