865 415 7554

logo ×

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Planning a large group getaway to Gatlinburg puts you within easy reach of some of the best Great Smoky Mountains activities. From scenic outdoor adventures to family-friendly attractions and relaxing ways to spend time together, there are plenty of Great Smoky Mountains activities to choose from.

Why the Smoky Mountains Are Perfect for Large Group Vacations

With the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park within easy reach of Gatlinburg, it’s easy to plan group outings without spending an excessive amount of time in the car. Spend your days hiking, taking in scenic views, spotting wildlife, exploring nearby attractions, or enjoying shopping, dining, and entertainment in town, then come back together to share the highlights of the day.

Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park as a Group

These Gatlinburg activities are great for enjoying the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park together.

Take a Scenic Drive Through the Mountains

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for forest scenery, historic buildings, and mountain views, or head along Newfound Gap Road to enjoy overlooks and access to trailheads.

Visit Cades Cove Together

Plan a day trip to Cades Cove, where your group can drive the scenic loop and watch for wildlife. Stop at historic cabins and churches along the way.

Enjoy Beginner-Friendly Hiking Trails

Choose an easy walk to Cataract Falls near the Sugarlands Visitor Center, or explore the Gatlinburg Trail, a relatively gentle route with views of the Little Pigeon River.

Cataract Falls

Gatlinburg Trail

Plan a Group Picnic in the Park

Gather at the Chimneys Picnic Area located along Newfound Gap Road, or enjoy a picnic near the Sugarlands Visitor Center before continuing your Smoky Mountain adventures.

Experience Group-Friendly Attractions in Gatlinburg

Beyond the national park, Gatlinburg offers plenty of group-friendly entertainment easily accessible from most accommodations. These Gatlinburg activities make it easy to fill an afternoon or evening with shared experiences.

Explore Gatlinburg SkyPark

Take the SkyLift to the top of Crockett Mountain, where your group can enjoy panoramic views and walk across the famous SkyBridge together.

Visit Ripley’s Attractions

Choose from popular options like Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies or Ripley’s Believe It or Not! for an entertaining indoor activity the whole family can enjoy.

Explore Downtown Gatlinburg

Make time to walk the Parkway together, stopping at The Village to browse its shops and eateries, including sweet treats at The Donut Friar. Another easy stop is Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen, where your group can watch candy being made and pick up treats to enjoy later. Downtown Gatlinburg is especially convenient for groups because many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance.

Downtown Gatlinburg

Take a Scenic Mountain Coaster Ride

Experience a mountain coaster at attractions such as Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster or Rowdy Bear Mountain, where you can enjoy a thrilling trip through the mountain scenery.

Discover the Best Group Activities in Pigeon Forge

When your group wants to venture beyond Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge is just a short drive away and offers plenty of entertainment. These Pigeon Forge activities are especially convenient for groups with different ages and interests.

Spend a Day at Dollywood

Spend the day at Dollywood riding attractions, watching live shows, and exploring the park’s themed areas. Groups can split up for different rides and meet back up for meals or shows for the perfect balance.

Enjoy Dinner Shows Together

Book a group evening at Dolly Parton’s Stampede, where you’ll enjoy a four-course meal while watching a fast-paced competition featuring horses, stunts, and special effects.

Challenge Your Group to Go-Karts and Arcades

Head to The Track for multiple levels of go-kart racing, or visit Rockin’ Raceway Arcade for classic and modern arcade games.

Visit The Island in Pigeon Forge

Spend an afternoon at The Island, home to the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, shops, restaurants, and attractions. The 200-foot observation wheel is an easy group activity with mountain views.

Unique Group Experiences That Create Lasting Memories

Some of the best memories from a group vacation happen outside the main attractions, so leave room in your itinerary for experiences you can enjoy together at your Gatlinburg cabin. After a day of Gatlinburg activities or Pigeon Forge activities, organize a family game night with board games, cards, and snacks, or host a group cookout on your cabin’s outdoor deck while enjoying mountain views.

Plan an early-morning drive to a scenic overlook for sunrise or find a peaceful spot to watch the sunset together. For a special keepsake, schedule a professional group photo session against the backdrop of the Smoky Mountains.

Planning a Large Group Dining Experience in the Smokies

Feeding a large group is easier when you plan ahead and choose options that can accommodate everyone. In Gatlinburg, restaurants and caterers offer convenient choices for family reunions, multi-family vacations, and group celebrations.

Restaurants That Accommodate Large Groups

For a sit-down meal, The Park Grill can accommodate large groups, offering private and semi-private dining rooms.

Calhoun’s in Gatlinburg is another casual option for barbecue, steaks, and kid-friendly meals.

Cater Meals at Your Cabin

For a more relaxed evening, consider having food delivered to your vacation rental. Gatlinburg Gourmet offers cabin catering throughout the Smoky Mountain area, while Fruitful Vintage Personal Chef Service can prepare and deliver meals to vacation rentals, allowing your group to enjoy dinner without leaving the cabin.

dining room in our Thanksgiving cabin rentals in Gatlinburg

Tips for Planning a Successful Large Group Vacation

A little planning can go a long way when scheduling a group getaway. Be sure to book your vacation rental early to find accommodations with enough bedrooms and gathering space for everyone. Keep your schedule flexible, since group members may have different interests. Consider splitting into smaller groups for certain activities, and choose a rental specifically designed for large groups to keep everyone comfortable.

Why Large Cabin Rentals Are Ideal for Smoky Mountain Group Getaways

Spacious cabin rentals make it easy to keep everyone under one roof, enjoy amenities like game rooms and spacious decks, and have a comfortable home base between Great Smoky Mountains activities. Ready to plan your group getaway? Browse our Gatlinburg cabin rentals and book your stay with our team at The Cabin Rental Store today!

×