Your Ultimate Guide To Winter Attractions And Activities In Tennessee
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Chris Dodge
Author
We are extremely blessed in Tennessee to have incredible weather all year long. As warm as it can get in our state this is still one of the best states to experience the changes that come with each season. That being said we also have no shortage of activities and events to enjoy during the cold months. Bundle up and take a hike, gather your friends at a popular event, and so much more this season. We guarantee you won’t be bored here — there are truly so many fun things to do in Tennessee in winter!
Holiday Events In Tennessee
When it comes to holiday events we have so many it is almost overwhelming to keep up with them. Fortunately, many of these events are annual so you can even add them to your Christmas traditions for some fun family things to do in Tennessee in winter. We narrowed down the long list to give you what I think are the top three in our state. So plan ahead because tickets might not last long.
1. Ice!, Nashville
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, USA
In a state with such a mild winter season, finding ice sculptures can be hard to come by. Luckily for us, we have the Ice! Event to look forward to. Wonderful and artistic designs abound in a massive 19,000 square-foot space with the thermostat set to a freezing 9 degrees. Grab a complimentary blue parka, bundle up, and walk through the various interactive displays. Each year, they bring a new theme which tends to correspond with a classic Christmas film. Each display will showcase iconic scenes from the movies for a fun event perfect for the whole family.
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2. Winterfest, Pigeon Forge
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Pigeon Forge, TN, USA
During the holidays, the whole Smoky Mountain area gets transformed into a magical wonderland filled with creative light displays and events all over town. All of the dinner shows offer a special Christmas version of their theatrical performances. Everything from pyrotechnic horse trouting to wood chopping has a fresh coat of holiday joy sprinkled on top. Restaurants and stores get in on the fun by offering special seasonal items and the whole town is washed in a blanket of sparkly lights. Your holiday adventures are customizable for whatever suits you best, so you can simply walk the town and ogle the holiday lights or make a whole week vacation stay with a trip to Dollywood and other incredible attractions. Make sure you also visit the Island to see the holiday lights illuminate this popular spot. Winterfest even spills over into Sevierville as well, allowing you to see even more lights during this time of the year. If you are lucky, you might even see a dusting of snow making the whole town even more magical.
3. North Pole Limited, Chattanooga
Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, 4119 Cromwell Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37421, USA
The North Pole Limited train is the Tennessee Valley Railroads' biggest event of the year. This enchanting experience takes guests on a train ride from the depot to the North Pole. Bring the whole family and take a journey on an authentic and historic train ride. The whole train is decorated and along the way, you will pass several Christmas displays to make the whole experience even more magical. When you reach the North Pole, Santa himself will board the train and visit all the excited children and adults alike. This is one highly anticipated event each year and never ceases to impress visitors.
Christmas Towns In Tennessee
Imagine for a moment a small town hallmark Christmas movie and you can begin to scratch the surface of these Christmas towns in the Volunteer State. Whether you live in one or nearby, they make for incredible places to visit. Looking for cheap things to do in Tennessee in winter? Then take a trip to any one of these towns to take advantage of the holiday traditions and join in on all the holly jolly just overflowing from these
4. Franklin
Franklin, TN, USA
Franklin is one of those small towns outside of Nashville that has just captured everyone’s affection. It offers a historical vibe but is fitted with all of the modern conveniences you could ever want. So when December rolls around, the halls are decked and around every corner, you'll find seasonal festivities. In a town that is already revered for having loads of Southern charm, you can’t go wrong with a stroll downtown. The annual Christmas parade is something you don’t want to miss but the star of the season is the Dickens of a Christmas event. The town's historical charm is the perfect backdrop for Charles Dickens' characters to come to life with live musical performances and familiar faces for a classically good time.
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5. Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Gatlinburg is one of the most magical mountain towns ever to exist, so when you sprinkle some holiday cheer, you are in for one of the best Christmas experiences yet. Located at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery or just take a stroll down the main strip. The Parkway is filled with elaborate Christmas decorations and large holiday displays everywhere you look. The whole town gathers around the season and embraces it to the fullest with several seasonal specials to enjoy. Take a walk on the SkyBridge overlooking the town as the swaying bridge sparkles with Christmas lights. Take a trip to the top of a mountain and walk among the stunning designs found in Anakeesa, or spend the day at Tennessee’s only ski resort, Ober Gatlinburg.
