- There are several attractions within walking distance of our hotel (one mile or less), making it easy to get around and have fun in Gatlinburg with no driving required!
- Families love these options, as there are activities for every age.
- Visitors love not having to deal with any parking stress or fees, just walk from your room to the fun!
Read on to find out more about some of the top things to do in Gatlinburg that you can walk to from our hotel!
The Magic of a Walkable Family Vacation in Gatlinburg
Imagine starting your day with a fresh mountain breeze and heading out the front door with your family to explore the best of Gatlinburg, all on foot! No “Are we there yet?” No parking headaches. Just laughter, adventure, and quality time together.
That’s the experience our hotel delivers. We’re not just a place to sleep, we’re your family’s launchpad to the Smokies’ top attractions, all within easy walking distance. Here’s your guide to four must-visit spots you can reach in minutes.
4 Family Attractions You Can Walk to From Our Hotel
1. Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf
Distance: Directly in front of our hotel (1-minute walk)
Why Families Love It:
- Two themed courses, 36 holes of fun for all ages
- Shaded areas and benches for parents
- Stroller-friendly paths
Tip: Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini-Golf is the closest attraction in Gatlinburg to The Appy Lodge!
2. Moonshine Mountain Coaster
Distance: 0.2 miles (4-minute walk)
Why Families Love It:
- Control your speed up to 30+ mph, thrilling but safe for kids
- Day and night rides available
- Specially designed silent track
Insider Tip: Buy tickets online to skip the line!
3. Hillbilly Golf
Distance: 0.3 miles (6-minute walk)
Why Families Love It:
- Ride a funicular up the hillside to two unique courses
- Hillbilly Golf features mountain scenery and well-kept grounds
- Friendly, helpful staff
- Great for all ages, toddlers to grandparents
Local Secret: Early mornings are less crowded and cooler!
4. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Distance: 0.9 miles (18-minute walk)
Why Families Love It:
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies has more sea creatures than there are people in the town of Gatlinburg!
- Interactive experiences like Touch-A-Ray Bay
- Immersive elements such as the Shark Tunnel
- Hours of family fun for kids of all ages, and parents too!
Pro Tip: If you are visiting multiple Ripley’s Attractions, make sure to grab their combo pass!
Mini-Summary: Why Walkability Matters for Families
Key Finding: Families save time, money, and stress by choosing a hotel with walkable access to Gatlinburg’s top attractions. No need for car seats, parking fees, or long waits, just step outside and start your adventure.
Your Top Family Travel Questions Answered
How long does it take to walk to each attraction with young children?
A: With children under 8, add 3–5 extra minutes to our estimated walking times. The furthest attraction is about a 20-minute stroll at a toddler’s pace.
Are the sidewalks stroller and wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes! All routes feature wide, paved sidewalks with curb cuts and minimal elevation changes.
Are these attractions suitable for families with teenagers?
A: Absolutely! While our featured attractions cater to younger children, teenagers especially enjoy the thrill ride at Moonshine Mountain Coaster.
Can we visit all five attractions in one day?
A: While technically possible, we recommend spreading these experiences across 2–3 days to avoid over-scheduling and maximize enjoyment.
Family-Friendly Amenities at Our Hotel
Some of the amenities we offer at our Gatlinburg hotel include:
- Spacious rooms with comfortable beds
- Complimentary breakfast with kid-friendly options
- Indoor pool and hot tub
- Free WiFi
- Lots more to love
Mini-Summary: Our hotel is designed for families; every amenity, every service, and every recommendation is chosen with your comfort and convenience in mind.
Make a Reservation at Our Gatlinburg Hotel
Now that you know more about some of the top Gatlinburg attractions that you can walk to from The Appy Lodge, you can probably see why travelers love coming to stay with us when they are visiting the Smoky Mountains! Go ahead and book your stay at our Gatlinburg hotel today and get ready for a fantastic adventure of your own.
