Walking tours provide the perfect introduction to Gatlinburg’s mountain culture and spirited history.
The Wine and Shine Walking Tour stands out for its practical skip-the-line access at several tasting spots – perfect for sampling regional wines and Tennessee whiskey without the usual tourist crowds.
For history buffs, the atmospheric Ghosts of the Smokies tour reveals fascinating local lore while visiting genuinely spooky sites, including the historic Edgewater Hotel.
My favorite is the Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour, which offers both tastings and an educational look at traditional Appalachian distilling methods.
Let’s explore these memorable tours in detail.
Good To Know
- The Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour in Gatlinburg offers a 3-hour experience with front-of-line access and tastings at various stops.
- The Gatlinburg: Ghosts of the Smokies Haunted Walking Tour explores the town’s haunted locations and local spirit tales in a 1 to 1.5-hour small group experience.
- The Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour With Tastings provides a 3.5-hour wheelchair-accessible experience with tastings of Appalachian wine and moonshine.
- The walking tours in Gatlinburg offer a range of durations, from 1-3.5 hours, catering to different interests and accessibility needs.
- The walking tours in Gatlinburg have high recommendation rates, with the Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour boasting a 99% recommendation rate.
Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour
The Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour in Gatlinburg, Tennessee offers a guided exploration of the city’s distilleries and wineries.
With 423 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this 3-hour small group tour (max 12 travelers) showcases the best of the region’s moonshine and wine scene. Guests will enjoy front-of-line access and included tastings at each stop, along with insights into the history and production of these local specialties.
The tour covers a minimum of 0.7 miles of walking, making it accessible for most visitors. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those unable to walk moderate distances.
The $49 non-refundable ticket price includes the guided experience, but tips and gratuities are extra.
While most reviews praise the engaging guides and generous tastings, some customers have complained about limited stops and communication issues regarding changes.
Read our full review: Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour Review
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Gatlinburg: Ghosts of the Smokies Haunted Walking Tour
A thrilling 1 – 1.5 hour Gatlinburg: Ghosts of the Smokies Haunted Walking Tour invites visitors to explore the city’s spooky past.
Priced from $32.00 to $25.60 per person, with savings up to 20%, this small group experience takes guests on a journey through Gatlinburg’s haunted locations, including the Edgewater Hotel and Mountain Mall.
Along the way, the knowledgeable local guide shares tales of the Gatlinburg Witch and other local spirits, bringing the city’s dark history to life.
The tour also visits iconic sites like the Gatlinburg Space Needle and White Oak Flats Cemetery, providing a unique and interactive exploration of the area.
Suitable for all ages, the tour is family-friendly and wheelchair accessible. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring their ID cards.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from 31 reviews, the Gatlinburg: Ghosts of the Smokies Haunted Walking Tour offers a thrilling and engaging way to discover the haunted side of this picturesque Tennessee town.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg: Ghosts of the Smokies Haunted Walking Tour Review
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Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour With Tastings
Travelers in Gatlinburg can embark on a captivating 3.5-hour Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour, offering an immersive exploration of the region’s acclaimed spirits.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. Participants can expect to savor unique flavors of Appalachian wine and moonshine, accompanied by a behind-the-scenes look at distillation processes and custom tastings at local distilleries and wineries.
The tour kicks off with an overview of Appalachian wine and moonshine history at a covered pavilion, followed by a visit to a working distillery for an exclusive tour and tasting.
Next, you will walk to a local winery for VIP treatment and a sweet wine tasting experience. The tour concludes at another distillery, where guests can indulge in a homemade cocktail crafted from on-site spirits and potentially enjoy an exclusive back-of-house tour.
The Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women and individuals under 21 years, and requires moderate walking and standing for up to 3 hours.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg: Wine and Moonshine Walking Tour With Tastings Review
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Questions About Staying Here
What Is the Average Duration of the Walking Tours?
The average duration of walking tours varies, but most typically last between 1 to 2 hours. Tour lengths may depend on the specific route, pace, and inclusions of each individual tour offering.
Are the Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Most walking tours in Gatlinburg are wheelchair accessible, allowing mobility-impaired visitors to explore the area’s scenic landscapes and attractions. Tour operators often provide accommodations to ensure an enjoyable experience for all participants.
Do the Tours Provide Any Snacks or Beverages?
Many walking tours do provide snacks or beverages for participants. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm if refreshments are included or if you’ll need to bring your own.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy for these tours typically allows for full refunds if cancelled within a certain timeframe, often 24-48 hours in advance. Specific policies may vary by tour provider, so it’s best to check the details prior to booking.
Is There an Age Requirement for the Participants?
Many walking tour operators have age requirements for participants. Typically, there’s a minimum age, often around 8-12 years old, to ensure the tour is suitable and safe for all attendees. It’s best to check with each operator for their specific age policy.
Worth The Stay
Gatlinburg offers a variety of walking tours that allow visitors to explore the area’s history, culture, and local spirits. Whether it’s a haunted ghost tour, a wine and moonshine tasting, or a combination of both, these walking tours provide an engaging and informative way to experience the charming town. Visitors can choose the tour that best suits their interests and expectations for an unforgettable Gatlinburg adventure.