What is the best time of year to visit Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is a year-round destination, with spring and fall offering mild weather and beautiful mountain scenery. Summer is popular for outdoor activities and family trips, while winter brings cooler temperatures and seasonal events.

What is the weather like in Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg has four distinct seasons, with warm summers, cool winters, and mild spring and fall temperatures. Mountain weather can change quickly, particularly at higher elevations, so check conditions before heading into the Smokies.

Do you need a car in Gatlinburg?

A car is useful for exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park and areas outside downtown. The downtown area is walkable, and the Gatlinburg Trolley provides another way to get around.

How much does it cost to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park?

There is no entrance fee to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but vehicles parked in the park for more than 15 minutes need a valid parking tag. Daily, weekly, and annual parking tags are available for purchase.

How many days do you need in Gatlinburg?

A long weekend is enough to explore downtown and visit some of the Smokies, while a longer stay allows more time for hiking, scenic drives, attractions, and nearby communities.

Is Gatlinburg a good destination for families?

Gatlinburg offers activities for a wide range of ages, from exploring the Smokies and outdoor recreation to museums, attractions, restaurants, and entertainment along the Parkway.

What is Gatlinburg known for?

Gatlinburg is known for its location beside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, mountain scenery, and a downtown filled with attractions, restaurants, shops, and entertainment. The area is also known for its Appalachian arts and crafts.

Back to All Destinations

Gatlinburg, TN Vacation Rentals

Discover Gatlinburg with our vacation rentals that give you the space and comforts to experience the Smokies to the fullest. Mountain landscapes, Appalachian character, and a lively downtown come together to make every season worth discovering. Find your place in Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg, TN Vacation Rentals

Whether you're traveling as a couple, bringing the family, or gathering with friends, our Gatlinburg vacation rentals offer a range of spaces to suit your stay. Choose from cozy accommodations to larger layouts, with the flexibility to enjoy quiet mornings in the mountains, lively days in town, and everything that makes Gatlinburg a memorable Smoky Mountain destination.

Gatlinburg Town Square

Gatlinburg

Stay where the Smokies meet downtown Gatlinburg at Gatlinburg Town Square. Set beside a mountain creek and close to the area's shops, dining, and attractions, the resort gives you an easy way to experience the natural beauty and lively character of the area.

Indoor pool
Proximity to downtown or historic districts
Free on-site parking
Proximity to national parks or scenic trails
Pool
Outdoor playground
Walking trails on-site or nearby
Laundry facilities
Fitness Center/Gym
Private outdoor grill
Basketball court
Wi-Fi
Business center
24-hour front desk
Elevator access
Outdoor Pool

Book Now Learn More

Laurel Point Resort

Gatlinburg

Perched above Gatlinburg, Laurel Point Resort pairs mountain views with a peaceful setting near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Stay close to Ober Gatlinburg and downtown while enjoying a quieter place to take in the beauty of the Smokies.

Pool
Hot Tub
Sauna
Wi-Fi
Game room
Outdoor dining area
Private outdoor grill
Outdoor playground
Free on-site parking
Free laundry facilities onsite
Fitness room

Book Now Learn More

Featured Offer

Vacation Escapes Exclusive Deal- 30% Off With Your Free Vacation Escapes Sign Up

GUARANTEE you're getting the best deal on your next vacation by unlocking exclusive benefits. Start today and save 30% on your next escape!

Book Now & Save

Things to Know Before Visiting Gatlinburg, TN

Get to know Gatlinburg before you visit with helpful travel tips, local insight, seasonal information, and answers to common questions about the Smoky Mountains.

Area Insights

Gatlinburg is a small mountain city in eastern Tennessee and one of the primary gateways to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Its downtown stretches along the Parkway, where visitors will find restaurants, attractions, shops, and businesses centered around tourism. Outside the downtown area, Gatlinburg becomes more residential and wooded as roads climb into the surrounding mountains. The city’s location allows visitors to experience both a developed mountain town and the natural landscape of one of the most visited national parks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Insiders Guide to Gatlinburg, TN

A Day in Townsend, TN: Your Peaceful Smoky Mountain Getaway

Escape the crowds with a peaceful day trip to Townsend! Just 30–45 mins from Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, enjoy scenic drives through Cades Cove, explore caverns, visit artisan shops, and end the day with dinner & s’mores by the fire at Dancing Bear Bistro.

Discover the History and Hidden Trivia of Gatlinburg, TN

Uncover the rich history and quirky trivia of Gatlinburg, TN! From moonshine legends to haunted trails and the world’s largest salt & pepper shaker collection, this Smoky Mountain town is full of surprises beyond the scenic views.

Fall into Adventure: The Best Hikes, Views & Wildlife in Gatlinburg This Autumn

Experience Gatlinburg in its most magical season. Hike through fiery foliage, spot elk and black bears, and discover hidden trails with unforgettable views. Fall in the Smokies is calling—are you ready to answer? 🍁 #GatlinburgFall #SmokyMountainMagic

Open Waterfall Hikes Near Gatlinburg (Post-Hurricane Guide – 2025)

Explore the best open waterfall hikes near Gatlinburg! From walk-behind views at Grotto Falls to the powerful Abrams Falls and towering Ramsey Cascades, these scenic trails are open and ready for adventure—no hurricane closures, just pure Smoky Mountain beauty.

Best Family Mountain Vacations for Kids of All Ages

Compare the best family mountain vacation destinations—from Gatlinburg to Vail—to find the right fit for every age, activity level, season, and budget.

Comparing the Best Mountain Towns in the US

Which mountain towns belong on your bucket list? Discover the best mountain towns in the U.S., from the Smokies to the Rockies, for hiking, skiing, lakes, and breathtaking scenery.

How To Plan a Family Ski Trip on a Budget

We’ll walk you through tips for having a fun, snow-filled getaway at some of the best family ski resorts — on a budget you can afford.

What To Do in Gatlinburg in the Winter

Gatlinburg is a must-visit destination for travelers to Tennessee’s scenic Smoky Mountains. The town’s abundant outdoor opportunities, exciting attractions, and plentiful shops and restaurants make it popular with tourists year-round.

Caption: a scenic view of a mountain town surrounded by trees

Caption: a cable car going over a lush green forest

Things to do in Gatlinburg, TN

There’s no shortage of things to do in Gatlinburg. Hike scenic trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ride the aerial tram, visit Ripley’s Aquarium, or spend the day at Anakeesta. Downtown offers candy shops, craft galleries, Southern comfort food, and mountain attractions, making it easy to plan an active day or a more relaxed one.

Gatlinburg, TN Vacation Rentals