4 days in The Smokies Itinerary

Nestled in the lush, wooded forests of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is Tennessee’s premier mountain resort destination.

Venture out of the city with trips to Helicopter Tours (in Sevierville), Foothills Parkway Southwest Parking (in Great Smoky Mountains National Park) and River Rafting & Tubing (in Hartford). And it doesn't end there: sample the fine beverages at Sugarlands Distilling Company, tour the pleasant surroundings at Roaring Fork, head outdoors with Outdoor Activities, and observe the fascinating underwater world at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies.

To find maps, reviews, where to stay, and other tourist information, use the Gatlinburg day trip tool.

Durham to Gatlinburg is an approximately 5.5-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of bus and car. In May, daytime highs in Gatlinburg are 79°F, while nighttime lows are 57°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 31st (Tue) so you can catch the flight back home.