May is a fantastic time to visit Gatlinburg and the Smokies! The crowds aren’t quite as heavy, as school hasn’t let out yet, so there’s no better time to plan an adults-only or couples getaway to an affordable Gatlinburg cabin rental. To help you plan your vacation, here are some of the best things to do in Gatlinburg in May, from outdoor activities to annual events and festivals:
The Strawberry Stroll at Ober Mountain
What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring and warmer weather than a strawberry-themed festival?! The Strawberry Stroll at Ober Mountain offers a sweet menu featuring all things strawberry, including unique creations like a Strawberry Chipotle BBQ Sandwich, a Strawberry Arugula Pizza, and even a Strawberry French Toast Burger! Sip on a Strawberry Shortcake Cider or non-alcoholic Strawberry Lemonade and choose from a variety of delicious desserts, like Strawberry Churros and Funnel Cakes, a Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwich, or Smoked Strawberry Shortcake.
Hands On Gatlinburg
Smoky Mountain Arts and Crafts is a historic community of artisans you’ll love exploring all year, but this month, you can do more than watch the skilled craftspeople at work — you can actually join in! Hands On Gatlinburg is one of the top things to do in Gatlinburg TN in May and features a variety of classes and workshops that teach you how to do everything from making your own pottery or jewelry to creating your own woodcraft masterpiece. Visit the official Great Smoky Arts Crafts Community website to learn more about specific workshops and dates during the Hands On Gatlinburg event!
Festival of Flags at Gatlinburg SkyPark
The Festival of Flags is an event in Gatlinburg in May through July that you won’t want to miss. The US flag, military flags, and all 50 state flags will hang from the SkyBridge — a beautiful display and way to honor our nation for Memorial Day, Flag Day, and the 4th of July!
White Water Rafting
For the adventurous at heart, discover another side of the Smokies with a white water rafting trip. As one of the most thrilling things to do in Gatlinburg in May and throughout the summer, this outdoor adventure features some of the most scenic views while offering a fun activity to cool off with. Check out Smoky Mountain Outdoors to plan an exciting rafting trip for you and your family!
Curious about whether Gatlinburg TN weather in May is going to be nice enough for white water rafting? Tune into our Smoky Mountain weather forecast for the latest updates. Even if it rains, you can still go rafting; after all, you’re going to get wet anyway!
United Tastes of America at Anakeesta
Towards the end of the month, Anakeesta in Gatlinburg will be starting their United Tastes of America Festival, with delicious food and drink options you’ll definitely want to try! There’s also live music, the Treetop Skywalk, play areas for the kids, and more thrilling activities like the Dueling Adventure Zipline and the Rail Runner mountain coaster. So grab one of their Tasting Passes for the best value and kick off the summer season with great food and fun on the mountain!
Smoky Mountain Waterfall Hikes
Another of the best Gatlinburg activities in May is getting out and exploring the national park! We recommend hiking trails with waterfalls, such as Abrams Falls in Cades Cove or Rainbow Falls. With the blooming wildflowers all around, you’ll be rewarded with great views on the way and a place to cool off before heading back to your vehicle. If you’d rather stay in your car, learn more about these incredible roadside waterfalls!
More Things to Do in May
You’ll find many other exciting activities and events going on in the Smoky Mountains in May! There’s the Bloomin’ BBQ & Bluegrass Festival in Sevierville and the Flower and Food Festival at Dollywood, as well as the new Jurassic Adventure at The Island and the longest zipline in the U.S. at MegaZip in Pigeon Forge!
Want even more ideas of things to do in Gatlinburg in May? Take a look at our Smoky Mountain Events Calendar to start planning your vacation itinerary!
