Many people vacation in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, because of its gorgeous natural beauty, attractions for all ages and family members, and outdoor activities. If you’re planning a vacation to Gatlinburg with your large family, keep a few things in mind to ensure everyone has a great time.

From finding the right accommodations to choosing the best activities, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your trip. In this blog, we cover some essential things you must do when vacationing in Gatlinburg with your large family, so you can make memories that will last a lifetime.

Rent a Spacious Cabin:

Renting a spacious cabin is an excellent way to ensure your large family has a comfortable and enjoyable vacation in Gatlinburg. Plenty of cabin rental options are available, ranging from small cozy cabins to large luxurious lodges that can accommodate more than 20 people. Most cabins have fully equipped kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and bathrooms, making them an excellent option for families who want to cook and dine together.

If you seek a spacious cabin with additional amenities to make your family vacation even more special, consider renting a cabin with an indoor pool. These cabins offer the perfect combination of luxury, privacy, and fun for families of all sizes. Some cabins feature private indoor pools, while others offer shared pools in a resort-style setting. In addition to the indoor pool, many cabins also come with other amenities such as hot tubs, game rooms, and home theaters, providing endless entertainment options for your family.

When searching for Gatlinburg cabins with indoor pool, be sure to book in advance, as these cabins can be in high demand. And remember to check if the cabin is conveniently located near the attractions and activities you plan to visit during your stay.

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park:

When vacationing in Gatlinburg, exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-do. As one of the most popular national parks in the United States, it offers stunning scenery, wildlife viewing, and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. The park boasts over 800 miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes and several scenic drives offering breathtaking mountain views.

Families can also enjoy picnicking, camping, fishing, and horseback riding in the park. Remember to bring your camera to capture the park’s natural beauty, and keep an eye out for black bears, elk, and other wildlife that call the Smokies home. Admission to the park is free, but some activities require a fee or reservation, so plan accordingly.

Before heading out, make sure everyone in your family has dressed appropriately and has the necessary safety equipment. And be sure to check the weather conditions before you go, as some trails may become dangerous in the rain or snow.

Take a Scenic Drive:

Taking a scenic drive is a great way to explore the beauty of Gatlinburg and the surrounding areas without having to hike or walk long distances. One of the most famous well-known drives in the area is the Newfound Gap Road, a route over 30 miles that runs through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The road offers breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys, and there are several pull-offs where you can stop to take photos or go for a short hike.

Another scenic drive option is the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a narrow, winding road that takes you through a dense forest and past several historic buildings and waterfalls. For families with younger children, the Gatlinburg Trail is a scenic, stroller-friendly drive that runs parallel to the Little Pigeon River and offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Visit Family-Friendly Attractions:

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers plenty of family-friendly attractions to entertain everyone during your vacation. Here are a few of the top attractions to consider:

• Dollywood: Located in nearby Pigeon Forge, Dollywood is a theme park with rides, shows, and attractions for all ages, inspired by country music legend Dolly Parton.
• Anakeesta: A family-friendly outdoor adventure park that offers a chairlift ride to the top of a mountain, ziplining, a treetop canopy walk, and more.
• Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster: A thrilling rollercoaster ride that allows visitors to control their speed as they wind through the mountains.
• Ober Gatlinburg: A ski resort and amusement park in one, Ober Gatlinburg offers year-round activities such as skiing, snowboarding, tubing, ice skating, an alpine slide, and a scenic chairlift ride.
• Gatlinburg Space Needle: Standing at 407 feet, it gives you a 360-degree view of the city and the Great Smoky Mountains from its observation deck.

There are numerous family-friendly attractions in Gatlinburg; the ones above are just a few examples. Plan to ensure you have time to enjoy all the activities that interest you and your family.

Try Local Cuisine and Treats:

Gatlinburg is home to a variety of eateries that offer something for everyone. From classic Southern BBQ joints to Italian restaurants, you’ll find something to attract your taste buds. 

And, of course, no visit to Gatlinburg would be complete without treating some of the area’s famous sweet treats. From handmade fudge to homemade caramel apples, the local candy shops offer something for everyone. Be sure to save room cake or a scoop of ice cream before returning to your hotel.

Go Shopping:

If you’re looking to pick up some souvenirs or browse the local shops, Gatlinburg offers a variety of shopping options. The Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is a collection of eight miles of galleries, shops, and studios featuring handmade items such as pottery, woodwork, jewelry, and more. Other popular shopping spots include the Gatlinburg Mountain Mall, The Village Shops, and Old Mill Square.

If you want a truly unique shopping experience, check out The Island in Pigeon Forge. This multi-level mall features a variety of shops and attractions, including a giant Ferris wheel and an old-fashioned carousel.

No matter where you shop, browsing in Gatlinburg will surely provide you with great souvenirs and lifelong memories.

Conclusion:

Traveling to Gatlinburg with a large family can be an exciting experience if you plan ahead, rent a cabin that accommodates everyone, and take advantage of group discounts and meal deals. There’s no limit to your adventure when it comes to Gatlinburg. Pool time, nightlife, zip lines, ATV tours, and the ultimate family fun is just a road trip away.