Planning a family trip to Gatlinburg isn’t just about finding a cabin and packing the car—you want to know if this mountain town actually delivers the kind of fun your kids will remember. Before you commit to a holiday getaway, you need a real sense of what there is to do: the hands-on attractions, the can’t-miss views, the easy wins for little ones, and those rare moments where everyone—from toddlers to teens—actually agrees on something.
This is a boots-on-the-ground look at Gatlinburg’s family-friendly side. Let’s jump in to keeping the kids busy on a beautiful mountain getaway.
1. Book a Gatlinburg Treehouse Stay
If you really want to wow the kids, nothing beats waking up in the trees. A stay at Treehouse Grove turns your family trip into a full-blown adventure—think cozy bridges, elevated decks, and floor-to-ceiling windows tucked right into the Smoky Mountain canopy.
These aren’t the rickety treehouses you grew up with; they’re luxury, family-friendly retreats designed by the expert treehouse builders at “Treehouse Masters.” You’ll find options perfect for every crew, from intimate one-bedroom treehouses for smaller families to spacious multi-bedroom layouts with bunk beds, loft spaces, and plenty of room for little explorers to spread out.
Whether your kids want to roast marshmallows under the stars, spot wildlife from the deck, or just feel like they’re living in a real-life fairytale, Treehouse Grove delivers that magical, only-in-Gatlinburg experience.
2. Go On a Zipline Adventure
If your kids are old enough for a little adrenaline, ziplining is one of the most unforgettable ways to experience the Smokies. Picture soaring through the treetops with mountain views stretching for miles, the kind of “whoa!” moment your kids will talk about long after the family vacation. Gatlinburg has several top-tier courses that balance amazing views and thrills with safety, making them great for families looking to try something new together.
Check out family-friendly zipline options like:
- Anakeesta – Scenic chutes with incredible mountain views.
- Ober Gatlinburg – A fun combo of aerial adventure and classic mountain attractions.
- Wahoo Ziplines – Known for long, swooping rides perfect for first-timers.
- CLIMB Works – One of the most immersive canopy tours in the Smokies with expert guides.
3. Spend the Day at Dollywood
Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani
If you’re bringing kids to the Smokies, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge is practically a guaranteed home run for family fun. It’s that rare theme park where every age group finds something they love—gentle rides and splash pads for little ones, big coasters for thrill-seekers, and live music, crafts, and incredible food for the adults. The park feels warm and thoughtful, like the mountain version of Disney without the overwhelm.
Little kids will love wandering through themed areas, hopping on family coasters, grabbing cinnamon bread at the Grist Mill (seriously—don’t skip it), and catching shows that break up the day in the best way. During the holidays, Dollywood transforms into a glowing wonderland with lights, parades, and seasonal treats that make it feel genuinely magical.
4. Go Year Round Snow Tubing at Rowdy Bear Mountain
For winter fun that doesn’t require ski skills, snow tubing at Rowdy Bear Mountain is an instant kid-pleaser. The park’s year-round tubing hill is a 500-foot-long lane with a 70-foot drop that keeps the excitement going year-round. In winter, you get real snowy tubing; in warmer months, you still get that fast, outdoor slide with gorgeous Smoky Mountain views.
The best part? It’s pure, uncomplicated fun. No gear to rent, no lessons to schedule—just grab a tube, take a deep breath, and enjoy that rush as you slide down the hill with the Smokies as your backdrop.
Right next to it is the Ski Lift Shootout Coaster, a suspended ride where you glide through the air in a two-person gondola and fire laser guns at targets along the way—it’s part thrill ride, part game, and totally addictive.
5. Chase Waterfalls
If your family loves a good nature moment (or you’re just trying to coax the kids outside for an adventure everyone can handle), Gatlinburg’s waterfall trails are a perfect choice. Two of the most kid-friendly options – Laurel Falls and Cataract Falls—offer beautiful payoffs without overwhelming little legs.
Laurel Falls is the local favorite: a paved, moderate trail that winds through the forest and leads to an 80-foot waterfall that splits into an upper and lower cascade. Kids love crossing the small bridge right in front of the falls, and the views make it totally worth the effort.
Cataract Falls, on the other hand, is the ideal “quick win.” It’s a short, easy walk from the Sugarlands Visitor Center, perfect for younger kids or a low-key outing between other activities. The trail is shaded, peaceful, and ends at a charming waterfall that feels like a hidden gem.
6. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No trip to Gatlinburg with kids is complete without stepping into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It’s one of those places where the scenery alone can stop you in your tracks—misty ridgelines, rolling forests, winding streams—but it’s also incredibly accessible for families. Whether you’ve got toddlers who need flat, easy paths or older kids who love hiking and are ready for a real adventure, the park has trails, viewpoints, and wildlife encounters for every age and energy level.
