Experience the best of Gatlinburg through its well-crafted selection of tours. The standout Wine and Shine Walking Tour ($49) perfectly blends local history with moonshine tastings, while the educational Sugarlands Distillery Cocktail Tour ($35) showcases expert mixology. For a spine-tingling evening, the Ghosts of The Smokies Tour ($29) reveals fascinating local legends and haunted locations.
I’m particularly impressed by the flexibility of the High Points Driving Tour and the self-guided Great Smoky & Shenandoah audio tour – both offer excellent value for independent travelers who prefer exploring at their own pace. The Gatlinburg Scavenger Hunt ($10) provides an engaging way to discover hidden corners of the city.
Let’s examine these memorable tours in detail.
Key Points
- The top-rated wine and moonshine walking tours in Gatlinburg offer a personalized small-group experience with tastings and a special moonshine cocktail.
- Haunted tours in Gatlinburg explore the town’s tragic history, including Cherokee spirits and pioneer ghosts, with knowledgeable local guides.
- Nature and scenic tours in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park showcase hidden waterfalls, panoramic vistas, and the park’s highest point, Clingmans Dome.
- Interactive scavenger hunt tours in Gatlinburg combine technology and exploration, providing a unique blend of hands-on discovery and engagement.
- Tour options in Gatlinburg cater to diverse interests, with varying levels of accessibility and price points to accommodate different budgets and needs.
Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour
The Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour in Gatlinburg, Tennessee offers visitors a guided exploration of the region’s distillery and winery scene. This small-group tour, capped at 12 travelers, provides personalized attention as participants learn about the area’s moonshine culture.
The tour includes tastings at each location, plus a special moonshine cocktail. With 423 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, this walking tour is a top-rated experience.
The tour meeting point is 520 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA. Confirmation and day-of details are provided. The activity is wheelchair accessible and allows service animals.
Participants should be prepared to walk at least 0.7 miles at a moderate pace and stand for up to 3 hours. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those under 21.
Read our full review: Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour Review
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Pigeon Forge: Sugarlands Distillery Cocktail Tour
Pigeon Forge’s Sugarlands Distillery Cocktail Tour invites visitors to discover the art of moonshine mixology.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour takes guests behind the scenes of the distillery, where they’ll learn the history and production process of Sugarlands’ award-winning spirits.
The highlight of the experience is the interactive cocktail-making session, where participants create their own signature drinks using freshly-made moonshine and a variety of mixers.
Guests can sample the distillery’s diverse portfolio, from the smooth and versatile original white moonshine to the bold and flavorful flavored varieties.
The tour also includes a guided tasting, allowing visitors to appreciate the nuances of each spirit.
With its immersive, hands-on approach, the Sugarlands Distillery Cocktail Tour offers a unique and memorable way to explore the rich traditions of Tennessee moonshine and craft cocktails.
Read our full review: Pigeon Forge: Sugarlands Distillery Cocktail Tour Review
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Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour
Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour takes visitors on a chilling journey through the city’s spookiest haunts.
This 4.4-star rated tour explores tragic deaths, cannibalism, and witchcraft at landmarks like the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the White Oak Flats Cemetery.
Led by professional and courteous guides, the small-group experience includes intensely researched true stories and documented accounts of hauntings.
Travelers can expect a personalized tour with a maximum of 35 guests and a complimentary dinner.
While some found the storytelling lacking or were disappointed by limited ghost sightings, others describe the tour as an enjoyable and engaging experience.
The meeting point is at the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals allowed.
However, it’s not recommended for those with serious medical conditions.
Confirmed bookings come with a 24-hour free cancellation policy and a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour Review
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Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour With Tastings
Showcasing the best of Appalachian spirits, the Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour with Tastings offers an immersive experience for visitors seeking a glimpse into the region’s rich distilling heritage.
Priced at $53.78 per person and lasting 3.5 hours, the tour includes English-language tastings, is wheelchair accessible, and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Participants will savor unique flavors of Appalachian wine and moonshine, go behind the scenes at a working distillery, and indulge in Tennessee’s renowned sweet wines at a local winery.
The tour culminates with a homemade cocktail crafted from on-site spirits at a second distillery. However, the experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those under 21, or individuals unable to walk 0.7 miles or stand for up to 3 hours.
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on 3 reviews, the Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour provides an entertaining and informative glimpse into the area’s distilling traditions.
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Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg
Although the Gatlinburg area is renowned for its natural beauty, it also harbors a fascinating paranormal history that intrigues many visitors.
The Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg offers a 2-hour nighttime walking tour that explores the region’s notorious ghostly locations. With over 1,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence and provides an immersive experience for those seeking to uncover the area’s spooky past.
Departing from the Holiday Inn Smokey Mountain Resort, the tour takes guests on a journey through Gatlinburg, sharing the history and stories behind the paranormal activity. Participants have the opportunity to use ghost-hunting equipment and communicate with potential spirits.
The tour covers approximately 1 mile of walking, making it accessible to a range of guests. Whether seeking thrills or historical insights, the Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg offers a unique and engaging experience for those intrigued by the supernatural.
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Gatlinburg: Great Smoky Mts National Park Waterfall Tour
Situated at the foothills of the majestic Great Smoky Mountains, the Gatlinburg: Great Smoky Mts National Park Waterfall Tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of the park’s natural wonders.
Priced from $89 per person, this 3.5-hour guided tour departs from Gatlinburg and takes guests on a journey through the stunning landscapes of the national park.
Participants will hike ancient trails, admiring towering trees, wildflowers, and moss-covered boulders along the way.
The tour highlights historic pioneer cabins, hidden waterfalls, and panoramic vistas, all while the knowledgeable guide shares insights about the park’s rich history and natural features.
