Headed for the Hills? These 16 Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN for Couples Bring All the Feels

Planning a romantic getaway isn’t always about grand gestures. It’s about finding the perfect place to slow down together, recharge, and make memories that actually stick.

Gatlinburg gets that vibe completely, combining fresh air, killer views, and cozy moments in all the right ways.

From sunrise hikes to candlelit dinners, there are numerous romantic things to do in Gatlinburg that feel like they were made for two.

We’ve rounded up the absolute best things to do in Gatlinburg TN for couples that hit every note, from outdoorsy thrills to wine-sipping chill.

This list has everything but the cabin keys (those are on you!) Keep reading and let the couple’s getaway planning begin!

Adventure Dates Worth the Sweat (and the Selfies)

Hiking

Start your day with fresh air and breathtaking trails inside the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, where even a short trek can feel like a total mind reset.

Couples love the Laurel Falls Trail for easygoing vibes, while Alum Cave Bluffs brings the challenge (and the bragging rights).

Wander a peaceful nature trail hand-in-hand and find the perfect picnic spot by a babbling stream at the Chimneys Picnic Area.

Whether it’s your first hike or your fiftieth, these views (and the company) hit different in the Smokies.

Scenic Drives

Few things say romance like a scenic drive through the mountains with the windows down and no real agenda.

The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and Newfound Gap Road deliver photo-worthy overlooks, hidden waterfalls, and old cabins that tell stories of a simpler time.

Take it slow and soak in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s beauty without breaking a sweat. Bonus: you’re never too far from a trailhead, snack stop, or another reason to pull over and steal a kiss.

Stargazing and Sunsets

Catch golden hour magic from Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome), the highest point in the park, and a total stunner when the sun dips behind the ridges.

Morton Overlook is another crowd favorite, offering epic skies with minimal effort.

Stick around after dark for stargazing that’ll make you forget your phone exists, thanks to some of the clearest mountain views in the region.

Bring a blanket, a thermos, and that person who makes everything better. Trust us, this is peak romance.

Horseback Riding

Try something a little slower-paced and saddle up at Sugarlands Riding Stables, where forest trails feel extra magical from the back of a horse. It’s calm, scenic, and way more romantic than you’d expect.

As far as romantic things to do in Gatlinburg TN for adults, this one checks all the boxes—peaceful, outdoorsy, and just a touch adventurous.

Plus, nothing says bonding like learning to steer a horse together without veering off into the woods.

Moonshine Mountain Coaster

If you’re the kind of couple that likes thrills with a view, the Mountain Coaster at Moonshine Mountain is a must-do.

You control the speed, so you can fly through the trees or cruise slowly and soak in those Smoky Mountain vibes.

The track winds down the hillside with twists, turns, and just enough adrenaline to get the heart racing—romantic in its own wild way. Hold on tight and laugh your way down together!

CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains Zipline Tours

Get out of your comfort zone together with one of the best zipline experiences in Gatlinburg. CLIMB Works has earned its reputation for making adventure seekers out of even the most hesitant first-timers.

Soar above the treetops with tandem ziplines, sky bridges, and views that stretch for miles. It’s part heart-pounding, part awe-inspiring, and fully unforgettable for couples looking to level up their weekend.

Where to Wine, Dine, and Fall (Harder) in Love

The Greenbrier

Make date night Gatlinburg feel like a scene from a romance novel with dinner at The Greenbrier.

This upscale log-cabin restaurant serves rustic charm and refined cuisine with moody lighting that sets the tone for heart-to-hearts and stolen glances.

Sip craft cocktails or a fine whiskey from their curated bar while soaking in the intimate, lodge-style setting. It’s cozy, elevated, and everything a couple’s night out in the mountains should be.

The Peddler Steakhouse

Located right on the river, The Peddler is a long-time favorite for romantic Gatlinburg dinners—and not just because of the steaks.

Request a table by the window and enjoy views of the Little Pigeon River while you feast and flirt.

The atmosphere is classic and warm, with just the right amount of buzz to make you feel like you’re out without being overwhelmed.

Add a glass of red wine, and it’s the perfect setting to toast to just about anything.

The Melting Pot

Want to linger over dinner without rushing a thing?

