Hanging out with the guys is one of the best ways to enjoy a vacation, so check out our ultimate guide to a fun guy's weekend in Gatlinburg for an unbeatable experience. Whether you want to experience nature firsthand or get an inside look at Gatlinburg's nightlife, these tips have you covered.
Start the Vacation Right
Enjoying a fun vacation when your destination is Gatlinburg is easy. However, there's a vast difference between a trip that's a little fun and a guy's trip to Gatlinburg that has you saying, "Bro, let's go out this weekend." That's why it's important to answer critical questions with the guys before booking the vacation, such as:
- Do you like outdoor activities?
- Are you interested in finding killer food and drinks?
- Do you want to be close to everything or enjoy your privacy?
Answering these questions and more will ensure everyone in your group is satisfied throughout their stay, letting you focus more on making incredible memories while finetuning your guy's weekend ideas.
The Perfect Gatlinburg Cabin
While you can stay in a hotel during your Gatlinburg vacation, the only way to enjoy an authentic Smoky Mountain experience is in a cabin. The best part about staying in our Gatlinburg cabins is the number of options available to customize your getaway.
For those who love the appeal of the mountains and doing things outside, you'll love our cabins with a mountain view. Pair gorgeous views with complete relaxation in our hot tub cabins for the perfect way to enjoy downtime.
Are you all about the city and remaining close to restaurants and entertainment? You'll want to stay in a cabin near downtown Gatlinburg to remain in the thick of the action. No matter the cabin you choose, take the time to make it a cabin rental that suits your desires. Some amenities you'll want in your vacation cabin no matter what are:
- Deck
- Wi-Fi
- Grill
- Full Kitchen
- Living Room
- and More!
Now that you have an idea of how to pick the perfect home base for your upcoming trip, it's time to check out all the fun weekend activities you and the boys can enjoy.
Get Wild With Nature
The Smoky Mountains are known first and foremost for the mountains, streams, trails, and more spread throughout the region. Naturally, one of the best Gatlinburg, TN vacation ideas is to figure out fun ways to enjoy nature, so we've put together some excellent options.
Fly High with Ziplines
Nothing lets you take in the beauty of the mountains and tree lines while getting your adrenaline pumping more than trying out ziplines. One of our favorite choices is Goliath Zip Line at Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park. Speeds of up to 55mph at heights of 475 feet? You'll definitely feel the thrill.
Adapt to the Seasons
Did you know you can try winter sports at Ober Mountain, like skiing, snowboarding, and more? If you like physical activities and taking things to the extreme during winter, this is a must-visit attraction for you and the others.
The best part is that Ober Mountain is only minutes from downtown Gatlinburg and is open all year. Some other fun options available at this attraction are:
- Amusement Park Rides
- Wildlife Encounters
- Mini Golf
- and More!
However, if you're enjoying a guy's trip during the summer and want to get your heart pumping, trying whitewater rafting is practically mandatory. Have no fear if you're inexperienced in this activity. Places like Rafting in the Smokies run multiple trips that cater to all experience levels, including novices, so you can confidently stay focused on the fun.
Off Road and More
Another way to get wild on your trip is to rent a UTV and hit the trails in the national park or cruise through Gatlinburg and see scenic destinations, making it a top choice for fun weekend activities. With this option, you get an inimitable firsthand look at the Smoky Mountains.
If you're interested in this idea, we recommend starting with Off-Road Gatlinburg. They offer street-legal UTVs and off-road tours that lead to incredible views and untouched peaks, letting you cruise around with your buddies however you see fit.
Eat and Drink Your Fill
If there's one thing that unites people while on vacation, it's good food and good drinks. The Gatlinburg area is a mecca for both and offers plenty of ways to get your fix while matching your vacation vibes.
Tour a Moonshine Distillery
If you and the boys like to drink and try new flavors, you'll want to add a moonshine distillery tour to your plans. For the best experience, head to Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery or Sugarlands Distilling Co. Both locations offer tours and samples, in addition to other fun things, creating a fun experience at every drop.
Hit the Wine Trail
If moonshine and whiskey aren't your thing, you might want to hit the wine trail. This trail covers 12 miles of wineries, with more than 70 types of wine to sample during the tours. Either way, you and the boys will feel a buzz.
Sample Craft Beers
One option for those who love beer and want good food and entertainment simultaneously is to go to Smoky Mountain Brewery. During your visit, you'll enjoy everything from watching football and listening to live music to eating awesome burgers and wings. However, the real star is the selection of beers you get to try, including seasonal brews.
Alternatively, you can visit Gatlinburg Brewing Company. Here, you'll enjoy craft pizzas and craft beers for a fun and delicious night on the town. The best part is that the beer list is ever-changing, meaning you can try something different every time.
Dig in at These Food Favorites
If food has your attention more than drinks, we have you covered, whether you enjoy pizza, southern food, classic grill items, or a unique treat. Consider stopping by these restaurants for complete hunger satisfaction while enjoying good vibes:
- Ole Red Gatlinburg
- Underdogs Pizza
- J.O.E. and Pop's Sub Shoppe
- Shamrock's Pub
- Jason Aldean's Kitchen + Rooftop Bar
- The Park Grill
- The Peddler Steakhouse
- The Rampant Lion Celtic Pub and Wine Bar
After lunch or dinner, you need dessert. In Gatlinburg, it doesn't get any sweeter (or crazier) than stopping by The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar. At this lovely shop, you'll enjoy trying everything from milkshakes to pies and cookies.
Note: They offer gluten-free and dairy-free menu items, ensuring everyone can satisfy their sweet tooth.
Low-Key Fun Awaits You
Sometimes, the best way to have a good time is to keep things low-key and enjoy unwinding from the pressures of everyday life. If that feels like your group, keep reading to learn our ideas.
Golf Courses Everywhere
Nothing says a vacation with the guys like planning the best golf trips for guys in Gatlinburg. There are multiple courses available in this city and we've put together our favorites:
- Gatlinburg Golf Course
- Bent Creek Golf Course
- Laurel Valley Golf Course
All three courses have something to offer and play into the natural environment of the Smoky Mountains. If you don't mind driving a little, Laurel Valley Golf Course is in Townsend but it also puts you close to other locations like Cades Cove, so it's worth considering.
Hiking and More
Keep the low-key enjoyment going by taking on a hike. There are dozens of trails throughout the Great Smoky Mountains National Park of varying difficulty, ensuring you can enjoy everything you see at your own pace.
Embrace Your Inner Tourist
One of the best ways to enjoy the Gatlinburg area is to put on your tourist cap and visit all the classic attractions. All these options can easily fit with the rest of your plans, and most importantly, are lots of fun. Some attractions to consider visiting are:
- Speedwerkz Exotic Car Experience
- Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
- Gatlinburg Space Needle
- Gatlinburg SkyBridge
- Ober Gatlinburg
- Anakeesta
No matter what, there's always something to do in Gatlinburg. However, there are also plenty of ways to relax and unwind. No matter how you plan your trip, you'll make wonderful memories and want to start planning a return trip.
Start Your Getaway Today
You have the roadmap to unlimited fun and know what you need in a cabin rental. The only thing left to do is pick the best vacation rental and reserve your spot today for a 15 discount on your nightly rate. With us, your guy's weekend in Gatlinburg is set to be legendary.