4 Spots in Gatlinburg That Offer Otherworldly Views
Golden landscape at the crack of dawn, gorgeous sunset on the beach, and the sea of clouds in the hilly regions are some of the natural scenic views that leave us in awe. It’s pretty hard not to agape at lush alpine meadows, vast red rock canyons, and magnificent seashores. There’s just something about nature – it reboots and rejuvenates the body.
One such destination that garners feelings of revitalization and fills with a sense of adventure and exploration is Gatlinburg. It’s unquestionably one of the most naturally gorgeous cities in Tennessee. This destination spot lies at the northern boundary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is home to numerous sweeping scenic views.
What makes Gatlinburg a popular travel destination?
There’s nothing that can beat the horizons of this Sevier County city. Millions of visitors travel to Gatlinburg almost yearly, and it’s not difficult to understand why. A long list of outdoor activities, exquisite landscapes, and a variety of novelty food outlets and distilleries are a few reasons why people flock to the charming little city.
In addition, Gatlinburg is one of the premier wedding destinations you can find in the US. Otherwise called the wedding capital of the South, the mountain resort city offers stunning views for exchanging vows and contains dazzling beauty that adds elements to the wedding day.
Just type in wedding venues Gatlinburg TN on the search engine to find stunning large cabin rentals for weddings. From intimate private settings to extravagantly adorned ones, you can find plenty of options to choose from to say “I do.”
What’s more? There are endless incredible places to explore, whether you wish to snap some breathtaking shots or witness the top viewpoints. From snow-capped peaks to wildflowers and diverse flora and fauna regions in the town, the views this city offers are awe-inspiring.
Here are some attraction spots in Gatlinburg, TN, that offer spectacular views:
Cades Cove
This picturesque valley is home to jaw-dropping mountain peaks and gorgeous fields. Unlike many obtusely forested areas of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cade Cove provides a chance to view the beautiful wildlife. A few animals you can find in this magical place include black bears, doe and fawns, and wild turkeys.
It’s easy to steer through Cades Cove since it encompasses an 11-mile-long one-way road that drops by significant landmarks. Not only this, but you can explore the beautiful views and scenic wilderness by giving a try to the carriage, horseback, and hayrides.
This incredible valley also offers a chance to visit and check out historic buildings. Some of these iconic buildings go back to the 1800s, with John Oliver Cabin being the most ancient. Other historic houses in Cade Cove encompass Elijah Oliver Place, Tipton Place, and Primitive Baptist Church. Touring these houses allows you to catch a glimpse of how life was nearly two centuries ago.
Anakeesta
Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, this can’t-miss spot truly has it all – from ziplines and skywalks to restaurants and sensory gardens. Anakeesta features several beautiful scenic views of downtown Gatlinburg. And the only way to make it to this mountain-themed park is by a gondola ride or a chairlift, making the journey even more exhilarating.
Throughout this adventure destination, you can find multiple swinging benches to sit on and relax while appreciating the stunning mountain views. You can choose to loosen up in an Adirondack chair and bask in the astounding scenery or kick back and unwind in the rocking chair to catch up on things with friends. The choices are limitless, and the views are spellbinding.
However, if you are more outdoorsy, enjoy the treetop skywalk, the longest tree-based bridge you will ever find in North America. And if you are a thrill-seeker and wish to feel the surge of adrenaline, then buckle up for the Dueling Zipline adventure. These side-by-side ziplines allow two guests at a time and provide high-speed fun.
Newfound Gap Road
Newfound Gap Road is undoubtedly one of the most popular and gorgeous drives in the United States. At an elevation of 5056 ft, this 33-mile scenic road runs from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to Cherokee, in North Carolina.
The road, wrapped in lush hardwood forests and spruce-fir, features a broad range of animals and plants. You can also explore some fantastic attraction spots along the road. One great site is the Campbell Overlook which offers awe-striking views of Mount LeConte.
Besides mesmerizing views of this 4-miles site along the Newfound Gap Road, there’s also a historical aspect. The name of this stopping point is in honor of Carlos Campbell, whose role was paramount in building the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
Additionally, the Newfound Gap Road provides a direct path to the highest point of the Smokies, Clingmans Dome. And if you make it to the North Carolina side of the road, you can view the historic mill, Mingus Mill. In sum, you can find loads of attraction sites along the Newfound Gap Road that will draw your attention and make you pull over.
Gatlinburg Space Needle
This iconic observation tower is the best bet to witness the mind-blowing views of downtown Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg Space Needle, a nearly 407 ft tall structure, allows you to take in the unequaled panoramic breathtaking views of the Smokies.
Two-glass elevators, with a capacity of almost 20 visitors each, offer a lift to the top of the observation deck where you can make the most of the free viewfinders to look up the scenic views more closely. However, the Gatlinburg Space Needle is a lot more than astonishing views.
You can find multiple higher learning exhibits that offer information and fast facts about the history of this Eastern Tennessee city, thereby enhancing your experience.
Besides this, the observation tower features various attraction points for its visitors. You can head to the amusement center house, which stands at 25,000 square-foot and encompasses more than 100 arcade games such as Skee ball, Mario Kart, and others. And while you are at it, visit the Iris Theatre to enjoy reality-shattering and charming magic.
Final Words
From countless adventures that await you to magnificent views, Gatlinburg is the best getaway destination. Whether you wish to travel from the toasty comfort of the car or go hiking on long-distance mountainous trails, there are numerous vantage points to take in the stunning splendor of Gatlinburg.
The distinct aroma and crisp air that fills the environment is an experience you must feel first-hand to appreciate the majesty of the mountainous town.
One of the best things about Gatlinburg is that you can enjoy breathtaking scenic views from any corner. From Cades Cove, a lush valley that sits between the mountain vistas, to Gatlinburg Space Needle, an iconic observation tower that offers a 360° view, this city in eastern Tennessee offers something for everyone.
Over and above, Gatlinburg is the perfect place to travel at any time of the season for locals and visitors alike. Wildlife in spring, spectacular foliage in fall, snow tubing in winter, and long alpine slides in summer allow the visitors to witness a different experience in every part of the year.