The bustling mountain town of Gatlinburg serves up several worthwhile guided experiences. Standouts include the Wine and Shine Walking Tour, which combines local spirits with historical insights, and the fascinating Ghosts of The Smokies tour – perfect for history buffs interested in the darker side of these mountains. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the comprehensive Smoky Mountains Tour, while the High Points Driving Tour offers the best mountain vistas without the hiking. The Ghost and Haunt Tour rounds out the evening options with entertaining local legends and reportedly haunted locations. Let’s explore the best tours Gatlinburg has to offer.
Good To Know
- The Wine and Shine Walking Tour offers a highly rated VIP tasting experience with engaging guides, despite some criticism for limited stops and high cost.
- The Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour explores the region’s dark history, with accessibility features and a personalized small-group experience.
- The Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg provides a 2-hour walking tour with spooky stories, paranormal locations, and highly praised guides.
- The Gatlinburg Small-Group Classic Smoky Mountains Tour focuses on the history, culture, and natural wonders, offering personalized experiences for both first-time and seasoned visitors.
- The High Points Driving Tour showcases the Great Smoky Mountains’ highest elevations, with panoramic overlooks and a small-group format for a more intimate experience.
Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour
The Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour is a premier guided experience that takes visitors on an immersive journey through Gatlinburg’s renowned distilleries and wineries.
With a 99% recommendation rate from 423 travelers, this small-group tour offers a personalized and behind-the-scenes look at the region’s thriving spirits industry. Guests enjoy VIP treatment, including tastings at each location and a special moonshine cocktail.
The tour’s guides, Wild Bill and Jenn, are praised for their engaging service and expertise. While the tour’s limited stops and perceived high cost have drawn some criticism, the overall experience is highly rated at 4.9/5.
Participants are advised to arrive ready to taste, expect long lines, and pace themselves, as the tour offers a variety of flavors suitable for both moonshine and wine enthusiasts seeking a fun, social experience.
Read our full review: Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour Review
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Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour
Though Gatlinburg is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, the city also harbors a haunting past that comes alive on the Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour.
With over 200 reviews and a 4.4-star rating, this evening tour promises to explore the region’s dark history, including tales of tragic deaths, cannibalism, and witchcraft.
Led by knowledgeable and engaging guides, the tour takes visitors to landmarks like the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the White Oak Flats Cemetery, where they’ll hear intensely researched stories and documented accounts of supernatural occurrences.
While some travelers noted inconsistent storytelling quality and a lack of ghost sightings, the majority praised the tour’s informative and immersive experience.
Priced at $31 per person, this Badge of Excellence-awarded tour accommodates a maximum of 35 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
With wheelchair and stroller accessibility and a meeting point near public transportation, the Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour offers a unique and accessible way to explore the city’s haunting past.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour Review
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Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg
What better way to explore Gatlinburg’s haunting past than the Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg? This 2-hour walking tour takes visitors through the Smoky Mountain area, sharing spooky stories and the history of supernatural encounters.
Led by a professional guide, the tour visits locations known for paranormal activity, offering the opportunity to use ghost-hunting equipment and view photographs from real events.
The tour departs from the Log Cabin Pancake House, with both 7 PM and 9 PM options available. Minimum group size is 4, with a maximum of 30 travelers.
The 1-mile route is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, and service animals are welcome. Guests are encouraged to dress appropriately, as the tour operates in all weather conditions.
Priced from $30 per person, the Ghost and Haunt Tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 1,000 participants.
Reviewers praise the engaging guides, informative storytelling, and interactive experiences, making this tour a must-do for those seeking a spooky adventure in Gatlinburg.
Read our full review: Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg Review
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Gatlinburg Small-Group Classic Smoky Mountains Tour
Exploring the grandeur of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Gatlinburg Small-Group Classic Smoky Mountains Tour offers an immersive experience for visitors seeking to discover the history, culture, and natural wonders of this iconic American landscape.
Rated 97% by previous travelers, this three-hour tour takes guests on a journey through the Appalachian region, highlighting the stories of loggers and pioneers as they hike along scenic trails.
