Best things to do in gatlinburg in december – Kicking off the most wonderful time of the year in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, a destination that transforms into a winter wonderland in December. As the snowflakes start to gently fall, this charming town awakens to a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for creating lifelong memories. From heartwarming Christmas events and activities to unique holiday shopping and dining experiences, Gatlinburg has something for everyone to enjoy during the holiday season.
With its picturesque snow-covered landscapes, Gatlinburg becomes a haven for winter sports enthusiasts and families alike. Whether you’re interested in skiing, snowboarding, or relaxing with a cup of hot chocolate, Gatlinburg has a multitude of options to cater to all interests and preferences. From the thrill of speeding down the slopes to the joy of strolling through a snow-covered village, Gatlinburg’s winter wonderland offers a magical experience that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Gatlinburg in December
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, transforms into a winter wonderland in December, offering a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for the holiday season. The snow-covered landscapes, festive decorations, and cozy charm of the city make it an ideal destination for a winter getaway. As the temperature drops, Gatlinburg comes alive with a range of activities and events that cater to all interests and ages.
Winter Activities in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg offers a variety of winter activities that are sure to thrill adventure-seekers and families alike. From skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and festive shopping, there’s something for everyone in this charming winter wonderland.Gatlinburg’s ski resorts, including Ober Gatlinburg and Ski Mountain Resort, offer world-class skiing and snowboarding facilities, with slopes for all skill levels. The resorts feature a range of amenities, including chairlifts, tow ropes, and equipment rentals, making it easy to get on the slopes and enjoy the crisp winter air.In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Gatlinburg also offers ice skating at its Ice Bumper Cars and Ober Gatlinburg Ice Rink.
The ice rink is open from late November to mid-March and offers public skating sessions, as well as private parties and events. For those who want to try their hand at ice skating, Gatlinburg also offers ice skating lessons for all ages and skill levels.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Gatlinburg’s ski resorts offer a range of slopes for all skill levels, from gentle beginner runs to challenging expert terrain.* Ober Gatlinburg has a total of 9 trails covering 40 acres, with something for every skill level, from gentle groomers to steep black diamond runs.
- Ski Mountain Resort features 10 trails across 15 acres, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced runs.
- Both resorts offer chairlifts, tow ropes, and equipment rentals to make it easy to get on the slopes.
Ice Skating, Best things to do in gatlinburg in december
Gatlinburg’s ice rinks offer a range of ice skating experiences, from public skating sessions to private parties and events.* The Ober Gatlinburg Ice Rink is open from late November to mid-March and offers public skating sessions, as well as private parties and events.
Gatlinburg’s Ice Bumper Cars offers a fun and unique ice skating experience, with bumper cars that allow you to playfully interact with other skaters.
Festive Shopping and Dining
Gatlinburg’s charming downtown area is home to a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes that offer a unique shopping and dining experience. From festive holiday markets to cozy cafes and restaurants, there’s something for everyone in Gatlinburg’s downtown area.* The Gatlinburg Winterfest features a range of holiday markets and festivals throughout the city, offering a unique shopping and dining experience.
Gatlinburg’s downtown area is home to a range of cozy cafes and restaurants, offering everything from classic Southern comfort food to international cuisine.
Top Christmas Events and Festivities in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a myriad of festive events and activities that cater to all ages. The town’s festive atmosphere is palpable, with twinkling lights, decorations, and holiday cheer that fills the air. Here’s what you need to know about the top Christmas events and festivities in Gatlinburg.
The Top 5 Christmas Events and Festivities in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg’s winter wonderland is not just about the scenery; it’s also about the festive events that take place throughout the season. Here are the top 5 Christmas events and festivities in Gatlinburg:
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Gatlinburg Winterfest
The Gatlinburg Winterfest is a month-long celebration that takes place from mid-November to mid-January. During this time, the town is aglow with millions of lights, making it a spectacular sight to behold. Visitors can enjoy festive activities like ice skating, snow tubing, and holiday crafts.
