5 Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains Before the Year Ends
As the year draws to a close, it’s time to squeeze in one more visit to the Smoky Mountains! The end of the year is one of the best times to visit the Smokies, with holiday events, gorgeous mountain views, and plenty of fun. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together a list of 5 things to do in the Smoky Mountains before the year ends.
1. Visit One of the New Attractions That Opened This Year.
Each year brings plenty of new attractions, restaurants and shops to the area. Before the year ends, plan a visit to the Smoky Mountains to try at least one of the new attractions that opened this year. Whether you’re looking for a thrill and want to go on a daring ride or you’d rather relax and take in the gorgeous mountain views, you can find it all in the Smoky Mountains. Here are just some of the new things to do in the Smoky Mountains that opened this year:
- Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
- Mountain Monster
- Pink Jeep Tours
- Ole Red Gatlinburg
- Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
2. Experience Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas.
End the year on a magical note when you visit Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas! This popular Christmas festival is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and share the magic of the Christmas season with your loved ones. See millions of twinkling lights, take in the views of a 50-foot video motion Christmas tree, meet Rudolph and friends, and enjoy special Christmas treats! You also don’t want to miss the Parade of Many Colors, which includes vibrant floats, interactive characters and a heart-warming message.
3. Visit the Apple Barn.
If you’ve never been to the Apple Barn before, it’s worth taking a trip to the Smoky Mountains just to try it! The Apple Barn Village is located in Sevierville and includes a cider mill, a candy factory, an ice cream shop, two restaurants, a winery, a Christmas store and a general store. You’ll love enjoying some warm apple fritters at the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant before finding some new holiday decorations at the Christmas and Candles shop. Sample freshly made cider, purchase a souvenir, or pick up some sweets at the Candy Factory! You can do it all at the Apple Barn.
4. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Your visit to the Smoky Mountain area wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! If you don’t mind the cooler temperatures, go for a hike to see the beauty of the mountains up close. Depending on the weather, you might even have the chance to see snow-covered mountaintops and icicles! You can also go for a scenic drive along the Cades Cove Loop for the opportunity to see wildlife, historic structures, mountain views and more.
5. Stay in a Smoky Mountain Cabin.
One of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains is stay in a cabin! There is a variety of gorgeous Smoky Mountain cabin rentals that come with everything you need for a perfect stay. You won’t even have to leave to have a relaxing and enjoyable Smoky Mountain vacation! They come in all sizes to accommodate everyone from couples to large groups. Choose from amenities like hot tubs, fire pits, game rooms, home theaters and even indoor swimming pools! A cabin is the perfect place to spend your December evenings in the Smokies. Grab a cup of hot chocolate and curl up in front of the fireplace, or stay warm in the hot tub as you take in the mountain views. Take a look at all the best Smoky Mountain cabin rentals and find where you want to stay when you visit.
It’s time to start planning your trip so you can try these 5 things to do in the Smoky Mountains before the year ends! Check out more things to do in the Smoky Mountains, then get ready for the best end-of-year vacation!
