Smoky Mountains Thanksgiving: 2024 In-Depth Guide

From heart-pounding hiking trails to the vibrant fall colors of the sugar maple, scarlet oak, and sweetgum trees, the Smoky Mountains at Thanksgiving are a treat! Follow along as we outline all of the best things to do in Gatlinburg in November.

No matter, if you witness the glittering Christmas lights of Dolly’s festive display or partake in frosty adventures snow tubing down the runs at Ober, Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg, is way more than turkey.

Scope out handmade crafts, wood carvings, and souvenirs at an award-winning craft show, or take in the stunning foliage from an aerial perspective.

Jam out to live Gospel and Bluegrass music, or leave the cooking to the experts when you indulge in a special holiday menu at the Old Mill.

Ready to give thanks for a Smoky Mountains Thanksgiving? Read on to discover everything there is to know about Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg…

Gatlinburg at Thanksgiving

Crisp cool weather, changing leaves of vermillion, ochre, and goldenrod, plus a hint of holiday spirit. Visiting Gatlinburg during Thanksgiving just might be our favorite thing! While you might have to fend off a bit of a school-aged crowd, the Thanksgiving Gatlinburg season offers a near-ideal moment of autumnal bliss in Tennessee.

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Gatlinburg Tennessee in November temperatures cover quite a range. Visitors can expect highs of 61 degrees with lows of 35. Early November also promises peak fall foliage at the lower elevations. Travelers looking for a laidback mountain escape can do no better than Gatlinburg TN in November.

No matter, if you’re hoping to complete a cuddly llama trek or soak in Blue Ridge Parkway views, family vacations spent in the Smoky Mountains are unforgettable.

Things to Do in Gatlinburg in November

Worried they’ll be nothing to do in Gatlinburg, TN in November? Rest assured, there are loads of things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge in November.

Gatlinburg TN Thanksgiving Activities and Attractions

Great Smoky Mountains National Park in November

Lace-up those hiking boots because you won’t want to miss those searing mountain views. Gatlinburg’s natural beauty during Thanksgiving is an ethereal treat. It is usually around this time of year that the fall color display reaches its peak.

Set your sights on the park’s mid and lower elevations, and witness the riotous colors of the sugar maple, scarlet oak, sweetgum, red maple, and hickory trees.

Related Post: Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage: Tips and Guide for the Best Fall Colors Experience

Amateur shutterbugs should attempt the journey to Clingmans Dome. The highest point in the park and Tennessee, its observation tower serves up spellbinding panoramic sights of the Smokies and beyond. Take advantage of this unreal lookout now, as the road leading to the tower is usually closed by early December.

For even more fall scenery, plan out a heart-pounding hike to Rainbow Falls or Chimney Tops. Those with equestrian experience will relish the opportunity for a guided ride through Cades Cove, or for a more lowkey activity, why not try a historic wagon ride

Feeling adventurous? From white water rafting to zipline tours, to zipline tours, Pigeon Forge TN, offers up a wealth of outdoor thrills. 

Tubing at Ober Gatlinburg

Oh, the weather outside is frightful, but that doesn’t mean we need to hit pause on delightful activities! So pack those mittens and snow goggles because the frosty season is the best season to play at Ober Gatlinburg. Snag a seat on the aerial tram, and prime yourself for hours of snow-fueled activities and attractions.

In addition to snow tubing at Ober, kiddies of all sizes and ages will flip for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and their ski mountain coaster.

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Spend all day shredding fresh powder, and then trade those snow boots for mountain vistas when you tackle the 30-foot rock wall or various hiking trails. Finally, wind down your day of Mount Harrison views with a delicious apres ski refreshment from the Ober Loft Lounge. 

Dolly’s Smoky Mountain Christmas

It’s never too early to spread a little Christmas cheer! Mark your calendars, as  Dolly’s highly anticipated annual event is back! From November 4th through January 6th, 2024, visitors of all ages will be whisked away to a whimsical winter wonderland of lights, rides, and Christmas spirit at Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas.

Sing along to your favorite Christmas carols, munch on sweet-themed treats, or sneak in a stop on the iconic Dollywood Express. Admire towering 12 ft tall Christmas trees, millions of sparkling lights, and the scenic charm of Santa’s Village. Finally, don’t forget to track down some friendly North Pole visitors at Glacier Ridge. These furry and glowing Polar Bear friends can be found sprawled across Wilderness Pass and Timber Canyon.

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What goes great with some Dolly? How about some live music entertainment? Soak in the drama and spectacle of Gatlinburg’s best performers when you take in any of our world-class theatrical Shows in Gatlinburg, TN.

Scenic Helicopter Tours

Switch up your standard sightseeing when you take in the breathtaking lake, mountain, and rolling Sevier County vistas via the air. A Scenic Helicopter Tour is an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the rugged wonder of the Great Smoky Mountains.

Choose from 8 to 36-mile tours, and allow yourself to be swept away by the rushing power of the French Broad River, Douglas Lake, and Bluff Mountain.

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Achieve soaring heights of up to 1,200 feet as you fly high above the Douglas Dam, the Chilhowee Mountain Range, and historic Sevierville and Pigeon Forge. 

Smoky Mountain Llama Treks

Conquer the last thing on your Gatlinburg bucket list when you complete a Smoky Mountain Llama Trek. This unique hiking experience lets you master the mountain with your very own fluffy sherpa. Smoky Mountains Llamas are as cute (and helpful) as can be.

Let your South American pack animal carry your gear. As your expert guide leads you on flora and fauna studded adventure through the wilderness. Relax in a field of wildflowers, pick fresh berries, or document the dazzling mountain vistas. Create a romantic rendezvous by packing a special picnic lunch and perhaps even a bottle of wine. 

