5 days in Atlanta, Gatlinburg & Great Smoky Mountains National Park Itinerary

Georgia’s largest city and capital, Atlanta is a thriving metropolis anchored by its southern roots.

Kick off your visit on the 13th (Sun): observe the fascinating underwater world at Georgia Aquarium, take in nature's colorful creations at Atlanta Botanical Garden, and then take in panoramic vistas at Jackson Street Bridge. On your second day here, admire the landmark architecture of Fox Theatre, examine the collection at World of Coca-Cola, and then contemplate the long history of Centennial Olympic Park.

For maps, ratings, and more tourist information, refer to the Atlanta road trip planning app.

Orlando to Atlanta is an approximately 4-hour flight. You can also drive; or take a bus. Expect a bit cooler temperatures when traveling from Orlando in December; daily highs in Atlanta reach 59°F and lows reach 42°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 14th (Mon) to allow time to travel to Gatlinburg.

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

Start off your visit on the 15th (Tue): cool off at Dollywood. On the next day, get up close and personal with brilliant marine life at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, sample the fine beverages at Sugarlands Distilling Company, brush up on your knowledge of spirits at Ole Smoky, brush up on your knowledge of spirits at Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine, then stop by Novus Candela Bath & Crafts, and finally sample the fine beverages at Ole Smoky Whiskey Barrelhouse.

Planning Gatlinburg trip won't be overwheling when you use's Insprock itinerary maker.

Getting from Atlanta to Gatlinburg by flight takes about 3.5 hours. Other options: drive; or do a combination of bus and car. Expect slightly colder temperatures when traveling from Atlanta in December; daily highs in Gatlinburg reach 53°F and lows reach 36°F. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 16th (Wed) to allow time to travel to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park contains some of the highest mountains east of the Mississippi River, but it's the ease of access that makes this national park the United States' most visited.

Start off your visit on the 17th (Thu): cruise along Newfound Gap Road and then take in the dramatic scenery at Laurel Falls.

To see where to stay, other places to visit, photos, and tourist information, refer to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park trip planner.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is very close to Gatlinburg. In December, daily temperatures in Great Smoky Mountains National Park can reach 53°F, while at night they dip to 36°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 17th (Thu) to allow enough time to travel back home.