Your AI trip plan for a friends 7 day trip to Gatlinburg, TN for ages 36-50 with a medium budget - Activities, Attractions, Cost Saving Tips, Hidden Gems, Hotels, Restaurants
Day 1: Arrival and Downtown Exploration. Check into your hotel and explore the heart of Gatlinburg. Cost-saving tip: Purchase a Gatlinburg Attractions Pass for discounts on multiple activities and attractions.
Morning:
- Check into Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg (Settle into your accommodation at the Margaritaville Resort, offering excellent amenities and a central location.)
- Breakfast at Crockett's Breakfast Camp (Enjoy a hearty breakfast with classic American dishes in a rustic setting.)
Afternoon:
- Explore Downtown Gatlinburg (Stroll through the vibrant downtown area, visiting shops, local boutiques, and attractions.)
- Lunch at The Peddler Steakhouse (Savor delicious steaks and traditional fare in a cozy atmosphere.)
Evening:
- Gatlinburg Space Needle (Visit the iconic Space Needle for panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg.)
- Dinner at Cherokee Grill (Enjoy a fine dining experience with a variety of Southern and international dishes.)
Day 2: Great Smoky Mountains National Park Adventure. Explore the beauty of the national park with hiking and scenic drives. Cost-saving tip: Bring your own snacks and water on hikes to save on food expenses.
Morning:
- Breakfast at Pancake Pantry (Start your day with a variety of pancakes and breakfast favorites.)
- Hike to Clingmans Dome (Embark on a scenic hike to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains for breathtaking views.)
Afternoon:
- Picnic Lunch in the Park (Enjoy a relaxing picnic amidst nature with food you brought along.)
- Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail (Take a leisurely drive through this one-way loop trail, exploring streams and historic buildings.)
Evening:
- Attend a Smoky Mountain Show (Experience local culture and entertainment at one of Gatlinburg's live shows.)
- Dinner at Bullfish Grill (Dine on a variety of grilled dishes and fresh seafood in a stylish setting.)
Day 3: Aquatic and Winter Fun. Visit Ripley's Aquarium and Ober Gatlinburg for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. Cost-saving tip: Buy combined tickets for Ripley's Aquarium and other attractions for added discounts.
Morning:
- Breakfast at Log Cabin Pancake House (Enjoy a variety of breakfast options in a family-friendly environment.)
- Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies (Explore diverse marine life exhibits and interactive displays at this top-rated aquarium.)
Afternoon:
- Lunch at Big Daddy's Pizzeria (Indulge in delicious pizza and Italian dishes prepared with fresh ingredients.)
- Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort (Enjoy year-round activities including skiing, ice skating, and the scenic Aerial Tramway.)
Evening:
- Explore Gatlinburg's Nightlife (Check out local bars, live music venues, and entertainment spots.)
- Dinner at Mellow Mushroom (Relax with specialty pizzas, craft beers, and a vibrant atmosphere.)
Day 4: Anakeesta and River Adventure. Experience Anakeesta Theme Park and enjoy a riverboat tour. Cost-saving tip: Use public transportation or shuttles to reduce parking fees and transportation costs.
Morning:
- Breakfast at The Donut Friar (Start your day with a selection of fresh donuts and coffee.)
- Anakeesta Theme Park (Enjoy attractions like the Tree Canopy Adventure, scenic rides, and shopping at The Village Shops.)
Afternoon:
- Lunch at The Clump House Restaurant (Relish Southern comfort food and traditional favorites in a homey setting.)
- River Adventure Boat Tour (Take a relaxing boat tour on the Little River, learning about the area's history and natural beauty.)
Evening:
- Shopping at The Village Shops (Browse unique boutiques and artisan shops for souvenirs and local crafts.)
- Dinner at The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant (Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience with hearty meals and fresh ingredients.)
Day 5: Arts, Crafts, and Wineries. Discover local arts and crafts and visit nearby wineries. Cost-saving tip: Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds and better deals.
Morning:
- Breakfast at Log Cabin Pancake House (Enjoy a variety of breakfast dishes in a cozy atmosphere.)
- Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community (Explore the largest independent organization of artisans in North America, featuring 100+ shops.)
Afternoon:
- Lunch at Crockett's Breakfast Camp (Enjoy lunch with hearty portions and a diverse menu in a unique setting.)
- Sugarlands Winery (Taste a selection of locally produced wines and enjoy vineyard views.)
Evening:
- Relax at Hotel Spa (Unwind with a relaxing spa treatment or enjoy the hotel's amenities.)
- Dinner at S&D Oyster Bar (Indulge in fresh seafood and flavorful dishes in a lively environment.)
Day 6: Outdoor Adventures. Engage in ziplining and white-water rafting for an adrenaline-filled day. Cost-saving tip: Book tours in advance online to secure the best rates.
Morning:
- Breakfast at Maple Street Biscuit Company (Sample specialty biscuits and breakfast entrees in a charming setting.)
- Ziplining with ClimbWorks (Experience thrilling ziplining courses through the forest canopy.)
Afternoon:
- Lunch at Wild Plum Tea Room (Enjoy a light and healthy lunch with a variety of teas and sandwiches.)
- White Water Rafting on the Pigeon River (Embark on an exciting rafting trip suitable for all skill levels.)
Evening:
- Sunset Ride on the Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster (Take a scenic ride on the mountain coaster, enjoying views as the sun sets.)
- Dinner at The Park Grill (Dine on Southern cuisine with a modern twist in an elegant setting.)
Day 7: Farewell and Last Minute Shopping. Make the most of your final day with shopping and relaxing before departure. Cost-saving tip: Utilize gift shop discounts and look for tax-free shopping opportunities.
Morning:
- Breakfast at Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery (Start your day with delicious breakfast options and sample local moonshine.)
- Last Minute Shopping in Downtown (Pick up any remaining souvenirs and gifts from Gatlinburg's local shops.)
Afternoon:
- Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery (Enjoy a casual lunch with a variety of local brews and hearty menu options.)
- Relax at Your Hotel (Spend your final afternoon relaxing at the hotel pool or spa.)
Evening:
- Departure (Check out of your hotel and head home, taking with you unforgettable memories of Gatlinburg.)