Top 10 cultural & heritage things to do in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

1. Guided hiking tour in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Guided hiking tour exploring the park’s history and wildlife, customizable to your interests and abilities, available Sundays with potential for other bookings.

2. Guided hike and painting class in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Four hours of guided hiking followed by an outdoor acrylic painting lesson in the serene landscapes of Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

3. Self-guided scenic drive in Great Smoky Mountains

Flexible drive along Newfound Gap Road with optional side trips—track the park's history through an audio tour while enjoying wildlife and mountain views.

4. Self-guided tour of the Great Smoky Mountains

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains at your own pace with stops at key sites, including Grotto Falls and Cades Cove.

5. Custom private hiking tour in Great Smoky Mountains

Flexible duration — tailor your hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park with a guide, picnic lunch included.

“A Walk in the Woods tailored our tour perfectly to meet our preferences. Our guide, Kels, was incredibly knowledgeable and experienced, sharing insights about the formation of the Smoky Mountains and suggesting additional local attractions to explore after our tour. I'm excited to book more hikes and retreats with them.”— J8129UMkellys

6. Clingmans Dome self-guided audio walking tour

Half-mile hike to Clingmans Dome's observation deck, includes an audio guide with historical insights and scenic stories about the Great Smoky Mountains.

“This tour offered a fantastic opportunity to appreciate the stunning beauty and historical significance of Clingmans Dome. We were treated to breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains. I highly recommend it.”— Global51666901371

7. Historic River Town walk in Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Two hours guided walk through early 1900s town remnants along the Little River, led by a professional naturalist.

“Miss Debbie and the Historic River Town Ramble provided us with an unforgettable experience in the Smoky Mountains. While we appreciate the vibrancy of middle-Tennessee tourist towns, this was something almost otherworldly. The silence of the forest blending with the sound of the streams was captivating, and as Miss Debbie shared stories of the past, it felt as if we could glimpse the spirits of those who once inhabited these areas, lingering among the remnants.”— comunikat

8. Guided scenic van tour of the Great Smoky Mountains

Approximately three hours — a guided van tour with multiple photo stops and insights into the natural and human history of the Smoky Mountains.

“Ben was an exceptional guide who provided thorough answers to all my inquiries and shared additional fascinating insights. In just two hours, I was able to see the highlights of the park while having a great time.”— Maureen_P

9. Guided fall color hiking tour in the Smoky Mountains

Up to five hours of hiking with naturalist guides focusing on fall foliage and natural history in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

“We joined Ken for a tour on October 8, and it was an excellent experience. After gathering at the Sugarlands Visitors Center, we drove briefly to the trailhead to begin our walk along the Little River. Ken shared his extensive knowledge about both the trail and the park, so we gained valuable insights. While we might have hiked alone, we would have missed out on the park's rich history. This tour is definitely worth it to understand how the Great Smoky Mountains became a National Park.”— Family P

10. Self-guided driving tours of Great Smoky Mountains and Cades Cove

Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cades Cove at your own pace with a self-guided audio tour app, lifetime access included.

“Cades Cove presents a unique mix of Appalachian history and stunning landscapes. Visitors can either drive or bike along an 11-mile loop, flanked by mountains, historic cabins, and wildlife. A self-guided tour lets you explore at your leisure—capturing photos of deer in fields, visiting preserved churches, or contemplating the determination of early settlers. The experience is informative and soothing, allowing a deep connection with the land at your own pace.”— Jonathan P