Fall is one of the best times to visit the beautiful Smoky Mountains, and Halloween is no exception. Visiting the Bavarian style town of Gatlinburg for Halloween is fun for all ages. The town is decked out in fall decor and there are many family friendly activities to enjoy leading up to a night filled with trick-or-treating in the downtown area.
Trick-or-Treat Downtown
Visitors who are traveling with small children are likely looking for a fun place for the kids to get some candy, and encounter some fun along the way. Many of the businesses and shops participate in trick-or-treating events on Halloween Day. The streets are filled with all sorts of characters and the kids will be thrilled with their candy haul at the end of the night. For the parents, don’t forget to stop at one of the local coffee shops for a caffeine pick-me-up during all the trick-or-treating fun.
Go to a Haunted House
The town of Gatlinburg is home to two haunted attractions, the Mysterious Mansion and Ripley’s Haunted Adventure. The Mysterious Mansion has been around for many years and is practically an institution in town. Many visitors go back to the attraction year after year, no matter the season. But a walk through this haunted house, located on River Road, is made even more fun when it’s Halloween time. For older children, it’s a right of passage to go through the Mysterious Mansion for your first time. Ripley’s Haunted Adventure is located on the Parkway near the center of town. This adventure includes a ride up a creepy old elevator into a haunted attraction where you’ll meet many ghosts, ghouls and other terrifying inhabitants.
Shocktober
The Shocktober event is being held throughout the month of October at the Space Needle in the middle of town. The event will honor famous illusionist Harry Houdini, who coincidentally died on Halloween day in 1926. Shocktober will also include various live shows and events during the month. The main event includes showings of the original “Wicked Things”. This show features a mentalist and magician/comedian who are helping the audience unlock a mystery. The show will run on Thursday and Saturday through the month, with a special Halloween show. While at the Space Needle, which has been towering over the town since 1970, be sure to check out the arcade and candy shop underneath.
Trick or Treat Kickoff Carnival
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies will be hosting the annual Trick or Treat Kickoff Karnival on Halloween day. The event is a great place for the kids to begin their trick-or-treating adventure through town. This event will be fun for even the youngest children. The Gatlinburg Police Department and Gatlinburg Fire Department will be on hand to give basic safety information. There will also be characters in costume, a pumpkin contest and of course, lots of candy to fill those treat bags.
If you find yourself in the Gatlinburg area for Halloween, you certainly won’t be lacking in fun and family-friendly activities. Come visit this Halloween for a mountain style Halloween celebration.