In December, Gatlinburg transforms into a winter wonderland, with the best synthetic winch rope used by locals to navigate the snowy roads leading to popular attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The festive atmosphere draws visitors who enjoy ice skating, festive light displays, and cozying up by the fire after a day of exploring. Winter festivals and events add to the excitement, making Gatlinburg a top winter destination.
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Trolley Ride of Lights
The Trolley Ride of Lights is a popular attraction in Gatlinburg that allows visitors to enjoy the holiday lights and decorations while seated comfortably on a trolley. This 45-minute tour takes riders through the town’s most festive neighborhoods and attractions.
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Fantasy of Lights Parade
The Fantasy of Lights Parade is a spectacular event that takes place on select nights during the holiday season. The parade features festive floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. Visitors can enjoy the parade while sitting comfortably on the sidewalk or from a vantage point.
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Winterfest Light-Up Extravaganza
The Winterfest Light-Up Extravaganza is a festive event that takes place on select nights during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy live music, holiday crafts, and of course, the lighting of the Christmas tree. This event is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
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Gatlinburg Christmas Celebration
The Gatlinburg Christmas Celebration is a month-long event that takes place from mid-November to mid-January. Visitors can enjoy festive activities like ice skating, snow tubing, and holiday crafts, as well as visit with Santa Claus and enjoy live music and entertainment.
Comparison of Top Christmas Events and Festivities in Gatlinburg
Here’s a comparison of the top Christmas events and festivities in Gatlinburg:
| Event | Start Date | End Date | Time | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gatlinburg Winterfest | Mid-November | Mid-January | varies | free |
| Trolley Ride of Lights | Mid-November | Mid-January | 5:30 pm, 7:30 pm, 9:30 pm | $10-$20 |
| Fantasy of Lights Parade | Select nights in December | Select nights in December | varies | free |
| Winterfest Light-Up Extravaganza | Select nights in December | Select nights in December | varies | free |
| Gatlinburg Christmas Celebration | Mid-November | Mid-January | varies | free |
Holiday Shopping in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers a wide range of unique shopping experiences that cater to various tastes and preferences. In addition to its vibrant festivals and events, the city is renowned for its excellent holiday shopping scene, making it an ideal destination for tourists and locals alike during the December months.Whether you’re seeking high-end souvenirs or budget-friendly gifts, Gatlinburg has something for everyone.
From the bustling malls to charming boutiques, the city presents an array of options for holiday shoppers.
Top Malls and Boutiques in Gatlinburg
Among the top malls and boutiques in Gatlinburg, the Tanger Outlets and the Village Shops stand out for their exceptional shopping experience. Both destinations offer a diverse selection of stores, ranging from well-known brands to local art galleries and specialty stores.The Tanger Outlets, located on Parkway in Gatlinburg, features a collection of over 35 stores offering discounts on the latest brands and designer labels.
Visitors can browse the outlets for a variety of products, including clothing, accessories, home goods, and more.The Village Shops, situated in downtown Gatlinburg, is a quaint shopping district that features over 30 unique boutiques and specialty stores. This charming shopping area offers a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more leisurely shopping experience.In addition to these two premier shopping destinations, Gatlinburg also offers a range of other boutiques and specialty stores, each offering a distinct shopping experience.
- The Village Shops: This charming shopping district features a variety of unique boutiques and specialty stores, offering a wide range of gifts, souvenirs, and local artwork.
- Tanger Outlets: Located on Parkway in Gatlinburg, the Tanger Outlets feature a collection of over 35 stores offering discounts on the latest brands and designer labels.
- Ober Gatlinburg Arcade & Animate Theater: This arcade and theater combo offers an array of gift ideas, from video games and souvenirs to clothing and snacks.
- The Cherokee Grill: This charming restaurant and gift shop offers a range of unique souvenirs and gifts, including handmade crafts and local artwork.
