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Seasonal

Synchronous Fireflies 2024

Each year in the Great Smoky Mountains for a few magical nights in June, one of the 19 species of fireflies in the park – the Photinus carolinus – synchronize their flashing pattern during mating season. It’s a sight to behold. What (read)

Published on Monday, April 1, 2024

Seasonal

Spring Festivals 2024

Spring, the sweet spring, is the year’s pleasant king, Then blooms each thing, then maids dance in a ring, Cold doth not sting, the pretty birds do sing: Cuckoo, jug-jug, pu-we, to-witta-woo! – Thomas Nashe Smoky Mountain spring has sprung (read)

Published on Monday, March 25, 2024

Seasonal

Live Music in the Smokies 2024

There’s nothing like live music. And the Great Smoky Mountains has venues for every genre. Here are some of our favorites spots. The Island
Whether it’s the best Bluegrass in front of Ole Smoky Moonshine, some Jimmy Buffet tunes at Margaritaville (read)

Published on Tuesday, March 12, 2024

Activities

One Time Adventures

If you are going to do something once, do it right and do it big. We have the five best one time adventures in the Great Smoky Mountains to do at least one time in your life.

One Time Adventures Hiking The Smokies The Great Smoky Mountains National Park (read)

Published on Thursday, December 7, 2023

Helpful Tips

Top 8 Shops for Unique Ice Cream Experiences in the Great Smoky Mountains

Creamy, yummy ice cream is on the menu all throughout the Great Smoky Mountains. Here are eight of our favorite spots to get unique ice cream any-time-of-year treat. The Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar Meet Me in the Mountains is the signature shake here (read)

Published on Monday, September 25, 2023

Seasonal

Smoky Mountain Restaurant Options in 2023

New Smoky Mountain restaurant options are booming in the cities in Tennessee. A new diner in Gatlinburg and one in Pigeon Forge; a cider company and a pizza and wine bar in Pigeon Forge; barbeque joints in Pigeon Forge and Sevierville; and pizza, coffee (read)

Published on Monday, September 25, 2023

Helpful Tips

Pet Friendly In The Smokies

If your trying to plan the perfect pet friendly vacation, then we can get you off to a great start. Guests who come to the Smoky Mountains area know that a Smoky Mountain family vacation is for every member of the family, including the 4-legged ones. (read)

Published on Thursday, August 3, 2023

Seasonal

Car Shows of July 2023

Car enthusiasts rejoice! There are more car shows coming up in the Great Smoky Mountains. Not only can you view and explore the vehicles, you also can connect with people selling parts for your motorized baby. Aug. 11-13 Mustang Invasion Run by the Mustang (read)

Published on Thursday, July 20, 2023

Helpful Tips

Wheelchair Accessible Adventures

The Smoky Mountains and  American Patriot Getaways cabins have many wheelchair accessible adventures and cabins. An accessible cabin is a property that typically has a level parking spot. In addition, they have no more than one step required for entry, (read)

Published on Thursday, July 6, 2023

Helpful Tips

Bear Safety in the Smokies

Seeing a black bear on your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an amazing and exciting experience that people are thrilled to share in their social media posts. It’s a “Bucket List” event for many people. With more than (read)

Published on Friday, June 23, 2023

Seasonal

Happy 89th Birthday, Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Happy Birthday to The Great Smoky Mountains – the most visited national park in the United States – turns 89 on June 15, 2023. Celebrate the Smokies with a visit, learn the history of the mountains and experience all they have to offer &ndash... (read)

Published on Wednesday, June 14, 2023

Seasonal

Celebrate Father’s Day Any Day

Celebrate Father’s Day in the Smokies with a Guy’s Weekend or Family Outing. Whether it’s your dad or you are the dad you’re celebrating, the Great Smoky Mountains has everything you could possibly want for a guys’ Father (read)

Published on Wednesday, May 31, 2023

Activities

Explore the Cool Caves of the Great Smoky Mountains

Did you know you could explore cool caves when you visit the Smokies? Tennessee has more than 10,000 caves, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) has plenty for you on a visit to the area. More than 90% of the caves are located on private (read)

