Planning a trip to the Smokies? You’re in for a treat. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park draws in millions of visitors every year—and for good reason. With its stunning views, peaceful trails, and nearby towns full of fun things to do, it’s the kind of place that gives you options whether you want adventure or relaxation.
If you’re trying to figure out what to see beyond the usual hikes and overlooks, this list has you covered. These top attractions will help you make the most of your trip and give you a mix of nature, history, and small-town charm.
Spend the Day Exploring Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is one of the busiest gateways to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park—and also one of the most entertaining. This bustling town offers a little bit of everything, from quirky museums and dinner shows to thrill rides and scenic spots. Whether you're traveling with kids, a group of friends, or just your partner, you’ll find something to enjoy.
Start your day at The Island in Pigeon Forge, an open-air entertainment and shopping complex. You can take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel or just relax in one of the rocking chairs around the show fountain.
Looking for a comfortable stay close to everything? The Inn on the River is a hotel Pigeon Forge TN visitors often choose for its river views, free breakfast, and included attraction tickets. This riverside spot features private balconies, indoor and outdoor pools, a hot breakfast bar, and even free tickets to attractions like SkyLand Ranch and Country Tonite Theatre. The hotel’s location on the Parkway also makes it easy to get around without spending too much time in traffic.
Visit the Historic Structures at Cades Cove
Cades Cove is one of the most popular areas within the national park, and once you go, you’ll see why. The wide, scenic valley is surrounded by mountains and is filled with both wildlife and history. It’s the perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural significance.
The main draw here is the 11-mile loop road, which you can drive, bike, or even walk if you’re feeling ambitious. Along the way, you’ll pass by preserved 19th-century buildings like churches, barns, cabins, and a working grist mill. The self-guided tour gives you a real sense of how early settlers lived in the area.
Wildlife lovers should come early in the morning or around sunset when deer, wild turkeys, and black bears are more active. Pack a picnic, bring binoculars, and take your time. There are also a few trailheads in the area, like Abrams Falls, which is a 5-mile round-trip hike to one of the park’s most scenic waterfalls.
Walk Through Downtown Gatlinburg
Just outside the entrance to the national park, Downtown Gatlinburg offers a walkable strip full of attractions, restaurants, and specialty shops. It’s a great place to spend a few relaxed hours exploring.
If you're traveling with family, stop by Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. It’s one of the top-rated aquariums in the country and features a moving walkway through an underwater tunnel, giving you close-up views of sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles.
Another must-visit spot is Anakeesta, a mountaintop adventure park accessible by a scenic chairlift ride. Once you’re up there, you can enjoy gardens, treehouse walks, ziplines, or just grab a snack and enjoy the mountain scenery.
Take in the Views from Kuwohi
Kuwohi, the tallest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is one of the best places to experience panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The paved trail from the parking area to the observation tower is only about half a mile long, but it’s steep, so pace yourself. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views that stretch for miles on clear days.
It’s also important to note that the road to Kuwohi is typically closed from December through March due to snow and ice. If you're visiting in spring, summer, or fall, though, it’s well worth the drive.
Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Looking for a peaceful scenic drive just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg? The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a 5.5-mile one-way loop road that winds through the forest, past old cabins, and alongside a mountain stream.
You’ll find pull-offs for trailheads like Grotto Falls, where you can hike behind a waterfall, and Rainbow Falls, which is a bit longer but offers beautiful views. The drive also features historic log homes and grist mills that give a glimpse into Appalachian life long before the area became a national park.
This drive is great for visitors who want to see the Smokies’ natural beauty without committing to a long hike. It’s especially nice in the early morning or late afternoon when the light filters gently through the trees.
Whether it’s your first visit to the Smokies or your fifth, there’s always more to see. From scenic drives and historic sites to vibrant town centers and cultural stops, the area offers something for everyone. Pick a few of these spots, plan your days around what interests you most, and you’ll walk away with a vacation full of great memories.
