The Ultimate Smoky Mountain Bucket List for Families

Planning a family vacation can feel like a challenge, especially when everyone wants something different.

But if you’re looking for a place that has it all—beautiful scenery, fun attractions, and plenty of ways to relax—the Great Smoky Mountains are the perfect choice.

From outdoor adventures to unique experiences, there’s something here for every age and interest. To help you plan your trip, we’ve put together the ultimate Smoky Mountain bucket list for families.

1. Find the Perfect Cabin to Kickstart Your Adventure

Before diving into all the fun activities the Smokies have to offer, you’ll need a comfortable place to stay.

Alpine Chalet Rentals specializes in providing beautiful cabin rentals in both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Families will find a variety of options, from cozy 2-bedroom cabins to spacious lodges with 18+ bedrooms for large groups.

These cabins come with incredible family-friendly amenities like hot tubs, fireplaces, arcade rooms, and even private pools.

Staying in a cabin gives you the perfect mix of comfort and convenience while still enjoying breathtaking mountain views.

If you’re looking for where to stay in the Smoky Mountains, Alpine Chalet Rentals offers some of the best accommodations for creating unforgettable family memories.

2. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit for any family vacation. Here are some of the best activities in the park:

• Cades Cove: Cades Cove is an 11-mile scenic loop where you can drive or bike through open meadows and wooded areas. Kids will enjoy spotting wildlife like deer, turkeys, and even black bears from a safe distance. There are also historic cabins and churches to explore along the way.
• Kuwohi This is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains. While the half-mile hike to the observation tower is steep, the panoramic views at the top are worth it. Kids who love climbing and exploring will feel like they’ve reached the top of the world.
• Family-Friendly Hikes: Not all trails are strenuous! Easy options like Laurel Falls (a 2.6-mile paved trail to a waterfall) and Grotto Falls (where you can walk behind a waterfall) are perfect for families.

3. Visit Dollywood for a Day of Family Fun 

Located in Pigeon Forge, Dollywood is one of the top family-friendly attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains.

This theme park has something for everyone, from gentle rides for younger kids to thrilling roller coasters for older ones.

The themed areas like Wildwood Grove and the Country Fair are perfect for children, while adults can enjoy live shows, crafts, and Southern-style food.

Dollywood also hosts seasonal events, like the Smoky Mountain Christmas in winter and the Flower & Food Festival in spring. Plan to spend an entire day here because there’s so much to see and do!

4. Go Wild at Ripley’s Attractions in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is home to several Ripley’s attractions that families will love.

• Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: This popular attraction features an underwater tunnel where you can walk beneath sharks and rays. Kids can also touch jellyfish and horseshoe crabs in the interactive exhibits.
• Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum: If your kids are curious about the strange and unusual, this museum, which is full of oddities and quirky exhibits, will keep them entertained.
• Ripley’s Mini Golf & Mirror Maze: These fun, affordable activities are great for families who want a lighthearted break from exploring.

All of these attractions are conveniently located in downtown Gatlinburg, making them easy to visit on the same day.

5. Experience the Thrill of Mountain Coasters

Mountain coasters are a unique way to enjoy the Smoky Mountain landscape while adding a little adventure to your trip.

The best part? Riders can control the speed of their carts, making this activity fun for both thrill-seekers and cautious kids.

• The Moonshine Mountain Coaster is located right in Gatlinburg and winds through the forest for a scenic ride. 
• The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is located in Pigeon Forge and is one of the longest mountain coasters in the country, stretching over a mile!

Both coasters operate day and night, so you can ride during the day for great views or at night for a magical experience with twinkling lights.

6. Spend a Day at Anakeesta

Anakeesta is a mountaintop adventure park located in Gatlinburg. It’s accessible by riding a Chondola (a mix of a chairlift and gondola) or the Ridge Rambler adventure vehicle. Once at the top, families can explore several attractions:

• Treetop Skywalk: Walk high among the trees on suspension bridges with amazing views.
• TreeVenture: This interactive play area is perfect for kids to climb, slide, and explore.
• Ziplining: Older kids and adults can try ziplining for an adrenaline rush.

Anakeesta also has restaurants and shops where you can relax and grab a snack while enjoying the view.

7. Go Gem Mining or Horseback Riding

• Gem Mining: Several spots in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer gem mining experiences. Kids can pan for gems and learn about geology in a hands-on way.
• Horseback Riding: Explore the Smoky Mountain trails on horseback with guided tours. Stables like Sugarlands Riding Stables offer family-friendly rides that are safe for beginners.

8. End the Trip with a Scenic Picnic or Sunset View

Wrap up your family bucket list with a relaxing picnic surrounded by nature. Pack a meal and head to one of the park’s designated picnic areas, like Metcalf Bottoms or the Chimneys Picnic Area.

For a memorable end to your trip, catch the sunset at Morton Overlook or the observation tower at Kuwohi. Both spots offer breathtaking views that will make for perfect family photos.

The Great Smoky Mountains are full of unforgettable experiences for families, from scenic hikes to thrilling theme parks and cozy cabins.

Whether you’re exploring national park trails, riding mountain coasters, or relaxing in a private cabin, there’s something here for everyone. 

Use this bucket list to plan your trip, and you’ll create memories your family will treasure for years to come.