Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge Vacation Packages

Best time to take a trip to Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge

Gatlinburg, Tennessee experiences the full range of seasons, with summertime highs averaging in the 80s and wintertime lows averaging in the 20s. One of the best times of year to visit is in the fall, when the changing foliage and autumn festivities, such as the Craftsmen's Fair, can be enjoyed. November through March is ideal for those who wish to visit the mountaintop ski resort, although the resort also offers summertime attractions. Off-season rates are available at area lodges during the winter. To enjoy the scenery and shops of Gatlinburg with fewer people around, plan a weekday trip. Orbitz.com can help you locate available lodges, create your itinerary, and find discount prices.

Insider tips for Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge travel

Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que

Voted year after year as serving the best hickory-smoked ribs, chicken, and more, Bennett's is a locally owned and operated restaurant worth visiting.

Grotto Falls

Stand behind the flowing water of a waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains at Grotto Falls, the only waterfall in the area where you can do this.

The Wild Plum Tea Room

View the mountain scenery while enjoying wine or beer, and a homemade gourmet lunch, in the cabin's Austrian-style tearoom.

Ole Smoky Distillery

The only legal moonshine distillery in Tennessee, Ole Smoky serves moonshine from an old family recipe and also entertains guests year-round with live mountain music.

Greenbrier

The original home of Dolly Parton's family is now one of the best springtime spots to picnic and walk among wildflowers.

Things to do in Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge

Shops at Carousel Gardens

Sample the fine arts and culture of historic Gatlinburg in this garden setting. The shops offer antiques, furniture, and more, created by juried artists inspired by tradition.

Cades Cove Scenic Drive

Settled in the early 1800s, Cades Cove offers a look into the homestead life of settlers along an 11-mile road, with barns, churches, restored homes, and some of the best opportunities for viewing wildlife.

Elkmont Camping

Watch all the fireflies flash in unison and light up the nights in June at Elkmont, which is the only place in America with synchronous fireflies.

Aerial Tramway

See the Smoky Mountains from above on the Aerial Tramway, a cable car that travels 2.1 miles from downtown to the Ober Gatlinburg mountaintop resort.

Natahala Outdoor Center

Take the whole family on a whitewater rafting trip down the Pigeon River with nationally recognized professional guides at Natahala Outdoor Center.

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Take a walk through clear, underwater tunnels for an up-close look at sharks, turtles, penguins, and more.

Smoky Mountain Riding Stables

Explore the national park on horseback with an experienced guide.

Space Needle

See the city of Gatlinburg and a get a great, 360-degree view of the mountains from an observation deck. The Space Needle also offers an arcade, comedy shows, laser tag, and more.

The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

More than 20,000 sets of shakers are on display at this museum. Visit the on-site gift shop for a souvenir set of shakers or handcrafted jewelry.

Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Check out the cars from Charlie's Angels, Gone in 60 Seconds, and other famous movies and shows during a tour of this Gatlinburg museum.