Even when the forecast calls for wet weather, Gatlinburg offers plenty of fun activities to fill your day. Discover everything from top-rated attractions to leisurely shopping outings. There is something for everyone to do here on a rainy day.
Here’s a list of activities that will keep you and the kids entertained when it showers.
Have some fun with the family
Gatlinburg is just packed with options for keeping the kids entertained, no matter what the weather might be. Start with a trip to Fannie Farkle’s or Arcadia, which has everything from foot-long corn dogs to pizza to the latest in video and arcade games. You can also visit Hollywood Star Cars to see famous cars from Dolly, Elvis, Batman and some of the latest cars from the Fast and the Furious movies and more!
Grab your umbrella and head for the Arts and Crafts Loop
Along this 8-mile circle, you’ll find scores of shops and studios that showcase the unique creations of our talented artists. You’ll spend most of your time inside, oohing and ahhing over items like handmade quilts, pottery, musical instruments clothing and more, and watching the craftspeople work their magic on spindles, looms, potting wheels, easels and workbenches. You can actually take a pottery class at Fowler's Clay Works, just be sure to call ahead.
Tour Ripley’s attractions
You could spend days going through all of these, and they’re entertaining for everyone in the family. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the most popular family destinations in Gatlinburg. You’ll be surrounded by thousands of sea creatures as you walk through the underwater tunnels. And then there’s the Penguin Playhouse, Believe It or Not! Odditorium, Marvelous Mirror Maze & Candy Factory, Haunted Adventure, Moving Theater, and Super Fun Zone. Something for everyone!
Jump on the Aerial Tram and ride up to Ober Gatlinburg
Here live dozens of species native to the Smokies, on display for up-close viewing. Everyone loves the comic antics of the river otters. The kids can work off any extra energy on the indoor ice rink while you people-watch at the mall. Visit Ober Gatlinburg website.
Visit the Sugarlands Visitor Center to learn about Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Just two miles south of Gatlinburg on U.S. 441, the Visitor Center is open every day. You can watch a 20-minute film about the park, take part in a ranger-led program (check before you go to find out what’s scheduled), and enjoy the natural history exhibits.
If you’d like more suggestions, as well as directions for getting to these and other Gatlinburg attractions and tons of information, download the Gatlinburg app.
