Gatlinburg, TN, is the ideal romantic vacation destination for couples. Couples from all over make their way to this little mountain town to escape from everyday life and to reconnect with their other halves. Whether you are on your honeymoon or celebrating your 50th wedding anniversary, there are a number of things to do in Gatlinburg for couples of all ages to experience the ultimate romantic getaway.
1. Stroll Along the Gatlinburg Trail
One of the best things for couples to do in Gatlinburg is to hike in the Great Smoky Mountains. If you’re not an avid hiker, don’t worry! There is a simple trail just outside downtown Gatlinburg that will allow you and your significant other to walk hand-in-hand while basking in the natural beauty surrounding you. The Gatlinburg Trail runs through the forest parallel to a branch of the Little Pigeon River. This relatively flat trail starts at the Sugarlands Visitor Center and ends in the outskirts of Gatlinburg. If you are looking for an easy trail to enjoy nature, this is the perfect hike to do as a couple.
2. Go Wine Tasting at a Local Winery
What’s more romantic than sipping on wine together? If you are looking for things to do in Gatlinburg for couples, make sure you put a local Gatlinburg winery on your list. You and your honey can pretend to be sommeliers for the day and taste-test a variety of local wines. Then, purchase a bottle (or a few) of your favorites to take back to your condo for a romantic evening. Smoky Mountain Winery is East Tennessee’s oldest winery, with more than 20 award-winning wines available for tasting. Another well- known Gatlinburg winery is Sugarland Cellars, who takes pride in sharing the area’s rich history through the wines you taste. If you feel like trying a variety of wineries, take a day to explore the Gatlinburg Wine Trail, which includes five local wineries in Gatlinburg and the surrounding area.
3. Enjoy a Romantic Dinner for Two
Every couple’s getaway needs at least one romantic dinner. Be sure to end your evenings on a high note with dinner at a romantic restaurant in Gatlinburg. One unique dining option is The Melting Pot, which overlooks downtown Gatlinburg and offers delicious and unique dining options. Treat yourselves to an extravagant four-course fondue meal, ending with a romantic chocolate fondue dessert. Nothing says romance like chocolate-covered goodness! If a traditional steakhouse is more your style, then one thing you must do in Gatlinburg as a couple is eat at The Peddler Steakhouse. This local icon is known for its tender, flavorful steaks and Smoky Mountain atmosphere. For the best seafood in town, you can’t beat Chesapeake’s. Their fresh seafood entrees and raw bar will be a memorable dinner during your romantic Gatlinburg vacation.
4. Relax with a Couple’s Massage
One of the main goals of a couple’s vacation in Gatlinburg is to relax with the person you love, and there’s no better way to do that than with a couple’s massage. You can also unwind at Fox Place Salon and Spa, where you can choose from a variety of rejuvenating couple’s massage options in a small, personal setting. A couple’s massage will make you feel more connected to your partner and more at peace with yourself.
5. Journey to the Top of Anakeesta
Gatlinburg is nestled at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains, so you can’t visit the area without journeying to the top of a mountain. To avoid the long hike up a steep trail, take a ride up to one of Gatlinburg’s mountain top attractions. At Anakeesta, you can ride the chairlift from the Parkway up to their mountaintop village that overlooks downtown Gatlinburg. You will be surrounded by majestic mountain views that make the perfect backdrop for a photo op with your loved one. At night, stroll through their Treetop Skywalk where you can walk through the trees surrounded by romantic twinkling lights.
6. Explore Ripley’s Gatlinburg Attractions
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is one of the most well-known things for couples to do in Gatlinburg. You and your significant other can go on an underwater adventure where you’ll immerse yourselves in another world. Make memories together as you see aquatic animals in new and unique experiences. Add some extra fun as you try to one-up each other at Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf. Nothing brings couples together like a little healthy competition as you try to avoid Smoky Mountain-themed obstacles to win on one of their 18-hole courses!
7. Treat Yourselves to Sugary Confections
Sugar each other up with sweet treats while on your Gatlinburg couple’s trip. An absolute must-visit sweet shop is the Donut Friar in the Village in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg. Here you will find some of the tastiest donuts you will ever eat. This little gem may not look like much, but it is known by both locals and tourists alike as the best donut shop around. For a cold sweet treat, stop by The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar. You can find all sorts of milkshake monstrosities that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. These milkshakes are big enough for two, making them perfect for sharing with your sweetie. For an assortment of other sugary confections, venture outside of downtown Gatlinburg to Glades Homemade Candy. You will find a variety of homemade candies such as taffy, chocolates, stick candy, and more that are sure to delight you both.
8. Stay in a Cozy Condo
Staying in a condo near downtown Gatlinburg is a must for couples during their Gatlinburg getaway. You and your sweetheart can have a quiet space all to yourselves to spend quality time together without having to travel far. Laurel Inn Condominiums is located just off the main Parkway and has a variety of one-bedroom condos that would be the perfect amount of space for the two of you to spend your evenings. For some extra romance, choose one of the condos that features a fireplace and jacuzzi tub.
Additional Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN, for Couples
Make the most of your romantic getaway with all these fun and romantic things to do. There are many more Gatlinburg attractions you can enjoy as a couple, from sight-seeing opportunities to quirky themed activities. No matter what you decide to do during your Gatlinburg vacation, you can rest assured that you will have a great time with your significant other as you experience all that this town has to offer. Start planning your romantic getaway today by booking a nearby condo in downtown Gatlinburg!
