Category Archives: Uncategorized

Kids Love The Trout Farm!

Have you heard of The English Mountain Trout Farm? Located in the Sevierville area just off 411 are several attractions we know the kids and the family will enjoy. One of them is The English Mountain Trout Farm.

Enjoy a beautiful ride to a less visited area of Sevier County and the Smoky Mountains. English Mountain Trout Farm is located at 291 Blowing Cave Rd., Sevierville, Tennessee 37876. English Mountain Trout Farm has a little bit of fun for all ages. You don’t have to have children with you to enjoy your visit, however, we highly recommend this visit for toddlers and children. This attraction is also a very good wheelchair accessible location for those with special needs.

At the Trout Farm you can catch your fish and have them cook it for you! You Hook ‘Em and We’ll Cook ‘Em you will hear them say! Bait, fishing poles and fishing attendants are all part of the experience when you pay your small fee for your license for the time you are fishing. If you prefer to just enjoy their delicious Trout, then you can simply order and eat, they are known for their delicious home cooked foods.

Dine In or Take Out, Outdoor Seating, High chairs and wheelchair access makes The English Mountain Trout Farm one of our favorite picks for things to do with Toddlers and Children in the Smoky Mountains.’ Did we mention the Gem Mine? Oh my, who knew it was so much fun to Gem Mine. The kids will love it and so will you. This is such a great place for families!

The English Mountain Trout Farm is highly rated by Trip Advisor and others. Expect a wonderful experience when you visit.

https://www.englishmountaintroutfarm.net

Great Experiences for Special Needs Part 1: National Park Attractions

One question we see visitors, interested parties and even some locals is where they can find special needs accessibility for themselves or their child, parent, grandparent, etc. Certainly the idea of spending a family reunion in the Smokies or getting out in the fresh air to enjoy the wonderful nature and events we have for Spring and Summer is universally appealing, but for those with special needs, they face challenges many of us who do not have special needs take for granted. We do not normally have to take into consideration whether a tourism area with extreme elevation differences is going to be a barrier or not.

Fortunately, technology advancement for special needs visitors of all ages has made leaps and bounds in the last decade alone and continues to do so. In this article, as of Spring 2022, we have the following recommendations to make for how our visitors can enjoy the many attractions, restaurants, events and more that Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and the rest of Sevier County offer!

National Park Attractions

* Cades Cove *
Cades Cove is an 11-mile driveable loop near Townsend, TN, that does not require visitors to get out of their car or vehicle to enjoy the sights and atmosphere. Cades Cove is easily accessed via Little River Road or Wears Valley Road to Townsend. Cades Cove will provide opportunity to see a variety of past scenes from settlers in the Cove to wildlife that you can keep an eye out for such as turkeys, raccoons, white tailed deer, bears and even coyotes. Some establishments are accessible by wheelchair, but not all as a measure of preservation to the buildings. There are several pull-off locations, one with a visitors center that will be friendly to special needs.

See more on Cades Cove at https://wearsvalleyvisitorscenter.com/cades-cove-wears-valley/.

* Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail *
Roaring Fork is a 5.5-mile driveable loop that does not require visitors to get out of their car or vehicle to enjoy the sights and atmosphere. It is a one way loop that takes you through the Twin Creeks and Roaring Fork areas of the park. You will find pull-off locations and end the vehicle trail at Ely’s Mill, which is one of the most beautiful areas of Gatlinburg.

See more on Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail at https://gatlinburgrecovers.com/2019/07/08/gorgeous-roaring-fork-in-the-smokies/.

* Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail *
A walking nature trail near the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg that is completely paved and accessible for people with wheelchairs, mobility scooters or similar special needs. It is a 0.5-mile trail that goes deep into the woods and features safely accessible terrain to get close to the water.

See more on Sugarlands at https://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/visitorcenters.htm.

