5 Things You Should NOT Do in Gatlinburg During a Hot Summer Day

The heat is here, it’s on, and likely to hang around a while in East Tennessee, with only brief respites until we hit the fall months. It would be easy for me to tell what you should do to beat the oppressive high temperatures that are as sure as the millions of tourists who decide to visit Gatlinburg during the course of the summer. In case you need some reminders of what not to do, I’ve compiled a list of 5 things you should avoid at all costs, unless you want to risk an unwanted medical emergency and a trip to the hospital. Neither would be something you would want to remember about a trip that should be enjoyable and memorable under much better circumstances.

1. Not Drinking Enough Water

This is Hydration 101. Always, always carry water with you, and never go too far without finding some if you don’t have any on you. There’s not many water fountains downtown, but you can find them in Sugarlands Distilling and Ole Smoky Moonshine (more on them soon). There’s also a Walgreens and various little convenience shops on the Parkway that have enough hydrating options. However, I recommend carrying a larger bottle already filled, preferably in a small backpack. As someone who totes a backpack with a bottle every time I walk in Gatlinburg, this is a life-saver in the summer.

2. Doing Multiple Liquor Tastings

I know a good many of you have this on your itinerary, but I wouldn’t advise overindulging on multiple wine, whiskey, and moonshine tastings on a hot summer day. Just one tasting can exacerbate the symptoms of staying in the heat for too long. Don’t ignore what your body is telling you. Sweating may not be what you want, but it’s a sign you are still semi-hydrated. Make sure you keep those fluids—whether it’s electrolyte drinks or water—flowing down your gullet in between alcohol tastings. It is so very important. You will dehydrate quickly even after just one sampling—especially at Sugarlands. Trust me on this one. If you know, you know.

3. Forget To Apply Lotion

Nobody wants to deal with a sunburn on Day 1 of your Gatlinburg vacation. This actually happened to my son on one of our visits. Good thing we had some Aloe Vera to help with the overexposure to the sun’s rays early on. I know it’s easy to forget, and it feels like a hassle when all you want to do is get out and enjoy the day’s activities. We’ve all gotten burnt… literally and figuratively when it comes to being too conservative or reglectful with the application of the SPF cream. Don’t make this mistake if you want to maximize your fun in a place where you can spend lots of good times outdoors.

4. Too Long Walking The Downtown Sidewalks

But you don’t want to necessarily spend too much time outside—especially if the ultraviolet light is a bit too radiant. Thankfully, there’s plenty of shops in Gatlinburg ranging from the kitsch to the creative into which you can enter. Take a drive out to the Arts and Crafts Community to take a break from the hours of walking you’d rather not do downtown. Air-conditioning is your friend when the summer heat cranks up to 11. Whether you're supporting small businesses (always the best option) or buying that cheap Gatlinburg T-shirt, your well-being is what matters most. So do whatever keeps your energy levels high while you’re here in this tourist town.

5. Ignore The Hotel Pool

Yes, I know some of you aren’t staying at a hotel, but if you have access to a pool at whatever your accommodations are, please take advantage of it. There’s nothing better than a cool, refreshing swim after a day of exploring the many activities available in Gatlinburg. And you don’t have to have the kids in tow to enjoy. This will do wonders no matter what part of the day you decide to dip your sweaty, overheated body into a cold pool.

I wanted to compile this list to help you have the best Gatlinburg vacation possible this summer—one that doesn’t involve unintended intervention. The heat and humidity in East Tennessee is no joke. Our Florida visitors may be used to this, but some of our Northern friends should make a special note. Please heed these important warnings. I want you all to go home safe and sound and come back next time.