Smoky Mountain stream with fall foliage on either side

4 of the Best Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains in the Fall

Fall in the Smoky Mountains
September 30, 2024

There is nothing more beautiful than the vibrant colors of fall covering the Smoky Mountains. With scenic views and countless seasonal attractions, it’s the perfect destination to get into the autumn spirit! Here are 4 of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains in the fall!

1. Enjoy the Views

fall in the smoky mountains

For a picture-perfect view of the Smokies, take a ride on the Gatlinburg SkyLift! Take in a scenic view of mountains and downtown Gatlinburg from 1,800 feet in the air! You can sit comfortably with up to two other friends or family members. Children ages 2 and under can ride for free and there are discounts for active and retired military! Come back after dark for a gorgeous view of the city lights from above! For a 360 degree view of the Smokies and downtown Gatlinburg, visit the Space Needle! This 407-foot-tall observation tower is a premiere Gatlinburg attraction. It is also open year-round, so come and see it for yourself anytime!

2. Corn Mazes and Pumpkin Patches

For a day filled with fall spirit, spend the day at Kyker Farms Corn Maze! This authentic farm has a pumpkin patch, hay rides and 4 corn mazes! Other fun activities include tunnel slides, swings, corn hole, straw crawl, bouncing pillow, zip line, and more! Make sure you stop by Kyker's Kritter and Educational Barn to learn more about the farm and agriculture. After dark, you can sit around a bonfire to stay warm while you enjoy the fresh fall air.

3. Have Some Spooky Fun

Mysterious Mansion in Gatlinburg

Haunted attractions are a favorite during the fall season, especially toward Halloween. For some frightful fun, visit the Mysterious Mansion! You can go on a self-guided tour through this victorian-style haunted house with jump scares around every corner! For some spooky fun the kids will love, stop by Ripley’s Haunted Adventure! Children must be 6 years or older to enter. Live actors lurk in the darkness of the mansion waiting to pop out at you! It’s sure to be an adventure that all of your friends and family will enjoy.

4. Visit an Apple Orchard

Apples are one of the most popular fruits of fall and there are so many ways to enjoy them! Stop by Carver’s Orchard & Applehouse Restaurant for lunch or dinner and browse their store for jams and preserves to take home! The one apple orchard you want to be sure you visit is the Apple Barn. You can watch as they press the apples into fresh cider. Samples of the cider on the spot were in such high demand that they opened a Cider Bar! The Apple Barn Winery offers a unique twist by offering specialized apple and fruit wines. You can also grab a bite to eat at their Farmhouse Restaurant or Farmhouse Grill.

We would love to share more of our favorite things to do in the Smoky Mountains with you. Check out our condos and villas and start planning your fall getaway today! We can’t wait to see you at the Appleview River Resort!