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.
Festivals and Events in Gatlinburg in August
Gatlinburg Songwriter’s Festival
August 18-21
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. The festival is a great way to experience the talent of local songwriters and to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Gatlinburg.
2022 Smoky Mountain Film Fest
Sat, Aug 13, 11 AM – 10 PM
The Smoky Mountain Film Festival returns to a physical venue in 2022 at the Greystone Lodge on the River, Gatlinburg. It is a multi-genre, independent film festival that offers awards in various categories.
Is August A Good Time To Visit Gatlinburg TN?
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.
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.
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.
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