* Little River Trail *
Little River Trail is a 6-mile walking trail near Elkmont that can be accessed with wheelchairs and crutches, however it is not paved like Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail is and may not be a fit for all special needs visitors. The first mile of the trail is reported to be smooth enough for powered wheelchairs up to the first mile or mile and a half. Little River Trail is deep into the woods and has trail space next to water like Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail.

See more on Little River Trail at https://hikinginthesmokys.com/little-river-trail/.

* Clingman’s Dome *
Famously considered one of the steeper and more potentially difficult trails in the Smokies, Clingman’s Dome is nonetheless fully paved and some special needs visitors have reported being able to do the 0.5-mile trail and reach the Observation Tower. Curb Free With Cory Lee reports that he was able to reach the Observation Tower in his powered wheelchair. Visitors with a manual wheelchair or crutches may also be able to reach the Observation Tower with assistance. Discretion is advised. Special needs parking is also available and views across the Smokies are immediate just from the parking lot alone.

See more on Clingman’s Dome at https://themountainsarecallingyou.com/2022/03/26/get-to-know-clingmans-dome/.

* Mountain Farm Museum *
Mountain Farm Museum is at the Oconaluftee Visitor’s Center on the other side of Newfound Gap near Cherokee, NC, and both the farm museum and visitor’s center are accessible for special needs visitors. The path to the Mountain Farm Museum is hard-packed gravel and may require assistance under certain conditions (such as weather), but the historic house on the property has an access ramp. The visitor’s center is fully accessible.

See more on Mountain Farm Museum at https://www.greatsmokies.com/mtn-farm-museum/.

* Gatlinburg City Parks *
While not being (totally) within the boundaries of the official national park, the multiple city parks we have in Gatlinburg are all deeply surrounded by the same thick forestry and access to water streams and bodies that our hiking trails have. Gatlinburg has three parks: Mynatt, Miles, and Herbert Holt, each of which offer pavilions, stream access, bathroom facilities with special needs accessibility, and often wildlife can be spotted in the parks as well. City parks are also typically open during times when the National Park might not be (for weather or similar reasons) and may be considered a safer alternative for enjoying Smoky Mountain nature when other attractions may not be available.

See more on Gatlinburg City Parks at https://smokymountainwelcomeguide.com/free-area-parks/.

There are many other attractions and items of interest in our area that offer special needs accessibility, but these are the main ones we felt a decent list should start with.

More information can be found on these links:
– The Smoky Mountains For Special Needs Visitors Part 2
– Scooters And Wheelchair Rentals And Sales
– Cory Lee’s “A Wheelchair Accessible Great Smoky Mountains National Park Travel Guide”.
– Best Wheelchair Friendly In The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

“Who has special needs accessibility in our special needs [group member] be comfortable enjoying the Smoky Mountains? We are happy to report that the Great Smoky Mountains and the area around in its communities and attractions are indeed friendly to those with special needs. In our article we hope to provide you with helpful information for your special person to enjoy the Smoky Mountains.

Find Scooter and other Rentals Here!

Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a 5.5 mile

Metcalf Bottoms is a picnic area in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park that is also located along Little River Road or accessible via Wears Valley Road. Metcalf Bottoms is a spacious area with a picnic pavilion that can be reserved through recreation.gov. We love Metcalf Bottoms as an accessible area in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park.

Free Parks with Access and Fishing

Herbert Holt Park in Gatlinburg, Mynatt Park in Gatlinburg and Metcalf Bottoms in the Wears Valley area of the National Park all have fishing opportunities for everyone. Kids can fish free! Learn more about the Free Parks in the area here.

Attractions and Dining

There are several areas in the Smokies we would recommend for those who use a scooter or wheelchair as they offer special spacious areas and accommodations. The Island in Pigeon Forge would be a favorite. Offering drop off and parking locations specifically for those who are chair bound, The Island is a pleasant experience. Enjoy a meal, do some shopping, sit and watch the fountains (and the people!)

