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aerial view of downtown Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg TN Named the Best Mountain Town to Visit in the USA

We already know Gatlinburg is the best mountain town in the whole country, but now the city is getting recognition for it! U.S. News & World Report has named Gatlinburg TN as 2021’s Best Mountain Town to Visit in the USA. We have all the details of why Gatlinburg was named the number 1 mountain town and why you should plan your next trip here.

Best Mountain Town

City of Gatlinburg on a cloudy day

Gatlinburg has definitely gotten quite a bit of recognition over the last year, including being named one of the best small towns in Tennessee. Now, U.S. News & World Report named Gatlinburg as the Best Mountain Town to visit in the entire country. What may be surprising to many is the other mountain towns on the list are mostly in the midwest or the intermountain region of the country. So why did Gatlinburg take the number 1 spot? U.S. News & World Report noted that Gatlinburg is the perfect family friendly spot to go on vacation. They mentioned Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, riding a mountain coaster, and visiting delicious restaurants as some of the great things to do in the area. Of course, they also included the fact that Gatlinburg sits right next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These fun activities and places are part of what makes Gatlinburg the best mountain town.

Why Should You Visit Gatlinburg TN?

Gatlinburg is a city that has something for everyone, which is exactly why you should visit. Kids will love visiting the attractions, including Gatlin’s Fun Center and the aquarium. Foodies have so many local restaurants they can visit that serve delicious meals and treats. People who love being outdoors can enjoy walking around downtown Gatlinburg and then head into the national park since it’s right next door. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation in the beauty of the mountains or an action-packed family vacation, Gatlinburg has what you’re looking for!

Gatlinburg Attractions

gatlinburg skylift parkThere are so many fun things to do in Gatlinburg. Some of the most unique ones include the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, the Gatlinburg Pinball Machine Museum, and the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum. Anakeesta is a popular attraction because of the mountain views, exciting ziplines, and whimsical playgrounds for kids. Ober Gatlinburg is another fun place to visit, because you can ski and snowboard in the winter and ride water slides in the summer! You’ll find all kinds of fun things to do in Gatlinburg!

Gatlinburg Restaurants

Gatlinburg is also known as being a great place to visit if you love food. There are so many different kinds of restaurants in Gatlinburg people love to try. For breakfast, head over to the Pancake Pantry and get a stack of flapjacks covered in syrup and butter. Cherokee Grill and The Peddler are great options for lunch or dinner. If you are looking for sweet treats, head to Mad Dog’s Creamery or the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen. No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something in Gatlinburg!

Gatlinburg Shops

The Village in GatlinburgIf you love to shop, then you’ll also enjoy visiting Gatlinburg! This mountain town is full of local shops with eclectic items to take home. The Village Shops is a popular outdoor shopping center that includes stores like The Day Hiker and The Tea and Spice Exchange. The Mountain Mall has a ton of local businesses with souvenirs you’ll want to take home. For people who love all things handmade, head to the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community to find all kinds of amazing shops.

Since you know why Gatlinburg was named the Best Mountain Town to Visit in the USA, you can start planning your next trip! Look through these Smoky Mountain cabin rentals, and book one for your Gatlinburg TN vacation today!