Published on Tuesday, May 23, 2023

Activities

Top Cades Cove Hiking Trails

Cades Cove  is a favorite destination for many people visiting the Smokies with its broad, lush, green valley surround by mountains. More than 11 million people coming through the Smokies each year, and nearly 4 million of them choose a trip to Cades (read)

Published on Thursday, May 11, 2023

Seasonal

Time For A Girls Trip

Catch up with your best girls with a girls trip to the Smokies. When it’s time to get away with the girls, the Great Smoky Mountains has everything you might want – from great food and unique restaurants to spas, amazing hikes, shopping, (read)

Published on Monday, May 1, 2023

Seasonal

Spring Festivals 2023

Spring Festivals 2023 It’s time to get outside in the Great Smoky Mountains to enjoy Spring and the many festivals that will awake your senses, your mind and crafty side. The fun starts this weekend! Arts, Crafts, and More April 21-22 Great Smoky Mountain Fiber Fair (read)

Published on Wednesday, April 26, 2023

Activities

Outdoor Activities In The Smokies

Zipline, hike, ride horses, ride roller coasters, play – there ae so many outdoor activities for families in the Smokies Anakeesta Anakeesta  is celebrating the flowers of spring with  Blooms & Tunes  April 14 – June 5. Also, putting the tunes in Blooms (read)

Published on Monday, April 3, 2023

Seasonal

Car Shows 2023

However From spring to fall, the Great Smoky Mountains is the site of car shows –also known as rod runs – where automobile enthusiasts bring their vehicles out to display. Car shows are for car enthusiasts showing off their pride and joy, (read)

Published on Monday, March 20, 2023

Seasonal

Spring Break 2023

Enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains during Spring Break – wildflowers, hikes, rollercoasters, Dollywood opening and much more! Whether you want to get physical in the outdoors; play; be entertained by amazing artists; eat and drink fun and interesting (read)

Published on Monday, March 6, 2023

Helpful Tips

Hiking Trails For Seniors In 2023

Aging doesn’t have to mean missing out on hiking in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has hiking trails for everyone and every skill level. If you’ve got older adults, senior citizens, or group members with (read)

Published on Thursday, March 2, 2023

Helpful Tips

Hikes For Kids in the Smoky Mountains

Hikes For Kids Are Healthy The Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee and Western North Carolina are a premier family destination with great hikes for kids in United States.  While there’s plenty to do in Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg attraction (read)

Published on Monday, February 27, 2023

Seasonal

Valentine’s Day Weekend

Valentine’s Day Weekend It’s finally here and as you know, February 14th, the day we celebrate romance, is This Tuesday! Do you have your Valentine’s day weekend planned? How about your Valentine’s Day? We know that many questions (read)

Published on Friday, February 10, 2023

Seasonal

New Attractions of 2023

Get to the Smokies in 2023 and check out all the new attractions and adventures opening this year! Are you ready to get under the ocean, on the green, and in a 3-story water coaster? You’ll be able to get under the sea at Xperia: Ocean Journey , (read)

Published on Wednesday, January 25, 2023

Seasonal

Happy Birthday, Dolly Parton!

In our book, the day we say, “Happy Birthday, Dolly Parton”, should be a holiday! The pride of Tennessee, Dolly Rebecca Parton , was born on January 19, 1946, in Sevier County, Tennessee, also home to The Great Smoky Mountains National Park (read)

Published on Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Seasonal

Valentine’s Day In The Smokies

As we kick off 2023, we can hardly wait for a reason to celebrate love in the Smoky Mountains! Make it a memorable Valentine’s Day for your special someone with a romantic getaway to the Great Smoky Mountains. You’ll find everything from (read)

Published on Friday, January 13, 2023

Seasonal

New Year’s Eve in The Smoky Mountains – Happy 2023

New Year’s Eve is nearly here! If you haven’t made plans yet or are looking for something more interesting than sitting on your couch watching thousands of people freeze in Times Square, we have the best ideas for you – come to the Smokies... (read)

