Are you planning a couple’s trip or weekend getaway to the Smokies? We want to help you find cool activities to add to your bucket list, so here are a few unique things to do in Gatlinburg for adults:
1. Mountain Biking at Ober Mountain
Ober Mountain offers so much more than winter sports! Take the Aerial Tram up the mountain to admire those panoramic Smoky Mountain views, and then get an adrenaline rush by going downhill mountain biking. If you have your own mountain biking gear, you can drive up and bring it with you or rent their equipment instead. From experienced bikers to first-timers, the trails at Ober Mountain are ideal for anyone looking to experience nature in this way.
2. Shopping along the Arts & Crafts Loop
The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is filled with unique stores and workshops showcasing a variety of locally-made items you won’t find anywhere else. Browse beautiful pottery at Fowler’s Clay Works or Alewine Pottery. You’ll find candles, quilts, wood carvings, signs, jewelry, leather goods, and so much more throughout the area, and many places allow you to watch as they make their one-of-a-kind pieces!
3. Ziplining at Climb Works
Ready for an adventure in the Smokies? Go on a zipline tour and experience the incredible birds-eye view of the national park at Climb Works! This ziplining experience is rated #1, with 6 side-by-side runs and 4 aerial bridges. You’ll be able to see for miles in every direction, and their knowledgeable guides are with you every step of the way, sharing their expertise about the Smoky Mountains.
4. Wine & Moonshine Tastings
There’s no better way to spend a relaxing afternoon than sampling alcohol and spirits at Gatlinburg wineries, breweries, and distilleries! You’ll find just about every flavor of moonshine imaginable, as well as unique wines and local brews. Some places offer free tastings and tours, while others may require a small fee for a flight of tastings. Either way, you’re guaranteed to find something you love and can most likely have it shipped straight to your door!
5. Mountain Coasters at Anakeesta
Mountain coaster rides are another great option for unique things to do in Gatlinburg for adults. Anakeesta has 2 mountain coasters, the Hellbender and the Rail Runner, the only single rail coaster in the U.S. You can add to your general admission ticket with their Coaster Pass and choose to ride solo or with someone else. You’ll love zipping along the curves of the twisting tracks, reaching speeds of up to 25 mph!
6. Speedwerkz Exotic Car Experience
Car enthusiasts will have the time of their lives at Speedwerkz in Gatlinburg. This unique car museum is unlike anything you’ve seen before, with a rotating collection of rare supercars on interactive displays using high-tech audio, visual, and lighting effects. They also have realistic racing simulators!
7. The Gatlinburg SkyBridge
Another thrilling experience you can’t miss is crossing the iconic Gatlinburg SkyBridge. This attraction provides some of the best views of Gatlinburg and the Smokies, which are worth experiencing for yourself both during the day and at night!
Now that you know about some of the unique things to do in Gatlinburg for adults, read more on what to do in Gatlinburg with kids! Regardless of what type of vacation you’re planning to the Smokies, be sure to include our downtown Gatlinburg restaurant in your itinerary for a hearty Southern-style breakfast!
