5 Indoor Things to Do in Gatlinburg During Winter
Winter in the Smoky Mountains brings chilly mornings, stunning snowfall, and plenty of outdoor winter fun! However, there will be times when you want to escape the brisk mountain air and stay warm with indoor entertainment. Thankfully, Gatlinburg is packed with fun indoor activities that are perfect for families, couples, and friends! Here are some of the best indoor things to do in Gatlinburg during winter:
1. Museums
If you’re looking for indoor things to do in Gatlinburg this winter, you can’t go wrong with a visit to one of the museums in town! These attractions offer fun and educational experiences no matter the weather outside. Stop by the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum to see thousands of unique salt and pepper shaker sets from around the world. Hollywood Star Cars Museum features iconic vehicles from your favorite movies and TV shows. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is filled with interactive exhibits that showcase unusual artifacts and unbelievable experiences. Don’t forget Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, where you’ll find underwater tunnels, animal encounters, and immersive habitats that both kids and adults will love!
2. Arcades
Gatlinburg has plenty of arcades where you can spend hours having fun indoors. Whether you’re into classic skee-ball, modern video games, or interactive simulators, arcades like Arcadia and Arcade City offer a wide variety of options. Arcades aren’t just for kids; adults can enjoy the friendly competition and challenges, too! As one of the top indoor things to do in Gatlinburg, this is a great way to compete with family members, win prizes, and make unforgettable memories without stepping out in the cold!
3. Indoor Mini Golf
Mini golf isn’t just a summer activity! Gatlinburg has a number of indoor mini golf courses that provide family-friendly fun all year round! Circus Golf, Gatlin’s Black Light Golf, and Treasure Quest Miniature Golf have whimsical courses with creative themes, glow-in-the-dark features, and unique challenges. Indoor mini golf is a top choice if you’re looking for some friendly competition while staying warm. Families, couples, and friends, can all enjoy this activity, making it one of the best indoor things to do in Gatlinburg!
4. Distilleries & Wineries
For a more relaxed indoor experience, Gatlinburg’s distilleries and wineries are great destinations in the winter! You can sample locally crafted spirits, learn about the process, and enjoy warm Southern hospitality, even when the weather is chilly. Try different flavors of moonshine, whiskey, and wine in the tasting rooms to find your new favorite varieties. Some locations also offer live music and entertainment, creating an excellent spot for a cozy afternoon or evening out. Wine and moonshine tasting is one of the best indoor things to do in Gatlinburg if you want to unwind and savor local flavors!
5. Shopping
Gatlinburg’s charming shops offer the perfect escape from winter weather! From unique boutiques to artist galleries and everything in between, there’s something for everyone. Stroll through The Village Shops for fresh pastries, specialty gifts, and cozy mountain apparel. The Mountain Mall is an indoor shopping complex with 6 floors of locally owned shops, each with its own unique theme. If you still need to do some holiday shopping, you can visit one of the Christmas stores in Gatlinburg. Or, simply wander through downtown Gatlinburg and stop in any store that catches your eye. You never know what you’ll find!
Start Planning Your Gatlinburg Winter Vacation
These indoor things to do in Gatlinburg add cozy fun during your vacation! You’ll also enjoy exploring the great outdoors with winter hikes, scenic drives, zipline adventures, and more! Do you need help planning your winter getaway? Check out our ultimate guide to winter in the Smoky Mountains for tips on what to expect, things to do, and how to prepare for your vacation.
Do you need something to look forward to when winter is over? White water rafting is the perfect way to enjoy the warm temperatures and sunshine that spring and summer bring. Book your Smoky Mountain rafting trip today or purchase a Smoky Mountain Outdoors gift card so you can plan your next rafting adventure soon!
