On the lookout for the best tours in Gatlinburg? The city’s finest offerings start with the practical and informative Wine and Shine Walking Tour – perfect for learning about local distilling traditions while sampling authentic moonshine and regional wines. The Classic National Park Tour stands out as the ideal introduction to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offering reliable wildlife spotting and stops at the park’s most photogenic viewpoints. Ghost enthusiasts will appreciate the hands-on approach of the Ghost and Haunt Tour, which provides real ghost-hunting equipment and documented paranormal evidence. For drivers, the High Points Driving Tour efficiently covers Gatlinburg’s most spectacular mountain vistas. Our tested picks highlight the most worthwhile tour experiences in this mountain gateway town.
Key Points
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The Wine and Shine Walking Tour offers a guided moonshine and wine tasting experience at working distilleries, with a high recommendation rate of 99%.
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The Ghost and Haunt Tour provides a 2-hour paranormal experience with ghost-hunting equipment and paranormal photo viewing, with a 4.5-star rating.
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The Classic National Park Tour offers a 3-hour excursion through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with the opportunity to see bears and wild turkeys.
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The Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Tour focuses on the dark history of Gatlinburg, including tragic deaths and witchcraft, with a 4.4-star average rating.
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The High Points Driving Tour provides a scenic drive through the highest elevations and panoramic overlooks, with knowledgeable guides and a 5.0 rating.
Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour
The Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour in Gatlinburg provides an engaging and immersive experience for visitors. With 423 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this guided moonshine and wine tasting walking tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at a working distillery, as well as the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of moonshine.
The tour typically visits two moonshine distilleries and one winery, allowing participants to enjoy tastings and discounts at each location.
The tour is well-suited for those seeking a fun, social experience, though travelers are advised to pace themselves with the tastings, especially if unfamiliar with moonshine. The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those unable to walk 0.7 miles.
With a maximum of 12 travelers per tour, participants can expect VIP treatment and a personalized experience. The Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour is an excellent choice for those looking to explore Gatlinburg’s vibrant spirits scene.
Read our full review: Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour Review
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Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg
Curious to learn about Gatlinburg’s spooky past? Take the Ghost and Haunt Tour for a 2-hour walking exploration of the city’s haunted hotspots.
Departing from the Holiday Inn Smoky Mountain Resort, this 1-mile tour immerses you in the region’s paranormal history.
Led by knowledgeable guides like Pete and Cass, you’ll visit notable haunted locations and view real-life paranormal photos. Use ghost-hunting equipment to track down spirits, and even attempt to communicate with them.
While the tour operates safely, even in wildlife encounters, be prepared to encounter family-friendly distractions like children accompanying the guides.
With a 4.5-star rating from over 1,000 reviews, the Ghost and Haunt Tour offers an engaging and interactive experience.
Priced from $30 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and welcomes service animals.
Just be sure to book in advance, as a minimum of 4 reservations is required.
Read our full review: Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg Review
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The Classic National Park Tour
Enjoy the natural beauty and rich history of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the Classic National Park Tour.
This highly acclaimed 3-hour excursion takes you on a scenic journey through one of America’s most beloved national parks. With a maximum of 10 travelers, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from your knowledgeable and engaging guide as you explore the park’s highlights.
Along the way, you’ll drive the Newfound Gap Road, stand at the Tennessee-North Carolina border, and learn about the Appalachian pioneers, loggers, and the park’s dedication by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1940.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings, from majestic bears to wild turkeys.
With 97% of travelers recommending this tour, it’s an immersive and unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike, starting from $85 per person.
Read our full review: The Classic National Park Tour Review
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Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour
Visitors seeking a spine-tingling exploration of Gatlinburg’s supernatural side can embark on the Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour.
With a 4.4-star average rating from 203 reviews, this tour promises to explore the town’s dark history, including tales of tragic deaths, cannibalism, and witchcraft.
The tour takes participants to notable landmarks like the Gatlinburg Space Needle, White Oak Flats Cemetery, and the Mysterious Mansion, while guides encourage them to look for any paranormal activity.
The small group size ensures personalized attention, and a dinner is included in the $31 per person price tag.
Though the quality of storytelling has received mixed reviews, many travelers praise the engaging guides who provide historical context and local insights.
While some expressed disappointment in the ghost population, the combination of history and ghost stories remains a draw for those interested in Gatlinburg’s eerie past.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg Ghosts of The Smokies Most Haunted Tour Review
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High Points Driving Tour
For those seeking a more leisurely exploration of Gatlinburg’s natural beauty, the High Points Driving Tour offers a captivating journey through the stunning vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains.
With an impressive 5.0 rating from 73 reviews and 100% of travelers recommending the tour, this excursion is a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
The tour takes guests on a scenic drive, focusing on the highest elevations and most panoramic overlooks, including the iconic Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point.
Along the way, knowledgeable and engaging guides provide insights into the region’s history, ecosystem, and Native American heritage. The small group size of up to 10 travelers ensures a personalized and relaxed experience.
With bottled water and snacks included, and a convenient meeting point at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center, the High Points Driving Tour is an accessible and well-rounded way to take in the natural splendor of the Great Smokies.
Prices start at $85 per person, making it an affordable option for visitors of all budgets.
Read our full review: High Points Driving Tour Review
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Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee
Why not elevate your Gatlinburg experience with the Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee? This 5-star rated tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Oconaluftee region from a bird’s-eye view.
With a maximum group size of just 10 travelers, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience guided by knowledgeable hosts who provide historical context and point out wildlife sightings along the way.
Priced from $150 per person, the tour includes bottled water and snacks. While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
The tour starts at 9 AM from the Gatlinburg Welcome Center, and returns to the same point at the end. With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, you can book with confidence.
Don’t miss the chance to take your Gatlinburg adventure to new heights with this highly-rated Over the Top Tour.
Read our full review: Over the Top Tour in Oconaluftee Review
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Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest
Elevate your Gatlinburg sightseeing experience with the captivating Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest. This private city scavenger hunt allows you to explore Gatlinburg at your own pace, solving challenges and collecting objects along the way.
The 2-hour experience includes a remote interactive guide to assist you. Start your adventure at 234 Historic Nature Trail, with the option to choose flexible starting times and days. Compete with others via the app during the hunt as you make your way back to the meeting point.
The tour is stroller accessible and welcomes service animals, making it suitable for most travelers. While it’s not wheelchair accessible, the private nature ensures your group’s participation.
With a 3.0 overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, the Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt may appeal more to younger audiences than retirees.
Nonetheless, it presents an engaging and unique way to discover the city’s sights and landmarks.
Read our full review: Gatlinburg City Scavenger Hunt Excursion by Operation City Quest Review
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Recap
Gatlinburg offers a diverse array of engaging tours, catering to a range of interests. From wine and shine tastings to haunted ghost walks, visitors can explore the city’s rich heritage and natural beauty. Whether on foot or by car, these top-rated tours provide an immersive experience, allowing travelers to discover Gatlinburg’s hidden gems and create lasting memories. With so many options, there’s something for every type of adventurer.