Jackson Reed
If you're planning to spend Christmas Day in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you'll be pleased to know that many attractions remain open. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open 365 days a year, offering scenic winter hikes and drives through the mountains. Tennessee's only ski resort, Ober Mountain, is also open on Christmas Day, providing opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. For indoor entertainment, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies welcomes visitors to explore its two levels of exhibits, including the Shark Tunnel and Penguin Playhouse Exhibit. Anakeesta, a mountain-top adventure park, is another popular choice, featuring activities such as the canopy forest walk, gem mining, and festive decorations during the holiday season.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Mountain-top adventure park | Anakeesta |
| Ski resort | Ober Mountain |
| Aquarium | Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies |
| National Park | Great Smoky Mountains National Park |
| Observation tower | Gatlinburg Space Needle Observation Tower |
| Driving light show | Shadracks Light Snow |
| Restaurants | Breakfast places and some others |
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What You'll Learn
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies
If you're spending Christmas in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you'll be pleased to know that many attractions remain open on Christmas Day. One of the biggest and best attractions in the area, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, is open for business on 25 December.
The aquarium is an excellent choice for a family day out, with two huge levels of exhibits to explore. You can marvel at the Ocean Realm, get up close to the Shark Lagoon, and explore the Coral Reef. The Penguin Playhouse Exhibit is another highlight, where you can see the playful penguins interacting with each other. If you're feeling brave, take a walk through the 700-foot-long underwater "Shark Tunnel". In addition to these popular exhibits, the aquarium is home to a dazzling variety of sea life from all over the world, with plenty of interactive and informational exhibits to enjoy.
In addition to the standard exhibits, Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies often has special events for the holiday season. In previous years, Santa Claus has visited the aquarium, giving families the chance to meet him and take holiday photos. You can also sign up for unique experiences such as the Penguin Encounter and the Glass Bottom Boat Adventure.
While Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is usually open on Christmas Day, it's always a good idea to check the opening hours before your visit, as timings on special holidays may differ.
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Anakeesta mountain-top adventure park
Anakeesta Mountaintop Adventure Park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a 70-acre aerial adventure park that offers a mix of adventure, dining, shopping, and stunning views. The park is located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains and sits high atop Gatlinburg, providing spectacular views of the town and the National Park. Anakeesta is open on Christmas Day and Christmas Eve, offering a magical experience for visitors during the holiday season.
Attractions and Activities
Anakeesta offers a range of attractions and activities for guests of all ages. The journey to the park begins with a scenic Chondola or Ridge Rambler ride from downtown Gatlinburg to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain. The Chondola is the world's only fixed-grip Chondola, providing a unique way to take in the sights. Once at the top, guests can explore the whimsical Firefly Village, a quaint shopping and dining area with offerings such as the Great Outdoors Trading Company, Catching Fireflies, and the Adventure Outpost.
For those seeking adventure, Anakeesta delivers with the Treetop Skywalk, featuring over 880 feet of hanging bridges spanning 50 feet above the forest floor. The Dueling Zipline tour, two mountain coasters (The Hellbender and Rail Runner), and the signature Astra Lumina experience, a nighttime journey through an enchanted forest of light and sound, cater to thrill-seekers. The AnaVista Tower, downtown's highest point, offers 360-degree views for those looking to take in the scenery.
Dining and Relaxation
Anakeesta offers a variety of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences. From elevated dining at Cliff Top, serving chef specials, steaks, and gourmet burgers, to quick bites like fresh flatbread pizza and southern BBQ at Smokehouse or Kephart Cafe, there's something for everyone. The park also features unique dining experiences such as the Stone Village, with options like the Bear Can Bar and the Rocky Top Canteen.
Shopping and Entertainment
In addition to dining and attractions, Anakeesta offers shopping experiences that showcase artisan crafts and locally inspired gifts. The park's retail stores, located in Firefly Village and Black Bear Village, offer one-of-a-kind gifts, including mugs, décor, candles, hats, jewelry, and logo items. Seasonal festivals and live music events are also held throughout the year, adding to the entertainment and creating memorable experiences for visitors.
Anakeesta promises to create an authentic, high-quality outdoor adventure that connects people with the spirit of the mountains. With thoughtfully designed attractions, natural beauty, and memorable moments, Anakeesta delivers a magical experience for families and friends during the holiday season, making it a popular destination for those celebrating Christmas in Gatlinburg.