The Melting Pot makes your romantic getaway interactive with fondue, flame-lit tables, and cozy booths made for long conversations and gooey desserts.

From bubbling cheese to rich chocolate and perfectly cooked meats, this is hands-on dining with seriously flirty energy. Bonus: you’re practically required to feed each other.

Wine and Moonshine Tastings

Gatlinburg’s got a spirited side, and the best way to experience it is together with a tasting tour through downtown Gatlinburg.

Stop by Ole Smoky Moonshine, Tennessee Cider Company, and local wineries like Sugarland Cellars for sips with a side of live music.

Each tasting spot has its own personality, from rustic to modern, and there’s no pressure to rush—just explore at your own pace. It’s boozy, it’s fun, and it’s an easy way to warm up on a cool mountain evening.

Low-Key Thrills, High Views, and Lazy-Day Romance

Anakeesta

This mountaintop adventure park is packed with everything Gatlinburg offers—views, thrills, dining, and magical nighttime vibes that’ll have you feeling like you stepped into a fairytale.

Ride the chondola up the mountain and wander through treetop bridges, botanical gardens, and AnaVista Tower together.

Stay for sunset and watch the sky light up from Cliff Top restaurant or catch the Astra Lumina night walk for an immersive, twinkling experience.

Whether you’re ziplining, dining, or just taking it all in, Anakeesta brings next-level romance to new heights.

SkyLift Park

It starts with a scenic chairlift ride up Crockett Mountain and just gets more epic from there.

At the top, stroll across the famous SkyBridge—North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge—and snap a photo in the glass-floor section if you’re brave.

Afterward, kick back at the SkyDeck with panoramic views and maybe a drink in hand. Visiting SkyLift Park is relaxed, romantic, and the kind of experience that makes your Gatlinburg getaway unforgettable.

Couples Spa Treatments

After a day of hiking, ziplining, or just existing in the mountain air, a spa treatment might be exactly what the two of you need.

Book a couples massage or specialty treatment at one of Gatlinburg’s local spas, like the Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa, to melt the tension and reset together.

With options ranging from deep tissue to relaxing aromatherapy, it’s pure indulgence with a side of connection. You’ll leave feeling like butter—and way more in love.

Arts & Crafts Community

Take a mellow detour into Gatlinburg’s creative side with a walk through the 8-mile Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community loop.

It’s lined with galleries, studios, and artisan shops where you can watch glassblowers, potters, and woodworkers do their thing.

Stop in for a souvenir, a handmade candle, or just to chat with the artists and soak in the charm. It’s quiet, unhurried, and a refreshing switch-up from the busier downtown spots.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Get cozy under the sea at Ripley’s, where slow strolls through glass tunnels surrounded by sharks and sea turtles somehow feel romantic.

The lighting’s low, the sea creatures are mesmerizing, and it’s a great backup plan if the weather turns.

Feed a stingray, watch playful penguins, and snap those candid “we’re-so-cute” photos in front of glowing tanks. It’s a classic Gatlinburg date spot with an unexpectedly sweet twist.

Ober Mountain Aerial Tramway

Glide 2.1 miles above the trees on the iconic Ober Mountain Tram, a cozy way to soak up the Smokies without lifting a finger.

The views along the way are dreamy, and once you’re at the top, you’ll find skiing, ice skating, shopping, and even mountain biking, depending on the season.

It’s a little adventure with a lot of options, perfect for couples who want variety without a long drive.

Plus, sharing a tram car makes for great, uninterrupted bonding time just the two of you and the mountains.

Ready to Turn Your Mountain Daydream into a Real-Life Romantic Getaway?

Gatlinburg makes it easy to slow down, reconnect, and sneak in just the right mix of adventure and cozy.

Whether you’re hiking to a viewpoint or clinking glasses at a mountaintop bar, these romantic things to do in Gatlinburg deliver all the heart-eyes energy.

Start planning your perfect escape by checking out vacation packages through Tripster, where you can bundle the best Gatlinburg attractions, shows, and hotels for less stress and more fun.

It’s your one-stop shop for making those unforgettable moments a whole lot easier to book.

From spa days to skybridges, the things to do in Gatlinburg TN for couples are seriously swoon-worthy. So go ahead—make it official and book the getaway you’ve been craving!

Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN for Couples FAQs