Published on Friday, December 9, 2022

Helpful Tips

Romantic Ideas For Your Honeymoon in Gatlinburg

Are you headed to Tennessee for a honeymoon in Gatlinburg? Wondering exactly what to do when you get there? Over 11 million people visited the Great Smoky Mountains National Park last year. To be sure, there are many fun activities to enjoy in the Smoky (read)

Published on Tuesday, November 15, 2022

Helpful Tips

The Six Most Romantic Gatlinburg Restaurants in the Smoky Mountains

When planning a romantic winter weather snuggle in a Smoky Mountain cabin, you’ll need to consider where to have a romantic meal with your sweetie. Here are six amazing Gatlinburg romantic restaurants with excellent food, views and vibes. The Gatlinburg (read)

Published on Tuesday, November 15, 2022

Seasonal

Winterfest 2022

The Smoky Mountains are calling you to celebrate Winterfest 2022! Pigeon Forge’s annual  Winterfest 2022 celebration starts this Thursday,  November 10, 2022, and runs through February 19, 2023. Turn on all the twinkly Christmas lights and (read)

Published on Wednesday, November 9, 2022

Seasonal

Smoky Mountain Ghost Stories

It’s time to settle in for Some Creepy Smoky Mountain Ghost Stories. It’s campfire season and that means smores and ghost stories! We have a few to curl your toes and keep you company while you’re in the Great Smoky Mountains in a cozy (read)

Published on Wednesday, November 2, 2022

Seasonal

Thanksgiving Restaurants In 2022

Celebrate Thanksgiving in the Great Smoky Mountains! You can cook a feast in one of our beautiful cabins or create a new tradition by going out for a Thanksgiving meal. There are plenty of restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, (read)

Published on Monday, October 24, 2022

Helpful Tips

6 Things NOT to do in Gatlinburg

Heading up to Gatlinburg is a ticket to amazing natural wonders, nights around the fire, nature walks, zip lines, ice skating, great food, cozying up in a Gatlinburg cabin rental and so much more! Before you head the Great Smoky Mountains, we’ll (read)

Published on Tuesday, October 18, 2022

Helpful Tips

Best New Restaurants in the Smoky Mountains

People come to the Smoky Mountains for the beauty and serenity and the food! There are some new places to try on the next visit. Here’s our top “best new restaurants” plus two bonus spots that are coming soon! Trotter’s Whole Hog BBQ is located in the (read)

Published on Monday, October 10, 2022

Helpful Tips

5 Step Guide To Save On Your Gatlinburg Vacation Rental

A vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains doesn’t have to cost a fortune.  The secret is to know where to look for deals and how to get them.  Here’s a simple 5-step guide to save on your Gatlinburg Vacation Rental.  1) Define (read)

Published on Friday, October 7, 2022

Seasonal

Christmas 2022

Plan your Christmas 2022 celebrating, shopping and entertainment in the Smoky Mountains The Great Smoky Mountains are a picture-perfect setting for winter holidays. Let us tell you about all the fun in store for you. Winterfest 2023 The 33rd annual Pigeon (read)

Published on Wednesday, September 21, 2022

Helpful Tips

7 Reasons To Vacation In The Smoky Mountains

Does relaxation to you mean vacation in the Smoky Mountains? Let’s check: You imagine some far-flung locale with mystic smoke rising up from a land of lush green vegetation, teeming with wildlife and adventure around every corner. We’ll let (read)

Published on Thursday, September 15, 2022

Seasonal

8 Fun Fall Activities in Gatlinburg

Fall in Gatlinburg is arguably the most beautiful place and time of the year.  The green leaves and summer flowers are being left behind for vibrant oranges of the oaks, brilliant reds of the maples, and the golden yellow of the birch tree.  (read)

Published on Friday, September 9, 2022

Helpful Tips

Top Ways to Avoid Crowds in Gatlinburg 2022

Sometimes we just want to avoid crowds in Gatlinburg and get away from everyone except our loved ones when we vacation. The Great Smoky Mountains is perfect for doing just that. The Smokies are the place to enjoy the quiet of the mountains, a secluded (read)

