The Great Smoky Mountains National Park preserves a rich cultural tapestry of Southern Appalachian history. The mountains have had a long human history spanning thousands of years—from the prehistoric Paleo Indians to early European settlement in the 1800s to loggers and Civilian Conservation Corps in the 20th century to the introduction of overnight cabin rentals in the late 1970’s.
With summer just around the corner, it’s time to break out the BBQ and a few good tunes. Luckily, if you’re planning a visit to Sevierville, Gatlinburg, or Pigeon Forge in late May you have a chance to do just that at one of TWO amazing festivals. Read on to learn all about Sevierville’s Bloomin’ […]
Each and every year in the Smoky Mountains, for a magical few nights in June, something spectacular happens. One of the 19 species of fireflies in our spectacular park, the Photinus carolinus, synchronize their flashing pattern. These synchronized fireflies are a true sight to behold and worth attempting to see. Read this post to see […]
Get back to the roots of the people who have lived in The Great Smoky Mountains by going to Gatlinburg’s Arts & Crafts Community to watch artisans or make something yourself – a keepsake from your Tennessee vacation – during one of the “Hands On” events. “Carvers, weavers, watercolor artists, casters, soap makers, potters, wood […]
Dollywood, the theme park that bares singer/songwriter Dolly Parton’s name, opens for its 2019 season on Friday, March 15, with food, fun, rides, and song and dance. Spanning 150 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood offers more than 40 world class rides, high-energy entertainment, award-winning dining and the “friendliest park atmosphere in the world.” Dollywood wins awards for […]
Are you looking for your next spring getaway? If you enjoy the mountains, great food, and wine, then we have the perfect place for you. The annual Smoky Mountain Winefest takes place each spring. Year after year, it delivers visitors a unique wine tasting experience and culinary adventure. Keep reading to find out why you […]
With its signature blue mist and rugged landscape, the Smoky Mountains are a true gem in the South. But hidden throughout this beautiful landscape are dozens of quaint mountainside towns that are perfect for quick trips and weekend getaways. If you’ve ever wanted to visit the Smoky Mountains, read on for our guide to the […]
Today Dolly Parton celebrates her 73rd Birthday! In honor of the Smoky Mountain’s (and Sevier County’s) most famous resident, here are some some fun facts about the songstress herself: She’s a one of the most-honored music artists of all time – Dolly Parton has had 26 songs reach Number 1 on the Billboard country charts […]
Longing for an exotic getaway? 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 you in on a little secret… that bucket-list destination might not be so far after all. Mystic smoke… check. Lush landscape…check. Wildlife galore…check. Non-stop […]
Nestled against the beautiful Smoky Mountains in Tennessee is the town of Pigeon Forge. Long summer days and wide open spaces make this quaint mountain town a popular destination. Whether you’re in need of some rest and relaxation or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Pigeon Forge. Ready to take a trip? Read […]
Dollywood won five “best of the best” awards, ranked as finalists in five additional categories and landed two coasters on Amusement Today’s annual Best Steel and Best Wooden Coaster lists at the magazine’s prestigious 2013 Golden Ticket Awards on Saturday, Sept. 7. The awards, presented by trade publication Amusement Today, were handed out at Santa […]