Unique Gifts and Souvenirs
Gatlinburg is renowned for its unique gifts and souvenirs, which often reflect the city’s rich natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can find a wide range of handmade crafts, local artwork, and other unique gifts that make perfect mementos of their trip.Some examples of unique gifts and souvenirs that can be found in Gatlinburg include:
- Handmade crafts: Visitors can find a range of handmade crafts, including pottery, woodcarvings, and textiles, which reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
- Local artwork: Gatlinburg features a vibrant arts scene, and visitors can find a wide range of local artwork, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
- Local honey and food products: The region is renowned for its rich agricultural heritage, and visitors can find a range of local honey and food products, including jams, jellies, and baked goods.
- The elk, found in the Cataloochee Valley, can be spotted in the early morning or late evening, when they congregate around the Cataloochee Lake.
- The white-tailed deer are abundant in the park and can be spotted throughout the day, especially near water sources.
- The turkey, including the wild turkey, can be seen strutting around the park, especially during the spring and fall migrations.
- A Christmas-themed parade featuring colorful floats and costumed characters
- The Festival of Nations, where you can explore international cultures and traditions
- The DreamMore Resort, which offers a holiday-themed hotel experience with festive decorations and activities
- The Shark Tunnel, where you can observe sharks and rays gliding above and below the waterline
- The Rainbow River, featuring a colorful array of fish and other marine animals
- The Interactive Play Area, where kids can play and learn about marine life through hands-on activities
- The Enchanted Snowflake Village, featuring a whimsical snowflake-themed play area
- The Treetop Canopy Walk, where you can explore the treetops and enjoy panoramic views of the snow-covered landscape
- The Fire Pit Amphitheater, where you can warm up and enjoy the holiday atmosphere around a crackling fire
Winter Sports and Activities in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg transforms into a winter wonderland in December, offering a plethora of activities for those seeking to indulge in the festive spirit. From skiing to snow tubing, and wildlife watching to winter hiking, Gatlinburg has something for everyone during the winter months.
Best Ski Resorts in Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg, a renowned ski resort, is a must-visit destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Located in the heart of Gatlinburg, this resort boasts eight ski trails, ranging from beginner to advanced levels. With a vertical drop of 600 feet and a maximum speed of 45 mph, Ober Gatlinburg offers an exhilarating skiing experience. Other notable ski resorts in the area include Ski Mountain in Townsend and Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley.
Top Snow Tubing Parks in Gatlinburg
The Anakeesta Snow Tubing Park is a popular destination for snow tubing enthusiasts. Located within the Anakeesta attraction, this park features over 10 lanes, ensuring that visitors never have to wait long for their turn. Snow tubing is a thrilling activity that involves sliding down a snow-covered hill on an inflated tube, providing an adrenaline-packed experience for all ages.
A Guide to Winter Hiking in Gatlinburg
Winter hiking in Gatlinburg offers a serene and breathtaking experience, with the snow-covered trails providing a picturesque backdrop. One of the best trails for winter hiking is the Alum Cave Trail, a 4.4-mile hike that takes visitors through a stunning landscape of rock formations and frozen waterfalls. Another popular trail is the Laurel Falls Trail, a 2.6-mile hike that offers a glimpse of the beautiful 80-foot-high Laurel Falls.
Wildlife Watching in Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elk, deer, and turkey. Winter is an excellent time for wildlife watching, as the animals tend to congregate around food sources. Visitors can take a guided tour or head out on their own to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which offers numerous observation points and trails for spotting wildlife.
Insider Tips for Winter Sports in Gatlinburg
Visitors should dress appropriately for winter sports, with warm clothing and waterproof gear recommended. Additionally, it’s essential to check the weather forecast and trail conditions before heading out on a winter hike or skiing excursion. Finally, it’s always a good idea to rent equipment or hire a guide if you’re new to winter sports or not familiar with the area.
