East Tennessee Things to Do: Ultimate Guide to Adventure, Culture & Relaxation

From misty mountain peaks to vibrant cities, East Tennessee offers endless ways to explore. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or planning a move, this guide covers the best things to do in East Tennessee for outdoor lovers, history buffs, foodies, and families.

🏞️ Outdoor Adventures

1. Hike the Great Smoky Mountains

• Must-Do Trails: Alum Cave Trail, Charlies Bunion, Rainbow Falls
• Best View: Clingmans Dome (highest point in TN)

2. Explore Waterfalls

• Laurel Falls (easy hike, kid-friendly)
• Abrams Falls (moderate hike, powerful cascade)
• Burgess Falls (dramatic multi-tiered falls near Cookeville)

3. Raft the Ocoee River

• Olympic-grade rapids (hosted 1996 Olympics)
• Family-friendly floats available

4. Fish or Boat on Norris Lake

• Known for: Clear water, bass fishing, secluded coves

5. Bike the Virginia Creeper Trail

• Scenic 17-mile ride (mostly downhill) from Whitetop Station

🎭 Culture & History

6. Tour Dollywood (Pigeon Forge)

• Rides, live music & Southern cooking
• Seasonal festivals (Smoky Mountain Christmas is magical)

7. Step Back in Time at Cades Cove

• Historic cabins, churches & wildlife (often spot bears & deer)

8. Visit the Museum of Appalachia (Clinton)

• Authentic pioneer village with live demonstrations

9. See the Titanic Museum (Pigeon Forge)

• Interactive exhibits & real artifacts

10. Catch a Show at the Bijou Theatre (Knoxville)

• Historic venue hosting concerts, plays & comedy

🍴 Food & Drink Experiences

11. Eat at a Historic Southern Diner

• Pancake Pantry (Gatlinburg) – Legendary breakfast spot
• Loveless Cafe (Nashville day trip) – Famous biscuits & jam

12. Sip Tennessee Whiskey

• Old Forge Distillery (Pigeon Forge) – Moonshine tastings
• PostModern Spirits (Knoxville) – Craft cocktails

13. Tour a Local Farmers Market

• Market Square Farmers Market (Knoxville) – Fresh produce & artisan goods

14. Try Appalachian BBQ

• Dead End BBQ (Knoxville) – Award-winning ribs
• Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que (Gatlinburg) – 30+ years of smoky perfection

🎢 Family-Friendly Fun

15. Ride the Gatlinburg SkyLift

• Sweeping views of the Smokies

16. Meet Sea Creatures at Ripley’s Aquarium

• Underwater tunnel with sharks & rays

17. Play at Anakeesta (Gatlinburg)

• Treetop walkways, ziplining & mountain coaster

18. Explore the Lost Sea Adventure

• America’s largest underground lake (Sweetwater, TN)

19. Ride the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster

• Fastest downhill coaster in the area

🛶 Unique & Offbeat Experiences

20. Take a Ghost Tour in Jonesborough

• TN’s oldest town has spooky legends

21. Stargaze at Obed Wild & Scenic River

• Designated Dark Sky Park

22. Ride a Horse at Big South Fork

• Scenic trails through sandstone cliffs

23. Hunt for Antiques in Sevierville

• Rustic finds & vintage treasures

24. Soak in a Hot Tub Cabin

• Rent a private cabin with mountain views

🚗 Day Trips from East Tennessee

• Asheville, NC (1.5 hrs) – Biltmore Estate & craft beer
• Chattanooga (1.5 hrs) – Rock City & Ruby Falls
• Blue Ridge Parkway (2 hrs) – Scenic drives & overlooks

📅 Best Time to Visit East Tennessee

• Spring (April-May): Wildflowers, mild temps
• Fall (October): Peak foliage, festivals
• Winter (Dec-Feb): Skiing at Ober Gatlinburg, holiday lights

Final Thoughts: Your East Tennessee Bucket List

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, savoring Southern food, or relaxing in a rocking chair with mountain views, East Tennessee delivers unforgettable experiences.

Want to stay forever? Explore homes and land for sale in East Tennessee’s most scenic areas!

That’s all for now. If you’re looking for your piece of East Tennessee Off-Grid property, reach out to me HERE!