A Complete Guide of the Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Adults

Taking a trip to the Smokies without the kids? You’ll find plenty of awesome activities to enjoy, from relaxing and taking in the scenery to thrilling attractions and delicious food you can’t get anywhere else. Keep reading to learn more about the best things to do in Gatlinburg for adults:

Ride the Moonshine Mountain Coaster

At Moonshine Mountain Coaster, enjoy the ride in a single or double-seat coaster car and feel the fresh air on your face! You control the speed, so you get to choose whether you’re experience is fast and exhilarating or slow and relaxing. They’re open day and night, all year round. 

Drive to the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook

Spend some quality time together and take a romantic drive along Bypass Road to the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook. You’ll find the most jaw-dropping aerial view of the town surrounded by the mountain peaks. It’s an especially beautiful spot for watching the sunset!

Walk across the SkyBridge

A trip to Gatlinburg isn’t complete without experiencing the iconic SkyBridge! The panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains from Gatlinburg SkyPark are incredible, but it’s even more breathtaking from the massive bridge. 

Zipline at Anakeesta 

There’s so much to do at Anakeesta, and zipping above the trees side-by-side is a memory you’ll never forget. If you’re not quite up for the thrills of ziplining, enjoy the Treetop Skywalk instead! This is much more of a relaxed activity that still allows you to be up close and personal with the incredible mountain scenery. 

Tour and taste at Sugarlands Distilling Company 

Another of the best things to do in Gatlinburg for adults is moonshine tasting! Sugarlands Distilling Company offers affordable tastings and distillery tours; for $5, you can sample 12 flavors of their moonshine shine, and they also have a whiskey to try for an additional charge. Their blended cocktail tour is also a great activity, with a 30-minute distillery tour before getting to enjoy 2 unique hand-crafted cocktails.

Throw at Gatlinburg Axe House

Up for a fun challenge? Consider trying your hand at axe-throwing! Gatlinburg Axe House is located in the downtown strip, close to all the shops. They have multiple lanes to throw, as well as opportunities for glow-in-the-dark and blacklight axe-throwing. They also offer discounts for military members and first responders!

Hike or bike the Gatlinburg Trail

The Gatlinburg Trail is an easy hiking trail you can access from downtown Gatlinburg. It leads you through nearly 2 miles of peaceful woods along the West Prong of the Little Pigeon River, great for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Plus, it’s dog-friendly!

Experience Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

One of the most popular of Ripley’s attractions, this amazing aquarium isn’t just for the kids! We highly suggest experiencing the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure, where you travel across the lagoon with only a few inches of glass separating you from the creatures below!

Enjoy food and drinks at No Way Jose’s

 There’s nothing more satisfying after a fun day than authentic Mexican cuisine and an ice-cold beer or margarita! We have tasty appetizers like nachos and bean dip, and of course, our freshly made chips and queso, salsa, or guacamole. Want all the cheese and queso with your meal? Try one of our popular menu items smothered with queso, such as the Chicken Fajita Burrito or the Chicken and Sour Cream Enchiladas! Be sure to save room for dessert, because our Fried Ice Cream or Caramel Flan is out-of-this-world delicious!

Now you know all the best things to do in Gatlinburg for adults! Keep up with our latest updates to discover more interesting details about No Way Jose’s and the Smoky Mountains. We hope you’ll plan a visit soon!