Travelers will drive along the renowned Newfound Gap Road, stopping to admire the panoramic views of valleys, mountains, and the Appalachian Trail, while also standing on the border between Tennessee and North Carolina.
With knowledgeable, friendly, and adaptable guides, the tour provides a personalized experience, complete with engaging storytelling and wildlife sightings.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the Gatlinburg Small-Group Classic Smoky Mountains Tour offers a balanced and enjoyable way to learn about the captivating beauty and rich heritage of the Great Smoky Mountains.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg Small-Group Classic Smoky Mountains Tour Review
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High Points Driving Tour
The High Points Driving Tour through the Great Smoky Mountains allows visitors to witness the stunning natural beauty of this iconic American landscape.
This scenic driving tour focuses on the North Carolina side of the park, providing travelers with opportunities to explore the park’s highest elevations, including the iconic Clingmans Dome. The small-group format ensures a relaxed pace and personalized interaction with the knowledgeable and accommodating guides.
Travelers are treated to panoramic overlooks and ample photo opportunities along the way, with the tour including bottled water and snacks.
The tour departs from the Gatlinburg Welcome Center and ends back at the same location, making it a convenient and well-organized experience. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour offers an intimate experience, and the consistently high ratings and positive reviews from past participants attest to the exceptional quality of the tour.
Read our full review: High Points Driving Tour Review
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Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest
A unique way for visitors to explore the charming city of Gatlinburg is through the engaging Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt Excursion offered by Operation City Quest. This private, self-guided activity takes participants on a 2-hour journey through the city, solving clues and competing with others via a mobile app.
The hunt is accessible for most, with stroller-friendly paths, though not wheelchair-accessible. Participants receive a remote interactive guide for assistance and use an activity-owned smartphone to navigate. Starting times are flexible, available Tuesday through Sunday from 9 AM to 5 PM.
The cost, from $10 per person, includes all activities, private transportation, and taxes. While reviews are mixed, with some feedback indicating the activity may be geared more towards younger participants, Operation City Quest emphasizes the family-friendly and competitive nature of the scavenger hunt.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest Review
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Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee
Moving from the engaging Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt, visitors can embark on another captivating adventure with the Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee.
This tour, based in Gatlinburg, USA, offers an immersive experience in the Oconaluftee region, priced from $150 per person. With a maximum of 10 participants, the tour provides a personalized and intimate exploration.
The tour’s highlights include knowledgeable guides who offer entertaining and educational experiences, sharing insights into the local history, wildlife, and flora. Reviewers consistently praise the tour, with 100% of travelers recommending it and highlighting the guides’ expertise.
The tour includes bottled water, snacks, and a meeting point at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center, with a start time of 9:00 AM.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers. Operated by Smoky Mountain Guides, the tour offers a lowest price guarantee and a reserve now, pay later option.
Read our full review: Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Group Size for the Tours?
Many tour operators have minimum group sizes, typically ranging from 2 to 8 people. However, some may offer private tours for solo travelers or smaller groups at a higher per-person cost. It’s best to check with each tour provider for their specific requirements.
Do the Tours Operate Year-Round or Have Seasonal Schedules?
The tours operate year-round, though some may have seasonal schedules due to weather or other factors. Most offer consistent daily or weekly schedules, with potential for reduced hours or closures during the off-season.
Are the Tours Wheelchair/Disability Accessible?
The tours are generally wheelchair and disability accessible, with accommodations available for guests with special needs. Operators work to ensure an inclusive experience for all visitors, though accessibility may vary across different tour options.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Most tour providers allow guests to bring their own food and drinks on the tours. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour company beforehand to confirm their policies and ensure a smooth experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tours?
The cancellation policy varies by tour operator, but generally allows for free cancellations up to 24-48 hours prior to the scheduled tour. Fees may apply for last-minute cancellations. Customers should review the policy when booking to understand the specific terms.
The Sum Up
When visiting Gatlinburg, travelers have a wealth of exciting tour options to choose from. From ghost and haunted tours to scenic driving tours, there’s something to suit every interest. Whether you’re looking for a unique cultural experience or a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Smokies, Gatlinburg offers a wide variety of top-rated tours that are sure to make your trip unforgettable.