With 2024 knocking, it’s time to prepare for New Year’s festivities. What better way to begin the year than with a laidback escape to Gatlinburg, Tennessee? This picturesque city in The Volunteer State drew nearly 13 million visitors in 2022, cementing it as one of the nation’s foremost vacation locations. Here’s more on what makes a trip to Gatlinburg the ideal New Year’s vacation spot.
Great Smoky Mountain National Park
For the ultimate outdoor thrill, check out Great Smoky Mountain National Park and relish the majesty of Tennessee’s scenic backcountry. This wondrous park is known for its diversity of plant and animal species, breathtaking mountain views, and ample outdoor thrills. Head out for a scenic cross-country skiing adventure in Blue Ridge Parkway. Winter is also an excellent time to view the park’s waterfalls, as the freezing temperatures result in beautiful ice formations.
Moonshine Mountain Coaster
The Moonshine Mountain Coaster is Gatlinburg’s most thrilling coaster, offering scenic rides in single or double cars. The experience lasts around five minutes, including a three-minute ascent to the hilltop and a two-minute descent, taking you past beautiful forested terrain. Each sled features two handlebars that allow you to control your speed by pushing back or pulling forward. Kids aged three and up can go on tandem rides with adults, making it an excellent way to enjoy wholesome family fun with your little ones.
Gatlinburg Space Needle
Relish the lovely views of Gatlinburg and the famous Smoky Mountains atop the Gatlinburg Space Needle. This renowned structure rises to 407 feet, offering unique panoramic sights of the surrounding area. The space needle features glass elevators that transport you to the observation deck, where you experience the gorgeous expanse. Once you’ve had your fair share of Gatlinburg’s sights, head to the onsite 25,000-square-foot playground and enjoy the newest video games, or check out entertaining acts at the Iris Theater.
Anakeesta Theme Park
The Anakeesta Theme Park lies in downtown Gatlinburg, offering immersive experiences for people of all ages. The park features several attractions, including a gorgeous botanical garden, numerous retail shops, and dining facilities. Other park favorites include the Treetop Skywalk featuring a bridge stretching 880 feet 50 feet above the ground, dual ziplining, gem mining, and the Treeventure challenge course. Visit Black Bear Village and enjoy a warm night next to the fire pit, or snap a selfie next to Willow, the 20-foot “Keeper of the Forest” in the Vista Gardens.
Gatlinburg SkyPark
Take in more beautiful sights of the city at the Gatlinburg SkyPark. The park’s SkyLift takes you from the downtown area to 1,800 feet at the pinnacle of Crockett Mountain, where you can unwind in the SkyDeck as you enjoy the jaw-dropping views. Once you’ve had your fill of the SkyDeck’s majestic views, take the SkyBridge and relish the walk across as you look out for black bears. Finish the day by hiking on the Gatlinburg SkyTrail behind the SkyBridge, where you’ll enjoy more fantastic sights of the local landscape.
Hollywood Star Cars Museum
Enjoy the thrill of seeing recreations of Hollywood’s famous automobiles at the Hollywood Star Cars Museum. The Fast & Furious Collection hosts 11 cars from the blockbuster series, including the Mitsubishi Eclipse from the first film in 2001. There’s also an exhibit with cars driven by celebrities, such as Elvis Presley’s 1975 Lincoln Continental and Michael Jackson’s Mercedes-Benz 500. The museum features 45 vehicles spanning several movies and shows over the decades, making it one of Gatlinburg’s most famous attractions.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Take a trip to the sea at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies as you indulge in numerous experiences and tours. The aquarium’s upper section features a shark lagoon, an ocean realm, and a ray bay where you can reach out and touch a sting ray as it swims by. The lower level has a coral reef with six fish species, a discovery center with moon jellies, and a penguin playhouse. Stop by the gift shop and pick up a unique marine gift as a souvenir to remember your trip to Gatlinburg.
Book Your Gatlinburg Vacation Rental Today
Gatlinburg is a one-of-a-kind destination offering umpteen thrills for the perfect New Year’s vacation. Whether you want to enjoy the beautiful outdoors at Great Smoky Mountain National Park, take in the lovely sights at Gatlinburg SkyPark, or take an aquatic adventure at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, this Tennessee gem has it all. As you prepare for your Gatlinburg escape, secure the best accommodation The Cabin Rental Store. Contact us today to book your preferred accommodation and enjoy a cozy home-away-from-home vacation experience.
