Are you planning an adults-only trip to the Smoky Mountains? You must allow plenty of time to explore everything downtown Gatlinburg has to offer, from unique shops to fun activities and where to find the best mountain views! Get ideas of things to do with this list of the best Gatlinburg attractions for adults:
1. Gatlinburg SkyPark
One of the best places to admire incredible views of the Great Smoky Mountains is Gatlinburg SkyPark! Take the SkyLift up to the top of the mountain, and from there, soak in the breathtaking views. Of course, you have to cross the one-of-a-kind SkyBridge, spanning over 2 football fields and a height of 500 feet! You can also walk the SkyTrail, which connects the two ends of the bridge, as well as climb the 70-foot Tulip Tower with four viewing platforms. You won’t believe how far you’ll be able to see– it’s absolutely awe-inspiring any time of year!
2. Dueling Zipline at Anakeesta
Adrenaline junkies and thrill seekers have to add the Dueling Zipline Adventure at Anakeesta to their vacation itinerary! You can soar through the trees side by side. It’s a great ziplining experience for both zipline enthusiasts and first-timers! Anakeesta has many other fun activities, from the Treetop Skywalk to the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster, plus a unique night walk among the stars, Astra Lumina.
3. Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg
Spooky season is all year round! Go on a guided ghost tour and listen to a local storyteller tell tales of superstition, history, and local legends for a night you’ll never forget. You’ll learn about haunted hotels and mysterious murders and see an 1800s cemetery! Ghost Walk of Gatlinburg takes about an hour, and you can expect to walk about a mile. An added bonus- they’re very affordable!
4. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is not just for kids; it’s one of the best Gatlinburg attractions for adults too! As one of the top-rated aquariums in the country, it’s definitely worth checking out. Their Glass Bottom Boat Adventure gives you the chance to experience Shark Lagoon in an entirely different way, with only 3 inches of glass separating you from the creatures who call the Lagoon home.
5. Moonshine and Wine Tastings
A popular activity in Gatlinburg for adults is local moonshine and wine tasting! Tour distilleries such as Ole Smoky Moonshine and Sugarlands Distilling Company and try some unique flavors like peanut butter and jelly, maple bacon, apple, pie, and butterscotch. If a wine tasting sounds more like something you would enjoy, we recommend heading to Little Bear Winery or Tennessee Homemade Wines. Both places offer free tastings, and if you find one you like, you can have it shipped straight to your door. From whites and reds to unique fruit wines, you’re sure to discover a new favorite, locally made right here in the Smoky Mountains!
We hope you’ll visit these best Gatlinburg attractions for adults on your next trip to the Smokies and make sure to stop by Smith & Son for a tasty meal too. One of the great things about our restaurant is that we’re conveniently located downtown, close to everything. Find out why our restaurant is the best place to get food in Gatlinburg!
