Couples searching for fun and interesting things to do on a Gatlinburg honeymoon are always happy with what they discover in this beautiful part of the country. Reconnecting with nature and enjoying new experiences is the recipe for a great honeymoon. Those who find the romance in the Smoky Mountains appealing are guaranteed to enjoy spending time in Gatlinburg. Whether you want to relax in nature or hit the town, you’ll have a world of adventure in Gatlinburg. To help you plan the perfect Gatlinburg honeymoon, we’ve created a guide to some can’t-miss activities and attractions to visit with your newlywed.
1. Gatlinburg Space Needle
A fun place for essentially anyone, couples often choose the Gatlinburg Space Needle as their first stop. At the base, you’ll find Arcadia, Iris Theater, and Slice Pizza Bakery. At the top, you’ll find a spectacular 360° view of the Smoky Mountains! Snap a picture together as you ride the glass elevator to the top, or get one of the two of you overlooking downtown Gatlinburg! This attraction belongs on every couples’ must-see list.
2. Ripley’s Aquarium
Ripley’s Aquarium was voted the number one aquarium in the United States by several renowned travel sites and upon visiting it, couples will quickly see why. Some aquariums leave people feeling not so anxious to return, but after visiting Ripley’s in Gatlinburg, many reviews written by newlywed visitors state that the aquarium is worth a return visit!
With thousands of different aquatic creatures, including a green sea turtle, stingrays, and 12-foot sharks, there is something interesting for everyone to see. One thing that impresses all visitors is the underwater tunnel, where you’ll travel on a 340-foot long glidepath along the ocean floor as sea creatures swim all around you. Couples should plan to spend at least several hours to enjoy everything there is to do and see at the aquarium. For the most memorable visit, try one of the interactive experiences, like touching a stingray or jellyfish, or riding on a glass bottom boat!
3. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
Arguably the most romantic attraction in Gatlinburg is the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Your adventure begins with a ride together on the iconic Gatlinburg SkyLift, which will take you to the top of Crockett Mountain. Once you’re at the top, you can enjoy exciting adventures. Relax and take in the views on the SkyDeck, or walk across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in America! The Gatlinburg SkyBridge is the perfect spot to take a photo together. If you’re interested in a calmer stroll, walk along the Gatlinburg SkyTrail and head to the top of the Tulip Tower, which offers incredible views. Grab some refreshments or souvenirs in the SkyCenter before riding the lift back down to Gatlinburg.
4. Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery
Couples who enjoy sampling spirits or who simply want to learn about how moonshine is made will definitely enjoy a trip to the interesting and fun Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery. Situated in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, the distillery offers guided tours of the distillery, as well as $5 moonshine tastings. The best part is that the $5 can go toward any purchase you make at the distillery. Figure out which moonshine is your favorite, then get a jar to enjoy together on the rest of your Gatlinburg honeymoon! Some popular flavors are Apple Pie, White Lightnin’, and Mountain Java. Don’t miss their Moonshine Pickles or Moonshine Cherries either.
5. Anakeesta
If you’ve never been to Anakeesta, your honeymoon is the perfect time to visit this mountaintop attraction. Hop on the scenic chondola and take in the views as you ride to the top of Anakeesta Mountain, where a world of adventure awaits. Once you’re at the top, you and your sweetheart can grab a drink, sit back, and enjoy the views, or experience all the fun and excitement together! Anakeesta is home to an observation tower that offers views from the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg, a mountain coaster, a treetop skywalk, dual ziplines, and more. Before you leave, share a special dinner for two at Cliff Top, which provides you with an elevated dining experience while you take in views of Mount LeConte. Be sure to get a picture together in the Twigloo heart before you leave!
6. Explore Downtown Gatlinburg
If you love exploring shops, eateries, and attractions, then spend some time strolling through downtown Gatlinburg. You’ll see a variety of unique shops, from souvenir shops to sweet shops, as well as some of the most delicious restaurants in all of the Smoky Mountains. Once the night comes to an end, you can still have fun at some of the popular bars in the area, like Ole Red and Shamrock’s Lounge.
7. Activities for Outdoor Lovers
Nature-loving couples who enjoy being physically active will discover honeymoon activities just minutes away from downtown Gatlinburg in the famous Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Newlyweds have the opportunity to indulge in an adventurous day in the wilderness, where they have their choice of rafting excursions on the Little Pigeon River, skiing at Ober Mountain, or hiking along one of the many trails in the park. Regardless of the time of year a couple chooses for their Gatlinburg honeymoon, there are outdoor activities available. Take in the wildflowers in the spring and summer, fall foliage in the autumn, and snow-covered mountaintops in the winter. There’s something for everyone during every season!
8. The Peddler
You’re sure to work up quite the appetite visiting all of these places on your Gatlinburg honeymoon, and we know the perfect place to enjoy a special dinner for two. The Peddler is Gatlinburg’s premier steakhouse. This restaurant was built upon tradition and welcomes diners back year after year. Their salad bar and custom cut steaks will satisfy the hungriest of visitors, and the ambience is perfect for a special occasion. Share a bottle of wine together while you dine, and be sure to save room for one of their delicious desserts, like Kristi’s Chocolate Cake!
Plan Your Gatlinburg Honeymoon
Regardless of which activities and attractions each couple prefers, Gatlinburg is the perfect place to spend your first days together as a married couple. Are you interested in learning about more activities you can enjoy on your Gatlinburg honeymoon? We have a list of some of our favorite romantic things to do in Gatlinburg!
