ADVENTURE
MountainTop Zipline
Soar above the Smokies with mountain views and a full-on adventure day.
Check Prices & Availability →Tours • Attractions • Itineraries
Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains
From scenic mountain drives and family attractions to shows, ziplining and rafting, find the right experience for your dates and travel style.
Most popular experiences
Start with the types of Smoky Mountain activities travelers most often compare before booking.
Explore by travel style
Choose the activities that fit your group, interests and season.
Families
Family-friendly attractions
Dollywood, mountain coasters and kid-friendly days.
Read the guide →AdventureOutdoor adventures
Rafting, ziplining and mountain experiences.
Read the guide →NatureNational park days
Scenic drives and flexible mountain exploration.
Read the guide →ViatorGatlinburg after dark
Ghost walks and evening entertainment.
Check availability ↗Plan a better trip
Practical guides to help you choose activities and where to stay.
Detailed planning advice
CHOOSE YOUR EXPERIENCE
What would you like to book?
Start with the experience that fits your trip. Then compare the full list of available activities below.
Christmas & holiday showsStart with seasonal experiences for November and December.Explore holiday options →Scenic mountain toursSee guided outings and self-guided park options.Browse tours →Cabins for your tripCompare holiday cabin stays with your travel dates.Browse Vrbo cabins →
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Check current dates, availability and prices before booking.
POPULAR EXPERIENCES
Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains
Choose a few can't-miss experiences and leave room for spontaneous exploring.
SCENIC TOUR
Foothills Parkway Tour
Trade the Parkway traffic for sweeping ridgelines, overlooks and fall-color scenery.
Check Prices & Availability →SELF-DRIVE
National Park Self-Driving Tour
Explore at your own pace with a route built around the national park.
Check Prices & Availability →LIVE SHOW
Lumberjack Show
An energetic, family-friendly show that works well for an evening in Pigeon Forge.
Check Prices & Availability →AIR TOUR
Helicopter Tour
See the Smokies from a completely different perspective above the ridgelines.
Check Prices & Availability →RAFTING
Pigeon River Rafting
A splashy outdoor pick for families, couples and groups looking for adventure.
Check Prices & Availability →SEASONAL SHOW
Holiday Theater Experience
Music, lights and a festive theater night for a Christmas-season trip.
Check Prices & Availability →EVENING TOUR
Gatlinburg Ghost Walk
Local stories and spooky history make this an easy after-dark Gatlinburg plan.
Check Prices & Availability →REAL TRIP QUESTIONS
Plan around what travelers actually ask
Useful answers to the questions that come up again and again when people plan a Smoky Mountains vacation.
PLANNING GUIDE
Dollywood Without Rides
What non-riders can actually do—and when admission still makes sense.
Read Guide →FAMILY GUIDE
Smokies With Toddlers
Build an easier Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge trip around little kids.
Toddler Guide →SHOW GUIDE
WILDLIFE GUIDE
Bear Viewing Near Gatlinburg
Plan a safer wildlife-viewing day without making Cades Cove your only option.
Bear Guide →SEASONAL GUIDE
Winter Trip Guide
What winter changes, what stays open and how to plan a colder-weather trip.
Winter Guide →FOOD GUIDE
Best Breakfast
Start your day with a better breakfast plan before the attractions get busy.
Breakfast Guide →Planning activities in the Smokies
- What can you do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge during winter?
- Consider dinner shows, scenic drives when roads are open, indoor attractions and seasonal holiday experiences. Check each operator’s dates and hours.
- Is whitewater rafting available in winter?
- Rafting is generally seasonal. Check the individual operator’s current schedule rather than assuming trips are available during a winter visit.
- Should you book activities in advance?
- For popular holiday dates and limited-capacity tours, comparing schedules and reserving ahead can help you avoid sold-out times.
Planning a holiday visit? Read the Christmas guide or review winter travel tips.
Frequently asked questions
What are good Smoky Mountain activities in winter?
Indoor shows, scenic drives when roads are open, and seasonal attractions can work well. Check schedules and road conditions.
Should I stay in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
Gatlinburg suits visitors prioritizing walkability and national park access; Pigeon Forge has many attractions and entertainment options.