One of the best ways to view the Smoky Mountains is from a perspective where you can look down upon the spectacular scenery! While this sounds impossible without a helicopter or plane ride, there are actually several awesome attractions in Gatlinburg where you can rise high above the mountains! Here are 4 fun attractions in Gatlinburg TN where you can enjoy an aerial view of the Smokies:
1. Gatlinburg Space Needle
The Gatlinburg Space Needle in downtown Gatlinburg provides views of the Smoky Mountains from an observation deck more than 400 feet in the air! This tower is served by a pair of comfortable glass elevators that takes guests to the observation deck where you can enjoy the 360-degree views. Be sure to take advantage of the free viewfinders to observe some of the unique features of the Smokies such as the beautiful wildflowers! Enjoy the sights during the daylight hours, then come back to the Gatlinburg Space Needle at night to see the sparkling lights of downtown Gatlinburg!
2. Aerial Tramway at Ober Gatlinburg
Soar high above the trees of the Smokies on the popular Aerial Tramway at Ober Gatlinburg! This famous attraction has been in operation since 1973 and provides guests with a sensational 2.1-mile ride between downtown Gatlinburg and the amusement area at Ober Gatlinburg. There are two tramway cars in operation that each have a capacity of 120 passengers. The trams run on a daily basis from 9:45 a.m. to 9 p.m. with departures every 20 minutes from each station. Note that due to the popularity of the attraction on holiday periods and weekends, the wait times can reach 2 or more hours, so be sure to schedule your time accordingly!
3. Anakeesta Chondola
One of the newest attractions in Gatlinburg TN to enjoy the Smokies from an aerial perspective is on board the Anakeesta Chondola! This unique ski-lift-type attraction is the first ride of its kind to be built in the United States and features 104 quad chairs with a safety bar and eight, 6-person enclosed gondola cabins. Choose which lift style you prefer for your ride up Anakeesta Mountain, then enjoy the 600-foot scenic trip up to the summit! Once reaching the top, take a stroll through the magical Firefly Village, where you can enjoy treehouse-themed shopping and dining while exploring numerous scenic overlooks.
4. Gatlinburg Sky Lift
Glide to the top of Crockett Mountain on the Gatlinburg Sky Lift, a scenic ride with wonderful views of the Smoky Mountains. Kick back on the smooth ride as you rise to the peak of the mountain before slowly turning back around for your trip back down. This is the perfect time to get out your camera to capture the magnificent beauty of the Smokies!
Check out all of our cabins in the Smoky Mountains today to stay near these fun attractions in Gatlinburg TN! We hope to see you soon at Alpine Chalet Rentals!