Escape the Smokies: 8 Best Day Trips from Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is a dreamy tourist town. However, should you ever tire of its abundant attractions, a short drive away opens up a whole new world of travel possibilities!
The cozy mountain town that is Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a true tourist’s mecca. Nonetheless, we know some travelers prefer to spend some time off the beaten path. If you’re looking to break away from the other tourists, there are day trips from Gatlinburg galore!
Before you start planning your day trip, make sure you’ve already checked these must-do Gatlinburg activities off your list:
- Theme park enthusiasts won’t be able to resist swinging by Anakeesta Themed around the outdoors, this park offers breathtaking thrills alongside equally spectacular nature views!
- Make some progress on your bucket list while in Gatlinburg, too. Of course, everyone has to go white water rafting at least once!
- As the only ski resort in Tennessee, Ober Gatlinburg is filled with wintry activities and much more! Reach new heights on the Aerial Tramway.
Been there, done that? Good! Now you’re ready to branch out. Sounds like it’s time for a road trip! Keep reading for our favorite day trips near Gatlinburg TN.
The Great Smoky Mountains
Distance from Gatlinburg: 14 minutes, 4 miles
A day trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a Tennessee essential. Outdoor adventures exist at every turn! One of the best activities? Hiking. Hikers have 850 miles of trails to choose from!
Check out our in-depth guide to the best waterfall hikes in the Smoky Mountains!
The landscape is prime for wildlife watching, as well as sunset chasing! Catch sight of once-in-a-lifetime views during your time in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Pro Tip: It’s hard to see it all when you’re only spending one day in Smoky Mountain National Park, located at 107 Park Headquarters Rd.
Consider scouting out a camping spot and turning your day trip into an all-nighter! If you decide to stay even longer, we suggest spending three to seven days in the park for the full experience.
Cades Cove
Distance from Gatlinburg: 1 hour and 18 minutes, 33 miles
Located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove near the Townsend, Tennessee park entrance is well-known for its wildlife-watching opportunities. This valley surrounded by mountains is a regular hangout for deer, black bears, and coyotes, among other animals.
Related Post: Essential Guide to Cades Cove – Smoky Mountains
An 11-mile road loops around the valley for easy sightseeing. We recommend setting aside at least a couple of hours to make the loop!
Asheville
Distance from Gatlinburg: 1 hour and 43 minutes, 82 miles
Asheville, NC, is another mountain city scene boasting more ways than one to enjoy a day! A famous North Carolina gem is located in the city: the Biltmore Estate at 1 Lodge St, Asheville.
Tagged “America’s Largest Home,” this gorgeous 8,000-acre estate was built to impress. Take a tour, then enjoy the city’s vibrant art scene before indulging in one of Asheville’s ravishing restaurants.
Related Post: The Most Unique Things to Do in Asheville
Above all, we recommend you take and mind the Gatlinburg to Asheville scenic route distance. The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the country! It’ll make the trip from Gatlinburg closer to 105 miles, but it’s well worth the extra time.
Photo Alert: Keep your eyes peeled for lookout points along the drive. Once you spot one, take a break from driving and snap away! This is one shot the gram can’t live without.
Clingmans Dome
Distance from Gatlinburg: 45 minutes, 23 miles
If you’re afraid of heights, this probably isn’t the best destination for you. However, if you’re feeling brave, Clingmans Dome at Bryson City, TN 28713 is a must! It serves as the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Related Post: Gatlinburg TN Itinerary – Your Ultimate Blueprint for an Unforgettable Vacation
The trek to the top pays off in the form of an observation tower with 360-degree views. Don’t forget to pack a jacket on chillier days, as you may experience a 10 to 20-degree temperature drop on your way to the top!
Chattanooga
Distance from Gatlinburg: 2 hours and 45 minutes, 154 miles
Of all the possible day trips in East Tennessee, Chattanooga is a requirement. Endearingly known as the “Scenic City,” you’ll find plenty to do here.
The Tennessee Aquarium (1 Broad St), Bluff View Art District (411 E 2nd St), and Ruby Falls (1720 S Scenic Hwy) are just a few of our favorite ways to spend a day in Chattanooga.
Above all, don’t pass up the chance to meander through Rock City Gardens at 1400 Patten Rd, Lookout Mountain! This enchanting attraction weaves natural beauty with fairytale magic. It’s sure to leave adults and kids alike spellbound. Additionally, you can see a whopping seven states from Lookout Mountain!
