3 days in Tampa & Gatlinburg Itinerary

Tampa ranks among the country's most livable cities, attracting newcomers with its growing economy and status as a major port on the Gulf of Mexico.

Start off your visit on the 24th (Sat): get in on the family fun at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.

To see traveler tips, other places to visit, photos, and tourist information, go to the Tampa travel route planner.

Use the Route module to find suitable travel options from your home destination to Tampa. In December, plan for daily highs up to 78°F, and evening lows to 61°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 24th (Sat) so you can catch the flight to Gatlinburg.

Nestled in the lush, wooded forests of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is Tennessee’s premier mountain resort destination.

Kick off your visit on the 25th (Sun): catch a ride on Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park & Ski Area, then steep yourself in history at Walker Sisters' Cabin, then see the interesting displays at Titanic Museum Attraction, and finally test your team's savvy at popular escape rooms. On your second day here, head outdoors with CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains, take in the exciting artwork at Fowler's Clay Works, then kick your exploration up a notch at some of the top local zipline courses and adventure parks, and finally get to know the fascinating history of Noah Bud Ogle Cabin.

To find ratings, more things to do, other places to visit, and more tourist information, use the Gatlinburg trip itinerary planner.

You can fly from Tampa to Gatlinburg in 5.5 hours. Other options are to drive; or do a combination of bus and car. Plan for much colder temperatures traveling from Tampa in December, with highs in Gatlinburg at 53°F and lows at 36°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 26th (Mon) so you can catch the flight back home.