11 Places Like Gatlinburg, TN to Visit

If you have been to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you understand that it may be challenging to find a place like it in the US. Gatlinburg offers visitors different attractions and many activities.

People think it is in its league regarding tourism. And they are right. Gatlinburg receives around 12 million tourists yearly, more than any other place in Tennessee.

But did you know there are many places like Gatlinburg in the US? Here is a roundup of equally beautiful vacation destinations with almost the same vibe as Gatlinburg.

Why is Gatlinburg a Popular Tourist Destination?

Gatlinburg is a resort town located at the edge of Smoky Mountain National Park. Because of its proximity to the park, some call it the Gateway to the Smoky Mountains.

Gatlinburg was initially a logging community before forest conservation efforts were upscaled in the 1900s. Since then, Gatlinburg has developed into a small town known for tourism. This mountain town has a booming tourism industry near the Smoky Mountains. Why is it a major tourist destination?

Though a small town, Gatlinburg has beautiful scenery, museums, and souvenir shopping. The history behind it is a worthy reason to visit it. Also, Gatlinburg’s proximity to the Smoky Mountains National Park is a significant factor. Many picturesque places exist in the park suitable for families and getaway weekend spots with loved ones.

At Gatlinburg, you can engage in many activities, such as hiking and skiing, in the winter. Many visitors who want to cozy up for the winter choose Gatlinburg as the primary vacation destination.

Those who have been to Gatlinburg know the beautiful scenic views of the town, especially if you climb onto the tower.

Places Similar to Gatlinburg in Tennessee, US

Gatlinburg is not the only place with attractive scenic views in Tennessee. Other cities are much like it.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Pigeon Forge is located on the Northern side of the infamous Smoky Mountains. Why is it worth your time? Pigeon Forge is close to the Smoky Mountains, which has transformed this quaint town into a tourist hotspot. But that is not all it has to offer.

Pigeon Forge is home to the famous country music artist Dolly Parton. It is popular for Dolly Parton’s Amusement Park, making it the best vacation spot for families with kids. This small is one of the destinations similar to Gatlinburg to vacation. Pigeon Forge also draws people from all parts of the country to enjoy festivals and summer activities in the city.

Pigeon Forge is also famous among seasoned tourists because of the Old Mill. This was a water-powered mill used by the Pigeon Forge settlers from as early as the 1800s. It has remained a historic landmark that attracts people to Pigeon Forge and offers a restaurant and cafe.

If you visited Gatlinburg in winter, switch your summer vacation to Pigeon Forge. Alternatively, you can spend summer and winter at Pigeon Forge because fun never ends. It offers visitors Winterfest Kickoff Festival with all fun that will help you unwind.

Lastly, Pigeon Forge is the perfect spot for renting a mountain town cabin for your family holiday. It will give you the best Smoky Mountains experience.

See Related: Best Things to do in Nashville, TN

Sevierville, Tennessee

Sevierville is located north of Pigeon Forge, where the foothills meet Tennessee Valley. Though it is not as famous as other Smoky Mountains towns, it offers visitors a unique experience.

Sevierville is the birthplace of Dolly Parton and has a life-size statue of the celebrity. You can also access the Dollywood amusement park from Sevierville and have fun with family and friends or as a solo visitor.

Sevierville also has historic buildings and is home to the Museum of Aviation, Adventure Park Ziplines, Rainforest Zoo, and Riding Stables. You will feel worn out after exploiting everything these places have to offer. You can also think of shopping at the malls and shops in the small town.

Most of the activities that draw visitors to Sevierville include hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. You will have endless family fun outdoors here.

Besides, you can still access Smoky Mountains National Park to view nature at its best.

See Related: Best Places Like Branson, Missouri

Wears Valley, Tennessee

The locals know Wears Valley as the secret entrance to the Smoky Mountains. It is a small town found between the more developed Smoky Mountains Towns of Pigeon Forge and Townsend. It is one of the places like Gatlinburg to visit in the Midwest, but there are differences.

The residents of Gatlinburg are more focused on developing their city but Wears Valley locals are more content with their small, quiet town. Wears Valley is also booming in tourism, attracting visitors all year round.

