sunrise over Gatlinburg, Tennessee

5 Fun Things to Do at Night in Gatlinburg

Beautiful photo of night in Gatlinburg.
May 24, 2017

There is lots of fun to be had in Gatlinburg after dark! Our Smoky Mountain city offers plenty of entertainment for couples, friends, or families looking for a memorable evening out on the town. To help you make the most of your vacation, Sidney James Mountain Lodge has put together a guide to five of the best things to do at night in Gatlinburg.

1. Listen to Live Music

Tennessee is the most musical state in the nation, and the Smoky Mountains certainly don’t disappoint in this regard! Gatlinburg is home to a host of talented local musicians who specialize in country and bluegrass music. The Smokies also see their fair share of touring musicians who stop by for a few days at a time. Visitors to Gatlinburg will find free live music at the city’s moonshine distilleries, restaurants, and (during the summer) right on the sidewalks of The Strip. For more information, check out our guide to hearing live music in Gatlinburg.

2. Take a Spooky Ghost Tour

Tombstones in a graveyard at night.

Whether you’re a true believer in the paranormal or a skeptic, taking a Ghost Tour of Gatlinburg is a ton of fun. When you sign up for this tour, a knowledgeable guide will take you to all of the city’s most haunted locations, including a graveyard. Along the way, you’ll hear chilling tales and legends from Gatlinburg’s past. Participants even get to use real ghost hunting equipment to search for spirits!

3. See a Hilarious Show

Visiting one of the area’s awesome theaters is another one of the best things to do at night in Gatlinburg. Here are a few of the excellent shows in town:

  • The Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre has been entertaining visitors to Gatlinburg for over 40 years with hilarious musical comedies.
  • The Iris Theater at the Gatlinburg Space Needle is home to incredible magic shows from illusionists who have performed all over the world.

4. Play Mini Golf

One of Gatlinburg’s most beloved daytime activities is also a great choice for evening entertainment! Two of the area’s best mini golf courses, Ripley’s Davy Crockett Mini Golf and Treasure Quest Golf, are open at night. Playing a round of putt putt can be a fun date idea or a great way to tire the kids out before bed.

5. Hit the Dance Floor

People dancing in a club.

There a few popular destinations in Gatlinburg where you can show off your dance moves! For a slightly different vibe, head to Hogg’s Upstairs Tavern, a unique pub where customers can dance right on the bar.

When you stay at Sidney James Mountain Lodge, you will be near all of the best things to do at night in Gatlinburg. Our hotel is located on Historic Nature Trail, just a short walk, drive, or trolley ride from all of the fun on The Strip. With indoor and outdoor pools, a trolley stop at our front door, an onsite cafe, and a scenic picnic area, Sidney James Mountain Lodge has everything you need for an incredible vacation. To start planning your getaway, browse our selection of Gatlinburg hotel rooms!