Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg for Adults: Your Complete Getaway Guide
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Gatlinburg for adults, then you’re in the right place. Gatlinburg is not just a great spot for kids and families. It’s also perfect for adults looking for excitement, relaxation, or a romantic getaway.
This complete guide includes outdoor adventures, nightlife, food, unique experiences, and hidden gems to help you plan the perfect vacation with top things to do in Gatlinburg Tennessee.
Ghost Tours from Ghost and Haunt
Haunted Walks, Ghost Tours, and Nighttime Fun
Gatlinburg isn’t just beautiful during the day, it’s a thrill after dark too. Here’s what you can do:
- Take part in an adventurous and thrilling ghost tour that beats all other kinds of experiences you usually have on vacation. Learn the interesting haunted history of local landmarks as you visit them.
- Book a candlelit walking tour through historic downtown for a spooky and romantic twist.
- Enjoy themed escape rooms, mystery dinners, or nighttime rides on the tram.
For adventurous visitors planning fun things to do in Gatlinburg for adults at night, ghost tour operator Ghost and Haunt offers detailed options you won’t find elsewhere. Book a ghost tour now and look forward to a unique experience you’ll never forget!
Scenic Mountain Views and Outdoor Adventures
Nothing beats the peaceful beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Adults can enjoy hiking, skiing, or scenic drives.
- Ride the SkyLift at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park and walk across the SkyBridge for incredible mountain views.
- Visit Ober Gatlinburg to experience skiing in Gatlinburg during winter or summer tubing during warmer months.
- Take a hike to Laurel Falls or along the Gatlinburg Trail for a quiet and scenic nature escape.
- Ride the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster through the woods, it’s great for thrill seekers of all ages.
These scenic spots are perfect for couples or even solo travelers seeking some fresh air and calm surroundings.
Explore the Local Craft and Art Scene
Gatlinburg is rich with Appalachian art and crafts.
- Explore the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, a loop of artisan shops and studios.
- Join a pottery or wood carving workshop for a hands-on experience.
- Stroll through downtown and shop handmade candles, glass art, and leather goods.
Make time to visit unique attractions like custom craft shops and boutique galleries that blend art with haunted local lore.
Recommended read: Cool Things to Do in Gatlinburg Tennessee
Wine, Whiskey, and Tasting Trails
- Visit local wineries on the Gatlinburg Wine Trail for sweet blends and small batch favorites.
- Sample moonshine and whiskey at famous distilleries, some even offer free tastings.
- Enjoy cozy indoor tastings during colder months, perfect for trips in February or December.
Looking for fun couple things to do in Gatlinburg? Consider combining tasting with a dinner reservation and a ghost tour after for an unforgettable evening.
Relax and Reconnect in Nature
Not every trip has to be full of action. Some visitors prefer slow travel and wellness activities. If you’re one of these people, here’s what you can do:
- Spend a morning at a mountain-view spa. Enjoy massages, facials, or hot tubs with Smoky Mountain scenery.
- Book a riverside cabin with a fireplace for the ultimate romantic hideaway.
- Visit quiet scenic points for sunrise photography or yoga.
The peaceful side of Gatlinburg offers a perfect balance to the city’s excitement.
Seasonal Fun for Every Time of Year
Gatlinburg is a year-round destination. Here are top suggestions by season:
Winter (December–February)
- Skiing
- Beautiful views of holiday lights and parades
- Ghost tours under the snow
- Cozy cabins with fireplaces
Spring (March–May)
- Blooming trails and waterfall hikes
- Arts festivals and spring wine tours
- Outdoor picnics with mountain views
- Ghost tours
Summer (June–August)
- Whitewater rafting and ziplines
- Long daylight for hiking and fishing
- Evening ghost walks and outdoor concerts
Fall (September–November)
- Vibrant foliage drives
- Moonshine tastings and harvest events
- Halloween-themed haunted tours
Recommended read: Family Things to Do in Gatlinburg
Note: Many of these suggestions are just as appealing for adults traveling without kids.
Indoor Attractions for Rainy Days
Bad weather doesn’t mean a boring trip. There are plenty of fun things to do in Gatlinburg indoors:
- Visit the Gatlinburg Aquarium, Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum, or the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
- Enjoy live comedy or musical shows
Romantic Things for Couples to Do
Many adult visitors come as couples. Here are some of the best date ideas:
- Dinner for two at a mountain-top lodge
- Ghost tour followed by stargazing
- Wine tasting with local food pairings
- Scenic tram ride at sunset
Final Thoughts
There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Gatlinburg for adults. From wine tastings and haunted tours to mountain hikes and artistic shops, this mountain town has something for every interest. Whether you’re looking for romance, thrills, or peace, Gatlinburg delivers.
For more ideas, personalized trip planning, and exclusive ghost tours, visit Ghost and Haunt.