Rainy Day Activities in the Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains: Beyond the Sunshine

Rainy Day Activities in the Smoky Mountains

Nestled in the eastern United States, the Great Smoky Mountains are a treasure trove of natural beauty with lush forests, cascading waterfalls and rolling hills. During the springtime or even in the peak of summer, it's not unusual for the weather to unexpectedly change and for sudden downpours to occur. But don't let a rainy day spoil your plans for exploring this stunning region. There are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy, as well as opportunities to experience the mountains in a new way!

Visiting a museum or gallery is a great indoor activity to enjoy during a rainy day in the Great Smoky Mountains. The region offers a variety of options that showcase its rich history and culture. For instance, the Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center in Townsend provides exhibits on the area's pioneer settlers, while the Mountain Farm Museum in Cherokee gives visitors a glimpse into the daily lives of early Appalachian farmers. Art enthusiasts can head to the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg, which hosts workshops and exhibits by local artists. Another fun option for all ages is Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies.

Go Shopping! From boutique stores to outlet malls, the towns surrounding the Great Smoky Mountains offer plenty of shopping opportunities for visitors. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are particularly popular destinations, with a range of shops selling everything from handmade crafts to designer clothing. You can even explore the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, an 8-mile loop road that features over 100 local artisans selling their wares.

Go for a scenic drive, an ideal way to enjoy the stunning beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains during a rainy day. The region is known for its breathtaking scenery, and a drive through the mountains allows visitors to take in the sights from the comfort of their car. One highly recommended route is the Newfound Gap Road, which offers panoramic views of the mountains as it winds through the park. Another popular option is the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, which provides opportunities to stop and explore historic homes and waterfalls along the way.

Exploring a cave is an exciting and unique activity that can be enjoyed in the Great Smoky Mountains, regardless of the weather. Several remarkable caves are open year-round for visitors to explore. For instance, Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend offer guided tours through underground chambers filled with sparkling rock formations and underground streams. Another option is the Forbidden Caverns in Sevierville, which allow visitors to explore a cave system with a rich history of moonshining and Civil War activity.

Have a game day! Unleash your competitive side and spend the day indulging in a game competition by playing board games or pool in the game room of your cabin. With Jackson Mountain Rentals, many of our rentals come equipped with a game room featuring a wide range of games such as pool, foosball, air hockey and board games.

Relax in at the cabin, there's always the option to curl up with a good book and enjoy the peace and quiet of your cabin rental with Jackson Mountain Rentals. Many cabins in the Great Smoky Mountains come equipped with amenities such as hot tubs, fireplaces, private movie theatres and fully stocked kitchens, making them the perfect place to wait out a rainy day and spend time with loved ones.

In summary, although a rainy day may seem like a disappointment during your visit to the Great Smoky Mountains, there are still plenty of indoor activities and ways to explore the mountains in a new way. Whether you opt to visit a museum, go shopping, take a scenic drive, explore a cave or simply unwind in your cabin with a good book or game, there are numerous ways to enjoy the beauty of this stunning region, regardless of the weather. Take a look HERE at our vast selection of cabins and condos from Jackson Mountain Rentals for your upcoming trip to the Smoky Mountains!