If you’re in search of fun things to do in Gatlinburg in May, you’ve come to the right place! This Gatlinburg Vacation Guide will help you plan an epic family getaway in the Smokies.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Gatlinburg native, here’s a guide to everything to see, do, and experience in May in Gatlinburg, TN. Enjoy!
With temperatures hanging out in that perfect t-shirt-and-jeans territory, May is a great time to visit Gatlinburg, TN.
As the wildflowers fill the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg is also filled with many things to see and do.
If you’re looking to make the best of spring this year, check out these top things to do in Gatlinburg in May!
Is May a Good Time To Go To Gatlinburg TN?
Gatlinburg draws an endless stream of vacationers year-round. The month of May in particular is lovely time to plan a family getaway or a trip with your friends.
There’s plenty to do and enjoy during this time of the year, especially when the weather is moderate and tourism isn’t at its peak.
While May in Gatlinburg presents an increase in temperature, weather is still less humid than the summer months. Rain is also a possibility so make sure you get your outdoor gear ready incase it pours.
If you really want to avoid the crowd, pick a date around mid-May, aside from all the family friendly attractions you’ll also more likely book hotels with cheaper rates.
Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN in May
Gatlinburg in May means scenic wildflower blooms, fun attractions, and activities that welcome the summer season. Plus, get your calendars ready because there are some amazing events in Gatlinburg that only happen in May.
With the incredible amount of things to do in Gatlinburg in May, you and your family will want to keep coming back this time of the year until you have experienced it all!
End your spring break with a blast! Here is a list of best things to do in Gatlinburg in May to help you plan a fantastic getaway with your family or friends.
Things to Do in Gatlinburg in May
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the USA, puts on a fantastic show every spring with its colorful display of wildflowers. The month of May offers the perfect weather to explore the park, from scenic drives to hiking and fishing, there’s always something to enjoy in the Great Smoky Mountains National park in Spring. Here are things to do that that you shouldn’t miss:
- Drive through Cades Cove- if you want to see Smokies from your vehicle, taking a scenic drive is a great way to experience the beauty of the Mountains in Spring.
- Take a Hike- Hiking the trails of the Smokies is the perfect way to see all the beautiful spring wildflowers, lush trees, and crystal clear waterfalls. Any of the 850 miles of trails in the Smoky Mountains are great to hike in May!
- Fishing- Within the boundaries of the Great Smoky Mountains National park is about 2,900 miles of streams which is one of the last wild trout habitats in the eastern United States. Fishing is permitted year-round in the park, but one of the best times to do this is in May because the weather is normally a little more stable than the previous month and You have plenty of options as to where to fish and what to fish.
- Go on a Picnic- Because the weather is warming up, it’s the perfect time to be outside and have a picnic with family and friends. Pack your favorite food and drinks and head to one of the many picnic areas in the Great Smoky Mountains National park.
Ober Gatlinburg MayFest is an exciting festival to look forward to in the Smoky Mountains in May. Traditional German festival celebrates new life and the arrival of spring.
This celebration highlights German history and culture, usually culminating with a May Pole dance. Mark your calendar because MayFest will run from May 27th-30th. See you there!
Find the locally grown produce, local crafts, and foods at Gatlinburg Farmers Market. You will find a variety of in-season goods that may include eggs, chicken, fruits, berries, honey, jams, herbs, vegetables, baked goods, and more.
The Gatlinburg Farmers Market begins from mid-May to mid-October and takes place every Saturday from 8:30 am until 12 noon. Make sure to check Gatlinburg Farmers Market for current updates.
The weather in May allows for a great white water rafting adventure in the Smokies. With several regional rivers just minutes away, Gatlinburg is a great place for whitewater rafting.
There are many white water rafting outfitters in the area that offer exciting trips to the upper and lower Pigeon River. The Upper Pigeon has non-stop series of rapids including class III and class IV rapids that are perfect for thrill-seekers. While the Lower Pigeon River offers a calm and relaxing river trip with the whole family.
Get ready to be inspired by the largest independent organization of artisans in the United States. From April 29 to May 1, 2022, the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community will be holding an event called “Hands On Gatlinburg” featuring Hands-on arts and crafts workshops from great artists and craftsmen in the community. If you love arts & crafts, this is the perfect event for you.
Gatlinburg has about everything you could possibly think of in a camping destination. Plan your trip in May and go camping in Gatlinburg!
Aside from unbeatable sceneries and attractions, Gatlinburg offers a wide variety of dining options. Make sure to check out the best restaurants in Gatlinburg when you visit in May.
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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 unique ways to enjoy Gatlinburg? Try UTV riding! Here are the best UTV rentals in Gatlinburg, TN. Add another stop to your itinerary and pay a visit to the whimsical roadside attraction in Gatlinburg, The Salt And Pepper Shaker Museum.
Maureen
Wednesday 18th of May 2022
These are great things to do! I would love to drive through the coves as well go white water rafting. It sounds like a fun adventure!
Maureen | www.littlemisscasual.com