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.
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 foliage in the Smokies, and where you […]
You scream! I scream! We all scream for ice cream! It’s summer in the Smokies and a great way to beat the heat is with a delicious cold treat. And not just any treat – Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville have some truly fun shops with unique ice cream creations and sweet snacks. Mad Dog’s […]
The Smoky Mountains and American Patriot Getaways cabins have many options that are “handicap friendly.” This means properties are typically homes with a level parking spot, have no more than one step required for entry, utilize a 3-foot or greater entry door, and include an entry level bedroom and bathroom. The adventures are sites from […]
Cades Cove is a broad, lush, green valley surrounded by mountains that is one of the most popular destinations in the Great Smoky Mountains. Here, visitors find some of the best opportunities for wildlife viewing in the park. White-tailed deer are frequently seen, and black bear, coyote, ground hog, turkey, raccoon, skunk, and other animal […]
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 on an outdoor patio with a view of town. A Kennedy Concepts restaurant (one of four […]
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 celebrate this special day. Virtual Sunrise Easter Service – Ober Gatlinburg […]
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 in 2020, reservations are encouraged for park entry this year as well. While the park opens for […]
Looking for live music during your trip to The Great Smoky Mountains? With their 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 and all the shows at Dollywood Amusement Park. Bars […]
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 of recipes from Gatlinburg and recipes from Pigeon […]
A trip to Elkmont, Tennessee, is sure to be filled with mystery and storytelling. Once a settlers’ village, then a logging community, its lively existence came to an end as a wealthy visitors’ country club community that Smoky Mountains National Park let fade into its current dilapidated state. Just 15 minutes from Gatlinburg, Elkmont offers […]
