There are so many fun things to do in Gatlinburg in Summer! Here’s a Gatlinburg vacation guide with a list of the best attractions and activities that you can pull from for ideas!
Whether you need a fresh game plan this summer or simply looking for ways to surprise your kids with exciting adventures, Gatlinburg offers plenty of ideas for the season.
When the weather is warm and the days are long, there’s no better place to be than Gatlinburg, Tennessee!
This Smoky Mountain town comes alive in the summertime, offering visitors endless opportunities for fun and adventure. Here are the best things to do in Gatlinburg in summer!
Is Gatlinburg nice in the summer?
The weather in Gatlinburg is usually hot and humid in the summer, with temperatures often reaching into the 80s. However, it can also be cool and breezy at times, especially on higher elevations of the mountains.
Summer is the peak season for tourism, with July being the busiest time of the season. Expect a larger crowd as many people visit Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to enjoy the summer weather and take advantage of the many outdoor activities available in the area.
So make sure you plan ahead and book accommodations in advance.
The summer season in Gatlinburg is the busiest time of year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your time here. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, check them all out below!
Things To Do in Gatlinburg in Summer
Have fun under the sun with these awesome things to do in Gatlinburg in Summer.
In the summer, Ober Gatlinburg is a great place to shop and play. The Aerial Tramway is a great way to travel in style. Enjoy the views of the Smokies while you dine together. Play together and have fun!
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, where you can enjoy tons of activities during the summer. From sightseeing and hiking to fishing and swimming, there is so much to explore in this world-class attraction.
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the top attractions in Gatlinburg. This state-of-the-art facility is home to thousands of aquatic animals, including sharks, stingrays, and penguins.
The longest-running attraction in Gatlinburg, the Sky Lift is a must-do for anyone visiting the area. The three-seat chairlift provides breathtaking views of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains as it carries guests up 1,800 feet to the top of Crockett Mountain.
This is your zooming gateway to mountain memories! Enjoy the incredible views of the Smoky Mountains as you navigate twists and turns with your very own gravity-propelled cart!
Whether you're a thrill seeker looking for an adrenaline rush or simply want to enjoy a day floating down a river with your family and friends, the Smoky Mountains has a whitewater rafting trip that's perfect for you.
With serene wooded views, incredible amenities, and plenty of entertainment options – this luxurious mountain cabin is the perfect place to stay during your Smoky Mountains vacation.
For an adrenaline-pumping adventure, try ATV riding in Gatlinburg!
While the national park has no off-road ATV trails, there are a few available street-legal ATV/UTV rentals in Gatlinburg.
The Gatlinburg Trolley is a great way to see the city, and it's free! Just hop on at any stop and enjoy the ride. The trolleys run 365 days a year, so you can always count on them for transportation. Plus, they're a great way to avoid traffic and parking downtown.
Ziplining in Gatlinburg is an exhilarating way to see the Smoky Mountains! There are many zipline courses available in Gatlinburg, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Whether you're looking for a short and sweet zip line ride or a longer and more challenging course, you're sure to find what you're looking for in Gatlinburg.
Anakeesta is the perfect place for a mountain of family fun in summer. With sculptures built out of LEGOs, flavorful summertime menus and cocktails, and live music, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Parents can relax and take in the views while kids cool off in the Splash Pad. This is an event you do not want to miss!
One of the best things to do in Gatlinburg is shop! There are so many great places to find that perfect souvenir or gift, and you're sure to find something for everyone on your list.
Camping in Gatlinburg in the summer is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
There are many campgrounds in Gatlinburg that offer a variety of amenities, so you can find one that suits your needs. If you're looking for a more rustic experience, there are also plenty of options for primitive camping.
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a must-see attraction when visiting Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Standing at 400 feet tall, the Space Needle provides 360 degree views of the Great Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg.
Festivals & Events in Gatlinburg in Summer
- Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales. Enjoy live music and storytelling from some of the area’s best musicians and artisans while strolling around Gatlinburg.
- Gatlinburg’s Independence Day Celebration. Enjoy a day of family fun as Gatlinburg celebrates July 4th with a parade, live music, and fireworks.
- Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair. See all the products of 150 craftsmen from all over the country, featuring unique creations from woodworkers, potters, jewelers, and more.
- Gatlinburg River Rafting Regatta. Enjoy whitewater rafting and more! The event features raft races, live music, food, and so much more.
- Gatlinburg Songwriter’s Festival. Features live music from some of the best songwriters in the country.
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 Smokies!
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
There’s no better way to round out a day of exploring than by enjoying a meal at one of the Best Restaurants in Gatlinburg. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite or a finer dining experience, you have plenty of options to choose from.
If you’re planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains, be sure to bring along a compact travel camera to capture all of the amazing views. There are also plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography, so you won’t want to miss out on a chance to get some great shots.
