Top 4 Gatlinburg Attractions for First-Time Visitors

If you are planning your first trip to the Smoky Mountains, it is easy to become overwhelmed with the amount of things there are to do. As you are making your itinerary, it is easy to wonder which places on your list are a must see. The good news is that no matter what you decide to do, your family is going to have an amazing vacation. However, if you are looking for suggestions, we have put together this list of the top 4 Gatlinburg attractions for first-time visitors:

1. Anakeesta

If you only have a few days to visit on vacation, Anakeesta has to be at the top of the list of things to see. The theme park offers many thrilling activities for the whole family, in addition to spectacular views of the Smokies. If you consider yourself to be an adventure seeker, you don’t want to miss out on the Dueling Zipline Adventure! During the activity, you will soar through the trees on a multitude of lines! This is a great way to spend the day with your family as you enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Smokies!

2. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Did you know that Gatlinburg is home to one of the country’s most highly rated aquariums? Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies was rated as the second best aquarium in the United States in 2020, according to USA Today. One of the main reasons for this is because of the variety of hands-on exhibits they offer. On the same fun-filled day, your family can pet a ray, come nose to beak with a penguin, and feed a real life sea turtle! In addition, you can learn all about thousands of other amazing sea creatures!

3. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Are you looking for things to do that offer an amazing view of the Smoky Mountains? The Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is one of the hottest Gatlinburg attractions for that very reason! During your adventure, you can walk across the SkyBridge, which is the longest pedestrian cable bridge in all of North America. Do you have what it takes to make it all the way across the 700 foot bridge? Make the trip to the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park and find out! Afterwards, you can relax with your family atop the SkyDeck! There you will find plenty of snacks and drinks that will make your experience even better!

4. Ober Mountain

Do you love winter? At Ober Mountain, you can take part in all sorts of thrilling snow activities, including snow tubing and ice skating. Planning a trip during the warmer months of the year? That’s not a problem at all. Ober has plenty of warm weather activities too, including mini golf, hiking trails, a wildlife encounter, a mountain coaster, and so much more! This is a great place to take a large group because there are activities for all age groups!

Our Gatlinburg cabins can put you near all the best Gatlinburg attractions, in addition to great dining options and shopping spots! Browse through our rentals today to find the one that is perfect for your next vacation. We look forward to seeing you in the Smoky Mountains!