- Sip your way through the Gatlinburg Wine Trail, starting at Smokin' Banjo.
- Take in breathtaking mountain views at Gatlinburg SkyPark.
- Explore the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community for unique, local finds.
- Adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with hikes, drives, and wildlife.
- Shop and dine along the Parkway for a true taste of Gatlinburg's vibrant scene.
Discover Gatlinburg: The Ultimate Adult Getaway in the Smokies
Did you know Gatlinburg welcomes over 12 million visitors a year, more than Yellowstone or Yosemite? While families flock here for fun, there's a secret: Gatlinburg is a paradise for adults seeking romance, adventure, and authentic local flavor. Imagine sipping bold wines with friends, crossing a record-breaking sky bridge, and ending your day with a cozy dinner. It doesn’t get better than that!
Here are 5 things to do in Gatlinburg for adults on your Smokies vacation.
1. Sip Your Way Through the Gatlinburg Wine Trail
If you're searching for things to do in Gatlinburg for adults, the Gatlinburg Wine Trail is a must. Start your adventure here at Smokin' Banjo Wine Company (631 Parkway), right in the heart of downtown. Smokin' Banjo isn't your average winery. We serve up bold blends, sparkling wines, and hard ciders with a Smoky Mountain twist. The tasting experience is anything but ordinary, and our friendly staff will help you discover new favorites.
The Wine Trail includes five unique stops: Smokin' Banjo, Old Mountain Wine Company, Tennessee Homemade Wines, Tennessee Cider Company, and the combined THW/TCC location in Sevierville. For just $10, you get a full tasting at each winery, and you have seven days to complete the trail at your own pace. It's the perfect way to sample authentic Tennessee wines and ciders, meet fellow travelers, and bring home a taste of the Smokies.
Key Takeaway: Smokin' Banjo is the ideal starting point for your Gatlinburg wine tasting adventure. Don't miss our exclusive blends and lively atmosphere!
2. Enjoy the Views at Gatlinburg SkyPark
Craving jaw-dropping views? Head to Gatlinburg SkyPark. Your journey begins with a scenic ride on the iconic SkyLift, whisking you from downtown up the mountainside. At the top, step onto the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. The glass-floor section is a thrill, and the panoramic vistas are unforgettable.
The SkyPark isn't just about the bridge. There are walking trails, an observation deck, and plenty of spots to relax with a drink or snack. Whether you're snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery, this is a must for those looking for a memorable Smokies experience.
Mini Summary
Gatlinburg's adult-friendly adventures start with local flavor at Smokin' Banjo and reach new heights at SkyPark. Both offer unique ways to connect, unwind, and make memories right in the heart of the Smokies.
3. Wander Through the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
Need a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown? Take a short drive to the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, an 8-mile loop filled with working studios and galleries. Watch Appalachian artisans create pottery, wood carvings, jewelry, and more, all right before your eyes. This is the place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts you won't see anywhere else.
The community is perfect for leisurely browsing, chatting with local artists, and discovering the creative spirit of the Smokies. It's a quieter, more personal side of Gatlinburg that adults especially appreciate.
4. Adventure in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
No Smokies vacation is complete without exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you're up for a challenging hike, a scenic drive, or a peaceful picnic, the park delivers. Keep your camera ready for wildlife sightings and breathtaking overlooks.
History buffs will love the park's historic buildings, while nature lovers can lose themselves in wildflower meadows and old-growth forests. The park is just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg, making it easy to fit into any itinerary.
5. Shop & Dine Along the Parkway
Wrapping up your day with a stroll along the Gatlinburg Parkway is another one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg for adults. Pop into quirky local shops, sample treats at sweet shops, and discover everything from handmade crafts to Smoky Mountain memorabilia. When hunger strikes, choose from steakhouses, BBQ joints, and Southern comfort food restaurants, many within walking distance of Smokin' Banjo.
The Parkway is lively, welcoming, and full of surprises. It's the perfect spot to unwind, people-watch, and toast to a day well spent.
Mini Summary
From artisan studios to mountain trails and vibrant downtown streets, Gatlinburg offers adults a blend of adventure, relaxation, and local flavor. Smokin' Banjo is your gateway to it all. Start your journey with a tasting and let the Smokies do the rest.
FAQ: Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Adults
What makes the Gatlinburg Wine Trail a top choice for adults?
The Gatlinburg Wine Trail offers a fun, affordable way to sample local wines and ciders, meet fellow travelers, and experience authentic Smoky Mountain flavors. Smokin' Banjo's unique blends and lively atmosphere make us a standout stop.
Is Gatlinburg SkyPark suitable for couples or groups of friends?
Absolutely! The SkyPark and SkyBridge provide stunning views, photo opportunities, and a bit of adventure, perfect for romantic moments or group fun.
Where can I find unique souvenirs in Gatlinburg?
The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is the best spot for handmade, one-of-a-kind items crafted by local artists.
What are some romantic things to do in Gatlinburg?
Couples love wine tasting at Smokin' Banjo and the rest of the Gatlinburg Wine Trail, sunset walks on the SkyBridge, and cozy dinners along the Parkway. The national park also offers scenic spots for picnics and photos.
Experience the Best of Gatlinburg on Your Smokies Vacation
There are a ton of things to do in Gatlinburg for adults that are a lot of fun, but the Gatlinburg Wine Trail brings local flavor and excitement together like nothing else! Smokin’ Banjo is proud to be a part of that, pouring wines and ciders you won’t find anywhere else. Before you get started, take a look at all the Tennessee wines and ciders at Smokin’ Banjo to start thinking about what you want to try during your wine trail adventure!