The Mountain Mile in Pigeon Forge is a spacious, multi experience area where they have set up space and activities for people of all kinds to enjoy. Some of today’s hottest names in retail are at the Mountain Mile. Enjoy a meal at Junction 35 or pick up some spirits to take to your cabin. Enjoy a spacious area for walking, riding, enjoying the beautiful area they have created. You will find The Mountain Mile at the corner of Teaster Lane and East Wears Valley Road in Pigeon Forge.

Walden’s Landing is a great choice for a good experience! Spacious parking with accommodating restaurants make this area a good choice if you have a chair bound member in your group. Shopping, attractions and restaurants will be fun and accommodating to all! Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud is a family favorite!

We know the Wonderworks, The Titanic, and the Alcatraz museum are also great stops. All of the larger attractions will have accommodations for those with scooters or wheelchairs where possible.

The Fun Time Trolley System is Handicap and Wheelchair friendly. Learn about their paratransit pass if you live within 3/4th of a mile of the route. You can locate Scooter Sales and Rentals on the parkway in Pigeon Forge at 3536 Parkway. https://www.pigeonforge.com/trolley/

What about Sensory Friendly?
Those on the Autism Spectrum may find they need a sensory friendly area to enjoy the Smoky Mountains. Several of the attractions in the area provide a sensory friendly area for those who are especially sensitive to over stimulation. Dollywood is very friendly to special needs, just ask! Wonderworks hosts 10 Sensory Friendly days each year and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies hosts a Sensory Friendly Night at the Aquarium for those who are interested. Don’t be afraid to ask! We want you to have a fantastic vacation as our guest.

These Menus At Sunliner Diner Restaurant in Pigeon Forge

In this small article, we wanted to highlight a recent trip to the Sunliner Diner restaurant in Pigeon Forge and their clever integration of Pigeon Forge identity and the listing of food items and services commonly referred to as a “menu”. We just wanted to highlight this bit of creativity you can find from a newer and very popular restaurant in our area!

Yes, the menu for their burgers, fries, chicken tenders, waffles, chicken and waffles, appetizers, meatloaf, fish and chips, sandwiches and more are all printed on the back of this page. It’s a wonderfully nice touch for a restaurant designed to make you feel like you’ve gone back a couple eras!

See the Sunliner Diner online at https://www.sunlinerdiner.com/pigeon-forge/.

Smoky Mountain Falls | Cabins Near Gatlinburg

Creekside Cabins are popular in the Smoky Mountains and Smoky Mountain Falls offers several beautiful Creekside Cabins that are located in the Cosby area near Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Fishing Cabins in the Smoky Mountains is a popular request and one our cabins can fill. Once you have stayed with Smoky Mountain Falls at one of our Creekside Cabins you will want to return again and again to see if the fish are biting. Enjoy the sounds of the creek as you pour your morning coffee and as you fall asleep at night.

We offer more secluded cabins. Location is everything! Do you seek a bit of privacy? Whether you are a honeymoon couple or a family just looking to reconnect, one of the best things about our vacation rentals is the location. Our cabins are located just a short distance from just about everything people enjoy doing, yet they offer certain privacy and space that offers people a time to reconnect with one another and nature.

What sets the cabins with Smoky Mountain Falls Cabin Rentals to stand out from other cabins in the area?
Our team takes great pride in our homes. We understand that the vacation rental you choose is the core of your vacation. Vacations don’t come easy and so our team works to create the vacation home we would want to have when we are on vacation. Cleanliness and cabin maintenance are top-notch. Because we are a small company, we know our homes and their owners personally and we work to offer their very best to you.

Service is a number ONE priority.
Smoky Mountain Falls was built by providing vacation opportunities to guests one cabin at a time. We offer Southern Hospitality when we speak with you in regard to renting a home and we look forward to knowing you better when you come to stay. Once your reservation is complete, we are here to be sure your vacation home is set to provide you with a memorable experience. The guests that come to stay with Smoky Mountain Falls are the most important part of our business and we want you to know that.