6. Jonesborough
Jonesborough, TN 37659, USA
Jonesborough is the oldest town in Tennessee and in my opinion, remains the single most charming town in the state. During the holidays, the streets are lit with sparking lights and illuminated Christmas trees. Simply strolling down the brick sidewalks will put you in the spirit of the season and every store has elaborate decorations. Indulge your sweet tooth at the retro candy store called The Lollipop Shop, or shop for unique gifts at any of the other one-of-a-kind stores. There are a plethora of events scheduled each year and in the past, the Dog Parade was my favorite. Every time I visit and walk the streets, it makes me proud to live in Tennessee and it only gets better around Christmas time.
Outdoor Activities
Unlike our northern neighbors, our seasons are fairly mild but still offer a fantastic taste of the cold before it overstays its welcome. Don’t you just love the South? When it comes to Tennessee winter activities we have a wide range of fun things to do that cover everything you love about the colder months.
7. Ober Mountain, Gatlinburg
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Ober Mountain, 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, USA
Ober Mountain is the only ski resort within Tennessee and it is the number one spot for all winter activities. Hit the slopes on skis or snowboards and challenge yourself with various routes ranging in difficulty. If you prefer other activities there is so much to see and do that you can actually spend multiple days on top of the mountain. Take a scenic lift, go tubing, enjoy some ice skating, and you can even play on the ice bummer cars for a unique experience. There are plenty of options when it comes to Tennessee’s best hub for frozen fun.
8. Round Bald, Roan Mountain
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Round Bald, Tennessee 28705, USA
When it comes to Free things to do in Tennessee in winter there is simply no better activity than lacing up your hiking boots and going for a hike. We have a wide variety of incredible hikes here in our state but my heart belongs to Roan Mountian. I have hiked up Round Bald countless times and one of my favorite adventures was in the wintertime. The snow had freshly fallen that morning and the scenic drive up to the trailhead was nothing short of magical. Getting to the top the temperature was freezing cold but I was lost in the enchanted beauty of a mountain that had been completely transformed by a blanket of white snow. If there is snow in the forecast then I highly recommend a trip up to Round Bald for a breathtaking experience you won’t soon forget.
9. Frozen Waterfalls, Erwin
Sill Branch Falls, Erwin, TN 37650, USA
Martin Creek Falls, Banner Hill, TN 37650, USA
We here in the Volunteer State are no strangers to a little waterfall chasing. After all, we have some of the best waterfalls in the country so it should come as no surprise that winter is also a great time to see some of these natural beauties. This suggestion is by no means exhaustive because you can hike to any of your favorite waterfalls and enjoy the view but there are two in particular in Erwin I am partial to. Sill Branch Falls and Martin Creek Falls both offer different experiences and can actually be traversed in one day back to back with a short drive in between. We had the privilege to see Sill Branch Falls while it was frozen and it was a spectacular and memorable sight to behold.
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10. Pigeon Forge Snow, Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge Snow, 2533 Teaster Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, USA
When you think of snow tubing, images of bundled-up guests excited for the thrill of the ride might come to mind. It isn’t very often that you witness people sliding down the hill wearing shorts, but then again it's Tennessee. Pigeon Forge Snow takes an outdoor activity and puts it inside for those to enjoy all year long. The temperature inside averages around 60-70 degrees but the snow is made fresh every day. Visitors can get the thrill of snow tubing without waiting for the weather to cooperate. Once you are finished tubing, play in the snow making snowmen and snow angels.
