This Unforgettable Tennessee Destination Feels Just Like the Alps

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is sometimes called the “Gateway to the Smokies” because of its proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park — the most-visited national park in the U.S (and for good reason; I loved every second of my visit). The sweeping mountain views, walkable downtown, and easy access to outdoor recreation make Gatlinburg a natural choice if you’re looking for European-inspired places in Tennessee. A trip here feels like you’re vacationing in the Alps, only without the hassle of planning an overseas getaway.

Home to less than 4,000 people, Gatlinburg is the epitome of a quaint mountain town in Tennessee. Its picturesque scenery belongs on a postcard, the skyline filled with dramatic mountain peaks covered in lush greenery. Similar to many Alpine towns, Gatlinburg may not have many permanent residents, but its population swells with year-round tourism thanks to Ober Mountain. An amusement park in the summer and a renowned ski destination in the winter, Ober Mountain boasts the top attraction in the Smoky Mountains: the Gatlinburg Tram.

This scenic chairlift operates all year, allowing riders to appreciate the stunning mountain landscape in all its forms. In the winter, snow blankets the hillsides, resting delicately on tree branches like a Christmas card. The mountains come alive in the summer, wildflowers springing up from the earth, creating a sea of color. Autumn’s warm, rich tones are even more brilliant from above, painting an enchanting scene that evokes feelings of nostalgia. The tram will make you forget you’re in Tennessee as you inhale the crisp mountain air and revel in the sound of silence. 

Ober Mountain isn’t the only similarity between Gatlinburg and Europe. The downtown area is a replica of a charming European village, with cobblestone streets and chalet-style buildings sporting flower boxes and A-frame roofs. Shops and restaurants offer handmade jewelry and clothing, artisanal chocolates, and even moonshine tastings at Ole Smoky Distillery, and the charm is tangible. Downtown Gatlinburg’s walkable nature is similar to many historic Alpine towns. 

Other popular attractions include Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, and Anakeesta. Similar to Ober Mountain, Gatlinburg SkyLift Park has a scenic chairlift ride that showcases incredible city and mountain views. It also boasts a glass-paneled suspension bridge perfect for thrill-seekers. Anakeesta is a family-friendly outdoor theme park with treetop attractions like ziplines and a mountain coaster.

You may also want to check out the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community, the largest independent artist organization in the U.S. Watching all of the artisans make and sell their goods will remind you of European villages where everything you need is within walking distance. And, of course, scenic drives like the Cades Cove Loop, which isn't directly in Gatlinburg but close, are great if you want to enjoy the beautiful landscape in Great Smoky Mountains National Park without hiking.

Have you ever visited Gatlinburg? If so, what’s your favorite thing to do there? If you can think of any more European-inspired places in Tennessee that are worth the trip, share this article with your favorite travel friend and plan a visit.

If you need somewhere to stay in Gatlinburg, the Tennessee Vacation website has lots of options as well as places to eat, shop, and more. You could find mountainside villas reminiscent of an Alpine ski lodge, with amenities that will make you want to extend your visit. And if you plan on hiking while in the area (which you definitely should), here are a few of our favorite hiking trails in the Smokies.