Are you looking for a destination with the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains and all the attractions of a big city? Then Gatlinburg is the place for you. Gatlinburg is situated in Sevier County, Eastern Tennessee, United States mountain town. It is an incredible spot for vacation experiences and a go-to place for all travel connoisseurs. But what if you can’t make it to Gatlinburg? Well, don’t worry, there are plenty of places similar to Gatlinburg that will give you the same experience. In this article, we’ll list these 20 places that are just as amazing as Gatlinburg. Let’s get them uncovered. Shall we?
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20. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Pigeon Forge is a mountain metropolis in Sevier County, Tennessee, United States. It is located just five miles from Gatlinburg and has a population of about six thousand. This incredible place is known for owning numerous attractions and places to visit, such as; The Island in Pigeon Forge. Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine, Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, and Dollywood. There are several places you can stay during your vacation, and Margaritaville Island Hotel is highly recommended.
19. Cherokee, North Carolina
Cherokee is a town in the western part of the U.S. state of North Carolina in Swain and Jackson counties. This Census-designated place is a town full of outdoor adventures. From fire mountain trails to bike trail heads and Mingo falls, Cherokee is regarded as North Carolina’s best destination for vacations. Also, it is home to Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, the only casino in North Carolina. Cherokee is clothed with natural beauty attractions and the rich history of the Great Smoky Mountains, giving you a Gatlinburg-like experience. Are you looking for places to stay in Cherokee? I highly recommend Harrah’s Cherokee Hotel and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cherokee Smoky Mountains.
18. Asheville, North Carolina
Like Gatlinburg, Asheville is nestled in the Appalachian Mountains and has a population of around 87,000. It’s also home to the world-famous Biltmore Estate, a must-see for any visitor. In addition to that, Asheville is famed for the Blue Ridge Mountains and vibrant historic scenes. There are plenty of summit hiking rails and graceful waterfalls to tour in Asheville. Seventh heaven is a good seat to get away from the turmoil of everyday life and enjoy some peace. For a warm stay in Asheville: I highly recommend The Omni Grove Park Inn- a historic hotel built in 1913 and is set on top of a hill with stunning views of the city. The hotel has a private golf course and an outdoor pool.
17. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Another great place similar to Gatlinburg is Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. It is a resort town in Walworth County, Wisconsin, United States. It’s located on the Northeastern shores of Geneva Lake and has a population of around seven thousand. The city is known for its many luxury hotels, such as the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa and The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa. There are a lot of activities you can indulge in, in Lake Geneva, such as golfing, shopping, and dining. There are also many places to visit for incredible experiences, such as the Geneva Lake Museum and the Yerkes Observatory. I highly recommend the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa for a warm stay in Wisconsin. The resort is located on over one thousand acres of land and has its private golf course, ski hill, and Water Park. Lake Geneva is a go-to place for outdoorsy activities.
16. Stowe, Vermont
Stowe is a town in Lamoille County, Vermont, United States. It’s located in the Green Mountains and has a population of around five thousand. The town is known for its many ski resorts and its beautiful scenery. With four seasons of outdoorsy activities, you can go skiing or snowboarding at one of the many ski resorts in the area, such as Stowe Mountain Resort and Smugglers’ Notch Resort. For a homey stay in Stowe, I highly endorse The Inn at Round Barn Farm, located on a working farm with a private ski hill. The inn also has an outdoor pool and a spa.
15. Traverse City, Michigan
Traverse City is a city in Grand Traverse County in the U.S. state of Michigan. It’s a chief seat in Grand Traverse County and is positioned on the shores of Lake Michigan. According to cherry festivals, Traverse City is referred to as the Cherry Capital of the World because it produces over 40 percent tart cherry crop in the U.S. Around fourteen thousand people populate the city. The city is sited with the best mountain trails for biking and hiking. I highly recommend The Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, and Park Place Hotel for a stay in the city.
14. Steamboat Springs, Colorado
Another great place similar to Gatlinburg is Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Steamboat Springs is a town in Routt County, Colorado, United States. It’s located in the Rocky Mountains and has a population of around twelve thousand. The town is known for its many ski resorts and natural hot springs. During winter, you can go skiing or snowboarding at one of the many ski resorts such as Steamboat Ski Resort and Howelsen Hill Ski Area. Recommended places to stay and dine for a homey experience include Steamboat Springs, The Steamboat Grand, The Lodge at Steamboat, and The Cambria Hotel & Suites. For a dining experience, you can visit; Harwig’s Dairy Store, Mahogany Ridge Brewery & Grill, and Sweet Pea’s Bistro.
13. Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a city in Pitkin County, Colorado, United States. It’s located in the Rocky Mountains and has a population of around six thousand. The city is known for its many ski resorts and its luxury hotels. During winter, you can go skiing or snowboarding at one of the many ski resorts such as Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, and Buttermilk Mountain. There are many outdoor activities aside from hiking, biking, rafting, golf, and horseback riding, among many others, that you can indulge in Aspen. Also, you can visit The St. Regis Aspen Resort, The Little Nell, and Hotel Jerome for a delightful and hospitable stay. For a savory dining experience, I highly recommend the following restaurants: Ajax Tavern, Cache, and Matsuhisa Aspen.
