Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a charming place to celebrate Thanksgiving, offering a variety of activities and attractions. Here’s a list of things you can consider doing during Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg:
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Thanksgiving In Gatlinburg – Gatlinburg Thanksgiving Guide
Let’s check some of the best things to do in Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg, with the best dining spots, tours, and all helpful tips.
Weather – Thanksgiving In Gatlinburg
During Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the weather typically ranges from cool to cold, with average temperatures around 40-60°F (4-15°C). Visitors can expect crisp autumn air, occasional rain, and the possibility of light snow in the higher elevations.
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Things To Do – Thanksgiving In Gatlinburg
- Enjoy a Thanksgiving Feast: Many restaurants in Gatlinburg offer traditional Thanksgiving meals. Consider dining at local restaurants or booking a special Thanksgiving dinner at a resort or hotel.
- Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Take a hike or scenic drive through the Smokies. The fall foliage can be stunning during Thanksgiving.
- Visit Ober Gatlinburg: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding (if snow is available), ice skating, or take the Aerial Tramway for a breathtaking view of the mountains.
- Gatlinburg SkyLift Park: Experience the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, and take in the fantastic views.
- Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas: Dollywood theme park near Pigeon Forge typically kicks off its festive Christmas celebration during Thanksgiving with dazzling lights, holiday shows, and seasonal activities.
- Shop at the Gatlinburg Strip: Explore the numerous shops offering unique gifts, arts, crafts, and souvenirs. Perfect for holiday shopping.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Discover marine life at this popular attraction, perfect for a family outing during the Thanksgiving weekend.
- Winery Tours: Visit local wineries and sample some regional wines. Tennessee has a growing wine industry.
- Gatlinburg Space Needle: Enjoy the panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains from the top of the Space Needle.
- Local Events and Festivals: Check for any special Thanksgiving events, craft fairs, or local festivals during your stay.
- Rent a Cabin: Stay in a cozy cabin in the mountains and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the area.
- Horseback Riding: Take a guided horseback ride through the beautiful Smoky Mountains.
Gatlinburg during Thanksgiving offers a mix of traditional holiday experiences, beautiful nature, and unique attractions to make your stay memorable.
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Gatlinburg Thanksgiving Dinner Options
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers a variety of dining options for Thanksgiving, ranging from traditional feasts to special menus at local restaurants. Here are some places that typically offer Thanksgiving dining options in Gatlinburg:
- Cherokee Grill: This restaurant usually offers a Thanksgiving menu featuring traditional holiday dishes and regular menu items.
- The Park Grill: Another popular spot for Thanksgiving dining, The Park Grill typically serves a special holiday menu with classic Thanksgiving dishes.
- The Greenbrier Restaurant: A local favorite, The Greenbrier often prepares a Thanksgiving buffet with a wide selection of traditional options and delectable desserts.
- Crystelle Creek Restaurant & Grill: They typically offer a special Thanksgiving menu with a mix of traditional dishes and their signature favorites in a cozy mountain setting.
- Crockett’s Breakfast Camp: While known for breakfast, this restaurant occasionally offers a special Thanksgiving brunch or dinner, serving traditional holiday dishes.
- Ober Gatlinburg Restaurants: Restaurants at Ober Gatlinburg might offer Thanksgiving meals with a beautiful view of the Smoky Mountains.
- Calhoun’s: This BBQ restaurant often presents a special Thanksgiving menu.
Always make reservations in advance, as these places tend to fill up quickly during Thanksgiving. Additionally, it’s a good idea to verify the availability of Thanksgiving dining options and any special menus or events directly with the restaurants, as offerings may change yearly.
Thanksgiving events – Gatlinburg For Thanksgiving
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers several must-do events during the Thanksgiving holiday:
- Gatlinburg Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights: Usually beginning in mid-November, this event offers a guided trolley tour through the city’s beautiful holiday light displays. The stunning lights create a festive atmosphere throughout downtown Gatlinburg.
- Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community Thanksgiving Craft Show: Taking place during Thanksgiving week, this event showcases the talents of local artisans. Explore unique handcrafted items and find special gifts for the holiday season.
- Thanksgiving Feast at Local Restaurants: Many restaurants in Gatlinburg offer special Thanksgiving meals. Partaking in a traditional Thanksgiving dinner at one of these local eateries is a must-do for those seeking a delicious holiday meal without the hassle of cooking.
- Ober Gatlinburg Winter Sports: Ober Gatlinburg typically opens its ski slopes, snowboarding areas, and ice skating rink during Thanksgiving. It’s a fantastic opportunity to embrace winter sports and activities.
- Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas: While not in Gatlinburg but nearby in Pigeon Forge, Dollywood usually launches its Christmas celebration during Thanksgiving. The park features millions of twinkling lights, festive shows, and holiday-themed entertainment for the whole family.
- Holiday Shopping on the Gatlinburg Strip: Enjoy the charming shops and boutiques on the main strip. Many stores have special Thanksgiving and Black Friday deals, making it a perfect time to start your holiday shopping.
- Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees: This annual event typically starts around Thanksgiving, featuring beautifully decorated Christmas trees on display at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. It’s a magical sight and an excellent way to enter the holiday spirit.
- Gatlinburg Space Needle Thanksgiving Event: The Space Needle often hosts special Thanksgiving events, including dinner with stunning views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies Thanksgiving Day Celebration: The aquarium sometimes hosts special Thanksgiving-themed events, making it a unique holiday with family.
- Horseback Riding in the Smoky Mountains: Some stables offer unique Thanksgiving rides through the mountains, providing a different and memorable way to experience the beautiful landscape.
These events cater to various interests and provide a mix of holiday-themed celebrations, outdoor activities, shopping opportunities, and festive experiences during Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg. Always check for any updates or changes related to these events before planning your visit.
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Famous Cabin Stays – Gatlinburg In Thanksgiving
- Elk Springs Resort: Known for its luxury cabin rentals, Elk Springs Resort offers beautifully appointed cabins with modern amenities and scenic mountain views.
- Patriot Getaways: Patriot Getaways provides a range of cabin rentals, including pet-friendly options, making it a popular choice for families and pet lovers.
- Stony Brook Cabins: Stony Brook Cabins offers a variety of cabin rentals in Gatlinburg, often featuring hot tubs, fireplaces, and breathtaking mountain vistas.
- Auntie Belham’s Cabin Rentals: Auntie Belham’s is a long-established cabin rental company offering a wide selection of cabins and chalets for all travelers.
- Gatlinburg Falls Resort: Known for its luxury cabins and amenities, Gatlinburg Falls Resort is an excellent option for those seeking a high-end cabin experience.
Now you know what to do in Gatlinburg for Thanksgiving day with these best Things to do in Gatlinburg Thanksgiving weekend. I hope you plan a trip to Gatlinburg in the Smoky Mountains with many fun Thanksgiving events in Gatlinburg and fantastic Gatlinburg Thanksgiving dinner options. Save this and enjoy this Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg.
Gatlinburg Downtown Video Tour
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