Location, Location, Location!
Our homes are located along the Eastern area of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park. Our cabins are near Gatlinburg and Cosby, Tennessee, and an easy drive to Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and other areas in the Smokies. The Cosby entrance to the National Park is beautiful and highly recommended when you visit. Our cabins offer a great experience, whichever cabin you choose. Whether you are looking for a location like Cobby Nob with pool access, or something quite private and secluded, we have the cabin for you.

Return again and again!
We have guests that return again and again. It is not unusual for a family to try several of our cabins as they visit the Smoky Mountains. If you are folks who visit several times a year, if you have a favorite cabin, we are happy to reserve it for you in advance to be sure you get to enjoy your favorite.

See more on Smoky Mountain Falls at www.cabinsneargatlinburg.com.

The Hidden Gems Of The Arts and Crafts Community

The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community of the Smoky Mountains is the first major attraction other than the mountains themselves to bring people in from all around the United States and get to know more about the artisan soul of our region. Artists of all kinds reside here – painters, woodcrafters, potters, glass makers, sign makers, quilters, candle makers, upcyclers, jewelers, stone crafters… the list goes on.

Much is written about the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community and some stores are already well-known. In this article, we wanted to showcase some of the lesser-known shops from the Community that we visited lately and can recommend as part of your Gatlinburg visit. Take a look:

Shaconage Stone Art & Jewelry
170 Glades Road
Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
865-719=3999
http://www.shaconagestoneartandjewelry.net/

“Our unique product lines from the Stone Art to the Jewelry are made by local artists. Most of the items are Native American made. We are extremely proud of our artist and products.Our products are made by local artisans. The unique stone art is made by Walking Bear. Our jewelry is designed by Vidars Custom Jewelry, and Matoka. Our hand knapped arrowheads, bows and arrows are by Stone Bear. Walking Bear, Stone Bear and Les Coffee make our unique knives. Our herbal teas, oils and soaps are by Nuwati. We also carry products by other Native Americans. Each item is unique and one of a kind.”

Hills Creek Gallery
170 Glades Road
Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
865-430-7778
https://www.hillscreek.com/

“Est. 1991 Featuring the Award Winning Smoky Mountains Scenic, Wildlife and Nature Photography of M&D Hills. Enjoy unique handcrafted gifts, jewelry, art glass, kaleidoscopes, paperweights, metalwork, & pottery. Don’t miss our one of a kind selection of glass pendants and earrings by artist J. Hills. Plus so much more.”

Elk River Gifts and Crafts
608 Glades Road
Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
865-412-1028
https://www.facebook.com/elkrivercraftsandgifts/

Ownby’s Woodcraft
704 Glades Road
Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
865-436-5254
https://www.etsy.com/market/ownbys_woodcraft

“Since the late 1800’s the Ownby’s carry on a long family tradition, turning native wood into beautiful wooden fruit, bowls, flowers, baskets, cutting boards, stools, birdhouses, bears, old timey games, toys & much more.”

Hand-n-Heart Creations
170 Glades Road
Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
865-412-1156
https://www.facebook.com/handnheartcreationsgatlinburg/

“We are a shop in the Arts & Crafts Community of Gatlinburg, Tennessee. We feature a wide variety of unique, hand-crafted, artisan items from regional artists in a pleasant atmosphere.”

White Buffalo Native American Gifts
601 Glades Road Suite 2
Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
865-335-9762

Jams, Jellies, Nuts & More
170 Glades Road
Gatlinburg, TN, 37738
865-436-8911

Firefly Glass Studio
830 Moyers Dr,
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
(865) 206-6083
https://www.gatlinburg.com/listing/firefly-glass-studio/516/

“Nancy Huff creates contemporary fused glass art. Ths studio offers a “You Create” experience for all ages. Stop by and design your own masterpiece that will be fired and shipped.”

JJ Signs and Gifts
170 Glades Road, Suite 22,
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
(260) 705-1058
https://www.facebook.com/HancevilleAL/

“Artist Joyce Branch free hands signs, paints acrylic paintings and creates unique art with glass and resin. Joyce is able to paint a sign for you while you wait or create a special unique piece of art for your home or business.”