Ditch the crowds and take a slow drive along Newfound Gap Road, explore historic homesteads in Cades Cove, or let the kids burn off energy on short nature trails near the Sugarlands Visitor Center. Keep an eye out for deer, elk, and black bears (from a safe distance, of course), and don’t forget to pack snacks—everything is more magical with a mountain overlook.
7. Spend the Day in Downtown Gatlinburg
Photo Credit: OJUP
Downtown Gatlinburg is basically a giant playground for kids—packed with hands-on attractions, sweet treats, and quirky experiences all within an easy walking stretch. Here are some of the fun things families can expect when exploring the strip.
Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium is a standout for families. Kids can walk under shark tunnels, touch stingrays, watch penguins waddle up close, and even ride the glass-bottom boat.
Anakeesta
Ride the scenic Chondola up to a mountaintop village filled with kid-friendly fun—treehouse playgrounds, canopy walks, gem mining, ziplines, and incredible views. It’s magical day or night.
Fannie Farkle’s
Think old-school arcade meets carnival food. Kids can rack up tickets for prizes while you snag legendary footlong corn dogs.
The Gatlinburg Space Needle
Ride the glass elevator up for 360° mountain views. Great for children who love lookout towers and “we’re so high up!” moments, and parents who love a panoramic view.
8. Check Out Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!
If your kids love weird facts, wild visuals, and anything that makes them say, “No way… that’s REAL?!,” Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is absolutely a guaranteed win. This isn’t your typical museum—it’s a multi-floor playground of oddities, optical illusions, hands-on exhibits, and record-breaking curiosities that keep kids moving and laughing the whole time.
They can walk through spinning tunnels, stand next to impossibly tall figures, test their reflexes, explore strange artifacts from around the world, and snap hilarious photos along the way. It’s the perfect mix of fun and educational, with just enough “wow factor” to keep everyone entertained—even the adults.
For a rainy-day activity or a break from outdoor adventures, no fun trip is complete without a stop here.
9. Take a Swing at Hillbilly Golf
Hillbilly Golf is one of those Gatlinburg classics that kids never forget. The fun starts before you even tee off—you’ll ride an incline railway up the side of a mountain to reach the two quirky, themed mini golf courses perched high above town. From there, it’s 18 holes of goofy obstacles, mountain views, and plenty of chances for the kids to out-putt the adults (they usually do).
The courses are shaded, scenic, and just challenging enough to keep older kids engaged while still being easy for younger ones to enjoy. It’s simple, low-pressure family fun with a Smoky Mountain twist—and a great way to break up your downtown Gatlinburg exploring.
10. Satisfy a Sweet Tooth at Gatlinburg’s Treat Stops
Photo Credit: Dee Browning
Let’s be honest—half the fun of walking through Gatlinburg is following your nose. One minute you’re strolling along, and the next you’re being pulled (by your kids… or yourself) toward the smell of warm fudge or cinnamon-sugar donuts.
Here are a few kid-favorite sweet spots worth popping into:
- Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen – Watch old-fashioned taffy stretching in action.
- Kilwins – Rich fudge, caramel apples, hand-paddled treats.
- Chocolate Monkey – Oversized, chocolate-covered everything.
- The Donut Friar – Hot, melt-in-your-mouth donuts that are 100% worth an early wake-up
11. Get the Adrenaline Pumping at Moonshine Mountain Coaster
If your crew is craving a thrill that’s fun and family-friendly, the Moonshine Mountain Coaster is a must-do. This Gatlinburg favorite lets you control your speed as you zip, twist, and glide down the mountainside on a smooth, silent track—perfect for kids who love a little excitement but aren’t quite ready for big-park roller coasters.
You can ride solo or pair up in a double-car, and the views on the way up are just as good as the ride down. It’s the kind of attraction that feels daring without being scary, making it a great pick for families with a mix of ages.
12. Go Ice Skating Year-Round at Ober Mountain
If your kids love to skate—or if you’re looking for a fun break from exploring downtown – Ober Mountain’s indoor ice rink is the perfect pick. Open year-round, it gives families a chance to lace up and glide around no matter the season. Beginners can take it slow along the rail, while more confident skaters zip around the rink, and little ones can use balance supports to stay steady.
It’s a great way to cool off in summer or embrace those winter vibes during the holidays. Plus, Ober offers plenty of other activities nearby—like snow tubing (seasonal), mini golf, wildlife encounters, and scenic views—so you can easily turn a quick skate session into a full family outing.
Tips for Your Visit to Gatlinburg
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of exploring, so it’s important to be comfortable.
- Bring sunscreen and insect repellent: Protect yourself from the elements, especially during the warmer months!
- Purchase tickets in advance: To avoid disappointment, it’s recommended to purchase your tickets online in advance. Did you know Treehouse Grove offers free tickets to local attractions just for booking with us? Learn more!
Book Your Family Getaway to Gatlinburg, TN
Whether it’s a long weekend or a week, A stay at Treehouse Grove means a day filled with adventure, laughter, and unforgettable memories. With its unique blend of nature and play, this magical destination is the perfect place for families to connect and create lasting bonds.