The small town has restaurants and shops that provide everything the residents and visitors want. It also offers tourists beautiful scenic views and outdoor recreation activities. Its main highlight is the 200-foot-long forested zip line that provides the fun. You can also enjoy the views of Cove Mountain, tour Wears Valley’s Moonshine Distillery, or ride a mountain coaster.

Wears Valley offers endless fun for you and your family. If you never believed other places like Gatlinburg existed, visit this small town in Tennessee.

Places Like Gatlinburg in North Carolina, US

Did you know that there are also other places like Gatlinburg from the Great Smoky Mountains? Yes, North Carolina also has some tourist destinations that we want to introduce to you.

Bryson City, North Carolina

Bryson City is located west of Cherokee, close to the Deep Creek Recreational Area. Its location alone can tell how Bryson City in North Carolina will keep your family busy.

If you have to compare the cozy Smoky Mountains Towns, Bryson City can never miss a top spot. Quaint cafes, museums, galleries, and shops are all in Bryson City. And if you like craft beer, Bryson City in North Carolina has a microbrewery to satisfy your urge.

Bryson City has a rich cultural heritage. Apart from what you will discover in the museums, this city is the burial place for Horace Kephart. He is the founder of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Bryson City has something for everyone. Whether you like hiking or walking through the time, you won’t miss something to amuse you. You can ride along the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad to see what North Carolina Countryside offers. Or you can consider visiting Deep Creek Recreation Area.

Deep Creek has a plethora of outdoor activities. You can swim, fish, or watch beautiful waterfalls. The place offers just enough to keep your family busy for hours.

See Related: Best Things to do in Winston-Salem, NC

Boone, North Carolina

North Carolina Boone is among the places in Gatlinburg in the Midwest with breathtaking attractions. It is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains in western North Carolina.

Boone is an Appalachian town because it is home to Appalachian State University. It is also one of America’s distinctive destinations, with a rich history dating back to 1700. If you are a historian or just want to learn more about regional trade, go to the Hickory Ridge Living History Museum.

Boone has as many outdoor activities as Gatlinburg. Its mountain sports are more vigorous. Adrenaline junkies and leisure seekers flock to Boone for a weekend getaway and an ideal place to visit at any time of the year.

Boone offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from fishing to canoeing to zip-lining and skiing. You will never miss anything to keep you busy the entire time you are in the city. Visit Boone any time you want to exercise and unwind.

Cherokee, North Carolina

Cherokee is located on the southern side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina. Tourists flock to the place for its rich cultural heritage and myriad outdoor activities.

The location of Cherokee on the Indian Reservation. This makes it a perfect tourist destination if you want a unique experience from what other Smoky mountains towns offer. It has more animals and plant species than many other mountain towns on this list.

Visitors are treated to all sorts of fun activities. When you arrive at Cherokee, you will be welcomed with one of the popular activities in the town, horseback riding. That will give you just the perfect opportunity to view the scenic trails. Also, you can choose motorcycle riding to take you through the entire dramatic scenery.

Cherokee was named after the Native Americans who first settled in the area. Visiting the location will allow you to discover their culture through crafts and enactments.

Apart from horseback riding, Cherokee also offers visitors camping, boating, tubing, golfing, and other outdoor activities. And if you like entertainment and fun, you can get the best of that at Harrah’s Casino Resort. This is where you will satisfy all your cravings for your favorite dish as you round up your tour.

See Related: Best Things to do in Raleigh, NC

Places Like Gatlinburg in Missouri, US

Missouri also has some places that offer outdoor activities, like Gatlinburg. These beautiful attractions are also experiencing a boom in tourism. Let’s check out a few of them!

Edina, Missouri

image by Eugene Gamble is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

Edina is a small community between the North and South Forks of the South Fabius River. This small town has a myriad of activities and a rich history that most tourists cannot just resist.

If you visit Edina, you can go to the Interlachen Country Club to golf. When you are not at the club, you can visit the History Museum to discover the history of Amtrak or the Kirksville Aquatic Center for more sporting activities.

And if you want to travel a bit, you can go to Mark Twain Cave & Campground, just 55 miles from Edina. If you don’t want to stroll the streets of Edina, you can have fun away from the town.

