Taking a walking tour is one of the best ways to get a behind the scenes look at Gatlinburg, TN. Whether you’ve never visited Gatlinburg before or you’re a returning Smoky Mountain vacationer, it’s always useful to get insider information about the city from a local expert. There are a number of excellent walking tours of downtown Gatlinburg, and each one offers a unique perspective and theme. To help you make the most of your getaway, Black Bear Inn & Suites has put together a guide to three of the most popular Gatlinburg walking tours.
1. A Taste of Gatlinburg
If you believe that the best way to get to know a city is by sampling its food, this tour is for you! A Taste of Gatlinburg makes five to six stops at some of the best locally owned restaurants in the Smokies. At each location, you’ll receive a generous sample of the restaurant’s signature food. The tour covers a variety of cuisines and may include BBQ, pizza, catfish, homemade potato chips, dessert, and more.
In addition to all of the delicious food, A Taste of Gatlinburg also features a look at Gatlinburg’s history and culture. You’ll find out how Gatlinburg got its name and learn about some of the most colorful characters from the city’s past. Tours are typically offered on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons and last about 2.5 hours.
2. Ghost & Haunt Tour
The Ghost & Haunt Tour is another one of the best Gatlinburg walking tours. This riveting tour takes visitors to locations around the downtown area that are known for their supernatural activity. Along the way, you’ll hear chilling ghost stories from the Smoky Mountains that you’ll remember long after the tour is over.
For many, the highlight of the tour is using real ghost hunting equipment to search for spirits. Whether you are a true believer in ghosts or a skeptic, you’ll love this tour!
3. Sugarland’s Visitor Center
Located just a few miles from the end of Gatlinburg is the Sugarlands Visitor Center inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There is a lot to explore at the visitors center! Inside you can explore exhibits that showcase the Southern Mountain wildlife and culture. Behind the center you can enjoy a peaceful nature walk. Throughout the nature walk native plant life is labelled with its name.
Guests at our hotel will enjoy a complimentary full hot breakfast each morning, high-speed wireless internet, access to our enclosed heated pool, and rooms with balconies. To start planning your next vacation, browse our Gatlinburg hotel suites!