How to Spend 24 Hours in Gatlinburg: 3 Perfect Itineraries for a One-Day Smoky Mountain Getaway.

If you’ve ever found yourself driving through the Smokies thinking, “There’s no way to do it all in one day,” you’re absolutely right — but you can make a solid dent. Here’s how t0 spend 24 hours in Gatlinburg and it will be packed with scenic views, quirky attractions, and food worth unbuttoning your jeans for.

You could spend several days just exploring “the strip,” but if you only have 24 hours, these three itineraries give you the best of Gatlinburg — from SkyLift views and BBQ dinners to mountain hikes, cozy cafés, and romantic riverside meals.

If you have more time to explore try reading my 7-day Perfect Itinerary for Gatlinburg and Sevierville.

Option 1: Classic Downtown Gatlinburg Day

Morning: Pancakes and Strolling The Village

Kick off your day with a Gatlinburg tradition: breakfast at Pancake Pantry, serving stacks since 1960. The menu has more pancake options than you could imagine — think buttermilk, pecan, wild blueberry, and even sweet potato. The pancakes are good, but the experience itself is what makes it iconic. Whether you walk away saying “best ever” or “been there, done that,” it’s a Gatlinburg rite of passage.

After breakfast, head next door to The Village, a charming little pocket of brick walkways, fountains, and boutique shops that feels like stepping into a European courtyard. I love this area for its calm break from the main Parkway. Stop in at The Hayloft for boots, Zi Olive to sample their oils and vinegars (the Tuscan oil with traditional vinegar makes the perfect salad dressing), and The Honey Pot, a whimsical gift shop packed with fun souvenirs.

After you leave the village, pop into the Paula Deen Store — it’s full of adorable southern home décor, kitchenware, and her signature food items. I honestly wanted to buy everything in there.

Afternoon: Sky-High Views and Ripley’s Fun

Next up, take a ride on the bright yellow Gatlinburg SkyLift, which whisks you 1,800 feet above the city to the SkyBridge — the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. It stretches 680 feet across a mountain valley, and in the center you’ll find glass-floor panels for the ultimate test of nerve (or a reminder that you’re scared of heights). The SkyLift Park also has the SkyDeck, SkyTrail, and Tulip Tower for even more ways to take in those panoramic Smoky Mountain views.

Once you’ve gotten your fill of mountain air, head back downtown for some classic Gatlinburg entertainment — because no 24 hours in Gatlinburg would be complete without a Ripley’s stop. They’ve practically built an empire here, and you can pick your favorite kind of fun depending on your mood.

If you like weird and wonderful, go for Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium — it’s packed with 500+ exhibits, illusions, and interactive displays. Want something a little more active? Try the 5D Moving Theater or race through the Mirror Maze (equal parts fun and disorienting). Families love Ripley’s Super Fun Zone and Davy Crockett Mini-Golf, while thrill-seekers can hop on the Ripley’s Mountain Coaster for a gravity-driven ride through the trees. And if you only pick one, make it Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies — it’s the crown jewel with sharks, penguins, and a glass-bottom boat that floats right over the tanks.  I’ve done them all except the Haunted Adventure — spooky stuff is a hard no for me — and each one is fun in its own way.

Grab lunch at Calhoun’s, a local favorite. They start every meal with fresh-made bread: garlic rolls, biscuits, and cornbread. The garlic rolls are my personal favorite, but honestly, you can’t go wrong. I always order the garden salad with their house-made honey balsamic vinaigrette (it’s amazing). Then go for the baby back ribs with their signature sauce. If you’re extra hungry, get the trio to sample a little of everything. My favorite sides are the mac and cheese, spinach Maria, baked cinnamon apples, and the loaded baked potato.

After lunch, you’ll probably want something sweet. The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar is the place for that. They use more than 100 ingredients, including local produce and toppings from nearby bakeries. Every milkshake is a work of art — and definitely something to split with friends.

Evening: Rooftop Music, Moonshine, and Chocolate

As the sun sets, head to Jason Aldean’s Kitchen + Rooftop Bar. It’s three stories of Southern food and live music with Gatlinburg’s largest rooftop patio. Whether you go for dinner, drinks, or just the view, the atmosphere feels like a little slice of Nashville in the Smokies.

When you’re ready for something classic Gatlinburg, stop by the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery. It’s right on the main strip, near the park entrance, and is the most visited distillery in the country. Live bands play outside, the vibe is lively, and even if moonshine isn’t your thing, it’s worth the visit for the experience.

Before you call it a night, grab a Heath Bar caramel apple from Chocolate Monkey. I always have them drizzle it with chocolate and cut it so it’s ready to eat — it’s the perfect sweet ending to a classic Gatlinburg day.

Option 2: Mountain Adventure Day

Morning: Sunrise at Kuwohi and Breakfast by the River

Start your day early at Kuwohi, formerly Clingmans Dome — the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 6,643 feet. The short but steep half-mile paved trail to the top leads to a 54-foot observation tower with 360-degree views that stretch for more than 100 miles on a clear day. It’s the highest point in Tennessee and along the entire Appalachian Trail.

The temperature is usually 10–20 degrees cooler here than in Gatlinburg, so bring layers. Weather can change quickly, with fog or sudden rain, but even if you just enjoy the view from the parking area, it’s worth the drive. The Cherokee name Kuwohi means “mulberry place,” and the summit holds deep cultural significance.