Read Also: Best Places to Visit in Missouri

Branson, Missouri

Branson can offer you precious moments with your family that last a lifetime. It is a lively travel destination located in the Ozark mountains. Compared to Gatlinburg, Branson is home to many people.

Branson is referred to as the perfect vacation destination for families. Its tourism industry mainly focuses on amusement and entertainment. These come in the form of music, theatrical performances, and amusement parks. It also has many outdoor activities such as biking, camping, biking, hunting, canoeing, and hunting. Do you understand why Branson is perfect for a family vacation?

Regardless of your reason for visiting Branson, you will have memorable moments that will live with you forever. Saying it is one of the places like Gatlinburg can be an understatement. It is a central location that offers best-in-class entertainment, thrilling scenic views, outdoor beauties, and delicacies.

Additionally, Branson offers cozy cabins and other accommodation options for you and your family. You can choose from hotels, resorts, vacation condos, and campgrounds. Branson is a home away from home.

See Related: Top 10 Places to Visit in Ohio

Places Like Gatlinburg in Indiana, US

In addition to Tennessee, North Carolina, and Missouri, you can visit Nashville in Indiana. This small town equally attracts tourists who enjoy its natural vibe and charm.

Nashville, Indiana

Nashville is a small town in Washington Township, Brown County, Indiana. It is famous for the Brown County Art Colony and tourism, offering visitors many worthy sites and activities. Despite its small size, Nashville has earned its reputation in the tourism space.

Tourism in Nashville is based on the original works of the natives and the natural environment. Its main highlight is Brown County State Park, which is located just a few miles from the town. But the town also offers art, antique, specialty shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

Nashville is the only place like Gatlinburg on this list with the most weddings. Many couples choose it for its neutrality and beautiful venues for celebrating a special day in someone’s life like a wedding.

Despite the small size, Nashville competes with other mountain towns in tourism. You can still get the space and outdoor activities to keep you busy all day. Regardless of your purpose for visiting, Nashville will make your vacation a memorable one.

See Related: How to Use a Vacation Generator

Places Like Gatlinburg in Ohio, US

Ohio also has a surprise for you. It only proves that you don’t have to go down to the Smoky Mountains to find other places like Gatlinburg. Check out Logan city in Ohio.

Logan, Ohio

Logan is a medium-sized city compared to the other locations named here. It is located in Hocking County, Ohio, and is home to over 7,000 people. Logan was named after Chief Logan or the Indian tribe that settled in present-day Logan City during the European-American settlement.

Logan is the home of the Columbus Washboard Company, the only one of its kind in the country. Today, the Washboard Music Festival is still celebrated in Logan and throughout the country.

Like all other historic small towns on this list, Logan has many fun attraction sites that drive its tourism industry. The main highlights are the John Glenn Astronomy Park and Pencil Sharpener Museum. But if you need outdoor activities, consider going to the Hocking Hills State Park.

Hocking Hills State Park is free and features deep gorges, swimming holes, picturesque waterfalls, and sandstone outcroppings. Every minute you spend there will be memorable. And like Gatlinburg, Logan offers zip lines, kayaking, and hiking spots to enjoy nature.

See Related: Best Things to do in Seattle, WA

Places Like Gatlinburg in Washington, US

To wrap up our list, let’s look at Snoqualmie as a possible vacation destination similar to Gatlinburg.

Snoqualmie, Washington

Snoqualmie is the final place to consider for the same vacation experience you will get at Gatlinburg. This city is located next to Snoqualmie Falls in King County, Washington, only 28 miles east of Seattle.

Compared to the other places on this list, Snoqualmie is the largest, with a population of about 14,000. This is expected to rise as the city is rapidly growing.

Snoqualmie is a major tourist destination for its dramatic surroundings, and many activities visitors can undertake. Whether you are traveling alone or as a family, you will have fun things to do here. You can also tour Snoqualmie at any time of the year.

Snoqualmie is a lively and vibrant community where you can enjoy all kinds of entertainment. There are different venues for live music, theatrical performances, and local art. Tourists go to Snoqualmie to explore the city and participate in different activities.

The main highlights of this city are the special events, recreational destinations, museums, and more.

Want to go to one of these places but don’t know when? Use our when to visit destination generator to find the best time to travel to your favorite places in the US.

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