Seize the day – early!
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Get outside before the temps get blazing. Smokies summer mornings are the coolest time of day – and the best hours to avoid crowds. Hike to waterfalls in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Stroll in a serene Gatlinburg city park. Enjoy sublime brunchtime shopping in The Village. Putter around at one of our outdoor mini-golf courses – Gatlin’s Mini Golf, Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini Golf, and Hillbilly Golf to name a few.
Seek midday AC
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Don’t let a midday heat wave send you packing. There’s no need to halt the fun when the sun’s at its peak. Gatlinburg’s many air-conditioned attractions engage crowds year-round, no matter the weather. Splash into Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, voted Best Aquarium by USA Today readers and featuring free summer events. Lock up some exciting AC time at Gatlin’s Escape Games. Get your 90s summer gaming on at Arcadia, the region’s largest entertainment center at 30,000 square feet. Don’t forget to catch a breeze and a free ride on the Gatlinburg Trolley.
Make a splash
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Wade, swim, or paddle at one of Gatlinburg’s many swimming pools, parks and rivers. Before you head here, book lodging with pool access. Get swept away at Westgate Wild Bear Falls Water Park, featuring a giant slide, lazy river and interactive treehouse. Check out Gatlinburg’s newest luxe pool experience at Embassy Suites by Hilton Gatlinburg Resort bordering Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Get your heart pumping on a whitewater rafting outing led by local experts at Nantahala Outdoor Center or SMO Rafting.
Enjoy a cold treat
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Gatlinburg serves up summer’s sweetest treats all across town. Grab a cool beverage or cold treat and refresh yourself. Retro Glades Soda Fountain delights the whole family, from young to old. Catch island vibes at Tropical Smoothie Cafe. Ice cream dreams come true at SugarBaby, Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar, and Maddog’s Creamery & Donuts.
