Watching Sunrise in the Smoky Mountains Near Gatlinburg
There's something different about the Smoky Mountains in the early morning. Before the roads fill with traffic and before the day fully begins, the mountains feel quieter and more open. Watching the sunrise here is one of the simplest ways to experience that change.
Planning a Weekend Trip to Gatlinburg Tennessee
A weekend trip to Gatlinburg offers a mix of mountain scenery, walkable attractions, and easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Even with just a couple of days, it's possible to experience a wide variety of things without feeling rushed.
Quiet Places in the Smoky Mountains Near Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is known for its lively downtown and walkable Parkway, but one of its biggest advantages is how quickly you can leave that activity behind and find yourself in a much quieter setting. Within just a short drive, the sounds of traffic and crowds are replaced by flowing water, rustling leaves, and open mountain air.
Best Picnic Areas Near Gatlinburg in the Smoky Mountains
Sometimes the simplest moments during a trip are the ones that stand out the most. In Gatlinburg and the surrounding Smoky Mountains, one of the easiest ways to slow down and enjoy the scenery is by having a picnic. With mountain views, flowing streams, and shaded areas throughout the national park, there are plenty of places where you can take a break and enjoy the outdoors.
Wildlife Viewing Near Gatlinburg in the Smoky Mountains
One of the most memorable parts of visiting the Smoky Mountains is the chance to see wildlife in its natural setting. From deer grazing in open fields to the possibility of spotting a black bear, the area around Gatlinburg offers many opportunities to observe animals in the wild.
Short Hikes Near Gatlinburg in the Smoky Mountains
Not every visit to the Smoky Mountains requires a long or challenging hike. In fact, some of the most enjoyable experiences come from shorter trails that offer great scenery without taking up your entire day. For visitors staying in Gatlinburg, there are several easy-to-reach hiking options that provide a rewarding way to experience the outdoors.
Best Mountain Views Near Gatlinburg in the Smoky Mountains
One of the main reasons people visit Gatlinburg is for the mountain views. The Smoky Mountains offer layer after layer of ridgelines, shifting light throughout the day, and scenery that changes with the seasons. The good news is that you don't have to travel far or take a difficult hike to experience these views.
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail Guide Near Gatlinburg
If you're looking for a scenic experience that feels close to nature but doesn't require a long hike, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is one of the best options near Gatlinburg. Located just minutes from downtown, this one-way loop offers a quieter and more immersive view of the Smoky Mountains.
Easy Waterfall Hikes Near Gatlinburg
The Smoky Mountains are known for their waterfalls, and one of the best things about visiting Gatlinburg is how easy it is to reach several of them. You don't need to plan a long or difficult hike to experience these natural features. In many cases, a short walk is all it takes.
How to Visit Cades Cove During Your Gatlinburg Trip
Cades Cove is one of the most well-known destinations inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and for many visitors, it becomes one of the most memorable parts of their trip. The wide valley, surrounded by mountain ridges, offers a different kind of scenery than the forested areas closer to Gatlinburg.
Beautiful Scenic Drives Near Gatlinburg Worth Taking
One of the easiest and most rewarding ways to experience the Smoky Mountains is from the road. Scenic drives near Gatlinburg allow you to take in mountain views, forest landscapes, and quiet surroundings without needing to plan a long hike or spend an entire day deep in the park.
Stop at the Gatlinburg Scenic Overlook for a Quick Mountain View
Not every memorable view in the Smoky Mountains requires a long hike or a drive deep into the national park. In fact, some of the most rewarding views near Gatlinburg are also the easiest to reach. Just outside downtown, a few scenic overlook areas provide a simple way to take in the mountains without needing much time or planning.
Why Gatlinburg Is So Easy to Explore on Foot
One of the first things visitors notice about Gatlinburg is how easy it is to get around once they arrive. Unlike many vacation destinations where you need to drive from one place to another, Gatlinburg is built in a way that allows you to park once and explore most of the area on foot.
Family Friendly Things to Do in Gatlinburg After You Park
Gatlinburg has long been known as a destination where families can relax, explore, and spend time together. The combination of walkable streets, interactive attractions, and easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains makes it a place that appeals to all ages.
What You'll Discover Walking the Gatlinburg Parkway
Once you've found convenient parking in Gatlinburg, the best way to experience the town is to slow down and explore it on foot. The Parkway runs directly through downtown and serves as the center of nearly everything visitors come to see. From the moment you step onto the sidewalk, you'll notice how easy it is to move from one place to the next without needing to drive again.
Where to Park in Gatlinburg Before Exploring Downtown
One of the first things most visitors notice when they arrive in Gatlinburg is how active the downtown area feels. The Parkway is lined with shops, attractions, and restaurants, and during busy times, traffic can slow down quickly. That's why having a plan for parking in Gatlinburg before you arrive can make a big difference in how your day begins.
Experience the Magic of Dolly Parton's Stampede in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Step into a world where dining meets dazzling entertainment at the Dolly Parton's Stampede, a celebrated dinner show nestled in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This family-friendly attraction captivates audiences with its thrilling performances that showcase talented riders and magnificent horses, all while delivering an unforgettable culinary experience. What sets Dolly Parton's Stampede apart is its commitment to immersing guests in a vibrant atmosphere filled with excitement and wonder. Join us as we explore the enchanting blend of food and spectacle that makes this venue a must-visit destination for families seeking fun and adventure.
