8 Tips To Have A Fun Time With Your Kids In Gatlinburg

Jan 20, 2024

Last Updated on: Mar 30, 2024

Destinations

Nestled amidst the picturesque Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Gatlinburg is a charming destination. It is a promises a memorable family vacation, attracting about 12 million visitors per year. With its stunning natural beauty and an array of exciting attractions, Gatlinburg offers an ideal setting. It is for quality time with your kids. In this article, we’ll explore some tips to ensure you and your little ones have an unforgettable adventure in Gatlinburg.

Outdoor Adventures In The Great Smoky Mountains:

Gatlinburg is renowned for its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. If your family enjoys the great outdoors, go on a family-friendly hiking adventure amidst the lush forests and scenic trails.

There are numerous hiking trails suitable for all ages and skill levels. Before heading out, ensure that you’re well-prepared with comfortable footwear, snacks, water, and safety essentials like sunscreen and bug repellent. Exploring the great outdoors together fosters a sense of adventure and creates lasting memories.

Gatlinburg Candy Store Delight:

One of the first things that may catch your kids’ attention in Gatlinburg. It is the tantalizingly sweet aroma wafting from the candy stores that line the streets. To kickstart your family vacation, take your kids to a Gatlinburg candy store. There they can indulge their sweet tooth to their heart’s content.

Among the various candy stores in Gatlinburg, you’ll find a plethora of confectionery delights. It is from classic favorites to unique, locally-made sweets. The joy on your kids’ faces, as they savor these delectable treats, will set the tone for a sweet vacation.

Ripley’s Aquarium Of The Smokies:

For an underwater adventure that both kids and adults will relish, make your way to Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, this popular attraction is home to an impressive array of marine life and interactive exhibits.

Here, your kids can get up close and personal with fascinating sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, and playful penguins. Be sure to check the schedule for animal encounters and feeding times, as these experiences can provide valuable insights into marine biology and conservation.

Visit Gatlinburg Amusement Parks:

When it comes to family fun, visiting an amusement park is a must-visit destination. You can find an array of thrilling rides, activities, and attractions with breathtaking mountain views as a backdrop. Kids can enjoy a variety of rides suitable for different age groups. There is no enjoyment for kids like amusement parks, so make sure to keep it in your itinerary!

Arts And Crafts Community Exploration:

Gatlinburg isn’t just about natural beauty and thrilling attractions; it’s also home to a thriving arts and crafts community. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots and immerse your family in the world of creativity and craftsmanship. You and your kids can try your hand at pottery, candle-making, and other artisan crafts. It’s a fantastic opportunity to create personalized souvenirs that will serve as cherished mementos of your Gatlinburg vacation.

Wildlife Encounters At Cades Cove:

For a dose of wildlife and natural beauty, plan a visit to Cades Cove, a scenic valley in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. This idyllic spot offers an excellent opportunity for your family to observe and connect with nature.

Cades Cove is renowned for its diverse wildlife population. To increase your chances of spotting these magnificent creatures, consider taking a slow drive along the Cades Cove Loop Road early in the morning or near dusk. Be sure to remind your kids to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals in their natural habitat.

Family-Friendly Dining Spots:

Exploring Gatlinburg’s culinary scene is an integral part of your family vacation, and the town is a haven for food lovers of all ages. Fortunately, Gatlinburg boasts a diverse array of family-friendly restaurants that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences. When dining out with your kids, look for establishments that go the extra mile by offering dedicated kid-friendly menus and creating a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

From Southern barbecue joints that serve up mouthwatering ribs with all the fixings to charming diners renowned for their homemade pies bursting with flavor, Gatlinburg offers a cornucopia of culinary delights.

Sharing these meals as a family not only provides nourishment but also creates invaluable bonding experiences, fostering laughter and memories that will be cherished long after your Gatlinburg vacation comes to an end. So, don’t miss the chance to savor the town’s delicious offerings together.