Lil’ Bit of Gatlinburg
575 Proffitt Rd.,
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
(865) 430-4280
https://www.lilbitofgatlinburg.com/

“Come explore our unique sampling of craft and whimsy. We offer so much for the casual gift shopper, as well as the refined collector. From novelties to candles to pottery to paintings and handcrafted items from local artisans. Gift Wrapping Services offered here. Save time and hassle. Bring all of your gift wrap needs to us. If it’s more than a few, we’ll come to you. Call for more info and availability.”

Smoky Mountain Gold 2
601 Glades Rd # 8,
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
(865) 436-6805

The Rampant Lion – A Pub & Wine Bar
734 Powdermill Rd,
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
(865) 567-5217
http://www.therampantlionpub.com/

“A Celtic Pub and Wine Bar on the outskirts of Gatlinburg, nestled in the Arts and Crafts Community Centre. Starting with a wide selection of Whisky’s, ciders, wine coolers and cheeses, plus a tapas restaurant with offerings from around the world.”

Cabins Near Gatlinburg

Cabins near Gatlinburg is what you seek? Then we have cabins for you! There is a Cabin Near Gatlinburg to fit every taste and budget! Each of our vacation homes are near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Cosby, Sevierville, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Whether you would like a cabin next to a creek or river, or a cabin that offers a fantastic mountain view, you will find it here. Our cabins vary from one-bedroom bungalows to grand lodges, with the ability to accommodate multiple families!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park – The most visited national park in the United States! Many of our properties are less than a five-minute drive to the Cosby entrance of the National Park. You will find that the Cosby Entrance is one of the more private parts of the Park. Cosby Creek runs alongside the road. This is a great place for bear watching in the early mornings and near sunset.

Cabins include:

Mountain High
2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Sleeps 6

• Central Heat & Air
• Outdoor Built-In Spa
• Gas Log Fireplace
• Satellite TV with DVD Player
• Washer & Dryer (Laundry Soap is NOT provided!)
• Ceiling Fans Throughout
• Charcoal Grill (Charcoal is NOT provided!)
• Stocked Kitchen and Dishwasher
• 2 TVs (1 in Master; 1 in Den)
• Porch Swing and Picnic Table
• All Paved Roads to the Cabin
• All Bed and Bath Linens Provided
• Complimentary Wifi
https://cabinsneargatlinburg.com/cabins/mountain-high

Mountain Creek Retreat
3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Sleeps 8

• Over 1400 Square Feet
• 2 Bedrooms on Main Level, Plus a Loft Bedroom
• 2 Full Baths
• 3 Queen Beds
• 1 Sleeper Sofa
• Microwave
• Coffee Maker
• Toaster
• Dinner and Cookware
• Rocking Chairs
• Porch Swing
• Waterfront
• Wood Burning Fireplace
• Covered Porches
• Minutes Away from Rafting
• Wifi
• Four TVs – 1 in Living Room, 1 in Each Bedroom
• Cable TV
• Phone
• Bed and Bath Linens
• Gas Grill
• Washer and Dryer
• Hot Tub
https://cabinsneargatlinburg.com/cabins/mountain-creek-retreat

River Falls Bungalow
1 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Sleeps 4

• Free Parking
• Cable Television
• Deck / Patio
• Jacuzzi/Hot Tub
• Central Heating
• Air Conditioning
• Full Kitchen
• Microwave
• Outdoor Grill
• High Speed Internet
• Wireless Internet
• Toaster
• Blender
• Ice Maker
• Coffee Maker
• Oven
• Stove
• Refrigerator
• Dishes & Utensils
• Living Room
• Towels Provided
• Linens Provided
• Exterior Lighting
• Deadbolt lock
• Fire Extinguisher
https://cabinsneargatlinburg.com/cabins/river-falls-bungalow

Wild Berry Mountain
2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Sleeps 6

