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5 Low-Energy, High-Enjoyment Things to Do in Gatlinburg

Tennessee Homemade Wines is one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg
January 4, 2026

Gatlinburg is full of activities, but not all of them have to be action packed. Some of the best things to do in Gatlinburg are ones where you can slow down, unwind, and appreciate your surroundings. Relaxed activities are great to mix into your itinerary in between more adventurous experiences like hiking or zip lining to keep you and your crew from feeling exhausted. Here are 5 low-energy, high-enjoyment things to do in Gatlinburg:

1. Free Wine Tastings at Tennessee Homemade Wines

Spending time at Tennessee Homemade Wines is one of the most relaxing things to do in Gatlinburg! Enjoy free samples of our Southern, sweet wines to get a taste of not only Smokies flavor, but culture as well. You’re always welcome here, and always at your pace! Stick around a while and learn about how our wines are made and their distinct features, and chat with our friendly staff or other guests. Our tastings are a casual experience perfect for anyone who wants to get off their feet, relax, and enjoy unique flavors.

2. Go at Your Own Speed on the Gatlinburg Wine Trail

the gatlinburg wine trail is one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg

If you wish to experience more than just one winery on your trip, we highly recommend checking out the Gatlinburg Wine Trail! As part of the experience, you get to visit 5 of Tennessee’s best wineries, including Tennessee Homemade Wines, and sample delicious wines and ciders at each. The tour costs just $10 per person and is the ultimate way to sample the best homegrown flavors in the Smokies. You get 7 days to visit all of the stops. You can visit whenever you’d like and stay as long as you like!

3. Visit the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum

Looking for a unique experience you won’t find anywhere else? Make a stop at the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum. Featuring more than 20,000 sets of salt and pepper shakers from across the world, there’s a surprising amount of charm and personality behind this museum’s doors. The best part is it’s just $3 per adult, and children 12 and under get free admission! Move through the collection as slow or fast as you’d like and take photos of your favorites.

4. Admire the View From the Gatlinburg Space Needle

the gatlinburg space needle is one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg

The Gatlinburg Space Needle is one of the must-try things to do in Gatlinburg! The views that await are spectacular and provide the ultimate relaxation when you need a break from your high-energy activities. Guests ride a glass elevator from downtown Gatlinburg up to the Space Needle’s observation tower that stands 407 feet above ground. The views start as you make your way up, and panoramic views of downtown and the mountains in the distance await on the deck.

5. Explore the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community

Take a deep dive into Smokies culture and artistry by visiting the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. This 8-mile loop road in Gatlinburg is home to more than 80 different artists and craftsmen, producing everything from pottery to leatherwork, glass blowing, candles, jewelry, blacksmithing, woodworking, and more. Watch as pieces are being crafted, browse the many shops, or even try making your own crafts! It’s a great way to feel connected to the Smokies while moving at a calm and unhurried pace.

When you need a change of pace from all the action, make sure to check out some of these low-energy, high-enjoyment things to do in Gatlinburg. We hope to see you soon at Tennessee Homemade Wines, where our incredible collection of Tennessee wines are waiting for you!

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