facebook
Home » Blog » Gatlinburg » Gatlinburg Named the South’s Best Mountain Town
Aerial photo of Gatlinburg TN

Gatlinburg Named the South’s Best Mountain Town

Gatlinburg is the South’s best mountain town! We aren’t the only ones who think so, either. Southern Living recently put Gatlinburg at the top of their list of the 10 best mountain towns in the South. We’ve got all the details on why Gatlinburg was named the South’s best mountain town and why you should plan your visit to the area!

South’s Best Mountain Town

things to do in gatlinburg tnGatlinburg has been receiving recognition recently for how special it is, including being named one of the best small towns in America. Now, Southern Living has named it the South’s best mountain town! Southern Living’s list included 5 towns in North Carolina, 2 in Georgia, 1 in Virginia, and 1 in Arkansas, but Gatlinburg took the top spot. So, what makes it so special? Southern Living cited the opening of the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, Blake Shelton’s Ole Red, the Tennessee Cider Company, Gatlinburg Brewing Company and Anakeesta as some of the reasons Gatlinburg is everybody’s favorite mountain town. These recent additions to Gatlinburg are just some of the many attractions that keep visitors returning year after year.

Why Should You Visit Gatlinburg?

One of the best parts about Gatlinburg is that there is truly something for everyone. You can relax and enjoy the gorgeous mountain views, explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or visit one of the exciting attractions like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies! Whether you’re looking for a peaceful mountain escape or a vacation packed full of family fun, you’ll find it in Gatlinburg.

What is There to Do in Gatlinburg?

anakeesta in gatlinburgYour opportunities for things to do in Gatlinburg are almost never-ending! Dine at delicious restaurants, browse unique shops or experience thrills at amusement parks. Here are just some of the many things to do in Gatlinburg:

For Families

Gatlinburg is quickly becoming one of the top destinations for family vacations. Bring the kids along to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, where they can get close and interact with all their favorite aquatic animals, or take them to Anakeesta and let them play on the Treehouse Village Playground! There are also quite a few places to eat in Gatlinburg that are great for families, including Fannie Farkle’s, the Pancake Pantry, and Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.! Here are more popular attractions and restaurants for families:

  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
  • Guinness World Records Adventure
  • Arcadia
  • Gatlin’s
  • Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Hidden Gems

salt and pepper shaker museum in gatlinburgIf you’re hoping to do something off the beaten path during your vacation, Gatlinburg is the perfect place to go! There are unique things to do that take you away from the hustle and bustle on the Parkway. See salt and pepper shakers from around the world at the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, tour the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community, or dine at New Orleans Sandwich Co. Here are more hidden gems in Gatlinburg:

  • Wild Plum Tea Room
  • Cataract Falls
  • Tom & Earl’s Back Alley Grill
  • Old Dad’s General Store
  • Walker Sisters Place

For Outdoor Lovers

Grotto Falls in the Great Smoky MountainsGatlinburg is the place to be for those who love spending time outdoors. Not only is it the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but it is home to so many fun outdoor activities! Visit CLIMB Works for a zipline tour that lets you soar through the sky while getting a bird’s eye view of the mountains, go for a hike along the Gatlinburg Trail, or enjoy a fun round of mini golf with the family. During the winter months, Ober offers skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing, and during the summer months you can cool off in their water rides! Here are more outdoor activities in Gatlinburg:

  • Anakeesta
  • Hike Trillium Gap Trail to Grotto Falls
  • White Water Rafting
  • Ride a Mountain Coaster
  • Horseback Riding

Plan a Visit to Gatlinburg

Now that you know what makes Gatlinburg the South’s best mountain town, we bet you can’t wait to visit and see for yourself! Start planning your vacation now by taking a look at our incredible selection of Gatlinburg cabin rentals.