The Great Smoky Mountains are one of those places that somehow keep people coming back year after year. And after spending enough time here ourselves, we completely understand why. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifteenth, there’s always something new to discover.
One of the questions we get from guests all the time is: “What should we do while we’re here?” The honest answer? You could spend an entire week in the Smokies and still leave with a list of things you didn’t have time to do.
To help narrow it down, here are some of our favorite experiences—from the must-see attractions to the hidden gems that make people fall in love with East Tennessee.
You can’t visit the Smokies without spending at least one day in the national park. It’s the most visited national park in America for a reason. Whether you’re looking for an easy scenic drive or a challenging hike, there’s something for everyone.
Some of our favorite spots include:
If you’re visiting during the fall, plan to arrive early. Fall foliage season is beautiful—but it’s also one of the busiest times of the year.
Even if you’re not a huge theme park person, Dollywood is worth visiting. Between the roller coasters, live music, incredible food, seasonal festivals, and beautiful landscaping, it’s much more than just rides. If you’re visiting with kids, this will probably be one of the highlights of your trip. And if you’re visiting as adults… don’t skip the cinnamon bread. Trust us.
Gatlinburg has a little bit of everything—local candy shops, distilleries, mountain coasters, restaurants, shopping, arcades, mini golf, and live entertainment. It’s one of those places where you can wander for hours without really having a plan. If you’ve never tried moonshine tasting before, this is a fun place to do it.
If we could recommend one scenic drive, this would probably be it. Cades Cove is an 11-mile loop filled with mountain views, historic cabins, churches, wildlife, and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. Keep your eyes open for black bears, deer, wild turkeys, and coyotes. Early morning is usually your best chance for wildlife sightings. Bring your camera.
This has become one of the Smokies’ signature attractions. Unlike a traditional roller coaster, you control your own speed. Some are fast, some are surprisingly scenic, and most are fun for the whole family. There are several throughout Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, so you really can’t go wrong.
Want to experience the mountains from a completely different perspective? Try ziplining. There are several incredible courses throughout the Smokies with views you simply can’t get from the ground. It’s one of those activities that pushes you just enough outside your comfort zone to be unforgettable.
The Island is one of our favorite places to recommend because there’s something for everyone—restaurants, shopping, live music, the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, dancing fountains, and family activities. It’s especially beautiful in the evening when everything lights up.
If you’re looking for incredible views without committing to a long hike, Anakeesta is a great choice. Ride the chairlift or gondola to the top where you’ll find scenic overlooks, treetop skywalks, restaurants, shopping, gardens, and mountain activities. It’s one of the most photographed places in Gatlinburg—and for good reason.
This might sound surprising coming from a company that wants you to explore the Smokies… but some of the best vacation memories happen right at the cabin. We’ve had guests tell us their favorite part of the trip was watching the sunrise with coffee on the deck, soaking in the hot tub after hiking all day, playing board games with family, roasting marshmallows around the fire pit, watching a movie in the theater room, or playing pool until midnight. Sometimes the cabin becomes the destination. And honestly? We love hearing that.
Everyone asks us where to eat. Some longtime favorites include The Old Mill, Local Goat, The Apple Barn, Huck Finn’s Catfish, Junction 35, and Five Oaks Farm Kitchen. There are plenty of great options, but if you’re visiting during peak season, reservations are always a good idea.
One mistake we see guests make is trying to fit everything into one trip. The Smokies aren’t meant to be rushed. Leave time to sleep in, sit on the porch, watch the clouds roll over the mountains, read a book, take an afternoon nap, and enjoy another soak in the hot tub. Sometimes doing less creates the best memories.
People often ask us, “What’s the one thing we shouldn’t miss?” Our answer is always the same: experience the mountains, not just the attractions. Wake up early one morning. Take your coffee outside. Listen to how quiet it is. Watch the fog lift off the mountains. It’s hard to explain until you’ve seen it yourself. That’s the feeling people come back for.
The Smokies have no shortage of places to stay, but where you stay can completely shape your vacation. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a girls’ trip, or a reunion with 40 of your favorite people, choosing the right cabin makes all the difference.
At Halara Hosting, we thoughtfully manage homes across the Smoky Mountains—from cozy cabins for couples to luxury properties with indoor pools, theater rooms, game rooms, and space for large groups. Our goal isn’t just to give you a place to sleep. It’s to give you a place where some of your favorite vacation memories happen. We hope to welcome you to the mountains soon.
Serving guests across Tennessee, the Carolinas, and Arkansas with stays that feel like home — wherever your travels take you.
©Halara Hosting – All rights reserved
Privacy Policy
Cookie Policy
Disclaimer
Accessibility
Terms of Service