Kid-Friendly Activities in Gatlinburg during December: Best Things To Do In Gatlinburg In December
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, transforms into a winter wonderland during December, offering a plethora of kid-friendly activities and events that are sure to delight both children and parents alike. From festive parades to magical Christmas exhibits, there’s something for every young adventurer in Gatlinburg. Let’s dive into the best kid-friendly activities and shows in Gatlinburg this December.Kid-friendly activities and shows are a big part of what makes Gatlinburg so magical during the holiday season.
From Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas to the Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, there are countless options to choose from. In this section, we’ll break down the top kid-friendly activities and shows in Gatlinburg, so you can plan an unforgettable winter vacation.
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas
Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas is a holiday tradition that’s not to be missed. This festive celebration features a variety of kid-friendly activities, including:
During the Smoky Mountain Christmas celebration, Dollywood transforms into a winter wonderland with over 5 million lights, festive decorations, and holiday-themed attractions. This is a must-visit event for families with kids, offering something for every age and interest.
While exploring the winter wonderland of Gatlinburg in December, you can’t help but think of a successful hunting trip as a great side pursuit – to plan for it, you might be wondering what’s the best lever action caliber for deer , and rest assured, once you’ve picked the right rifle, you can refocus on enjoying the city’s festive atmosphere, with options like the Winterfest Trolley Ride of Lights, and the Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade at Ober Gatlinburg.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is another kid-friendly destination in Gatlinburg that’s perfect for the holiday season. With its stunning underwater exhibits and interactive experiences, your little ones will be fascinated by the marine life on display. Some highlights include:
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is an excellent choice for families looking for an educational and entertaining experience that’s perfect for a rainy winter day or a cold winter evening.
The Gatlinburg Christmas Parade
The Gatlinburg Christmas Parade is an annual event that takes place on the first Thursday of December, featuring festive floats, marching bands, and of course, Santa Claus. This is a classic holiday experience that’s not to be missed, with activities for kids of all ages. Be sure to arrive early to grab a spot along the parade route and soak up the holiday atmosphere.
Anakeesta Snowflake Trail
For a fun and unique winter experience, head to Anakeesta, where you’ll find an enchanting Snowflake Trail that takes you through a winter wonderland of sparkling snowflakes and festive decorations. This is a magical experience for kids, with plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration. Some highlights include:
Anakeesta is a must-visit destination for families looking for a fun and memorable winter experience that’s perfect for all ages.With its festive parades, magical Christmas exhibits, and interactive experiences, Gatlinburg is the ultimate winter vacation destination for families with kids. From Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas to the Anakeesta Snowflake Trail, there’s something for every young adventurer in Gatlinburg this December.
Conclusion
As we conclude our exploration of the best things to do in Gatlinburg in December, it’s clear that this enchanting town has something special to offer every visitor. From its spectacular Christmas events to its unique holiday shopping and dining experiences, Gatlinburg’s winter wonderland is a place where memories are made and cherished forever. Whether you’re a families on a winter vacation, couples on a romantic getaway, or solo travelers seeking adventure, Gatlinburg’s festive atmosphere and endless activities make it an ideal destination for a holiday escape.
Question & Answer Hub
Q: What are the top Christmas events and festivities in Gatlinburg?
A: Gatlinburg Winterfest, Trolley Ride of Lights, Fantasy of Lights Parade, and Smoky Mountain Christmas are some of the top events and festivities in Gatlinburg during the holiday season.
Q: What are some unique gifts and souvenirs to buy in Gatlinburg?
A: Handmade crafts, local artwork, and Gatlinburg-themed souvenirs are some of the unique gift ideas that can be found in the town’s shops and boutiques.
Q: Which ski resorts and snow tubing parks are must-visits in Gatlinburg?
A: Ober Gatlinburg and Anakeesta Snow Tubing Park are two of the most popular ski resorts and snow tubing parks in Gatlinburg, offering exciting winter sports experiences.
Q: What are some kid-friendly activities and shows in Gatlinburg?
A: Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg Christmas Parade, and Anakeesta Snowflake Trail are some of the top kid-friendly activities and shows in Gatlinburg.