Waynesville
Distance from Gatlinburg: 1 hour and 24 minutes, 63 miles
Art buffs are in for a treat when they visit Waynesville, North Carolina! Glean inspiration from a plethora of art galleries featuring local talent. Paintings, sculptures, and jewelry are just a few of the many types of pieces waiting for your perusal.
Related Post: Five Asheville Restaurants – Recommended for Wannabe Foodies
Add these galleries to your list:
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- Green Hill Gallery (34 N Main St)
- Twigs and Leaves Gallery (98 N Main St)
- T Pennington Art Gallery (15 N Main St)
Pro Tip: If viewing stunning artwork happens to work up your appetite, The Buttered Biscuit at 1226 Dellwood City Rd is a breakfast food favorite! Be sure to visit during the daytime hours, as it closes at 2 p.m. You won’t want to miss loading up on the fluffiest pancakes, eggs however you like them, and flaky biscuits!
Nashville
Distance from Gatlinburg: 3 hours and 51 minutes, 222 miles
This day trip from Gatlinburg will take you the longest, but it’s worth every minute of the drive! Music aficionados will be right at home in “Music City.”
Needless to say, you’ll have to visit the Grand Ole Opry (600 Opry Mills Dr.) and the Country Music Hall of Fame (222 Rep. John Lewis Way S). Then, swing by Centennial Park at West End Ave for a taste of nature respite.
Finally, don’t leave the city before you experience live music at The Bluebird Cafe at 4104 Hillsboro Pike! As the site of many famous music artists’ discoveries (such as Taylor Swift!), this hotspot can be hard to get into. Make sure you snag tickets ahead of time!
Pigeon Forge
Distance from Gatlinburg: 17 minutes, 18 miles
If you’ve already done all the touristy things in Gatlinburg, there are many more in this fan-favorite city! Short-day trips from Pigeon Forge are all it takes to expand your sightseeing options. Leave boredom behind when you’re in Tennessee!
Take a jaunt along the Little Pigeon River at Sevier County, which gave the city its name. Then, reach new heights on The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel!
If you’re a daredevil looking to get even higher in the sky, a helicopter tour is the best way to take in panoramic views of the area. Additionally, more adrenaline rushes await at the classic theme park Dollywood, located at 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd.
Related Post: Ultimate Guide to Dollywood Discount Tickets and Coupons
Finally, end your day at one of many fantastic shows. Numerous talented acts take to the stages of Pigeon Forge! Grab a ticket for Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, or Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show!
What town is right outside of Gatlinburg?
Right outside Gatlinburg, you’ll hit Pigeon Forge. It’s like Gatlinburg’s next-door neighbor and just as fun, with tons of attractions, shows, and that classic Smoky Mountains vibe.
Related Post: Pigeon Forge vs Gatlinburg – What’s the Difference?
Whether you’re headed there for Dollywood or to check out the cool car shows, Pigeon Forge is definitely a spot to add to your trip itinerary.
How far apart is Nashville and Gatlinburg?
Nashville and Gatlinburg are about 222 miles apart. So, if you’re planning to hit up both spots during your weekend trip to Gatlinburg TN, you’re looking at a bit of a road trip.
It can be a cool way to see more of what Tennessee has to offer. Pack some snacks and tunes, and enjoy the ride through some pretty scenic areas.
Is Graceland close to Gatlinburg?
Graceland isn’t exactly near; it’s about 392 miles away from Gatlinburg. So, if you’re thinking about combining a trip to the Smokies with a visit to the King’s castle, you’ll need to plan for a pretty long drive. But hey, road trips are half the fun, right? Just imagine all the cool spots you can check out along the way!
Which of these day trips from Gatlinburg will you be taking?
Once you’re done exploring the wonderful town of Gatlinburg, there’s so much more to see and do! The adventure is just beginning. Whether you’re looking to stroll the streets of a city or wander through wilderness marvels, you’ll find it all just a short drive away!
For more insider advice, discount attraction tickets, and hotel deals, Tripster is here to help! Make your plans and pack your bags today.
Where Would You Go For a Gatlinburg Day Trip Destination?
Do you have more suggestions for things to do within 50 miles of Gatlinburg, TN? Or perhaps, suggestions for tours in Gatlinburg TN? Share with us below!
