Category archive: Smoky Mountains

What’s Happening in April in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

April in the Smoky Mountains around Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is definitely the month of wildflowers in the millions (see below for details). April is the time when the season puts its boots on for summer, all the venues are open with special attractions, people are arriving for fun, and everything starts popping.

The snow is mostly gone by now and nights are above freezing with temperatures in the mid-forties and day times in the low seventies. The waters of Great Smoky Mountains National Park are generally rushing and giving us spectacular waterfalls, and the fishing is great. Music is in the air as festivals, fairs and other special events happen, and the sound of hot-rod engines mingles in with it all too.

April is also the time when the national park announces the viewing dates for the annual synchronous fireflies in June, and the Lottery dates for the limited parking available.

One image courtesy of GSMNP

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Best Kids & Family Things To Do

Make sure the kids get the most out of their time in the Smoky Mountains with our quick guide to The Best Kids & Family Things To Do in the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area. Here are some of the notable outdoor adventures for people with energy to spare, as well as some indoor attractions that will get the kids laughing with fun. When the kids are having fun, the whole family is happy, and that’s what a Gatlinburg vacation is for!

Best Kids & Family Things To Do

Image courtesy of Rowdy Bear

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Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge: Which is Best?

If you’re planning a trip to the Smoky Mountains, chances are you’ll be choosing between two of the most popular Tennessee towns for your stay: Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Both towns are great vacation destinations, and they’re right next to each other, with just a few minutes drive between the two towns. While both towns are close to the mountains, offer breathtaking views, and are full of activities and attractions, each one has its own unique personality that may influence your ultimate decision of where to stay.

Image courtesy of Gatlinburg

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Traveling With Pets to the Smoky Mountains

We have many pet-friendly vacation cabins for rent in the Smoky Mountains, with no restrictions on size, weight, numbers of animals or type, and all we ask is a deposit per each pet. Check our list of pet-friendly cabins.

Taking a trip to the Smoky Mountains is an adventure for all the family, and if you’re planning to bring your furry friend along for the ride, please take a look at the safety and comfort tips below. There are a few things to add to your travel list to help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable journey, whether you’re a seasoned traveler with pets or this is your first outing.

Image courtesy of Lauren Guardala

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Exploring Townsend in the Smoky Mountains

Townsend is a small town located in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. It’s often overlooked as visitors turn south at the Wye to head toward Cades Cove, but it has its own attractions worth exploring, from the scenic roads leading into the nearby entrance to the national park, to its own cycling and walking greenways, along with its sense of history.

This is the Peaceful Side of the Smokies, often a welcome break from the crowded areas of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

Photo by Brian Stansberry

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Celebrate Valentine’s Day With a Smoky Mountain Getaway

With Valentine’s Day nearly upon us, the season of romance begins. And whether you’ve been married for years or are just falling for each other now, there’s no finer place to celebrate Valentine’s Day than in the Smoky Mountains.

TIP: Valentine’s Day falls on a Tuesday this year. The good news is that in February we have our Half-Price Specials through the 17th – which means either the weekend before or during that week you can celebrate in style at half price! Take advantage for fun and romantic getaway in the Smoky Mountains. Call us anytime at 855 91 SMOKY and see our Specials page for more details.


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Water Fun Year Round in the Smokies

There are plenty of places to get in some swimming and splashing around during your time in the Smokies – and some stay warm and enclosed during the winter, offering options at any time of year.

While Great Smoky Mountains National Park is open year round with free admission, and contains thousands of miles of flowing water, unless you’re fishing you probably don’t want to take a dip in winter. Best to know about the indoor spots during the chilly seasons.

Image courtesy of Wild Water Dome

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