Top 5 Things to Do in Gatlinburg This Spring
As the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg draws visitors year round to experience the natural beauty of the park and no shortage of local activities and attractions. However, spring offers the unique opportunity to experience the nation’s most visited national park in bloom, as the old growth forests become green again and the mountain laurel and wild Flame Azaleas begin to paint the mountains brilliant colors. Festivals and events in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge kick off, making the area lively with activity. For a fun spring vacation in Tennessee’s beloved mountain town, here are the top 5 things to do in Gatlinburg this spring.
Chase Blooms in Great Smoky Mountains National Park
While Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers sweeping vistas and ample opportunities for outdoor recreation all year, from hiking to rafting and more, spring is the perfect time to take advantage of more moderate temperatures and enjoy the park in bloom. From April through the warmer summer months, you’re likely to find hillsides full of colorful wildflowers, including the Flame Azaleas, various species of rhododendron and mountain laurel. The easiest way to get up close with the blooms is by exploring one of the park’s hundreds of hiking trails, or by setting out on a scenic drive. Pop into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park visitor center, just a short 10-minute drive from Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg, to plan your adventure.
Attend A Local Festival
Spring marks the beginning of several noteworthy local events and festivals in the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area, providing visitors with the opportunity to experience local culture and cuisine.
The Spring Trout Tournament and River Cleanup takes place at the beginning of April, drawing anglers from around the country to fish in Gatlinburg’s pristine waters. As a part of the tournament, a river cleanup takes place to ensure our waters stay clean. Events and festivities take place at Gatlinburg’s Mynatt Park.
Dollywood officially reopens for the season in March, simultaneously kicking off the annual Festival of Nations. Head to the amusement park during this time to experience internationally-inspired performances, cuisine and more. And don’t forget to enjoy a few Dollywood rides while you’re there!
The long-running Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage event takes place in late April, offering participants the opportunity to learn more about the national park, its plant life and natural environment during guided hikes, speaking events, workshops and more.
At the beginning of April, the Great Smoky Mountain Arts and Crafts Community hosts the Easter Arts and Crafts Show. This free event gives visitors a chance to view local artisans as they practice their craft, along with the opportunity to purchase one-of-a-kind artwork.
Spend the Day at Anakeesta
Overlooking Gatlinburg, Anakeesta is a mountaintop adventure attraction with restaurants, zip lines, a glass bridge and more. This spring, Anakeesta is hosting its Blooms and Tunes event with spring-inspired art installations, themed cuisine and musical performances. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate spring and take part in the immersive Anakeesta experience!
Explore the Gatlinburg Strip
When you stay at Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg, you’re perfectly positioned to experience the best of Gatlinburg within walking distance. Be sure to factor in some time to stroll up and down the Gatlinburg Strip, or East Parkway, during your spring escape. Stop into handmade candy stores to fill up on artisanal taffy, shop boutiques and craft stores and explore the variety of attractions along the way, like Ripley’s Believe It Or Not or Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies.
Unwind During a Spa Day at St. Somewhere Spa
What better way to enter a new season than with a rejuvenating spa treatment at St. Somewhere Spa? Unwind with a signature massage experience, indulge in a manicure or pedicure or get ready for dinner out with a blowout or cut and color. No matter your preference, St. Somewhere Spa will have you looking and feeling your best as you take on spring.