For an unforgettable family getaway, look no further than the Great Smoky Mountains. This natural wonderland offers a diverse landscape with ancient mountains that have inspired visitors for generations. The climate varies with the seasons, offering mild temperatures in spring and fall, warm, humid summers, and moderately cold winters, ensuring there’s something to enjoy year-round. The park teems with wildlife, including approximately 65 species of mammals, over 200 varieties of birds, and more than 80 types of reptiles and amphibians, making it a haven for animal lovers
While you’re cruising through the mountains with your crew, make the most of each moment together with this list of simple roadtrip games for all ages!
Here are 15 things not to miss when you go:
1. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Location: Throughout the region
Best ages: All ages
Why families will love it: Over 800 miles of hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural beauty15
What makes it special: America’s most visited national park, offering a variety of outdoor experiences
2. Laurel Falls Trail
Location: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Best ages: 5-12 (due to distance and some areas of incline)
Why families will love it: 2.5-mile roundtrip hike with beautiful waterfall views
What makes it special: Opportunity to spot wildlife, including bears
3. Gatlinburg Trail
Location: Gatlinburg, TN
Best ages: All ages
Why families will love it: Easy 3.8-mile roundtrip hike along the river, pet-friendly
What makes it special: Passes by the iconic Smoky Mountains National Park entrance sign, making a great photo op!
4. Cades Cove Loop Road
Location: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Best ages: All ages
Why families will love it: 11-mile scenic drive with wildlife viewing and historic buildings1
What makes it special: One of the best places to spot black bears and white-tailed deer
5. Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
Location: Gatlinburg
Best ages: 6+
Why families will love it: 8-mile loop featuring over 100 local artisans
What makes it special: Largest independent organization of artisans in the United States!
6. Clingmans Dome
Location: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Best ages: 7+ (Due to incline and some difficult to menuver areas)
Why families will love it: Highest point in the Smokies with panoramic views. Don’t forget your camera!
What makes it special: Access to a unique portion of the Appalachian Trail
7. Anakeesta
Location: Gatlinburg, TN
Best ages: Fun for the whole family
Price: Adults $27.99, Kids $17.99
Why families will love it: Treetop walks, zip lines, and mountain coaster
What makes it special: Combines nature exploration with thrilling adventures
8. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Location: Gatlinburg, TN
Best ages: Fun for the whole family
Price: Adults $39.99, Children $19.99
Why families will love it: Diverse marine life and interactive exhibits
What makes it special: One of the top-rated aquariums in the country
9. Dollywood
Location: Pigeon Forge
Best ages: 4+
Price: One-day tickets start at $89 for adults, $79 for children
Why families will love it: Rides, shows, and celebration of local culture
What makes it special: Themed areas showcasing Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain heritage
10. Smoky Mountain Family Camp
Location: Tremont Institute, Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Best ages: Fun for the whole family
Price: $615 per person for 6 days/5 nights
Why families will love it: All-inclusive outdoor adventure with guided activities
What makes it special: Immersive experience inside the national park
11. Grotto Falls Trail
Location: Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Best ages: 7+
Price: Free
Why families will love it: 2.6-mile roundtrip hike to a waterfall you can walk behind
What makes it special: Unique waterfall experience and potential salamander sightings
12. Old Mill Candy Kitchen
Location: Pigeon Forge
Best ages: All ages
Price: Free to watch, purchases extra
Why families will love it: Watch candy being made and purchase sweet treats1
What makes it special: Interactive candy-making demonstrations
13. Bush’s Visitor Center
Location: Dandridge
Best ages: 5+
Price: Free entry
Why families will love it: Learn about the history of Bush’s Baked Beans
What makes it special: Interactive exhibits and beautiful surroundings
14. Winterfest
Location: Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg (seasonal)
Best ages: All ages
Price: Many activities are free
Why families will love it: Seasonal celebration with lights and events1
What makes it special: Festive atmosphere throughout the area
15. Meet the Horses at Dolly’s Stampede
Location: Pigeon Forge
Best ages: All ages
Price: Free to see horses, show tickets extra
Why families will love it: See horses in their outdoor stables before the show2
What makes it special: Up-close encounter with show horses
