Are you considering taking a trip to Gatlinburg in the winter? Then you’ll definitely want to keep reading, since we’re sharing the inside scoop on how long Winterfest lights stay up, the best time to see snow, and how to stay warm by visiting our indoor Gatlinburg attraction! 

Gatlinburg Winter Magic

Christmas in Gatlinburg doesn’t end in December– the Winterfest holiday lights stay up through February! As you walk along the main street or casually stroll the Riverwalk, you’ll love seeing all of the creative light displays and festive shop windows. There’s just something extra special about experiencing the town of Gatlinburg in the winter! 

Best Time To See Snow

Snowfall in Gatlinburg is unpredictable, but you can at least expect to see some snow-capped mountains during your vacation. Seeing snow is definitely possible in December; however, the odds are much higher in January and February. Wondering what roads are closed during the winter? Kuwohi Road and the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail are two of the most popular areas that close during the winter months, but there are plenty of roads that stay open all year long, weather permitting, including Newfound Gap and the Cades Cove Scenic Loop. What about the best places to see snow while exploring the national park? We suggest you hike the Gatlinburg Trail or the Alum Cave Trail or take the trek up to the Mount Cammerer Fire Tower if you like a challenge. Abrams Falls and Rainbow Falls are also beautiful as the ice begins to form! 

Fewer Crowds

One of the best things about visiting during the winter season is that there are typically fewer crowds and less traffic overall. That means shorter wait times at restaurants, finding parking is a little easier, and even the national park tends to be less crowded along the popular trailheads and scenic routes such as the Cades Cove Loop Road. 

Indoor Attractions

If you need a break from the cold weather, our indoor Gatlinburg attraction offers an incredible experience! Speedwerkz isn’t your average car museum– it’s an interactive exhibit/experience hybrid, giving you the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the rarest supercars in the world! Our rotating collection of cars includes a Bugatti Chiron SS, a Porsche 918 Spyder, a McLaren Senna, a Lamborghini STO, and many others. Sit in one and get souvenir photos, and shop our retail store for awesome merch to commemorate your visit. Plus, you can imagine driving one of these incredible supercars thanks to our state-of-the-art racing simulators! We pride ourselves on offering affordable ticket prices and discounts for locals, veterans, and others, so we’re the best place for families, couples, and groups.

Now that you’ve read this visitor’s guide to Gatlinburg in the winter, read more about what to expect when you visit our car museum in Gatlinburg. We hope to see you soon and can’t wait for you to experience the Smokies during the winter season!