5 Must-Try Experiences on Your Trip to the Smokies

Planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains? You’re in for something special. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, this part of Tennessee has a way of surprising you. It’s not just about the scenery, though those misty mountain views are hard to beat. The Smokies are packed with things to do for all kinds of travelers. You can find adventure, great food, peaceful trails, fun attractions, and even a little mountain history all in one place.

That’s what makes this area so popular with families, couples, and groups. You don’t have to travel far between stops, and there’s always something new to try, especially if you time your trip right. Visiting in early spring or late fall means smaller crowds and a more relaxed pace.

Not sure where to begin? No problem. These five must-try experiences will help you build a well-rounded trip.

1. Spend a Night Enjoying Live Entertainment

After a long day of exploring, there’s nothing like sitting down to a good meal with great entertainment. The Smokies are packed with fun things to do at night, and one of the best ways to spend your evening is catching a live show in Pigeon Forge.

If you’re looking for dinner entertainment, check out the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud. This popular dinner show offers a mix of comedy, music, stunts, and good old-fashioned feudin’. You’ll see the Hatfields and McCoys go head-to-head in their famous family feud, all done with a hilarious twist and a mix of high-energy stunts that’ll keep you entertained from start to finish.

And the food? It’s all-you-can-eat, Southern-style goodness. Add in audience participation, diving dogs, and hillbilly acrobatics, and you’ve got an experience the whole family will remember.

2. Explore the National Park Like a Local

The Smokies are home to one of the most visited national parks in the country—The Great Smoky Mountains National Park—and for good reason. It’s free to enter, easy to navigate, and packed with scenic drives, trails, and wildlife. If you’re planning to park for a while, just be sure to grab a daily parking tag (it’s $5) before heading out on the trails.

For a scenic and low-key drive, try the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a one-way loop road near Gatlinburg that winds past streams, forested areas, and even historic buildings. It’s a quieter, often overlooked route that offers a peaceful alternative to busier roads.

Prefer to walk? Trails like the Gatlinburg Trail or the Elkmont Nature Trail are perfect for beginners or families. These flat, shaded paths let you experience the beauty of the forest without a long hike. You might spot deer, wild turkeys, or even black bears if you’re lucky.

Try to arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and bring snacks, water, and layers—mountain weather can be unpredictable, even in summer. If you’re visiting in early spring or late fall, you’ll also enjoy fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, making it a peaceful time to explore.

3. Ride the Coasters with a View

Looking for a thrill with a view? Mountain coasters are a must-try in the Smokies. These unique rides combine the excitement of a roller coaster with the control of a go-kart, all set in the natural beauty of the mountains.

One standout is the Ski Lift Shootout Coaster in Pigeon Forge, where you’ll zip down a track with tight curves and sweeping views. Riders can go solo or ride with a partner, and you get to control your own speed, so whether you’re all about adrenaline or just want to cruise, you’re covered.

What’s great about these rides is that many are open both day and night. Go during the day for the mountain views, or try it after dark for a ride lit up by neon and stars.

4. Discover Local History and Culture

While the Smokies are known for outdoor fun, they also have a rich history worth exploring. Between the old homesteads, local craft shops, and historic sites, there’s a quieter side to this destination that adds a lot of depth to your visit.

Start at The Old Mill Historic District in Pigeon Forge. This working grist mill dates back to the 1800s and still grinds grain the old-fashioned way. You can walk around the area, visit local shops, and even enjoy handmade candies or pottery crafted nearby.

If you’re looking to step even further back in time, check out the historic structures along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. You’ll pass by old cabins, mills, and preserved homesteads that show what mountain life looked like more than a century ago.

You’ll also find plenty of artisan shops throughout the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, which is known for preserving the heritage of local makers. It’s a great place to pick up handmade quilts, soaps, woodwork, and more.

5. Take in the Views from the Top

No trip to the Smokies feels complete without heading up to one of the highest points in the area. One of the best places to do that is Kuwohi, as it’s the tallest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

To get to the observation tower, there’s a paved half-mile trail from the parking area. It’s short but steep, so take your time. Once you reach the top, you’ll get a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains.

Because of the high elevation, it’s often cooler and windier up here, even during the summer. Bring a jacket and maybe a snack, and consider visiting around sunset for an unforgettable view.

Taking a trip to the Smokies doesn’t mean you have to pick between adventure and relaxation—you can have both. These five experiences offer a good mix of excitement, history, and scenic beauty. Whether you’re riding coasters, taking in mountaintop views, or laughing through a dinner show, each one adds something different to your trip.

There’s so much variety here, it’s easy to build a trip that works for your group. Plan ahead, pace yourself, and make time for both the popular spots and the local favorites. You’ll leave with great photos, full bellies, and stories worth sharing.