Visitors to Gatlinburg, Tennessee often find that there is an overwhelming amount of amazing things to see and so. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a guide to seven Gatlinburg points of interest you definitely don’t want to miss:
1. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies offers guests up-close and personal encounters with aquatic life from around the world. Special experiences at this attraction include the opportunity to touch stingrays, interact with penguins, and get a special manicure from some helpful fish. Visitors even have the option to spend the night in order to see for themselves whether or not sharks sleep. You’ll be treated to a dive show, a scavenger hunt, and other fun activities before you drift off to sleep next to the shark tank!
2. Pancake Pantry
Since 1960, this amazing restaurant has been delighting guests with real butter, fresh whipped cream, and a wonderful selection of delicious dishes that are all made from scratch. Come enjoy breakfast, brunch, lunch or an afternoon snack at the Pancake Pantry, and your children can choose from their own wonderful menu.
3. The Village Shops
Shopping enthusiasts are sure to rejoice at the sight of these 27 truly unique boutiques, galleries, eateries, and clothing stores that are all located in a lovely replica of a European village. You’ll have no problem finding unique gifts for friends and family back home. When you see The Village Shops for yourself, it’s obvious why it’s one of the most popular Gatlinburg points of interest!
4. The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
Those who enjoy something a little different will want to visit the world’s one and only museum dedicated to displaying salt and pepper shakers from all around the world. Expect to see around 20,000 sets of unusual shakers at The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, as well as a huge collection of interesting pepper mills.
5. Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community
All year long, you can expect to find more than 120 amazing craftsmen and artisans on this 8 mile loop road. Designated as the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, you’ll find a wonderful variety of original works that include quilts, pottery, candles, and ceramics. Other artwork to be found includes silver smithing, leather, paintings, and stained glass. Enjoy the shopping, and be sure to stop at the great restaurants and candy shops as well.
6. Ober Gatlinburg
A variety of great activities are available year round at Ober Gatlinburg, and the entire family is sure to have a wonderful time. Popular winter sports include skiing, snowboarding, and tubing, and you can enjoy ice skating all year long at the indoor rink. Guests can also enjoy a great game of mini golf and a huge children’s play area with rides, mazes, and a beautiful carousel. Those who love animals will want to participate in Ober’s excellent wildlife encounter. Excellent dining and shopping are also available.
7. Gatlinburg Space Needle
This 407 foot tall observation tower offers a glorious glass-elevator ride up to the top, and you can expect nothing short of a stunning 360 degree view of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains. Visitors to the Gatlinburg Space Needle can also spend some time playing in the huge arcade or enjoying a show at the on-site theater.
These are just a very few of the many Gatlinburg points of interest that you may enjoy during your visit. For even more great vacation ideas, check out our Gatlinburg Area Info page!