Evening Entertainment At Dollywood:

Wrap up your Gatlinburg adventure with a visit to Dollywood, a renowned theme park located just a short drive away in Pigeon Forge. While not strictly in Gatlinburg, Dollywood is a must-visit for families seeking evening entertainment. Dollywood offers an array of family-friendly shows, thrilling rides, and immersive attractions that will keep your kids entertained for hours.

Whether your little ones are adrenaline junkies who love roller coasters, aspiring performers who enjoy live entertainment, or curious minds eager to explore interactive exhibits, Dollywood has something to captivate every member of your family. Don’t forget to check the park’s schedule for special events, parades, and nighttime shows, as they often add an extra layer of magic and excitement to your Dollywood visit.

Conclusion:

Gatlinburg, with its stunning natural beauty and diverse range of family-friendly attractions, provides an ideal backdrop for a memorable vacation with your kids. From exploring candy stores to immersing yourselves in nature, observing wildlife at Cades Cove, and enjoying delicious meals, Gatlinburg offers an array of experiences that will create lasting memories for your family.

As you savor the sweetness of homemade candies, soak in the mountain views from the Space Needle, and revel in the excitement of amusement parks and wildlife encounters, remember that Gatlinburg’s charm lies not just in its attractions but in the precious moments spent together as a family.

These ten tips are your guide to ensuring that your Gatlinburg vacation is fun. It isalso filled with love, laughter, and cherished family bonds. So pack your bags, start your adventure, and make Gatlinburg your family’s next unforgettable destination.

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Ankita Tripathy loves to write about food and the Hallyu Wave in particular. During her free time, she enjoys looking at the sky or reading books while sipping a cup of hot coffee. Her favourite niches are food, music, lifestyle, travel, and Korean Pop music and drama.

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What Are The Restaurants In Australia Worthy To Have An Experience?

BY  sagnika Apr 19, 2024

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7 Fun Things To Do In The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

BY  Barsha Dec 29, 2023

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Hiking To Clingman Dome Another highlight of the Great Smoky Mountains is Clingman Dome, the highest point in the park and all of Tennessee. Standing at 6,643 feet, it offers panoramic views that are simply breathtaking. The journey to the top begins with a steep half-mile walk on a paved trail, which, though challenging, is rewarding with its sweeping vistas. At the top, the observation tower provides 360-degree views of the smokies, with visibility up to 100 miles on clear days. The cool, spruce-fir forest that surrounds Clingmans Dome is a refreshing change from the lower elevations and is home to a variety of birds and plants unique to the area. The best times to visit are either early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds and to fully embrace the serene beauty of the mountains. 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Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat in nature or an adventurous exploration of the outdoors, the Smokies offer a unique and unforgettable experience. Remember to respect the park and its inhabitants, preserve its natural beauty, and, most importantly, enjoy the incredible experiences it offers. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not just a destination; it's an adventure that calls you back time and again. Read Also: 10 Best Things To Do In Prague 10 Best Things To Do In Barcelona (Spain) 10 Best Things To Do In Dublin (Ireland)

