The fall season is fast approaching! From the school supply aisle at WalMart to the end of season sales in our favorite stores – there is no doubt that the season of all things pumpkin spice is just around the corner! With that in mind, it’s never too early to start planning your vacation to the Smoky Mountains. Autumn is one of our absolute favorite times of year for a number of reasons including the many fun things to do in the Smoky Mountains that happen in the fall each year.
While there are plenty of ways to spend your time during your stay, here are 4 fun things to do in the Smoky Mountains this fall that you definitely won’t want to miss:
1. Rod Runs
Early in the fall season, classic cars and hot rods will fill the streets with a blast from the past and some of the auto industry’s coolest rides. Two different rod runs will take place in September – Shades of the Past (Sept. 9-10) and the Pigeon Forge Fall Rod Run (Sept. 15-17). Whether you bring a car to show off or prefer to spend your time looking at others’ vehicles, rod runs are always a great time and easily one of our favorite things to do in the Smoky Mountains each fall.
2. Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The beauty of the Smoky Mountains can be seen no matter which season you visit in, but the fall season brings about exceptionally beautiful colors that peak between October and November and are sure to take your breath away. Whether you choose to hike to one of the Smokies’ popular mountain tops or observe the gorgeous foliage from the comfort of your car on a drive through Cades Cove, spending a day in the park is one of the can’t-miss things to do in the Smoky Mountains this fall.
3. Dollywood’s National Southern Gospel and Harvest Celebration
If you’re looking for an opportunity to hear some of the country’s top Gospel artists and enjoy the sights and sounds of the fall season, look no farther than this free, month long festival hosted at Dollywood! Featuring all of the best parts of fall in the Smokies, attending the National Southern Gospel and Harvest Celebration will quickly become one of your favorite things to do in the Smoky Mountains each year.
4. Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair
If you’re looking for things to do in the Smoky Mountains that are uniquely aligned with the area, look no further than the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair! The fair will take place at 10 a.m. daily from October 6-23 and will feature more than 180 of the country’s finest craftspeople in every trade from pottery making to painting. If you’ll be in town in October, the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair is a one-of-a-kind event that you definitely won’t want to miss!
There are tons of great things to do in the Smoky Mountains during your fall vacation, so don’t feel limited to this list! Check out our Smoky Mountain rental cabins for the best vacation experience the Smokies have to offer!