At the end of the excursion, guests are treated to a scenic overlook of valleys or a mountain lake, providing a breathtaking finale to the experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required, this tour presents an excellent opportunity to discover the beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg: Great Smoky Mts National Park Waterfall Tour Review
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The Classic National Park Tour
Immersing visitors in the natural splendor and rich history of the Great Smoky Mountains, The Classic National Park Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of this renowned national treasure.
Priced from $85 per person, this three-hour excursion takes small groups of up to 10 travelers on a journey through the Appalachian region, highlighting its captivating culture and stunning landscapes.
Throughout the tour, knowledgeable and personable guides, such as Philip, Kindle, and Wes, share their expertise, fostering an engaging and educational experience.
Traversing Newfound Gap Road, guests witness breathtaking vistas and stand on the Tennessee-North Carolina border.
The tour also includes a hike through the mountains, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the park’s serene wilderness.
With a 97% recommendation rate and an overall rating of 4.9/5, The Classic National Park Tour consistently delivers a fulfilling and memorable adventure, complete with snacks, bottled water, and ample opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Read our full review: The Classic National Park Tour Review
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Gatlinburg: Scavenger Hunt Excursion With a Smartphone App
One innovative tour option in Gatlinburg is the Scavenger Hunt Excursion, which utilizes a smartphone app to guide participants on an engaging, interactive exploration of the city.
The app leads groups on a self-guided adventure, presenting challenges and clues that encourage them to discover hidden gems and local points of interest. Participants use their phones to navigate, take photos, and answer questions, creating a memorable and unique experience.
The scavenger hunt covers a range of locations, from historic landmarks to charming shops and restaurants, offering an immersive way to experience Gatlinburg’s vibrant culture and natural beauty.
This tour is perfect for families, friends, or anyone seeking a fun and interactive way to explore the area. With its blend of technology and hands-on discovery, the Scavenger Hunt Excursion provides a fresh and innovative take on the traditional sightseeing tour.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg: Scavenger Hunt Excursion With a Smartphone App Review
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Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest
Although the Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest provides a unique way to explore the city, its mixed reviews suggest a need for improvement. The 2-hour private scavenger hunt allows participants to solve challenges and collect objects at their own pace, with an interactive live host available for assistance.
Competitors can also utilize a smartphone app to compete with others. Priced from $10 per person, the experience includes all activities, a remote guide, and use of a smartphone.
However, the excursion isn’t wheelchair accessible, limiting accessibility. Plus, with only 3 total reviews and an average rating of 3.0/5, there’s room for enhancement.
Flexible starting times and the option for private transportation are positive aspects, but the underwhelming reviews indicate the need for a more polished and engaging experience.
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Gatlinburg: Ghosts of the Smokies Haunted Walking Tour
The Gatlinburg: Ghosts of the Smokies Haunted Walking Tour offers visitors a spine-chilling exploration of the city’s haunted past.
At 1-1.5 hours long and priced from $32 per person, the tour takes guests through Gatlinburg’s iconic landmarks, uncovering eerie tales of Cherokee spirits and pioneer ghosts.
Led by knowledgeable local experts, the small group experience highlights the Gatlinburg Space Needle, White Oak Flats Cemetery, and the haunted Edgewater Hotel.
Traversing the city’s parkway, known as the Strip, you will learn about the Gatlinburg Witch and other unsettling occurrences.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring identification.
With a 4.4/5 overall rating and positive feedback on the friendly guides and historical insights, this haunted walking tour is a must for those seeking a thrilling glimpse into Gatlinburg’s paranormal past.
Advance booking is recommended, as the tour is likely to sell out.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg: Ghosts of the Smokies Haunted Walking Tour Review
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High Points Driving Tour
This scenic driving tour through the Great Smoky Mountains provides visitors with a chance to experience the park’s highest points and stunning panoramic overlooks, primarily focusing on the North Carolina side.
Travelers will visit Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point, and explore multiple viewpoints along the way. The small-group format, limited to 10 people, allows for a relaxed pace and personalized interaction with the knowledgeable guide.
Guests will learn about the area’s natural history, logging legacy, and Native American heritage. Priced from $85 per person, the tour departs from the Gatlinburg Welcome Center and ends back at the same location.
Bottled water and snacks are provided, but the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. With a 5.0 rating from 73 reviews and 100% recommendation, the High Points Driving Tour is praised for its stunning views, informative commentary, and the guide’s ability to create memorable experiences.
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Great Smoky & Shenandoah National Park Driving Audio Tour
For visitors who want to experience the majestic landscapes of the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Park at their own pace, the Great Smoky & Shenandoah National Park Driving Audio Tour is an excellent option.
This self-guided tour provides an engaging and informative way to explore the natural wonders of these two iconic national parks. The audio tour features expert narration that highlights the parks’ diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and historical significance.
Listeners can embark on a scenic drive through the parks, learning about the geology, flora, and fauna along the way. The tour also includes tips on the best viewpoints, hiking trails, and visitor centers to enhance the overall experience.
Whether travelers are looking to enjoy the lush forests and cascading waterfalls of the Great Smokies or the rolling hills and gentle streams of Shenandoah, this driving audio tour offers a comprehensive and convenient way to discover the beauty and wonder of these natural treasures.
Read our full review: Great Smoky & Shenandoah National Park Driving Audio Tour Review
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Sum Up
Gatlinburg offers an array of captivating tours to suit diverse interests. From haunted ghost walks to distillery cocktail tastings, visitors can explore the region’s rich history and vibrant local culture. Whether seeking an adventurous scavenger hunt or a scenic driving tour, Gatlinburg provides an engaging and memorable experience for all. These top-rated excursions cater to a wide range of preferences, ensuring there’s something for every traveler.