The Great Smoky Mountains National Park boasts more than 800 miles of scenic hiking trails and is also perfect for horseback riding and mountain biking. There are also ample opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, auto touring and picnicking. Be sure to check out the historic structures preserved within the park, including log homes, barns, churches, schools and mills. Family fun is a sure thing at Ober Gatlinburg, complete with a ski area, an amusement park and an aerial tramway. The ski area features a variety of trails for skiers of all skill levels and offers equipment rentals and lessons. The amusement park is home to an exciting alpine slide, an arcade, a Black Bear Habitat, go-karts, miniature golf and much more. Access couldn’t be easier with the aerial tramway conveniently taking guests from downtown Gatlinburg directly to the ski area and amusement park.
Expect to see the unexpected at Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum, home to hundreds of unique and bizarre exhibits collected from the far corners of the world. Even the building itself is perplexing, designed to look like it survived a major earthquake, with interior and exterior cracks throughout. The museum is open 365 days a year and children under age five are admitted free. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-visit attraction for everyone, showcasing 10,000 exotic sea creatures representing more than 350 species. Some of the aquarium’s fabulous exhibits include the Tropical Rainforest, Ocean Realm and Shark Lagoon.
If you are a fan of haunted houses, get a hair-raising experience at Gatlinburg’s scariest destination, Mysterious Mansion. As you explore the secret passageways and the damp, dark dungeon, you will feel like you are surrounded by an army of ghosts. This place is a scream, so do not even think about going alone! Learn more about the amazing accomplishments of the human race at the Guinness World Records Museum. Browse 12 galleries with more than 1,200 entertaining exhibits displaying an incredible line-up of feats, facts, articles and records. See memorabilia from celebrity record holders like Elvis Presley, compare your height to the world’s tallest man, and revel in the excitement of the original Batmobile.
If a trip to the mountains is in your future, do not let Gatlinburg, TN leave your radar. Book a room with Choice Hotels and find out for yourself why this charming locale is perfect for a family vacation, escape with friends or romantic getaway!