Got more time to fill in Gatlinburg? Amp up the Tennessee thrills when you check out our extensive list of Gatlinburg Things to Do.

Pink Jeep Tours – Smoky Mountains

Roaring Fork, Newfound Gap, and the Foothills, oh my! Tour every inch of the Smoky Mountains in flaming rose-hued style when you reserve a Pink Jeep Tour. Leave the hiking boots at home and let the experts take the wheel when you embark on a 2-3 hour off-road adventure.

Pink Jeep Tours are fully narrated and led by certified, professional guides who can navigate the twists and turns of the Smoky Mountains with ease.

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Listen up as they regale you with fascinating facts and histories regarding the area’s wildlife and native plant species. From cragged rock formations to soaring mountain peaks and endemic moss, you’ll see the Smoky Mountains in a whole new light.

Gatlinburg Thanksgiving Arts and Crafts Show

Searching high and low for some unique holiday gift options? Finish your Christmas shopping early when you hightail it to the Gatlinburg Thanksgiving Arts and Crafts Show. Held at the Gatlinburg Convention Center from November 21st through the 26th, this annual handmade extravaganza is where the Tennessee craft community comes to shine.

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The nation’s largest organization of independent artisans congregates here to create and sell thousands of handcrafted items. Stroll through hundreds of offerings, including hand-carved candles, woven baskets, leather apparel, jewelry, and more.

Appreciate the artistry of painters, potters, weavers, and quilters. Many artisans here practice time-honored techniques that have been handed down for decades. 

Make the most out of your rent-a-car when you set your sights on the Best Scenic Drives in the Smoky Mountains for Fall Colors.

Winterfest Lights

Piping hot bowls of chili, charming Smoky Mountain parades, and of course, tons of twinkling lights! Pop over to nearby Pigeon Forge for the illuminating excitement of Pigeon Forge Winterfest.

From November 9th through February 18th, 2024 bundle up and admire the elaborate light displays, tours, events, and live theater events of this special holiday affair. 

Gatlinburg’s Festival of Trees

Christmas trees, appearances by the big man in red, and tons of family-friendly crafts are all in the works when it comes to Gatlinburg’s beloved Festival of Trees tradition.

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This evergreen-scented event will kick off on November 22nd at the WL Mills Conference Center. Visitors can expect a children’s craft and play area, live entertainment, and themed photos with Santa on select dates.

*Please note that this is not an exhaustive list of what to do in Gatlinburg in November, things to do in Gatlinburg TN in November, or things to do in Gatlinburg in November. There are countless ways to tackle Thanksgiving things during your Smoky Mountain reprieve.

These attractions represent just a small offering of our favorite ways to celebrate Thanksgiving in the mountains Gatlinburg Tennessee.

Restaurants in Gatlinburg for Thanksgiving Dinner

Why drive yourself batty trying to recreate your Aunt Dotty’s stuffing recipe while on vacation? Leave the culinary creativity to the experts, and take the day off from cooking when you plan to eat out in Gatlinburg. 

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From mouthwatering holiday suppers to more casual fare, Smoky Mountain’s offerings at Thanksgiving are sure to please every palate:

• Smith & Son Corner Kitchen – burgers, ribs, and steaks may not be traditional pilgrim fare, but they sure are tasty. Load up on brewpub and bar favorites at this All-American favorite. 
• The Park Grill – right next to the entrance of the National Park lies this serene Mountain lodge. Feast on the freshest beef, pork, and chicken as you soak in the alpine atmosphere. 
• The Old Mill Restaurant – craving more traditional fare? Opt to dine in or take home with the Old Mill’s menu of cultivated turkey day favorites. Including corn Fritters with Maple Butter, Roasted Turkey with Cornbread Dressing, Giblet Gravy, and Cranberry Sauce.
• Seasons of Ober – indulge in incredible views and a gourmet-worthy tasting menu at Seasons of Ober. From hand-cut steaks to their ski house sampler, Ober puts a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and sensational flavors. 

Psst..looking for more culinary inspiration in Gatlinburg? For an A+ worthy meal, make a reservation at any of the Best Restaurants in Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg Hotels

With so many Thanksgiving things to do in Gatlinburg, TN in November, extending your Gatlinburg Thanksgiving vacation is an excellent call. Cuddle up and get cozy in a serene cabin in the woods, or rest your head within walking distance from downtown Gatlinburg.

Relax in a rustic resort with indoor and outdoor pools, or enjoy the awe-inspiring Great Smoky Mountains National Park views. Thanks to Tripsters’ many Gatlinburg hotel options, you’re never too far from a great stay. Wherever you decide to celebrate this day of feasting and family, make your booking worry-free knowing you are always guaranteed our lowest rates online. 

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Need even more bang for your Smoky Mountain buck? Bundle your seasonal Gatlinburg attractions and accommodations with any of our sensational Gatlinburg Vacation Packages.

Roaring Fork in a bright pink Jeep, picking wildflowers with a downy soft llama, or reveling in the beauty of Silent Night sung acapella. 

November is truly the giving season, and Gatlinburg’s many seasonal attractions deliver it all.

Tackle miles of Smoky Mountain hiking trails, learn all about leather working, or participate in a stirring Winterfest parade.

A Gatlinburg Thanksgiving contains the perfect mix of rustic charm, outdoor adventure, and holiday spirit.

Tell us, What’s Your Favorite Thing About the Smokey Mountains in November?

Did we miss any of the best reasons to do Thanksgiving in Gatlinburg?

Leave us a comment below!