4 Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains in the Fall

September 24, 2024

It’s the perfect season to “fall” in love with the Smoky Mountains! The area welcomes millions of visitors every year during this season to experience the beauty and fun that fall provides. If you’re visiting during fall, we want to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the top activities in the area. Take a look at our list of the can’t-miss things to do in the Smoky Mountains in the fall:

1. See Our Regular Season Show

Fall is one of the best times to visit the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud because it’s your last chance to see our regular season show before our theater transforms into holiday hijinks! Our show features hilarious antics from our hillbillies, along with impressive stunts and mighty feats of strength. You’ll also get to witness talented performances by our dancers and musicians! You’ll be on the edge of your seats as you wait to see if the Hatfields and McCoys can settle a decades-long feud before the evening is over.

If you hope to see our holiday performance instead, you can still plan a trip in the fall! Our Christmas show begins at the end of October.

2. Take a Drive Through the Mountains

One of the biggest draws to the Smoky Mountains in the fall is the beautiful foliage. The area transforms from green to shades of orange, red, and yellow. One of the best ways to enjoy the scenery is from the comfort of your car along a scenic drive! We recommend driving along the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road, where you’ll also have the opportunity to see historical buildings and spot some wildlife. Another popular drive in the fall is Newfound Gap Road. Along the drive, you’ll see some of the best views of the fall foliage, and there are scenic pull-offs on the side of the road so you can stop to take pictures!

3. Go for a Hike

If you’d rather explore the area on foot, go for a hike in the Smoky Mountains! The higher the elevation, the better the views. Depending on where you choose to hike, you’ll be able to see panoramic views of the fall colors in the Smokies. Popular fall hikes include Alum Cave, which has the best sights of the fall foliage from Inspiration Point, along with Kuwohi, a shorter hike that takes you to the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You’ll have a 360-degree view of the fall colors from the top of the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower!

4. Enjoy Sights and Sounds of the Season at Dollywood

Your fall vacation wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Dollywood. The Harvest Festival at Dollywood is by far one of the most popular things to do in the Smoky Mountains in the fall. The autumn season comes to life in the park through extravagant displays, seasonal decorations, and the aroma of fall flavors. When you visit, you’ll be able to see a 40-foot pumpkin tree, a glowing pumpkin guitar, and more. There’s also all your favorite fall-flavored foods, including Pumpkin-Spiced Smoked Ribs and a Caramel Apple Funnel Cake! As you stroll through the park, you’ll be serenaded by Southern gospel, bluegrass, Americana, and country tunes. Not only that, but you’ll have gorgeous views of the fall foliage when you reach new heights on rides like Drop Line and Wild Eagle! Be sure you stay until the sun goes down to experience the best of Great Pumpkin LumiNights, which features thousands of creatively carved pumpkins that light up the night. It’s an experience you won’t forget!

More Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains

These are some of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains in the fall, but if you’re looking for more things to do in the area, we can help! Here’s where to find the best family-friendly fun in Pigeon Forge.