Anyone planning to rent a cabin and visit Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge this New Year’s Eve is sure to find an endless number of exciting things to do and see. This beautiful area offers a wide array of choices for New Year’s Eve party goers or those looking for family fun. The following are just a few of the top activities and attractions that should be added to any traveler’s must-see list.
Trolley Rides
One of the newest additions to Gatlinburg attractions is the area’s state-of-the-art trolley service. Open since the summer of 2015, the trolley takes passengers along the length of the famous Gatlinburg Parkway. Although taking a trolley ride in winter may be a bit chilly, many families choose to bundle up and enjoy the area’s outstanding scenery from one of the beautifully painted trolley cars. Featuring artistic colors and designs, each trolley car is also color-coded, making it easy for travelers to make the proper changes as they go along their chosen route. The most popular route among New Year’s Eve visitors is Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic Trolley Ride of Lights. The theme of this route is Christmas decorations and seasonal lights, which can all be clearly seen from one of the comfortable cars.
Gatlinburg’s Exciting Downtown
Those who want to celebrate New Year’s Eve in an urban setting while enjoying a vibrant nightlife should head to Gatlinburg’s downtown section. This tranquil mountain village comes to life after dark and is packed with museums, stores, art galleries and shops. Its carnival-like atmosphere provides a great environment for essentially any visitor. Various lounges and restaurants offer a vast array of menu options as well, from steaks and seafood, to Indian and Asian fare and pasta dishes of all kinds.
Ripleys Aquarium New Year’s Eve Party
Each year, the Ripley’s Aquarium hosts a New Year’s Eve party, during which the establishment stays open until midnight for those who want to ring in the new year among their aquatic friends. The aquarium is decorated differently each year, so returning visitors always have something new to explore. Packages are available for couples, families and groups.
Ball Drop and Fireworks Show
The New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show has been a tradition for 28 years in the Pigeon Forge-Gatlinburg area. The fireworks and ball drop from the region’s infamous Space Needle create an unforgettable experience for all travelers. This family-friendly event is one of the largest organized New Year’s Eve celebrations in the country and crowds of up to 50,000 individuals are not unusual. The Space Needle has recently added spectacular LED rhythmic lights to the tower to make the display even more exciting.
Prior to midnight, free music entertainment is provided in a grassy area adjacent to the city’s convention center. This area is also the perfect spot to view the fireworks show at midnight. It is wise to make reservations early when attending this one-of-a-kind New Year’s Eve event, and renting a cabin is a great way to enjoy Gatlinburg’s unique surroundings and scenery. No one is disappointed after ringing in the New Year in this intriguing and beautiful part of the country.