Top Gatlinburg Places to Stay for an Unforgettable Getaway
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, nestled at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is a captivating vacation destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and vibrant attractions. In this Gatlinburg travel guide, we will explore several compelling reasons to visit this charming town.
Discover the Best Places to Stay in Gatlinburg, TN for an Unforgettable Getaway
Embrace the Breathtaking Beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg
The Charms Of Buckhorn Inn
If you're looking for unique accommodations when visiting Gatlinburg and the rest of the Great Smoky Mountains, consider booking a stay at Buckhorn Inn. It's located on Tudor Mountain Rd., just off Buckhorn Rd., which is one of the main routes through the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. The inn has been serving visitors to the Smokies since 1938, and during that time, it's earned a reputation for its blend of elegance and unparalleled hospitality.
Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair
Usually, autumn is the big season for craft fairs in the Great Smoky Mountains. But one popular craft event stages shows both in fall and in summer: The Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair. This year, the summer edition of the fair takes place July 8 through 17 at the Gatlinburg Convention center.
Smoky Mountain Lodging Recommendations
So you're thinking about spending some time in the Great Smoky Mountains this year. That's a great idea, especially now that folks are looking to get out of the house and do more traveling. One of the first decisions you'll have to make is where you're going to stay. We've devoted this week's blog post to sharing some ideas and suggestions for places you might want to call your vacation home base the next time you come to the Smokies.
The Best Views In Gatlinburg
As October approaches, we'll soon be seeing all the area foliage turn from green into the brilliant colors of fall. It's such a spectacular show that folks come to the Smokies from all over the world to witness the transformation. Here in Gatlinburg, we benefit from being adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which essentially becomes an 800-square-mile blanket of color rolling from Tennessee into North Carolina.
Planning Your Summer Vacation
If you're like most of us right now, you've been spending a lot of time at home. We know lots of folks have been taking advantage of all that inside time to do some productive things, like cleaning, organizing and taking on long-neglected household tasks and projects. Here's another suggestion for a way to pass the time that's not only productive but also fun: You can start making plans for a summer vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains. With the Internet and a phone at your fingertips, you can not only dream about all the fun things you'll be able to do in just a few months, but you can also take actual steps toward making it all happen.
New Festival Highlights Dollywood's 35th Season
If your travel plans happen to take you to the Smokies this weekend, you could be among the first people to visit Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge for their 2020 season. In fact, this is their 35th season of providing family fun for all ages, and visitors who go there this year will have some new things to discover.
New Festival Highlights Dollywood's 35th Season
If your travel plans happen to take you to the Smokies this weekend, you could be among the first people to visit Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge for their 2020 season. In fact, this is their 35th season of providing family fun for all ages, and visitors who go there this year will have some new things to discover.
Lodging Options In The Smokies
When you're planning a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains, one of the first decisions you'll typically make is where you're going to stay. Once you've got your lodging dates locked in, it's a lot easier to start working on elements like attractions tickets and restaurant decisions. It can be a little overwhelming, though, because there are so many choices when it comes to accommodations in the Smokies that it can be intimidating trying to narrow down all the options. So this week, we'll give you an overview of what those choices are, and maybe that will make it a little easier for you to plan that next big trip to the mountains in 2020.
Wilderness Wildlife Week
Last week, we told you about the annual Wildflower Pilgrimage in Gatlinburg, which is one of the area's top nature-themed special events in the Smokies. If you missed it, however, you still have a chance to learn all about our natural surroundings here in East Tennessee. Anyone planning to be in the area this week should attend Wilderness Wildlife Week, currently taking place at the LeConte Center in Pigeon Forge through Saturday, May 11.
The Return of Sweet Fanny Adams!
Some of you may read this and wonder, “Who is Sweet Fanny Adams?” For those of you in that category, we'll tell you it's the name of a theater in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, and this unique venue will be beginning its 43rd season in the Smokies next weekend, on April 18.
Where To Stay On Your Trip To Gatlinburg
One of the first decisions any traveler makes when planning a trip to a fun destination is where to stay. And that goes for a getaway or vacation to the Great Smoky Mountains as well. The decision can seem like a tough one, though, because every town in our area – Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville – has a great selection of accommodations, and each one has a tempting lineup of attractions, shops and restaurants to choose from.
Dolly Parton's Stampede
For more than 30 years, Dolly Parton's Stampede (formerly known officially as “Dixie Stampede”) has been one of the top dinner destinations in the Smokies. The attraction combines a delicious multi-course meal with a captivating live production to create one of the most in-demand show experiences in town.
The Lodge At Five Oaks Spoils Guests With Rustic Style
One of Sevierville's most popular lodging destinations has recently unveiled a major makeover, and it's looking better than ever. The Lodge at Five Oaks, located directly across the Parkway from the Tanger Outlet Center, has recently undergone an extensive renovation process and is making its return debut just in time for the October peak season.