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Best Things To Do In Gatlinburg In Summer

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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.

Things To Do in Gatlinburg in Summer
Things To Do in Gatlinburg in Summer

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!

Book 5 Bedroom Cabin Gatlinburg

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.

must do in gatlinburg in Summer
Things To Do in Gatlinburg in Summer

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.

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

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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.

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