Gatlinburg is a beautiful mountain town located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With its stunning scenery, thrilling attractions, and rich history, Gatlinburg is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. If you’re planning a trip to Gatlinburg in June 2024, be sure to add these 8 amazing places to your itinerary.
June is a great time to visit Gatlinburg because the weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot. The average temperature in June is 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and the humidity is relatively low. This makes it ideal for spending time outdoors, exploring the many hiking trails and attractions that Gatlinburg has to offer.
Gatlinburg is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The town is home to several art galleries, museums, and theaters. There are also many opportunities to enjoy live music, both indoors and outdoors. If you’re looking for a place to experience the culture of Gatlinburg, be sure to check out the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, and the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, and for good reason. The park is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life, including black bears, elk, and deer. There are also over 800 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. If you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the perfect place for you.
2. Gatlinburg Space Needle
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a 407-foot observation tower that offers stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains. The tower has two observation decks, one at the 100-foot level and one at the 360-foot level. From the top deck, you can see for miles in all directions. The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a great place to visit on a clear day, and it’s especially beautiful at night when the city lights are twinkling below.
3. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the most popular attractions in Gatlinburg. The aquarium is home to over 10,000 sea creatures, including sharks, penguins, and sea turtles. There are also a variety of interactive exhibits, including a touch tank where you can pet stingrays and sharks. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a great place to learn about marine life and see some amazing creatures up close.
4. Anakeesta
Anakeesta is a mountaintop theme park that offers a variety of attractions, including a zip line, a treetop skywalk, and a mountain coaster. The park also has a variety of shops and restaurants, and it offers stunning views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Anakeesta is a great place to visit for families and couples alike. The park is open year-round, but it’s especially beautiful in the summer when the flowers are in bloom.
5. Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg is a ski resort that offers a variety of activities year-round, including skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snow tubing. The resort also has an indoor water park, an amusement park, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Ober Gatlinburg is a great place to visit for families and couples alike. The resort is open year-round, but it’s especially popular in the winter when the snow is falling.
6. Hollywood Star Cars Museum
The Hollywood Star Cars Museum is a must-see for any fan of movies and television. The museum houses a collection of over 40 vehicles that have been featured in movies and TV shows, including the Batmobile, the DeLorean from Back to the Future, and the General Lee from The Dukes of Hazzard. The museum also has a variety of interactive exhibits, including a green screen where you can film yourself driving one of the cars.
7. Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community
The Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community is a 8-mile loop road that is home to over 100 artisans and craftsmen. The community is a great place to find unique handmade souvenirs, including pottery, jewelry, and wood carvings. The artisans and craftsmen are friendly and welcoming, and they are always happy to talk about their work.
8. Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is a 21-mile loop road that is home to over 200 artisans and craftsmen. The community is a great place to find unique handmade souvenirs, including pottery, jewelry, and wood carvings. The artisans and craftsmen are friendly and welcoming, and they are always happy to talk about their work.
Culture
Gatlinburg is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from the Cherokee Indians, the Appalachian Mountains, and the American South. The town is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community, the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, and the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum. Gatlinburg is also a great place to experience live music, both indoors and outdoors.
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit Gatlinburg are April, May, September, and October. These months offer the best weather, with warm temperatures and low humidity. However, Gatlinburg is a year-round destination, and there are always things to see and do, no matter what time of year you visit.
Nearby Transportation
Gatlinburg is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. The town is located just off Interstate 40, and it is served by the McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS). There is also a train station in Gatlinburg, which is served by Amtrak’s Crescent train.
Local Food
Gatlinburg is home to a variety of restaurants, serving everything from traditional Appalachian cuisine to international fare. Some of the most popular local dishes include moonshine, fried chicken, and barbecue. Gatlinburg is also known for its fudge, which is made with local cream and butter.
Best Hotels
There are a variety of hotels in Gatlinburg, ranging from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts. Some of the most popular hotels include the Park Vista – A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, the Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg, and the River Terrace Resort & Convention Center.