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Ober Mountain ski resort
If you're looking for things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, on Christmas Day, then Ober Mountain ski resort is a great option. The resort is open on Christmas Day and Christmas Eve, offering a range of winter sports activities and attractions. Here's what you need to know about Ober Mountain:
Ski and Snowboarding Trails
Ober Mountain has 10 ski trails and a terrain park for snowboarding enthusiasts. The ski slopes may not be open by Thanksgiving, but they are typically in full swing by Christmas. You can check the Ober Mountain slope report for the latest updates and conditions before your visit.
Snow Tubing
Snow tubing is a popular activity at Ober Mountain, with a dedicated area that opens in mid-November. It's a great family-friendly option, offering 90-minute sessions. You can also try ice tubing down a hill, a unique and thrilling experience.
Ice Skating
The resort features an ice skating rink, providing a fun way to enjoy the winter season. You can bring your own skates or rent them on-site.
Mountain Coaster and Bobsled
For an exhilarating ride, hop on the Tennessee Flyer Mountain Coaster or try out the Smoky Mountain Bobsled. These attractions offer a unique way to experience the mountain and are sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Aerial Tramway
The Aerial Tramway is a highlight of Ober Mountain, providing breathtaking views as you ride from downtown Gatlinburg to the mountaintop. It's a convenient way to access the resort and offers a memorable journey through the scenic surroundings.
Additional Attractions
Ober Mountain also offers a range of other attractions, including zip-lining, downhill mountain biking, wildlife habitat, ice bumper cars, a rock wall, chair swings, and more. There's something for everyone, with activities suitable for all ages and interests.
With its variety of winter sports and attractions, Ober Mountain ski resort is a fantastic choice for a Christmas Day outing in Gatlinburg. Be sure to check their website or social media pages for the latest updates on operating hours and any special events or promotions during the holiday season.
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a popular destination for Christmas Day in Gatlinburg. The park is open all year round, including on 25 December, although the visitor centres within the park are closed on Christmas Day.
There are plenty of scenic hiking trails to explore in the park, and you can even take in a gorgeous waterfall. If you don't fancy a hike, you can always take a scenic drive through the mountains. Be aware that certain areas of the park may be crowded on Christmas Day, such as Cades Cove and Newfound Gap. Other popular destinations like The Roaring Fork Motor Trail and the Clingmans Dome Road are closed to vehicles during the winter months, but there are still many beautiful parts of the park that are perfect for a winter's day, including Tremont, Elkmont, Greenbrier, and Cosby.
If you're looking for a challenge, you can take on a winter hike through the park. Be sure to check out a winter hiking guide to help you plan your visit to the Smokies in winter.
The 407 ft tall Gatlinburg Space Needle Observation Tower is another of the park's most iconic attractions, offering 360-degree views from its viewing platform in the middle of the town.
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Restaurants and shops
While many shops and restaurants in your hometown are likely to be closed on Christmas Day, Gatlinburg keeps things running as usual.
For breakfast, you'll be able to find a few restaurants open from 9 am. One Tripadvisor reviewer recommends Calhoun's, which seems to be open for breakfast on Christmas Day. For dinner, you'll have plenty of options, with most restaurants opening around 5 pm.
If you're looking for shops, Anakeesta mountain-top adventure park offers shopping, restaurants, and activities like the canopy forest walk, gem mining, and Santa's Village, complete with Christmas lights and carolers. Ripley's attractions, such as the Haunted Adventure and Mirror Maze, are also open, and you can purchase gifts from Ripley's Cargo Hold Gift Shop.
You can also enjoy winter sports at Ober Mountain, which offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing.
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Frequently asked questions
Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Anakeesta, and the Gatlinburg Space Needle Observation Tower are open on Christmas Day. If you're looking for some winter sports, Tennessee's only ski resort, Ober Mountain, is open on Christmas Day. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is also open, but visitor centres within the park are closed.
While there are few specific names, some restaurants are open on Christmas Day.
You can take a driving tour to see the Christmas lights in Downtown Gatlinburg.
While most shops are closed, Ripley's Cargo Hold Gift Shop is open.
While there is no specific information on shows open on Christmas Day, some sources suggest that "tourist traps" are open.
