November in Tennessee brings cooler temperatures, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! In this Tennesse vacation guide, we’ve listed our top picks for the best things to do in Tennessee in November to help you plan your dream vacation.
Take a stroll through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park – one of the most visited parks in the country – and explore its vast array of trails, fields, and forests. Or you can explore Memphis, the birthplace of modern American music, or take a scenic drive down to the foothills of the Appalachians.


No matter what you’re looking for, the Volunteer State has it for you. Check out these fun things to do in Tennessee in November.

What Is There To Do In Gatlinburg And Pigeon Forge In November?
There are a number of things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge in November. Some popular activities include hiking, shopping, and visiting the Smoky Mountains National Park.
Here are some other things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge in November:
- Take an Aerial Tram Ride through the Mountains: Enjoy breathtaking views and spot wildlife during your ride on the Gatlinburg Sky Lift.
- Go White Water Rafting around Gatlinburg for a thrilling adventure.
- Shop and Dine at The Island in Pigeon Forge: With shopping and dining options galore, The Island is a must-visit destination for visitors to the area.
- Visit Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park: This attraction offers ski slopes, an ice skating rink, and snow tubing during the winter months.
- Check out Shopping Centers near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge: Take advantage of outlet stores and unique boutiques while exploring downtown Gatlinburg or The Shops at Five Oaks in Pigeon Forge.

Here is our Smoky Mountains vacation guide to help you plan a vacation in both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
Things To Do In Tennessee in November
Check out our top picks for the best things to do in Tennessee in November.
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great place to take in the autumn season! The mountain range offers some of the most stunning views with its rolling hills and rolling peaks, covered in vibrant fall foliage.
Experience the magic and wonder of Thanksgiving at the beautiful Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. On the night of Thanksgiving, the museum will light up with a spectacular firework display to celebrate this special holiday. You’ll be able to see all sorts of colorful explosions as they sparkle against the night sky.
Clingmans Dome is the highest point in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and it's a must-see before the road going there closes as winter sets in. The view of the surrounding mountain ranges is incredible, especially with the vibrant fall foliage still present. Be sure to check it out!
Have a staycation at this 5-bedroom cabin in Gatlinburg. With amazing amenities such as a 6-person hot tub, washer & dryer, 9-person theater seating & 70-inch flat screen, and 7 Flat Screen Smart TVs, among others, this cabin is the perfect fall getaway!
Hiking in the Smoky Mountains is a great way to enjoy the season. Not only is it a wonderful way to get exercise and fresh air, but it also offers spectacular views of the surrounding area. In addition, there are many trails that cater to different levels of difficulty, so you can find something suitable for your experience level.
Snow tubing in Ober Gatlinburg opens in November and runs through March. Riders can enjoy a thrilling ride down the slopes on a large inner tube, with options for group or individual tubing. Tubers must be at least 42” tall to participate in snow tubing, and everyone under 18 years of age must have a parent present to sign the waiver.
Snow tubing is a great way to experience the snow-covered slopes of the Smoky Mountains. The tubing hill is over 800 feet long and features two runs that are perfect for all skill levels. It is also one of the most affordable winter activities in Gatlinburg, so you shouldn't miss it!
The Memphis Discovery Tour is designed to introduce locals and visitors alike to the city's rich culture and heritage. This tour begins with a visit to Graceland, the home of legendary musician Elvis Presley. Learn about his incredible career and life in this iconic home and see some of his personal artifacts along the way, among other attraction points.
This. year, the Dollywood Christmas Lights begins on November 5, 2022 and ends on January 1, 2023. During this time, the park is filled with millions of lights that bring color and cheer to the Smoky Mountain winter. Along with a festive light show, there are rides, entertainment, shows, shopping, and more.
Kids can meet Santa in person at The North Pole – an enchanting holiday village featuring live elves and reindeer. It's such an amazing festival of lights!
Download This FREE Fall Packing List for The Smokies
Related Smoky Mountain Resources
- Pigeon Forge Vacation Guide
- Gatlinburg Vacation Guide
- 125+ Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
November is a great time to take in the changing fall foliage, so be sure to bring your camera! Check out these best compact travel camera recommendations so you can produce breathtaking photos!
Vacationing with kids has never been easier when you visit the Smoky Mountains. Not only are there a lot of kid-friendly hikes in Gatlinburg, but there are also kid-friendly hotels in Pigeon Forge near The Island, where you can stay overnight if you want to explore the place more.