12. Telluride, Colorado
Another great place similar to Gatlinburg is Telluride, Colorado. It is a town in San Miguel County, Colorado, United States; and is located in the San Juan Mountains and has a population of around two thousand people. The town is known for its many ski resorts and its scenic panorama. During winter seasons, you can opt to go skiing or snowboarding at one of the many ski resorts in the area, such as Telluride Ski Resort and Mountain Village. For a hospitable stay and delicious dining, I highly recommend the following hotels: The Peaks Resort & Spa, The Madeline Hotel & Residences, and The Inn at Lost Creek. La Marmotte, Allred’s Restaurant, and 221 South Oak.
11. Breckenridge, Colorado
Breckenridge is a town in Summit County, Colorado, United States. It’s located in the Rocky Mountains and has a population of around four thousand. The town is known for its many ski resorts and its historic downtown. During winter seasons, you can indulge in outdoorsy activities like skiing or snowboarding at one of the many ski resorts in the region, such as Breckenridge Ski Resort, Keystone Resort, and Copper Mountain Resort. The place has beautiful forests that boast epic panorama, high mountain peaks, and endless trails. You can visit the following places for a delightful stay in Breckenridge; the Lodge at Breckenridge, The Village at Breckenridge, and Main Street Station.
10. Chattanooga, Tennessee
This city is just a few hours away from Gatlinburg, making it the perfect place for a day off. Chattanooga is home to the Tennessee Aquarium, one of the biggest and best aquariums in the country. In addition, there are plenty of places to hike, bike, and paddle in Chattanooga. So if you’ve been thinking of a place to get outdoors and enjoy some fresh air, this is the place for you.
9. Lexington Shenandoah Valley, Virginia
This town is located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley and is home to over 70 wineries. If you’re a fan of wine, then Lexington is the perfect place. In addition, there are plenty of places to hike, bike, and explore in Lexington. So if you’re thinking of a place to relax and enjoy some wine, then try this place.
8. Roanoke, Virginia
This city is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is home to over 85 miles of hiking and biking trails. In addition to that, there are plenty of places to eat, drink, and shop in Roanoke. So if you’re an adventure connoisseur looking for a place to get outdoors and enjoy fresh air, this place has you covered.
7. Louisville, Kentucky
Now let’s head west to the state of Kentucky. The first place you’ll think of is Louisville- a city referred to as Magic City. It is situated on the Ohio River and is home to the world-famous Kentucky Derby. In addition, there are plenty of places to eat, drink, and shop in Louisville. Also, you can hike and bike on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Try Kentucky if you’re searching for a place to enjoy outside Gatlinburg for good food and good times.
6. Bowling Green, Kentucky
This city is located in the southern part of the state and is home to the world-famous Corvette Museum. The place is famed for its coveted Western Kentucky Hill toppers. Aside from that, the city also offers underground adventures. There are quite several outdoorsy activities such as races, biking, and car festivals you can indulge in for a memorable stay in Bowling.
5. Atlanta, Georgia
Now let’s head down south to the state of Georgia. The first place on our list is Atlanta. According to Patch, it earned the phrase “City in a Forest” because of its 100,000 shades of trees. This city is the capital of Georgia and is home to over five million people. It is home to Coca-Cola and CNN. In addition, Atlanta has many mountains; among them are The Arabia Mountains, Cloudland Canyon, and Blood Mountains, which are suitable for summit hikes.
4. Savannah, Georgia
This city is situated on the coast of Georgia and is home to over two million people. It is famed for its incredible coastal landscapes and vibrant history. Savannah is a perfect place for a honeymoon trip. The place is endowed with the Blue Ridge Mountains. In addition, Savannah has perfect hiking trails that can lead to magnificent and gracious waterfalls.
3. Augusta, Georgia
This city is nestled in the central part of the state and is home to over two million people. According to US News, the city has been around since the 17th century, and currently, it is a core source of art and economic credibility. Augusta is fun to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and biking in the hand-curated trail maps. It has the best ski and snowboard resorts that you can’t miss while in Augusta.
2. Nashville, Tennessee
Now let’s head back up north to the state of Tennessee. The first place on our minds is Nashville. This city is nestled in the middle of the state and is home to over six million people. It has spectacular urban forests that are perfect for hiking. Also, Nashville has majestic lakes and Ski resorts that are worth a visit. In addition to that, there are plenty of places to eat, drink, and shop there.
1. Memphis, Southwest Tennessee
This city is situated on the Mississippi river in the state’s southwest corner. It is nestled 370.11 miles from Gatlinburg in the west and is only six h and 44min far apart. There are a thousand things to catch your sight in Memphis. Natural sites such as The Great Smoky Mountains are a warm relief and a homey feeling. Also, you can indulge in outdoorsy activities such as cycling, hiking, and biking. Memphis is such a city that can give a Gatlinburg-like experience.
Conclusion
It would be best if you didn’t worry about not visiting Gatlinburg. These towns mentioned are worth a visit too. They offer a warm and homey atmosphere, and most places are cheap and affordable for your stay. I highly recommend these municipalities for a Gatlinburg-like experience.