First-Time Visitor’s Guide to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

The first big decision on your trip is where to stay. You’ll want a place that makes it easy to relax and still keeps you close to everything you came to see. Cabins are a favorite choice because they offer privacy, space, and mountain views right outside your door. With Auntie Belham’s Cabin Rentals, you can pick from a variety of Gatlinburg Tennessee cabins that come with full kitchens, bubbling hot tubs, and cozy living spaces. On top of that, guests get the Smoky Mountain Adventure Pass, which includes free tickets to local favorites like Dollywood, Country Tonite Theatre, and Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show. It’s a simple way to add even more fun to your stay.

Once you’re settled, it’s time to explore Gatlinburg. Downtown Gatlinburg is the heart of the action, and it’s full of attractions you don’t want to miss.

• Anakeesta – This mountaintop park offers scenic views, treetop walks, and activities for kids and adults. Ride the chondola or chairlift up the mountain and spend a few hours exploring.
• Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies – A favorite for families, this large aquarium features a moving walkway through an underwater tunnel filled with sharks and rays. 
• Gatlinburg SkyPark – This is where you’ll find the famous Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. It’s a must for the views alone.

Aside from attractions, Gatlinburg has plenty of shops, candy stores, and local distilleries. Taking an afternoon to stroll the Parkway gives you a real feel for the town.

Pigeon Forge is just down the road from Gatlinburg and is packed with things to do. It has a different feel — more open and spread out — which makes it great for attractions that need more space.

• Dollywood – This is one of the biggest draws in the Smoky Mountains. Dollywood has rides, live shows, and Southern dining all in one place. The park also changes with the seasons, offering special festivals in spring, summer, fall, and winter.
• The Island in Pigeon Forge – A shopping and entertainment complex that features the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, live music, restaurants, and fun shops.
• Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show – Guests watch professional lumberjacks compete in events like log rolling and axe throwing. 

Pigeon Forge also has mini-golf, arcades, and theaters, making it easy to fill an entire day without running out of activities.

No trip to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge is complete without time in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park itself is free to enter, but keep in mind that if you plan to park for more than 15 minutes, you’ll need to purchase a parking tag.

For first-timers, start with short hikes. The Gatlinburg Trail is a good choice, especially if you want something close to town. If hiking isn’t your style, the park also has scenic drives. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a one-way loop with forest views, waterfalls, and historic cabins. Cades Cove is another favorite, known for its open fields and wildlife. Many visitors see deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears while driving or biking the loop.

Bring water, snacks, and comfortable shoes. The weather can change quickly, so check the forecast before you head out.

Every season in the Smokies has something different to offer.

• Spring – Early spring is one of the quieter times of year, and it’s perfect for spotting wildflowers and enjoying cooler weather.
• Summer – This is the peak family travel season. Expect longer days, busy attractions, and warm temperatures.
• Fall – Late fall is an off-peak season with smaller crowds, but earlier in the season, the foliage draws many visitors. The leaves usually peak in October, and the colors are worth seeing.
• Winter – The holiday season is full of lights and events in both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. It’s a cozy time for cabin stays, and the smaller crowds in January and February make it easier to explore.

If you want fewer crowds and lower rates, early spring and late fall are the best bets.

Your first trip to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge can feel overwhelming, but a few tips will help.

• Arrive early – Attractions like Dollywood and the national park trails get busy. Starting your day early helps you avoid long waits.
• Use the trolley in Gatlinburg – Parking can be tight downtown, so hop on the trolley instead. It’s inexpensive and covers most of the town.
• Book tickets in advance – Shows and Dollywood tickets often sell out, especially on weekends and during holidays.
• Wear comfortable shoes – You’ll do a lot of walking, both in town and on trails.

These small steps make a big difference in how much you enjoy your trip.

A first trip to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is exciting because there’s so much to see. From the busy attractions of Pigeon Forge to the scenic charm of Gatlinburg, every corner of the Smoky Mountains offers something new. Add in the free adventures of the national park and the comfort of staying in a cabin, and you’ve got a vacation that’s hard to beat. 

Planning ahead with a guide like this takes away the guesswork, so you can focus on making memories. Once you’ve experienced it for yourself, it won’t be your last trip to the Smokies.