A picturesque mountain town full of fun-filled adventures for the whole family, Gatlinburg also boasts fine art and antiques, mountain crafts, world-class dining establishments, live entertainment and excellent lodging choices. One of the premiere year-round vacation destinations in the United States, Gatlinburg provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and serves as a principal gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Originally known as “White Oak Flats,” Gatlinburg took its name from Radford Gatlin, a prosperous merchant who allowed the postmaster to use space in his prosperous mercantile in 1860. In appreciation, the post office was renamed “Gatlinburg.” From its humble beginnings as a logging town, Gatlinburg has evolved into the perfect mountain getaway for family vacations, weekend escapes, romantic getaways, weddings, honeymoons, anniversaries and corporate meetings.
The multitude of attractions in the Gatlinburg area include museums, aquariums, craft exhibits and galleries, amusement parks and rides, miniature golf, viewing towers and wildlife exhibits. Not-to-be-missed Gatlinburg attractions include Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park, Gatlinburg Space Needle, Guinness World of Records Museum and Christus Gardens. Visitors to Gatlinburg can also view the work of master craftspeople at the Great Smoky Arts Crafts Community and the Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts. Championship golf, horseback riding, gardens, ski lifts, whitewater rafting, trout fishing in clear mountain streams, backcountry camping and miles of scenic hiking trails round out the wealth of recreational opportunities in the Gatlinburg area.
Driving tours through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are a popular way to view the area's beautiful spring wildflowers and spectacular fall colors. In addition, Gatlinburg boasts dozens of quality dining choices - from delicious mountain-style cooking to world-class cuisine. Whether you are seeking a secluded cabin or chalet with a wooded view, budget motel, full-service hotel with meeting facilities or family resort, Gatlinburg offers quality accommodations to suit your needs.