11. Lost Sea Adventure
The Lost Sea Adventure, 140 Lost Sea Rd, Sweetwater, TN 37874, USA
Sometimes the cold weather months just seem to drag on and you need a break from the cold. I get it, I’ve been there before too, but instead of succumbing to cabin fever why not take a tour underground? We have over 10,000 caves in Tennessee and all of them offer quite unique and different experiences. The Lost Sea Adventure for instance hosts the largest underground lake in America. Book a tour and beat the freezing weather with a cool 58 degrees year-round in the cave. Guests will not only get a chance to see the famous body of water but tours will take you out on a boat ride. It might not be your conventional winter activity but you are sure to love it nonetheless.
Winter Getaways
With so many fun things to do in Tennessee in winter, it’s nice to just get away and spend a whole trip centered around the seasonal activities. Retreat to the mountains or book a stay in a resort to spend some time away from it all or allow the majestic beauty to wash over you. However, if you spend your time during the colder months we have some incredible places to take full advantage of not just the amenities but also to enjoy the wide range of activities in the area.
12. Fall Creek Falls Lodge, Fall Creek Falls State Park
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Fall Creek Falls State Park, 2009 Village Camp Rd, Spencer, TN 38585, USA
Fall Creek Falls is one of the most gorgeous state parks in Tennessee. Home of the biggest free-falling waterfall east of the Mississippi River, it takes on a whole new look in the winter. You can hike down to the base of the fall and witness the majestic splendor of this natural wonder. I can tell you from experience this is one incredible hike with lots to see on the way down and the reward is to witness one of the best waterfalls in the state. Staying in the lodge will offer guests cozy accommodations to beat the winter cold once you are done hiking. Snuggle up in the blankets and enjoy views of the lake or rest easy with your family. Not every state park has a lodge and this is one great way to enjoy the park in a whole new way while enjoying luxurious amenities.
13. Camp Margaritaville, Pigeon Forge
Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Lodge - Pigeon Forge, 149 Cates Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, USA
My family and I took a trip to Camp Margaritaville in the winter and we have since longed to go back. This luxury campground is one of the nicest facilities we have ever seen. A restaurant, arcade, bowling, and so much more located within the Fin City Entertainment Center made it hard to leave to property. You can stay in the lodge or bring an RV to camp onsite. They are even dog-friendly in the lodge so feel free to bring along your puppy. Camp Margaritaville is located only minutes away from the Great Smoky Mountains which offers a whole new world of possibilities to explore even in the winter. It is a much less busy time to visit and I would highly recommend it.
14. Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, Nashville
Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, 2800 Opryland Dr, Nashville, TN 37214, USA
The Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is already a magical place all year long. Then when it comes to the holiday season, the whole place is alive with Christmas joy. Large banners of twinkling lights and massive Christmas trees can be found inside, making for a spectacular holiday display. The large indoor pool area is more like a tropical paradise than a standard hotel pool, and it’s easy to get lost in the splendor. You might forget altogether about the snow outside and get caught up in the magical display. As previously mentioned the ice sculptures of Ice! are also located here, so you can book a night stay and enjoy the artistic Christmas designs all in one place. Not to mention you are also in our state’s capitol which is filled with a wide range of fun things to do in Tennessee in winter.
Walk downtown Nashville, listen to some good old country music at a famous concert hall, or enjoy one of the many hipster coffee shops. If you are staying in Nashville then another great place to explore during the holiday season is Cheekwood with brilliant gardens completely covered in lights.
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15. Cabin In The Mountains, Mountain City
Mountain City, TN 37683, USA
Did you know that Mountain City typically experiences the most snowfall in Tennessee? So when you are looking for some romantic things to do in Tennessee in winter, this should make it to the top of the list. Surprise your love with a weekend getaway in the mountains surrounded by snow. Light the fireplace and snuggle in this exceptional vacation rental. Clear your calendar and spend some quality time together immersing yourself in the beauty -- and don’t forget to bring your bathing suit. There is a hot tub to soak in overlooking the mountains awash in a winter wonderland, now that sounds like a romantic cabin to me.
When it comes to fun things to do In Tennessee in winter we seem to have no end to the great attractions, events, and places to stay here in our state. It is once again just a great reminder that we truly are blessed to be in this amazing state all year round to enjoy seasonal treats like these this winter.
We aren’t done with ideas just yet! Check out some more great places to visit in the winter in Tennessee.
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