If you’re looking to plan a romantic getaway with your significant other, look no further than Gatlinburg, Tennessee! You and your partner will love seeing the picturesque sights, exploring the charming and vibrant downtown area, and discovering why couples everywhere have made Gatlinburg the second most popular wedding destination in the United States. If you want to make your trip special, check out a few of our favorite recommendations for things to do in Gatlinburg for couples:
1. See the Sights
Gatlinburg has no shortage of breathtaking views – or unique ways to experience them! If you’re looking for romantic scenery then you’ll love SkyLift Park, where you and your partner will ride a chairlift high above Gatlinburg to the record-breaking SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America! From here, you’ll be able to admire the stunning views of the Smoky Mountains from high above the town. Another great spot to get a bird’s eye view is the Gatlinburg Space Needle, an observation tower that stands over 400 feet tall and features a glass elevator ride to the top. If you and your partner want even more excitement while sightseeing, be sure to visit Anakeesta and try out their Dueling Zipline Adventure, which features over 2,400 feet of lines through the treetops, or enjoy a panoramic view from the AnaVista observation tower!
2. Visit Ripley’s Aquarium (and more!)
Whether it’s a rainy day, or maybe you’re just looking to get out of the sun for a bit, be sure to pop by Ripley’s Aquarium. With more than 10,000 sea creatures, the aquarium has a larger population of fish than the town has people! Additionally, you can buy a combo pass that will give you and your partner access to Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Ripley’s Mini-Golf, and more one-of-a-kind attractions. From learning about amazing sea creatures at the aquarium to the freaky excitement of the “odditorium,” Ripley’s has everything you need for a wildly fun adventure!
3. Go Hiking
Located in the beautiful Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg has a number of gorgeous hiking trails that range in length and difficulty, meaning that anyone can find a hike that suits them! One of the most popular spots to hike in Gatlinburg is the Laurel Falls Trail, a moderately difficult 2.3-mile trail that wraps around a waterfall and features an abundance of mountain laurels. Those looking for a more challenging excursion may enjoy the Rainbow Falls Trail in the Roaring Fork area, a 5.4-mile hike along the waterfall which gives the park its name with the roaring sound it creates by echoing off surrounding mountains. Additionally, anyone who’s interested in taking in the sights from the comfort of their car will love the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a 5.5-mile looping road that offers views of streams, old-growth forests, and preserved historical buildings. You and your significant other will love exploring Gatlinburg’s incredible nature together and whatever type of hike you’re looking for – you can find it here!
4. Visit Ober Mountain
If you happen to visit Gatlinburg in the winter, don’t miss out on visiting the only ski resort in all of Tennessee at Ober Mountain! With ten gorgeous ski trails that feature great views, you and your significant other will have a great time hitting the slopes at Ober Mountain. If skiing isn’t your thing or if you’re looking for a change of pace, there are plenty of other activities to partake in from snowboarding, to ice-skating, to snow tubing! If you visit during the warmer months, you can still have a great time at Ober Mountain on the Alpine Slide, Mountain Coaster, and more. There’s something for every couple to love with the exciting sights and activities at Ober Mountain!
5. Explore Downtown
No trip to Gatlinburg is complete without visiting the vibrant and beautiful downtown area. Enjoy strolling through town while discovering local shops and restaurants, like the Pancake Pantry – Tennessee’s oldest pancake house! If you and your partner are looking for a fun and easy way to get around downtown, just hop on one of the town’s charming trolleys and ride through the streets while enjoying the fresh air of the Smoky Mountains. Whether you’re looking for a romantic restaurant or an interesting new shop, you’re sure to find it in downtown Gatlinburg!
These are just some of the amazing things to do in Gatlinburg for couples! With so much to do year-round, we know that Gatlinburg has everything you need for your perfect couple’s vacation. Check out our Freedom Fun Pass for free admission and meals at some of the best spots in town! We can’t wait to welcome you.
