Things to Do in Gatlinburg, United States: Walking Guide

Gatlinburg is a mountain town in eastern Tennessee and a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Among the things to do in Gatlinburg are exploring unusual museums and historic architecture, then heading into the surrounding Smokies for hiking, wildlife viewing and scenic landscapes. Neywo offers a free Gatlinburg audio guide with two narrated places, available in 11 languages.

What to See in Gatlinburg

Museum of Salt and Pepper Shakers

The Museum of Salt and Pepper Shakers is one of Gatlinburg’s most unusual attractions. Its collection contains more than 20,000 pairs gathered from around the world.

The museum’s interest lies in the variety of designs created around two familiar table objects. Looking closely at the collection reveals how many different forms, materials and decorative ideas can come from such a simple concept.

First Methodist Church, Gatlinburg

Also known as First United Methodist Church, First Methodist Church stands on the hillside above Gatlinburg’s main area. Its stone walls and Late Gothic Revival design give it a distinctive presence above the town.

The original church was designed by Charles I. Barber and built between 1945 and 1950. Its materials reflect several parts of the United States: Crab Orchard stone from Bluff Mountain forms the foundation and exterior walls, Indiana limestone frames the doors and windows, and Illinois slate covers the roofs.

The church held its first worship service in 1947. A second building, connected by a porch and used for education, was completed in 1961. Both buildings were designed by Barber and McMurry. In 2007, the church was listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places for its architecture.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is central to any visit to Gatlinburg. The park offers hiking trails, cycling routes, campgrounds, wildlife-viewing areas and scenic overlooks, all set among the forests and mountains of the Smokies.

The park is also known for its remarkable biodiversity. One of its unusual natural spectacles is the synchronous firefly event, when thousands of insects flash together in the forest after dark.

For a more demanding outing, the Alum Cave Trail combines a rushing mountain stream, expansive views and unusual rock formations. It is one example of the hiking available near Gatlinburg.

Visitors who want a gentler introduction to the area can use the park’s visitor facilities to learn about its natural and cultural heritage before exploring further.

A Gatlinburg Self-Guided Walking Tour with Neywo

A Gatlinburg self-guided walking tour is a simple way to connect the town’s landmarks while keeping your own pace. With Neywo, the story of each place plays as you reach it, so you can explore without joining a group or following a schedule.

The free audio guide covers two narrated places in Gatlinburg: the Museum of Salt and Pepper Shakers and First Methodist Church, Gatlinburg. It is available in 11 languages and works as you walk from one stop to the next.

Gatlinburg is part of Tennessee, in the United States. If you are extending your trip through the state, you can also explore Knoxville, Chattanooga or Nashville.

Download Neywo and Explore Gatlinburg

Download Neywo to discover Gatlinburg with a free audio guide covering two narrated places. Each story begins as you reach its location, at your own pace, with no group and no schedule. Narration is available in 11 languages, making it an easy way to add context to a walk through town.