Published on Tuesday, August 30, 2022

Seasonal

New Gatlinburg Cabins in 2022

Whether you are planning a family trip or a romantic getaway with your loved one, we have the best selection of Gatlinburg’s new cabins in 2022 for you to choose from. Our cabin rentals offer a vast variety of amenities that you can’t find (read)

Published on Friday, August 26, 2022

Seasonal

Fall Colors 2022

The Great Smoky Mountains’ beauty is exponentially increased as it peaks into the fabric and hues of fall colors. In fall, the mountains are awash in brilliant yellows, oranges, and reds as the fall leaf season brings glorious color to Gatlinburg (read)

Published on Thursday, August 18, 2022

Seasonal

2022 Fall Festivals

The air has turned, football has begun, and the sweatshirts have come out; autumn in Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains has arrived. What does this mean? The 2022 Fall Festivals are back! There are lots of things to do in the Smokies in the fall (read)

Published on Friday, August 12, 2022

Shopping

New Restaurants and Restaurant Updates

Come to the Smokies for the mountains, the streams and rivers and the food! We’ve got some restaurant updates for you – new restaurants and updates to some old favorites. Guy Fieri’s Downtown Flavortown The long-awaited opening of star (read)

Published on Thursday, July 21, 2022

Activities

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most pristine natural areas in the eastern United States. Smoky Mountain Information It’s a treasure trove of natural wonders, offering breathtaking mountain scenery, flowing rivers and streams (read)

Published on Friday, July 15, 2022

Activities

Guys’ Weekend

Guys’ weekend is just a short drive away when you plan a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. Whether it’s a Father’s Day (June 19, 2022 btw) trip with all the brothers and dad, a bachelor party or just a much-needed getaway (read)

Published on Friday, May 27, 2022

Seasonal

Fireflies 2022

Come to the Smokies for the unique synchronous fireflies 2022 show! It’s almost time for the amazing synchronous fireflies to light up the skies in the Great Smoky Mountains . We’re here to tell you how and when to see them. Each year in the (read)

Published on Friday, May 13, 2022

Seasonal

Mother’s Day 2022

Mother’s Day is a great time to visit the Great Smoky Mountains with your girlfriends, sister or your mom! Here are some of our favorite things to do with just the girls. Smoky Mountain Yoga Yoga is a great way to to start the day or end it and (read)

Published on Friday, May 6, 2022

Activities

Live Music In The Smoky Mountains

Find Live Music in the Great Smoky Mountains With a rich history in music, the towns of Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains are filled with music year round – from bands at bars and restaurants and outdoor traveling musicians to festivals, holiday events (read)

Published on Tuesday, February 22, 2022

Seasonal

It’s Valentine’s Day Weekend

Valentine’s Day Weekend It’s finally here and as you know, February 14th, the day we celebrate romance, is This Monday! Do you have your Valentine’s day weekend planned? How about your Valentine’s Day? We know that many questions (read)

Published on Friday, February 11, 2022

Activities

Have a Smoky Mountain Honeymoon

When wedding bells are in the air and romance is what you crave, a Smoky Mountain Honeymoon is the perfect way to start your new life together! Are you getting married this year, or celebrating the day you did? For romance, adventure, good food and beautiful (read)

Published on Thursday, February 3, 2022

Seasonal

New Attractions in 2022

Are you as excited as we are about the new attractions and places to eat coming to the Smoky Mountains in 2022? As 2022 promises more travel and fun and freedom, let’s look at some of the new attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains to look (read)

Published on Friday, January 21, 2022

Pet Friendly Vacations In The Smoky Mountains

If your trying to plan the perfect pet friendly vacation, then we can get you off to a great start. Guests who come to the Smoky Mountains area know that a Smoky Mountain family vacation is for every member of the family, including the 4-legged ones. (read)

Published on Friday, January 14, 2022

Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!