After sunrise, head to The Heirloom Room for breakfast. It’s one of the best spots in town — a modern rustic restaurant right on the river, with free parking at the Gatlinburg River Inn. Sit outside if you can, or by a window you can open to hear the water. I even saw a black bear walking along the river during breakfast!

The food is creative and flavorful: the biscuits and gravy are salty and savory perfection, the citrus blueberry pancakes with cream cheese frosting are incredible, and the heirloom breakfast potatoes (yes, especially the purple ones) are seasoned perfectly with onions and peppers. Don’t skip the crispy cheddar grit cakes. Add a salted caramel latte and you’ll be wishing you could eat here every morning.

Afternoon: Hike, Adventure, and Sunset

Once you’re fueled up, make your way to Laurel Falls, one of the most popular waterfall hikes in the Smokies. The 2.6-mile round-trip trail is paved, steady, and family-friendly. The 80-foot-tall, two-tiered waterfall is stunning, and the bridge that crosses between the upper and lower falls is perfect for photos.

Go early or late afternoon to beat the crowds, wear shoes with good grip (the pavement can get slick), and bring water. The falls are especially pretty in spring and fall when the mountain laurel blooms or the leaves change color. Read My Favorite Easy Hikes in the Great Smoky Mountains to find more great hikes!

In the afternoon, pick your adventure: Anakeesta or Ober Mountain.

Anakeesta offers mountain coasters, ziplines, gardens, and treetop bridges. Ride the Chondola or Ridge Rambler to the top and spend a few hours exploring, shopping, or just enjoying the views.

Ober Mountain (formerly Ober Gatlinburg) combines classic charm with mountain thrills. Take the Aerial Tramway up and try the Tennessee Flyer mountain coaster or ice skating rink. In winter, it’s a ski resort; the rest of the year, it’s a fun, scenic playground.

As the day winds down, stop at Morton Overlook for one of the best sunsets in the park. The overlook faces west and sits at about 4,800 feet, with dramatic layers of ridges fading into the distance. If you go in late September or early October, the fall colors make it even more beautiful. Arrive 30–45 minutes early to grab parking — it’s one of the park’s most popular sunset spots.

Grab a snack on your way back to town. Byrd’s Famous Cookies is always a win — I love the Lemon Cooler, Peach, and Key Lime. Or head to the Goo Goo Cluster shop and create your own custom candy. Both are perfect little take-home treats after a big day of exploring.

Option 3: Romantic Gatlinburg Day

Morning: Coffee and Scenic Drive

Start your morning with coffee and pastries at The Donut Friar, tucked inside The Village. The smell alone is worth the stop. Once you’ve got your caffeine fix, take a scenic drive through Cades Cove — one of the most iconic spots in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Cades Cove is a wide, scenic valley surrounded by mountains, full of wildlife, and dotted with historic cabins, barns, and churches. The main feature is the 11-mile one-way Cades Cove Loop Road. Even though it’s only 11 miles, expect to spend three to four hours exploring. Traffic moves slowly because there are so many places to pull off — and because people tend to stop right in the road when they spot a bear. Wildlife sightings are common, and it’s one of the best places in the park to see deer, wild turkeys, and black bears.

If you want to skip the traffic, try biking the loop instead. The road is paved and gently rolling, with about 600 feet of total climbing. From late spring to early fall, there are weekly vehicle-free days (usually Wednesdays) when the road is closed to cars, perfect for cyclists and walkers. You can rent bikes at the Cades Cove campground store for about $15 per hour for adults or $10 for kids, helmets included.

Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen — there are no services once you start the loop. A light jacket is smart too, since the weather changes quickly. Take time to explore the historic buildings or walk a short trail; it’s one of the most peaceful and picturesque experiences in the Smokies.

Afternoon: Lunch and Leisure

After your drive, head back to town for lunch at Loco Burro. This two-story Mexican restaurant is colorful, lively, and full of surprises. Start with the sizzling fajitas (steak or chicken), then try the seafood taco trio or mesquite-grilled carne asada. Don’t skip the tableside guacamole or the Mexican street corn — both are excellent. And if you’re really hungry, the brisket burrito is massive. After lunch, take a walk along the Parkway or do some light shopping before dinner.

Evening: Dinner, Drinks, and a Smoky Mountain Sunset

Dinner at The Heirloom Room is as romantic as it gets. Sit by the river or near a window you can open to hear the water. Start with the Burrata Cheese with Tennessee Chow-Chow and Olive Tapenade, Smoked Wild Boar Croquettes, and the House Salad with Traveller Whiskey vinaigrette. For entrées, the Shrimp & Grits with smoked paprika curry sauce and the Spicy Grilled Venison Loin are both outstanding. End with the panna cotta — it’s creamy, light, and the perfect finale.

After dinner, finish your 24-hour Gatlinburg getaway with a nightcap at a rooftop bar, a quiet riverside walk, or one more view from Morton Overlook as the sun sets over the mountains.

Final Thoughts

No matter which 24-hour itinerary you choose, Gatlinburg delivers nonstop charm, mountain views, and food that makes the trip worth it. Whether you spend your day exploring downtown attractions, hiking waterfalls, or savoring dinner by the river, each version of Gatlinburg has its own kind of magic.

Want more information? Read my blogs Top Places to Eat in Gatlinburg and Waterfall Hikes in the Smokies.