ANAKEESTA

If you only have one activity to do in Gatlinburg and want to enjoy a unique panorama of the Smoky Mountains, consider Anakeesta first. After an ascent by chairlift or cable car (your choice), you'll reach the village that overlooks the town and opens onto the mountains. If you just want to enjoy the view, sit on the terrace of one of the park's cafés and restaurants, which offer a breathtaking view of the Smoky Mountains. If you're feeling energetic, climb to the top of the new observation tower to get an even better view of the Appalachian woodlands as far as the eye can see. The park is dotted with colorful gardens and wooden courses to entertain young and old alike. It also offers a number of dining options and pretty boutiques, as well as thrill rides (tobogganing, zip lines, etc.) at extra cost.

But our favorite feature is the suspension bridges spanning the canopy. Occasionally, black bears wander into the area, so the bridges are blocked until the large mammals have moved away from the village.

The park is constantly evolving, with a brand-new section of colorful cabins under construction, but the latest addition is the Astra Lumina sound and light show (optional extra when purchasing general admission, and timetable reservation required at that time). As night falls, you'll stroll through the forest under the grandiose staging of this show, which will take you into the fairytale world of the birth of the planets in a twinkling of lights and a myriad of sound effects. Stars in your eyes guaranteed.