Come to the Great Smoky Mountains for the beauty, the fun, the peace in a winter wonderland. Here are some photos and videos to inspire you. Snow falls infrequently at low elevations in the Smokies, but at higher elevations, it can fall anytime from (read)

Published on Tuesday, December 28, 2021

Wilderness Wildlife Week

Spend a week in January learning and experiencing the history and present-day awesomeness of The Great Smoky Mountains with Wilderness Wildlife Week. The engaging and interactive Wilderness Wildlife Week is back in person Jan. 25-29, 2022, in Pigeon (read)

Published on Tuesday, December 21, 2021

Fun For Kids Of All Ages

There are many Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg attractions that will provide hours of entertainment for the entire family. Whether you like museums, miniature golf, scenic helicopter rides, arcades, go carts, snow boarding, or ziplining, you’ (read)

Published on Friday, December 17, 2021

Holiday Meals In The Smokies

Looking for Holiday Meals in the Smokies? The Great Smoky Mountains Offer an Abundance of Holiday Eating Options – Pick up or Eat In When you plan your holiday visit to the Great Smoky Mountains, you’ll need to find holiday meals in the Smokies. While (read)

Published on Friday, December 3, 2021

Do The “SANTA” Hustle

As the most wonderful time of the year approaches, many of us are dusting off our nativity scenes, tree skirts, and décor as we prepare to bring laughter, warmth, and cheer to some otherwise cold and colorless nights. While some are assembling Christmas (read)

Published on Friday, November 19, 2021

8 Smoky Mountain Attractions You Haven’t Heard Of – But Should

Looking for something new? We’ve come up with 8 Smoky Mountain attractions: unique museums, natural attractions, sports and restaurants that you probably haven’t been to, but should! Salt and Pepper Museum The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum (read)

Published on Friday, September 17, 2021

5 Ways to Avoid Crowds in the Smokies

Want to avoid crowds and get away from it all? The Great Smoky Mountains is perfect for doing just that. The Smokies are the place to enjoy the quiet of the mountains, a secluded cabin, walks in the woods, wildlife, fishing, or a peaceful kayak/canoe (read)

Published on Tuesday, September 7, 2021

Smoky Mountain Harvest Festival

Fall in the Great Smoky Mountains is a glorious experience, filled with color, cool nights and so much to do! Fall begins here with the Harvest Festival – a 9-week-long event that includes the transformation of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville (read)

Published on Thursday, August 26, 2021

Fall Foliage in the Smokies

The kids are back in school and the weather is about to cool down ever so slightly.  With a hint of fall in the air, many are already wondering when the leaves change in Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains.  If you want to know when you’ll see fall (read)

Published on Friday, August 20, 2021

Bear Safety in the Smoky Mountains

Seeing a black bear on your trip to the Great Smoky Mountains is a bucket list experience for many.  With more than 1600 black bears in our area, your chances of seeing one are pretty high!  While it’s always exciting to see a black bear in the Smoky (read)

Published on Friday, June 25, 2021

Cool Off This Summer in the Smokies

When the weather heats up, there are plenty of ways to cool off in Tennessee and The Great Smoky Mountains. There are swimming holes for splashing; rivers to wade in and laze about, kayak , canoe, fish or raft ; cool caves to explore; and a giant water (read)

Published on Friday, June 11, 2021

What to do in Gatlinburg for Fourth of July

Celebrating America’s Declaration of Independence – our birthday – will be extra sweet this year now that we can travel again. What better place to celebrate America the Beautiful than in the majestic Smoky Mountains? Whether you are a local or (read)

Published on Thursday, June 3, 2021

Caves to Explore in the Great Smoky Mountains

Looking for something cool to do this summer when it’s hot out? Try a little cave exploring or spelunking – Tennessee has some wonderful and interesting caves – more than 8,350 caves! Forbidden Caverns In Sevierville, check out Forbidden Caverns , where (read)

Published on Friday, May 14, 2021

The Best Mexican Restaurants in the Smokies

Viva la comida Mexicana! Craving authentic tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, quesadillas and more? There are several Mexican restaurants in the towns of the Great Smoky Mountains offering some of the best Mexican dishes. Locals love these places and with Taco (read)

