Gatlinburg’s 4th of July Midnight Parade
What is more patriotic than being the first in the country to celebrate the Fourth of July? Not much! Each year, Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the site of the first Fourth of July parade in the nation when they start the marching at 12:01 a.m. This massive festival routinely attracts between 80,000 and 100,000 spectators. A […]
Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library – How Dolly Gives Back
Dolly Parton is many things: singer, songwriter, actress, and theme park proprietress. But despite all these talents, perhaps her role as a philanthropist gives her the most joy. Dolly Parton never forgot where she came from. She was once dirt poor in the Smoky Mountains. Now, she has the resources to give back to her […]
4 Great Movies Set in the Smoky Mountains
No Hollywood soundstage can compare to the natural backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains. The quaint communities and residents (extras!), rich with history themselves, only add to the scenery-as-storytelling motif. Update your queue with these four films that took advantage of the eastern Tennessee locale to create four very different movies. Movie: The Dollmaker Released: […]
24 Hilarious Examples of Southern Words You Won’t Believe Are Used Every Day
Local dialect, euphemisms, and a pleasing musical twang only add more flavors to the already rich culture of the Smoky Mountains. The folk expressions distinct to the Appalachian region of eastern Tennessee and western North Carolina are much more than just pronunciations and colloquialisms. They contain a life and history of their own. The Dictionary […]
Endangered Species of the Smokies
Along with all the great reasons to visit the Great Smoky Mountains are just as many reasons to take care of the species that call them home. They play a role in a larger food chain and ecosystem. Even the smallest of plants is crucial to maintaining a balanced environment. Mostly, human interaction with this […]
Take a Walk in Dolly’s Stilettos
Whether a super fan or a road warrior, if you’re visiting Eastern Tennessee, you must take a historical journey along the lifeline of the most famous resident: Dolly Parton. Dolly Parton still considers Tennessee home. She has remained true to her roots in her song lyrics, philanthropy, and overall personality. So put on your rhinestone […]
Four Beautiful Faces of the Smoky Mountains
Whether you’re a spring, summer, fall or winter person, the Great Smoky Mountains offer year-round opportunities to tap into your own unique spirit of adventure. Nature’s wonders abound and no matter when you decided to visit, you’re sure to have a great time. Catch Spring Fever (March – May) With temperatures ranging from chilly to […]
5 Reasons You Need to Visit Dollywood
It’s a one-of-a-kind place named for a one-of-a-kind superstar entertainer! What could be more fun that a trip to Dollywood, the Smoky Mountains’ very own theme park with a real Hollywood connection? Fun for the whole family is guaranteed with thrilling rides, musical shows, shopping, and great food. Whether you want the excitement of roller […]
How Did Pigeon Forge Get It’s Name?
Pigeon Forge, located in the eastern portion of Tennessee, is known for its traditional Appalachian crafts, music and folklore. Visitors flock to Pigeon Forge each year to enjoy popular tourist attractions, like Dollywood, unsurpassed shopping and some of the best chalets, vacation condos, and cabins in Smoky Mountains. The Pigeon Forge area served as a […]
4 Amazing Museums in Gatlinburg
Have you ever gone sightseeing through the museums in Gatlinburg? Sure, the Great Smoky Mountains are home to a wide variety of outdoor activities … but there’s also plenty to do indoors (other than enjoying a hot tub at your Gatlinburg cabin). Looking for something out of the ordinary to add a twist to your […]