READ MORE Best Time To Visit Auli

Which Is The Best Time To Visit Auli? – Travel Guide

BY  Abdul Aziz Jun 25, 2022

“Some hill stations are no less than crushes! Either, you end up being taken or friend-zoned! Yet, the heart keeps on beating! The feeling prevails!” I don't know if I am worthy enough to give a quote about a hill station but yes, I can truly give a statement. The above statement goes out to Auli. Well, she is like a beautiful Garhwali girl I first saw as a child and again as a grown-up. The first time, It was mere friendship, but the second time, It was love. Yes, you can fall in love with places often, and trust me, it is way better than falling in love with a human being. At times, a human being might not be worthy of the love you show but for a place it is different. The number of times you reach up to the place, it fondles you. So selfless! So tranquil! So, as a traveler and a crazy soul that seldom wanders in the Himalayas, I am here, sharing facts about the best time to visit Auli. However, this article contains some philosophy and some facts about Auli. Moreover, It contains my story from my childhood. Have a read before you head to the place! Auli- The Location Auli is situated in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. It is also known as ‘Auli Bugyal’ in Garhwali, the local language. The Chamoli district has now turned globally famous for this hill station as it is a ski resort in India. Auli has got an elevation of 2909 m above sea level and is one of the most remote locations in India. However, a bunch of local people stays on the spot for their business. This thing is probably the same for all tourist locations around the world. The love for traveling for one turns to the daily bread for another. There are not many places to visit in Auli but you can include the hill station while covering the state of Uttrakhand on a trip. It can either be a holiday on the hills or a pilgrimage. Scroll down to know the best time to visit Auli. Uttarakhand Trippings Belts With Inclusion Of Auli In this section of the article, you can check out the tripping belts of Uttarakhand in which you can include Auli. Just take a look: The Hardwar- Rudraprayag- Joshimath Belt If you have a time constraint, the Hardwar-Rudraprayag- Joshimath belt can be one of the best Himalayan getaways for you. Now, you can add a day and visit Auli from Joshimath. In this case, you have to stay in Joshimath for two nights. The Pilgrimage Belt You can also cover Auli in the Kedarnath-Badrinath-Hemkund Shahib pilgrimage belt. It is easy as you need to give a halt in Joshimath. Even after covering Auli, you can reach up to Tunganath for a pilgrimage as it is situated in the Chamoli district itself. Reaching Auli- All Facts About It Reaching Auli is a daunting task in every way but it is full of fun. You can reach here by road or by cable car. As Joshimath is the nearest city to Auli, it acts as the base. In the winter, cable cars actively transit people to Auli. On the other hand, in summer, you can reach this place in a car. No matter your travel from Himachal Pradesh, Jammu, Kashmir, or Uttarakhand, you can halt at Joshimath and reach the place. The Best Time To Visit Auli If you are thinking about Auli best time to visit, you can consider visiting both in summer and winter. In summers, you can witness the green Auli whereas, in winters it is covered with snow. For me, things were a bit different, I went on a pilgrimage trip twice during the late autumn. As a child, I witnessed lush green meadows at the place but it was all cloudy. It was a memorable situation on my trip. I remember that we had a plan to visit the Auli tourist places but could not get the cable car. It was so as if we were on a Joshimath and went late to the base camp. So, the plan ultimately got postponed to the next morning. Now, the best thing that happened to us was the dawn. It is cloudy and a few drizzles occurred too. While we were in the cable car, we got some awesome views of the place. The same place had something different for me when I reached this place in my twenties. It was early November and the place was covered with virgin snow. According to the locals, it was not something uncommon but the place looked like heaven. The sky was deep blue and I could get a breathtaking view of the Nanda Devi. So, I can say, the best time to visit Auli Uttarakhand can be the late autumn and winter. Visiting the place at this time can help you to get the real vibe of the place.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): 1. What Clothes Can We Take To Auli In Winter? When you visit Auli during the winter, which is actually the best time to visit Auli, you need to take proper trekking gear. Moreover, you can take proper woolens for the night. 2. Is It Safe For 55-Year-Old Man To Reach Atop Auli? A 55-year-old man can reach the top of Auli if he is physically fit. However, it is better if it does not visit due to altitude sickness. 3. Is The Cable Car To Auli Active In Summer Season? No, As of now, the cable car of Auli is not active during the summer season. The best you can do is visit the place during the winter season. Since the best time to visit Auli is winter and late autumn, cable cars operate abundantly during these times. 4. Can We Visit Auli During The Monsoon? Yes, you can visit Auli during the Monsoon season. The place might be a bit risky to roam about but you can get some extraordinary views. Final Words Writing about Auli is always a fun thing to do as I have been to the place twice. Plus explaining the best time to visit Auli to all of you was always on my bucket list. I would always suggest you make a proper plan before heading to the place. Expect to check out the magnificent views and enjoy skiing at the same time. The best you can do is get a cab till Joshimath and if possible till Auli. You can also get a good guide from the hotel who can show you some unique local spots. Read Also: Best Places For River Rafting In India Top 10 Best Travel Sites For Tour In 2022 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India