Published on Tuesday, May 4, 2021

Choosing Between Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg

Wondering which town you should visit – Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg ?  We’ve got your guide to which town might be better for you.  Get the most out of your time visiting the Smokies when you read our guide deciding between Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge (read)

Published on Thursday, April 8, 2021

The Best Go Kart Tracks in Pigeon Forge

Vroom vroom! Ready to race?  Hop in a Go Kart! There are lots of options for this fast-paced adventure developed in the 1950s for pre-teens with little pocket money ! Let’s check out some of our favorite Go-Kart racing spots in the area! The Track The Track Family Fun Park (read)

Published on Thursday, April 1, 2021

Top 10 Outdoor Dining Spots in the Great Smoky Mountains

The weather is getting warmer, and we can eat outside again! Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have terrific options so get out and enjoy. Gatlinburg Outdoor Dining In Gatlinburg, check out Crawdaddy’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar for your seafood fix (read)

Published on Monday, March 29, 2021

Easter Events in Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge

Easter is the true start of spring activities here in the Smoky Mountains.  If you’re looking for Easter events to attend during your spring break visit to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, we have a list of great things your family can do together to (read)

Published on Thursday, March 25, 2021

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in the Smokies

The next big celebration holiday is St. Patrick’s Day – are you ready? Do you like wearin’ o’ the green? Drinkin’ o’ the beer? The Great Smoky Mountains is a wonderful place to celebrate – whether in a beautiful cabin with an Irish celebration of your (read)

Published on Wednesday, March 17, 2021

Dollywood’s Opening Date in 2021

Dollywood opens on March 13, 2021!  All the information you need about spring festivals, special park procedures during COVID-19, brand new attractions, and more can be found here.   Dollywood Opening Date 2021 Similar to Dollywood’s 35 season back (read)

Published on Thursday, March 11, 2021

The Best Hiking Trails for Seniors in the Smoky Mountains

Does your trip to the Smokies involve multiple generations?  Bringing two, three, or even four generations of family means finding activities everyone will enjoy together.  A visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park definitely fits the bill. (read)

Published on Friday, March 5, 2021

The Most Incredible Smoky Mountain Look Out Tower Views

Seeing the Smoky Mountains from above them is spectacular and Great Smoky Mountains National Park has some terrific options for exploring. The fire towers – once used as manned lookouts along the heavily forested mountains – are excellent spots for viewing... (read)

Published on Monday, February 15, 2021

Recreate Your Favorite Recipes from Gatlinburg at Home!

Missing the Smoky Mountains but a trip isn’t in the cards right now?  You’re not alone!  When you can’t make it to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge we have fun ways to bring the mountains to you in your very own home.  We’ve even compiled our favorite list (read)

Published on Wednesday, February 3, 2021

Romantic Valentine’s Day Ideas in Gatlinburg

Oh St. Valentine! How will you celebrate your love this year on this heart-filled, candy and flower-laden Feb. 14? We have many ideas for celebrating in The Great Smoky Mountains – adventure filled, romantic, silly, cozy and fun.  Here’s your guide... (read)

Published on Monday, February 1, 2021

The Best Late Night Eats in the Smoky Mountains

Hankering for something at 8, 9 or 10 p.m. after a full-day hiking or seeing a show, maybe ziplining or skiing, fishing or kayaking on Little Pigeon River? Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville have several options, even some open late-late like in (read)

Published on Thursday, January 14, 2021

Your Ultimate Guide to all the Newest Smoky Mountain Attractions in 2021

Come to the Smokies for all your favorite shows, rides and food, along with all the new attractions and restaurants added in 2020 and coming in 2021. Get high in the sky for the incredible views on a chairlift or from one of the thrilling, heart stopping (read)

Published on Wednesday, January 6, 2021

Resort Cabins in the Smokies Offer Fun, Unique Activities and Convenient Locations

Booking a cabin in a resort has lots of benefits, mostly added amenities such as pools, golf courses and tennis courts that are shared with the community. In addition to great amenities in your cabin – game rooms, theater rooms, hot tubs and even swimming... (read)

Published on Wednesday, January 6, 2021