There is certainly no shortage of things to do in Gatlinburg TN in April! Now that spring is on its way, the Smokies are bursting at the seams with incredible events that celebrate East Tennessee’s culture and the great outdoors. From enjoying the beauty of the great outdoors to indoor experiences that create lasting memories, there's plenty to do. If you plan on being here during April, here are some of the top events and Gatlinburg activities in April you need to know about:
Spring in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
After a cold and snowy winter, there’s nothing better than getting out and hitting the trails! The national park’s seasonal road closures like Kuwohi Road and Rich Mountain Road open back up in the month of April, and there are plenty of spring hiking trails and scenic drives that offer beautiful views of the blooming wildflowers! Plus, one of the park's most popular annual events takes place in April:
Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage
The annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage is one of the most highly anticipated spring events in the Smoky Mountains, with programs and workshops that showcase the incredible natural beauty of the local flora and fauna. Enjoy talks from passionate experts, go on guided hikes, and more!
Events at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
One of the best things to do in Gatlinburg TN in April is visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and you’ll find several unique experiences during the month of April and throughout the spring and summer that provide an entirely new way to interact with the animals and exhibits, including:
- Breakfast With A Mermaid– Meet a real mermaid, enjoy a delicious hot breakfast, and explore the aquarium before it opens to the public!
- Sips & Sharks Sleepover– Spend the night counting sharks instead of sheep! Enjoy food, drinks, and a behind-the-scenes tour! (ages 21+)
- Pancakes & Penguins– start your day with a yummy hot breakfast, meeting the African penguins face-to-beak, and early access to the aquarium!
- Pints & Penguins– Instead of spending the night with the sharks, have a sleepover with the penguins! Hot breakfast in the morning included. (ages 21+)
Easter Sunrise Service
If you’re visiting Gatlinburg in April, specifically during the Easter holiday, then you might be wondering if there are any Easter services. Actually, you have a couple of options to choose from! Both the Easter Service at Ober Mountain and the Easter Service at Gatlinburg SkyPark take place early in the morning on Easter Sunday, so you can watch the sunrise, listen to a beautiful service, and enjoy early access to the Smoky Mountain attraction. Gatlinburg SkyPark is also hosting a couple of additional events in April, including Music on the Mountain and an Earth Day celebration!
Mountain Man Memorial March
Whether you’re a distance runner or simply want to support our veterans and local non-profits, then you should participate in the Mountain Man Memorial March in Gatlinburg! You can do a 5k or a 10k, or complete the half or full marathon route, covering flat, hilly, and rocky terrain through Gatlinburg and into the Smoky Mountains.
Experience Gatlinburg Springfest
Celebrate spring by experiencing Gatlinburg Springfest this April! Gatlinburg businesses are decked out with seasonal decor and bright flowers that let visitors know spring is in full bloom. You can find a map all of the businesses participating by downloading the free Visit Gatlinburg app (available on both the App Store and Google Play) and even vote on your favorite decorations. It's a simple yet fun annual tradition that makes spending time in Gatlinburg feel even more special.
More Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN in April
Now you know what to do in Gatlinburg TN in April! But this isn’t the only Smoky Mountain town with a busy spring schedule of events! Pigeon Forge has lots of fun activities and festivals to look forward to in April, like spring car shows and the Rod Run. Plus, you won’t want to miss what’s new at Dollywood!
To keep up with all of the great things to do in Gatlinburg TN in April and beyond, check out our Gatlinburg Events Calendar!
