Enjoy a Late Summer Gatlinburg Family Getaway

Take a walk on the wild side and see some of the animal kingdom’s most mysterious residents at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. The new Dragons exhibit blurs the line between nature and fantasy, featuring cold-blooded mythic creatures – live and in the flesh – right in the heart of Gatlinburg. With exotic reptiles including the Kimberley Rock Monster, Gila Monster, Green Crested Basilisk and many more, guests of all ages can get a closeup view of real-life dragons in the cool, convenient comfort of Ripley’s Aquarium. 

On top of the crisp mountain air and ample AC, there are countless ways to beat the heat in Gatlinburg. Book a room with pool access – or a cabin with a private place to plunge. Late summer is prime time for river tubing and whitewater rafting on local rapids, taking a fishing trip or slipping into a waterpark. Cool down with a cold drink, ice cream or smoothie from one of Gatlinburg’s many restaurants serving up sweets and treats.

The kids want to play, and Gatlinburg was built with fun in mind. You’ll find attractions to spark childlike wonder at every turn. We recommend doing your research and loosely planning ahead, with flexibility to pivot depending on weather, energy and interest. From time-tested classic fun like mini golf and arcades to heart-thumping mountain coasters and soaring heights of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, boredom-busters abound!

Considering that Gatlinburg is adjacent to the nation’s most-visited national park, it should come as no surprise that we have a strong public park system within the city. Each of the parks feature ample areas to picnic and unwind, completely free of charge. Little ones love Mynatt Park’s playground and fishing stream, while tennis courts and pickleball (open early September) appeal to all ages. Herbert Holt Park also features a children’s fishing stream, as well as a handicap access fishing pier and trout rearing facility.  Mills Park is a crowd-pleaser, with a dog park and disc golf course. It's football and softball fields and basketball court make it perfect for a pick-up game!

No two trips here are ever the same, since there’s always something new to see and do in Gatlinburg. The first of September kicks off the Gatlinburg Harvest Festival, a favorite time for many to visit when we celebrate the end of summer and beginning of fall. You’ll find a comprehensive listing of concerts and events in Gatlinburg.  

Don’t waste a minute worrying about budgets – you’ll find loads of affordable hidden gems and seasonal discounts in Gatlinburg. Lodging deals cut costs on cozy cabins, hotels, condos and other family-friendly stays. Gatlinburg attraction deals and discounts cut costs and put you ahead in line for some of our favorite experiences.   

Quick reminder: Gatlinburg is indeed bear country. Keep your vehicle safe from these roving residents by locking doors and never leaving food (or smelly items!) in your car, tent or cabin. Follow these BearWise tips to stay bear-safe when you visit the Smokies.   

To keep visitors safe and protect the parks, guests visiting Great Smoky Mountains National Park must display a parking pass. Pick up one of these affordable tags at convenient in-person locations, automated stations, or online pre-purchase and ship options – with all proceeds benefiting maintenance and upkeep of the park.