Memorial Day Weekend in the Smoky Mountains

Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial start to summer, and there’s no better place to kick it off than Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains. Whether you want outdoor adventure, local flavor, or family-friendly attractions, here’s what to do and where to go.

Hike the Smokies
May is peak hiking season in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the trails are bursting with greenery and wildflowers. Popular routes include Alum Cave Trail for moderate distance and mountain views, Laurel Falls for an easy paved hike to a waterfall, and Chimney Tops for a short but steep challenge with a stunning summit. Start early to beat the crowds.

Scenic Drive on Newfound Gap Road
If hiking isn’t your style, take in the views from the comfort of your car. Newfound Gap Road winds 33 miles from Gatlinburg to Cherokee, North Carolina, passing scenic overlooks and leading to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the Smokies.

Ober Mountain Summer Activities
Ober Mountain kicks off its summer season over Memorial Day Weekend. Ride the alpine slide, cruise the mountain coaster, take a scenic chairlift, or try the rock climbing wall and wildlife encounter. It’s a solid mix of fun for kids, teens, and adults.

Honor Memorial Day Locally
Take a moment to reflect and pay respects. Gatlinburg typically holds a Memorial Day Ceremony at Ripley’s Aquarium plaza. Pigeon Forge often features patriotic events and live music leading into summer.

Explore Downtown Gatlinburg
Yes, it’s busy on holiday weekends, but still worth exploring. Sample local moonshine at Ole Smoky Distillery or Sugarlands Distilling Co., catch live music and street performers, and shop for handmade crafts in The Village Shops or the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Don’t miss a ride up to Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. The SkyBridge lit up at night is hard to beat.

Swim, Wade, or Float
If it’s hot, cool off in one of the area’s natural swimming holes. The Sinks is scenic and fast-moving. Metcalf Bottoms is ideal for picnicking and wading with kids. The Greenbrier area is quieter and great for tubing. Water shoes recommended.

Zipline or Go Rafting
Get the adrenaline going with a zipline tour at CLIMB Works or whitewater rafting on the Pigeon River with Rafting in the Smokies. These are popular on holiday weekends, so reserve your spot ahead of time.

Eat Local Favorites
Grab barbecue at Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que or Calhoun’s. Try rainbow trout, a Smoky Mountain staple, at The Peddler Steakhouse or Smoky Mountain Trout House. Don’t leave without sampling homemade fudge, taffy, or kettle corn from one of the many shops downtown.

Plan Ahead
Traffic is heavy on holiday weekends, so start early and park smart. Mountain weather shifts quickly, so pack layers. Be respectful of the park and wildlife — don’t feed animals or leave trash behind.

Ready to Make It Happen?
Book your Memorial Day Weekend stay now with Venture Smoky Mountains and secure your spot in the heart of it all.