• Must-See Attractions: Dollywood, Ober Gatlinburg, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Summer Highlights: Drone and fireworks shows, mountain coasters, wildflower hikes, and wildlife viewing
• Where to Stay: Auntie Belham’s affordable, amenity-rich cabins near all three attractions
• Insider Tip: Book early for the best selection of cabins with private hot tubs, mountain views, and more

The Magic of a Smoky Mountain Summer

Imagine waking up to mist rolling off the peaks, the scent of pine in the air, and a day packed with adventure ahead. You wake up in your Auntie Belham’s cabins and enjoy the peace, quiet, and views of morning coffee on the deck. After you’ve fully awakened, a world of fun and excitement awaits just a short drive away. Whether you are screaming with joy on a roller coaster or finding peace beside a hidden waterfall, summer in the Smokies is where lifelong memories are made.

Here are the top 3 attractions in the Smoky Mountains to visit during the summer.

1. Dollywood Theme Park

No summer trip to the Smokies is complete without a visit to Dollywood, the region’s most exciting theme park.

Summer brings the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration, featuring the spectacular “Sweet Summer Nights” drone and fireworks show, a nightly display of hundreds of synchronized drones and a fireworks finale that lights up the mountain sky. Meanwhile, there’s all sorts of roller coasters, from thrilling to tame, plenty of live shows, flavorful food and drinks, and an up-close look at Appalachian culture for guests to get the full Smoky Mountain experience.

Staying at Auntie Belham’s Cabin Rentals puts you just a short drive away from fun for both the young and the young at heart.

2. Ober Gatlinburg

For a different perspective, head to Ober Gatlinburg.

Start your adventure with a scenic ride on The Gatlinburg Tram, gliding 2.1 miles from downtown to the mountain’s peak. At the top, enjoy the Smoky Mountain Bobsled, the Tennessee Flyer Mountain Coaster, and summer tubing. Need to cool off? Try indoor ice skating, available even on the hottest days. If you’re looking for the ultimate adventure, give ziplining or downhill mountain biking a try.

Auntie Belham’s Cabin Rentals offers cabins near Gatlinburg, so you can spend less time in traffic and more time enjoying all the things that make Ober Gatlinburg one of the most beloved attractions in the Smoky Mountains.

3. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The heart of the region is Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Summer is prime time for wildflower blooms, with over 1,500 species painting the trails with color from late May through July.

Wildlife viewing is at its best, with chances to spot black bears, elk, and wild turkeys at dawn and dusk. The park is also a living history museum, with preserved houses, churches, and grist mills. Choose from easy Smoky Mountain hikes along mountain streams to challenging hikes leading to roaring waterfalls. Whether you want to get lost in the beauty of nature, learn about the vibrant history of the Smokies, or just breathe in that crisp mountain air, you’ll never forget spending time in the national park.

After a day of adventure, there is nothing better than returning to your Auntie Belham’s cabin to soak in a private hot tub and enjoy picturesque mountain views.

Mini Summary

From Dollywood’s dazzling summer nights, rides, and shows to Ober Gatlinburg’s mountaintop thrills and the wildflower-filled trails of the national park, these three attractions in the Smoky Mountains are a must for your summer bucket list. Auntie Belham’s Cabin Rentals is your perfect home base for exploring them all.

FAQ: Top Summer Attractions in the Smoky Mountains

What are the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains in summer?
The top activities include experiencing the entertainment and thrills of Dollywood, unforgettable adventures at Ober Gatlinburg, and hiking wildflower trails, viewing wildlife, or checking out historical sites in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Where should I stay to be close to Smoky Mountain attractions?
Here at Auntie Belham’s we offer a variety of cabins in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. These locations provide easy access to the national park, Dollywood, and downtown Gatlinburg attractions. Plus, when you book with us, you’ll automatically receive free attraction tickets that help you save on your vacation!

Are there family-friendly cabins near Dollywood?
Yes! We have cabins of all sizes, perfect for families and large groups, located just minutes from Dollywood and more of the top attractions in the Smoky Mountains.

Plan Your Summer Getaway

Spending time at these attractions in the Smoky Mountains means plenty of memories that last long after your trip ends. Auntie Belham’s Cabin Rentals offers affordable, amenity-rich cabins with beautiful views, fully equipped kitchens, and amenities that elevate your vacation, all while being close to all the best fun the Smokies have to offer. Browse our Smoky Mountain cabins and start planning your perfect summer escape today!