The holiday season can present a fantastic opportunity for families to get away and take a vacation, with lots to do and time off school and work to enjoy time together! One of the best destinations to enjoy a holiday vacation is the Smoky Mountains, where there are plenty of ways to get into the spirit of the season and form lasting memories with your loved ones. Here are some of our top suggestions for the best things to do during winter in the Smoky Mountains when you come to visit:
1. Enjoy Smoky Mountain Winterfest
One of the best parts about visiting during winter in the Smoky Mountains is the abundance of seasonal festivities you can partake in during Smoky Mountain Winterfest! This yearly event sweeps across the area’s streets, attractions, parks, and more, giving you lots of ways to enjoy some seasonal cheer when you come to visit. Head on over to Anakeesta and check out their Enchanted Christmas event, complete with lots of holiday displays and decorations, or take in the sights from your car when you embark on the Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights nearby in Pigeon Forge! There’s no wrong way to get into the holiday spirit when you come to enjoy winter in the Smoky Mountains.
2. Have a Warm Meal at Nearby Restaurants
When the weather gets colder outside, it can be a perfect time to go sit down to a warm meal with family and friends. Luckily, there are lots of great restaurants you can visit during winter in the Smoky Mountains if you’re looking to warm up and enjoy a hearty meal. Try delicious steaks at The Peddler, sample tacos at No Way Jose’s Cantina, or discover a restaurant you haven’t heard of yet — with so many great options located in the area, you have so many choices available to you!
3. Go Sightseeing at the National Park
While you may not think of going to Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the winter, it is actually an amazing time to explore the park. When the foliage thins out for the season, it creates longer sight lines that allow you to take in the views for miles and miles from various overlooks throughout the park. While some areas of the park are closed seasonally, most areas are open for the public to enjoy all year round! Go for a hike and check out the snow-capped mountain peaks or opt for a scenic drive through the park where you’ll pass stunning snowy valleys and more.
4. Shop for Gifts at The Village
Are you looking for the perfect Christmas gift for a friend or family member but haven’t quite found it yet? No worries! With lots of unique and interesting stores located at The Village Shops in Gatlinburg, you’re sure to be able to find gifts that you can’t wait to give this holiday season. Browse one-of-a-kind boutiques and shops like The Honey Pot, Candle Cottage, and The Spice and Tea Exchange.
5. Relax at Our Gatlinburg Hotel
Of course, sometimes the best part about a vacation can be just sitting back and relaxing during your stay, which is why we offer lots of great amenities to help improve the quality of your time with us! You can unwind in front of the fireplace and large flat-panel TV in our comfortable lobby, plus we have suites available with soaking tubs and gas fireplaces if you want that extra level of comfort right in your room.
With so many great things to do during winter in the Smoky Mountains, it’s no wonder lots of families choose to take holiday trips to this fun and exciting area! If you are ready to plan your very own getaway this winter in the Smoky Mountains, check out our selection of lodging options and find your perfect accommodation today.
