From thrilling zipline tours soaring above the treetops to exploring quirky museums filled with fascinating collections, the Smokies offer something special for every visitor.
Whether you’re seeking breathtaking views from the highest peaks or you want to have fun in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, this mountain range promises unforgettable experiences.
Book your stay with Treehouse Grove, then read on to uncover hidden gems and create lasting memories on your next trip to the Great Smoky Mountains.
These 11 things get our vote for the most unique things to do in the Smoky Mountains.
1. Stay in a Treehouse in the Great Smoky Mountains
To experience the Smoky Mountains like never before, consider staying in a treehouse with epic mountain views. Nestled among the treetops in East Tennessee, our cozy cabins offer stunning views and a peaceful retreat after a day of adventure.
No matter when you decide is the best time to visit the Smokies, a treehouse is always a good idea!
These vacation rentals blend modern comforts with rustic charm, making them the perfect home base for your mountain getaway. Don’t miss the chance to unwind in a unique treehouse setting that will create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.
2. Explore the Gatlinburg SkyBridge
Photo Credit: Wirestock Creators
The Gatlinburg SkyBridge stands out as a key attraction in the Smoky Mountains, holding the title of North America’s longest pedestrian cable bridge. Spanning nearly 700 feet and built 1,800 feet above sea level, this marvel of engineering offers an unparalleled experience for those brave enough to cross it.
As you step onto the SkyBridge, spectacular views of downtown Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains immediately capture your attention. A major highlight is the 30-foot glass section at the midpoint, offering a unique downward view that changes your perspective. It’s a heart-pounding moment that adds an extra layer of excitement to your adventure.
3. Visit a Moonshine Distillery
Moonshine distilleries are a key part of the Smoky Mountain experience, blending history, flavor, and fun. Popular spots like Ole Smoky and Sugarlands distilleries produce high-quality moonshine and offer guided tours that explore the art and science of moonshine making.
Sugarlands is known for its innovative flavors and craft cocktails, featuring unique blends like peach and apple pie, while Ole Smoky provides a historical perspective, tracing moonshine’s significance back to the American Revolution era.
Visitors can enjoy tasting sessions and take home bottles as memorable souvenirs of their trip.
4. Hike to Grotto Falls
Grotto Falls is a unique and rewarding hiking trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering an accessible 3-mile round-trip trail suitable for all skill levels.
While there are dozens, if not hundreds, of beautiful hikes in the Smokies, including the famous Appalachian Trail, what makes Grotto Falls truly special is the rare chance to walk behind the 25-foot waterfall for an immersive and truly memorable perspective.
Along the Grotto Falls trail, hikers enjoy serene old-growth forests and peaceful stream crossings that showcase the Smokies’ natural beauty. The path can be muddy and slippery after rain, so proper footwear and a steady pace are recommended.
5. Bike Cades Cove Loop Road in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Cycling the Cades Cove Loop Road is a must for any adventure seeker visiting the Smoky Mountains. The 11-mile loop road offers a unique way to explore one of the park’s most picturesque spots.
Though most visitors opt to drive the loop, on vehicle-free Wednesdays throughout the summer, the road closes to motor vehicles, creating a safe haven for cyclists to enjoy the scenic route. Without engine noise, you can fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.
Pedaling through the loop, you’ll find ample opportunities to observe wildlife and capture stunning scenic photos. Between deer grazing in meadows and the occasional black bear sighting, Cades Cove is bliss for nature enthusiasts.
Midway through the loop, a visitor center offers amenities and information to enhance your mountain biking adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, biking Cades Cove Loop Road offers a fantastic way to experience the Smoky Mountains’ beauty and tranquility.
6. Zipline Over the Treetops
Seeking an adrenaline rush? Ziplining over the Smoky Mountains’ treetops offers an unforgettable experience. Thrilling mountain views make ziplining a unique and exciting way to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Foxfire Adventure Park is renowned for its zipline tours that cater to various skill levels. You can expect breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape as you soar above the forest canopy. Safety is prioritized, ensuring you can enjoy the adventure with peace of mind.
7. Explore the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
Photo Credit: Ritu Manoj Jethani
A quirky and unique attraction, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum in Gatlinburg is a must-visit. Established in 2001, this one-of-a-kind museum showcases over 20,000 pairs of salt and pepper shakers from around the globe.
Organized by themes and colors, the collection at the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum provides a narrative experience reflecting society’s evolution through these everyday items.
Besides shakers, the museum features over 1500 pepper mills, showcasing various mechanisms and designs. This is a fascinating journey through time and culture, viewed through the lens of salt and pepper shakers.
8. Take a Horseback Ride
Horseback riding in the Smoky Mountains offers a peaceful way to experience the region’s natural beauty and rich history.
Various stables throughout the area, including three concessionaires in the park, provide guided tours suitable for riders of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced equestrians. These rides allow visitors to explore forest trails and historic sites at a relaxed pace, making it an enjoyable activity for families and groups.
Safety and comfort are prioritized, with most stables recommending riders be at least 6 years old and meet certain height and weight requirements. Closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing are advised to ensure a safe riding experience.
9. Hop On a Scenic Helicopter Tour
For a truly breathtaking experience with scenic views, consider taking a helicopter tour over the Smoky Mountains.
Tours from Scenic Helicopter Tours and Smoky Mountain Helicopter Rides provide unforgettable aerial views of lush canopies, iconic landmarks, and cascading waterfalls. It’s a unique way to see the natural beauty of the area from a bird’s-eye perspective.
During the tour, you can expect to see peaks such as Mount LeConte, offering a new appreciation for these majestic summits in the mountain range. The tours come in a variety of options that cater to different budgets and preferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
10. Explore The Island at Pigeon Forge
The Island at Pigeon Forge is a vibrant entertainment complex with a variety of attractions, shopping, dining, and family-friendly fun located along the Pigeon Forge Parkway. It offers a mix of outdoor games, live entertainment, unique shops, and delicious restaurants.
One of the standout features of The Island is the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a towering 200-foot-tall observation wheel that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding area. Riding in one of the spacious, climate-controlled gondolas, visitors can take in stunning vistas at their own pace, making it a memorable experience for the whole family.
There are many other family-friendly attractions to explore in the Pigeon Forge area, such as Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Ripley’s Super Fun Park, and legendary amusement park Dollyworld.
11. Get Epic Views from the Gatlinburg Space Needle
Photo Credit: Stephen B. Goodwin
The Gatlinburg Space Needle is a must-visit landmark in downtown Gatlinburg, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the Great Smoky Mountains and the charming town below. Standing 407 feet tall, this observation tower provides a 360-degree vantage point that is truly unmatched in the area.
Visitors can take a quick elevator ride to the top, where an observation deck awaits with spectacular sights of the surrounding mountain range, including famous peaks like Mount LeConte and the highest point in the park, Kuwohi, formerly known as Clingmans Dome.
The Space Needle is perfect for capturing stunning photos and soaking in the natural beauty of the Smokies.
Don’t Miss These Unique Things to Do In Smoky Mountains
The Smoky Mountains offer a treasure trove of unique adventures for those willing to explore. From the thrill of ziplining to the serene beauty of Grotto Falls, each activity provides a chance to connect with nature and experience the region’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re biking through Cades Cove or taking in panoramic views from a helicopter tour, the Smoky Mountains promise an unforgettable journey.
So, book your stay with Treehouse Grove and head to the Smoky Mountains for a trip filled with excitement, beauty, and memories that will last a lifetime. The mountains are calling, and an extraordinary adventure awaits.
