- Play mountaintop mini golf at Hillbilly Golf, complete with Appalachian-themed obstacles
- Shop for quirky cat memorabilia and meet friendly felines at the Smoky Mountain Cat House
- Marvel at 20,000+ whimsical salt and pepper shakers at a one-of-a-kind museum
- Experience penguin art, year-round tubing, goats on rooftops, and llamas on hiking trails
- Stay close to all the action with Hearthside Cabin Rentals
Discover the Most Unusual Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN
Ever wondered what it is like to play mini golf on a mountaintop, shop in a store run by cats, or spot llamas on a hiking trail? Gatlinburg, Tennessee is packed with surprises that go far beyond the usual vacation checklist. Nestled at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this vibrant town is a treasure trove of quirky adventures and unforgettable Gatlinburg attractions.
At Hearthside Cabin Rentals, we believe your getaway should be as unique as you are, so we have rounded up the most unusual things to do in Gatlinburg TN and the Smoky Mountains to make your trip truly one of a kind.
1. Playing Putt Putt at Hillbilly Golf
Hillbilly Golf is not your average mini golf course, it is an Appalachian adventure perched atop a mountain. Start your journey with a scenic tram ride that whisks you 300 feet up, setting the stage for a round of putt putt like no other.
The course is dotted with classic Appalachian obstacles including tractors, moonshine stills, farming equipment, and outhouses. Every hole offers a new challenge and plenty of mountain charm. Whether you are a mini golf pro or just in it for fun, Hillbilly Golf delivers a memorable experience that captures the quirky spirit of Gatlinburg attractions.
Staying with Hearthside Cabin Rentals puts you just minutes away from this mountaintop adventure.
2. Shopping at the Smoky Mountain Cat House
Cat lovers will enjoy the Smoky Mountain Cat House near The Old Mill in Pigeon Forge, a whimsical shop dedicated to all things feline. Inside, you will find cat themed memorabilia including jewelry, home decor, handbags, pillows, T shirts, and more.
The real highlight is the friendly resident cats that roam the store and often greet visitors with cuddles and playful energy. It is a must visit stop for anyone looking for a unique souvenir or a memorable animal encounter.
With Hearthside Cabin Rentals, you are never far from the most unique things to do in the Smoky Mountains.
3. Visiting the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
Prepare to be amazed at the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, home to more than 20,000 pairs of salt and pepper shakers from around the world.
The collection features everything from U.S. Presidents and aliens to lobsters, pharaohs, cowboys, and even bagels. Wandering through the displays feels like exploring a gallery of miniature art and humor.
There is also a gift shop where you can pick out your own quirky set to take home. It is a perfect rainy day stop for guests staying with Hearthside Cabin Rentals.
Mini Summary
Gatlinburg is full of surprises, from mountaintop mini golf and cat themed shops to a museum dedicated entirely to salt and pepper shakers. These unusual things to do in Gatlinburg TN are only the beginning.
4. Get a Penguin Painting at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is known for immersive exhibits, but the Penguin Playhouse takes things further.
Here, African penguins create unique footprint artwork on canvas, turning each piece into a one of a kind souvenir. Guests can also enjoy close encounters during the Penguin Encounter, offering unforgettable photo opportunities.
These interactive moments make the aquarium one of the most unique Gatlinburg attractions for families and animal lovers visiting the Smokies with Hearthside Cabin Rentals.
5. Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark in Pigeon Forge
If you have never tried hill tubing, Rowdy Bear’s Smoky Mountain Snowpark is a must. The attraction features a giant tubing hill where you can slide year round, rain or shine.
A magic carpet lift brings you back to the top so you can ride again and again. In winter, real snow adds even more excitement.
For thrill seekers, the Ski Lift Shootout Coaster lets you ride while shooting lasers at targets along the way. It is a high energy experience perfect for families staying near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
6. Experiencing Goats on the Roof in Wears Valley
Goats on the Roof is exactly what it sounds like, a quirky attraction where real goats live on the rooftop.
Visitors can feed the goats using a pulley system that sends treats up to them. The attraction also includes souvenir shopping, homemade fudge, ice cream, and an alpine coaster ride.
It is one of the most unusual stops in the Smoky Mountains and a favorite for families visiting with Hearthside Cabin Rentals.
Mini Summary
From penguin art and tubing to goats on rooftops, the Smoky Mountains are full of unexpected fun. Staying with Hearthside keeps you close to it all.
7. Seeing Llamas Along the Trillium Gap Trail
For a truly unique hiking experience, head to the Trillium Gap Trail on Monday, Wednesday, or Friday mornings.
You may encounter a herd of llamas carrying supplies up to LeConte Lodge. Along the way, hikers can also enjoy Grotto Falls, the only waterfall in the national park where you can walk behind the water.
It is one of the most magical and unusual things to do in Gatlinburg TN and the Smoky Mountains.
FAQ: Unusual Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN and the Smoky Mountains
What are the most unusual things to do in Gatlinburg TN?
Some of the most unusual things include mountaintop mini golf at Hillbilly Golf, the Smoky Mountain Cat House, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, penguin art at Ripley’s Aquarium, goats on rooftops, and llama sightings on hiking trails.
Are there unique animal encounters in the Smoky Mountains?
Yes! Visitors can see penguins painting artwork, feed goats on rooftops, and even hike alongside llamas on the Trillium Gap Trail.
What makes Gatlinburg different from other vacation destinations?
Gatlinburg combines natural beauty with quirky, one of a kind attractions you will not find elsewhere, making it ideal for travelers who want something memorable and unexpected.
Book Your Unique Gatlinburg Cabin Stay Today
Ready to explore all the unusual things to do in Gatlinburg TN and the Smoky Mountains? When you choose Hearthside Cabin Rentals, you are choosing comfort, convenience, and proximity to the best attractions in the Smokies. Reserve your Gatlinburg cabin today and start planning your unique adventure!
