Things to Do Near Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is one of the most popular destinations in the Smoky Mountains, offering everything from breathtaking mountain views and outdoor adventures to family attractions, shopping, and incredible dining. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, there's no shortage of unforgettable experiences.

Bear Claw Vista is conveniently located just minutes from downtown Gatlinburg, making it easy to enjoy all the excitement before returning to the peace and quiet of your private mountain cabin.

1. Explore Anakeesta

One of Gatlinburg's newest and most popular attractions, Anakeesta combines outdoor adventure with spectacular mountain views. Ride the scenic Chondola to the summit where you'll find:

• Treetop Skywalk
• AnaVista Observation Tower
• Mountain coasters
• Beautiful gardens
• Restaurants and shops
• Seasonal events and live entertainment

Whether you're visiting during the day or after sunset when the mountain comes alive with lights, Anakeesta is a must-see destination for visitors of all ages.

2. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park

America's most visited national park is just minutes away and offers endless opportunities for adventure.

Popular activities include:

• Hiking scenic mountain trails
• Waterfall viewing
• Picnicking
• Wildlife watching
• Scenic drives
• Photography

Whether you're looking for an easy family walk or a challenging mountain hike, the park has something for everyone.

3. Stroll Through Downtown Gatlinburg

Downtown Gatlinburg is filled with unique shops, restaurants, candy stores, wineries, breweries, and local attractions. Spend an afternoon browsing locally owned stores, sampling homemade fudge, or enjoying live entertainment along the Parkway.

It's the perfect place to explore on foot.

4. Visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Consistently ranked among the nation's best aquariums, Ripley's Aquarium is a favorite for families and a great option on rainy days.

Walk through the underwater tunnel, touch horseshoe crabs, meet playful penguins, and discover marine life from around the world.

5. Ride the Gatlinburg SkyPark

Take the scenic chairlift to the top of Crockett Mountain for incredible panoramic views of the Smokies. The famous SkyBridge—the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America—is one of Gatlinburg's most photographed attractions.

6. Enjoy Ober Mountain

Ober Mountain offers year-round fun for the entire family.

Depending on the season, you can enjoy:

• Alpine Slide
• Mountain Coaster
• Ice skating
• Wildlife habitat
• Scenic tram rides
• Skiing and snowboarding during winter

7. Discover Scenic Drives

Some of the Smokies' most beautiful scenery can be enjoyed without ever leaving your vehicle.

Favorite drives include:

• Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
• Newfound Gap Road
• Little River Road
• Foothills Parkway

Each offers incredible mountain vistas, historic sites, waterfalls, and opportunities to spot wildlife.

8. Experience Smoky Mountain Wildlife

One of the highlights of visiting the Smokies is seeing wildlife in its natural habitat.

Guests frequently spot:

• Black bears
• White-tailed deer
• Wild turkeys
• Songbirds
• Squirrels and chipmunks

Recently, guests at Bear Claw Vista have even been lucky enough to see a local mama black bear with four cubs near the cabin. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, seeing bears from a safe distance is an unforgettable part of the Smoky Mountain experience. Please remember to admire all wildlife from a distance and never feed or approach wild animals.

Stay Close to Everything

After a day exploring Gatlinburg, return to Bear Claw Vista to relax in the private hot tub, enjoy long-range mountain views from the deck, gather around the fire pit, or challenge your family to a game in the loft.

Our convenient location makes it easy to experience Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Dollywood, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park while enjoying the comfort and privacy of your own mountain retreat.

Ready to plan your Smoky Mountain getaway? Book your stay at Bear Claw Vista.