Great Smoky Mountains, First Timer

Going to Great Smoky Mountains soon, 3 days. I have park pass. Few questions based on my experiences at other NPs

• Is there a main entry gate where cars have to wait to get in? I see online it says its open 24/7 (except Cades Cove).

• Do any trails need reservations ahead of time?

As far as trails go, I want to do the following. (I'll figure out how to split them up later). Any good drivable lookout points to look for around this area? I'll be travelling with an active 10 year old, but he starts to get irritable around 8 miles.

Kuwohi Trail (1.3mi)
Peregrine Peak via Alum Cave Bluff Trail (4.6mi)
Rainbow Falls Trail (5.4mi)
Ramsey Cascades Trail (7.9mi)

On a different day I'll do Cades Cove (hopefully arriving around 730AM). What's the must do activities in that section of the park?