Don’t let the rain keep you from having a great time in Gatlinburg! In this Gatlinburg vacation guide, we list down the best things to do in Gatlinburg when it rains.
A dreary day doesn’t have to end your vacation if you’re in Gatlinburg. There are many indoor activities that will brighten up even the rainiest of days. Remember, you cannot change the weather, but you can always change how you spend your time!
So, you’re in Gatlinburg on vacation, and it’s raining. What now?
First, don’t panic! Gatlinburg is actually a great place to be when it’s wet outside. There are plenty of indoor activities to keep you busy, and the rain can actually make the Smoky Mountains even more beautiful.
Here are some ideas for things to do in Gatlinburg when it rains:
Does It Rain A Lot In Gatlinburg?
Yes. Gatlinburg does experience significant rainfall year-round. Even in its driest month, rain is still possible.
The National Park Service reports that the Smoky Mountains experience 8-11 days of rainfall in spring and summer, which equates to nearly one-third of the month.
While rain is ever so present in Gatlinburg and the Smokies, don’t worry too much about it because rain doesn’t stick around for long usually. In fact, it’s not uncommon to experience rain one minute and then a few minutes later, the sun is out, and it’s beautiful again.
If you are worried about rain putting a damper on your Gatlinburg plans, don’t be. There are plenty of indoor (and even outdoor) activities to keep you entertained.
Things To Do In Gatlinburg When It Rains
Don't let the weather ruin your vacation – get out there and enjoy all that Gatlinburg has to offer, rain or shine!
Check out these fun ideas for things to do in Gatlinburg when it rains.
This world-class aquarium is one of the top attractions in Gatlinburg, and it's perfect for a rainy day. Walk through the Shark Lagoon tunnel, see stingrays and penguins, and learn about the amazing creatures that live in the world's oceans.
This museum is a must-see for any movie buff. It houses some of the most iconic cars from film and television, including the Batmobile, the Ghostbusters' Ecto-1, and the DeLorean from Back to the Future.
This quirky museum is perfect for a rainy day. See bizarre artifacts, learn about oddities from around the world, and see fascinating exhibits collected by the world-famous traveler Robert Ripley.
The Sugarlands Visitor Center is the perfect place to learn about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Watch a short film about the park, pick up a map and some brochures, and chat with the friendly park rangers.
Moonshine is a uniquely American spirit, and there's no better place to try it than at Ole Smoky Moonshine in Gatlinburg. This distillery offers free tastings of their moonshine, as well as tours of the facility. Be sure to stop by on a rainy day!
Arcadia is the perfect place to take the family on a rainy day. With hundreds of popular arcade games, video games, and immersive simulations, there's something for everyone at this family fun center. Plus, you can win big prizes from the redemption center!
Just because it's raining doesn't mean you have to stay inside. Gatlinburg is surrounded by the Smoky Mountains, so take advantage of the opportunity to explore the area's scenic beauty.
Drive through the national park or take a leisurely drive along the Newfound Gap Road.
Even though it's raining, you can still enjoy the great outdoors. The Great Smoky Mountains National park is home to dozens of hiking trails, so put on your rain gear, good pair of waterproof hiking shoes and hit the trail!
Be sure to check out some of the area's waterfalls, including Rainbow Falls, Grotto Falls, and Laurel falls.
Ober Gatlinburg is an indoor/outdoor amusement park, so even if it's raining, you can still have a blast! One of the best things to do on a rainy day is go ice skating at Ober Gatlinburg's indoor rink.
You can also ride the aerial tramway, play in the arcade, or grab a bite to eat at one of the park's restaurants.
There are hundreds of great places to eat in Gatlinburg, from casual diners to fine dining establishments. Take your pick and enjoy a delicious meal while you're waiting for the rain to stop.
If you're looking for a place to relax and get out of the rain, head to one of Gatlinburg's many coffee shops.
These shops are the perfect places to curl up with a good book or chat with friends. Be sure to try some of the local flavors while you're there.
Where To Stay In Gatlinburg When It Rains?
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Gatlinburg that has plenty of activities to keep you busy, even when it’s raining, then look no further than GSM Family Vacations cabin rental.
With 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, this 2600-square-foot cabin has plenty of room for your family or group. And with two private balconies, a hot tub, game room, and theater room, you’ll never be bored.
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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
Are you planning a family trip to Gatlinburg? If so, then you need these guides on the Best Time To Visit Gatlinburg, TN and Cheapest Time To Visit Gatlinburg TN.
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