• 2 Bedrooms – Each with Queen Size Bed
• 2 Bathrooms – 1 with Jetted Tub
• Walk-In Shower
• Sleeper Sofa
• Mountain Views
• Wooded Setting
• Full Kitchen
• Hot Tub
• Washer and Dryer
• Wood Burning Fireplace
• Covered Porches
• Regular TV
• Charcoal Grill
• Fire Pit
• Secluded and Private
• Outdoor Rockers
• Telephone (Local Only)
https://cabinsneargatlinburg.com/cabins/wild-berry-mountain

Enchanted Forest
2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, Sleeps 6

• Free Parking
• Cable Television
• Entertainment Center
• Deck / Patio
• Jacuzzi/Hot Tub
• Pool
• Washer & Dryer
• Gas Fireplace
• Central Heating
• Air Conditioning
• Full Kitchen
• Microwave
• Outdoor Grill
• High Speed Internet
• Wireless Internet
• Toaster
• Dishwasher
• Coffee Maker
• Oven
• Stove
• Refrigerator
• Dishes & Utensils
• DVD Player
• Living Room
• Towels Provided
• Linens Provided
• Exterior Lighting
• Deadbolt lock
https://cabinsneargatlinburg.com/cabins/enchanted-forest

Starwood Cabin
1 Bedroom, 1 Bath, Sleeps 4

• Keyless Entry
• Free Parking
• Satellite Television
• Telephone
• Deck / Patio
• Game Room
• Jacuzzi/Hot Tub
• Washer & Dryer
• Gas Fireplace
• Central Heating
• Air Conditioning
• Full Kitchen
• Microwave
• Outdoor Grill
• High Speed Internet
• Wireless Internet
• Toaster
• Dishwasher
• Coffee Maker
• Oven
• Stove
• Refrigerator
• Dishes & Utensils
• DVD Player
• Living Room
• Towels Provided
• Iron & Board
• Linens Provided
• Exterior Lighting
• Deadbolt lock
• Fire Extinguisher
https://cabinsneargatlinburg.com/cabins/starwood-cabin

The Mount LeConte Team | Prime Mountain Properties

Welcome from The Mount LeConte Team, formerly known as the Terrell-Drager Team. With over 15 years serving the Real Estate industry in the Smoky Mountains, The Mount LeConte Team helps people buy and sell homes all over the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge and Sevierville area.

Whether you are looking to buy or sell a vacation home, investment rental, are interested to purchase land or permanent residence in the Smokies, our team is a trusted resource to complete your dream.

We are experienced, full-time agents who are local residents and know the area inside and out.

We are ready 7 days a week when you need us, with hassle-free, no pressure assistance.

The Mount LeConte Team
Prime Mountain Properties
807 Dolly Parton Parkway
Sevierville TN 37862
865-453-4049 865-436-7227
https://themountleconteteam.com/

Top 8 Things to Do This Summer in Gatlinburg

The main tourism website for the city of Gatlinburg published this blog post recently and we thought there was enough good information on it that we would like to share it on this blog as well.

From www.gatlinburg.com:

Top 8 Things to Do This Summer in Gatlinburg

“1. Outdoor adventures
No summer vacation is complete without escaping to the mountains for an adventure. Great Smoky Mountains National Park holds the record for being America’s most visited national park – and for good reason. Hit any of the park’s 900+ miles of hiking trails and discover historical settlements, cascading waterfalls, and scenic views along its many paths. Along with its numerous trails, there is no shortage of ways to get out and experience the park’s unique wilderness, from guided nature hikes to scenic drives, to river rafting and horseback riding. Motor routes like the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail and the Cade’s Cove loop road also let you sightsee at a Sunday-drive pace and offer plenty of picnic areas to stop and enjoy lunch along the way.

2. Panoramic views
For a truly magnificent photo op, try viewing the Smokies from above. You can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains on the Gatlinburg Sky Lift, Space Needle, Aerial Tramway, or from the comfort of an Anakeesta Chondola. You can also hop in the car and take a scenic drive up to the Gatlinburg Bypass for an amazing view of the city surrounded by the Smoky Mountains.

3. Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Loop
Gatlinburg’s famous Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community – which started from a local tradition for making craftsmen goods – has since grown to be the largest group of independent artisans in North America. Find quality creations inside every storefront along with the 8-mile Arts and Crafts Loop that’s home to weavers, potters, painters, jewelers, candlemakers, and many other artists.

4. Family Fun
With activities and excitement lining both sides of downtown, Gatlinburg is a great place for family attractions. Kids of all ages can play in a magical treehouse village or race together on duel ziplines when families discover Gatlinburg’s newest theme park, Anakeesta. For any family looking for a variety of things to do, there’s just nothing like Ober Gatlinburg. With rides like the Alpine Slide and Ski Mountain Coaster, year-round ice skating and a special area for the littlest ones, this amusement park is a favorite family destination. Families that enjoy a challenge can work together in a 60-minute race against the clock to break out from Gatlin’s Escape Games, one of the most adrenaline-pumping attractions in Gatlinburg. There are countless other family activities in town, from the wonderful Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies to museums and mirror mazes.

5. Fourth of July
There’s no better place to celebrate July 4th than Gatlinburg, because we start earlier than anybody else. Gatlinburg’s 46th annual 4th of July Midnight Parade begins at 12:01 a.m. on July 4 and is the first Independence Day celebration in the nation. At 1 p.m. on July 4th, the action moves to the Little Pigeon with the River Raft Regatta. You can participate or cheer on your favorite floatable in this fun and competitive Independence Day tradition. The big finale comes after dark when a spectacular firework show from The Space Needle lights up downtown at 11 p.m.

6. Romance
Are you getting married this summer? Gatlinburg is one of the most romantic places in the world, not only for couples tying the knot and newlyweds honeymooning but for lovers who want to renew their relationships.

7. Gatlinburg Farmers Market
Every year from May to October, our local farmers, artisans and food producers gather on Saturday mornings from 8:30 to 11:30 next to the Post Office on East Parkway. The Gatlinburg Farmers Market features fresh, local produce, eggs, homemade baked goods and items like jams, honey and natural health products.

8. Summer music
When the summer sun goes down, Gatlinburg’s downtown Parkway comes alive with the sounds of Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales! Visitors can stroll Gatlinburg’s famous Parkway sidewalks and easily catch one of Tunes & Tales’ many costumed performers sharing the music and tales that have existed in the Smoky Mountains as far back as the 1800s. Musical entertainment can be found at the Ole Smoky “Holler” or at Ole Red Gatlinburg on a daily basis. We’re also celebrating Appalachian music at the Smoky Mountains Songwriters Festival on August 19-22 at venues throughout Gatlinburg.”

See this full article at https://www.gatlinburg.com/blog/post/the-top-8-things-to-do-this-summer-in-gatlinburg/.

Dolly Parton’s Tribute to the State of Tennessee

Sevier County’s favorite daughter, Miss Dolly Parton, posted a video as part of this incredible historic anniversary for the state of Tennessee!

As reported by WATE.com:

“As part of the 225th celebration of statehood, the county music icon lent her voice and her 1973 single “My Tennessee Mountain Home” to a video released Tuesday called “Home.”

“I am Tennessee proud,” Parton said. “I’m proud of our wonderful state, proud to be a born and raised Tennessee girl, and I’m proud to be a part of all that we represent.’

The video features all corners of the state from Mountain City to Memphis. Gov. Bill Lee is seen pulling a music record off a shelf as the video takes a tour of main streets, landmarks and natural scenery highlighting Tennessee’s culture and beauty.

“Dolly is a Tennessee treasure, and I’m thankful she’s joined us to commemorate 225 years of statehood,” Lee said. “I invite Tennesseans to celebrate at events throughout the year … to share the stories of the people, places and moments that have shaped Tennessee.”

View this article in full at https://www.wate.com/news/watch-dolly-parton-celebrates-225-years-of-statehood-with-my-tennessee-mountain-home-video/.

Wedding Venue Spotlight: Honeysuckle Hills

Honeysuckle Hills is a premium, secluded and inclusive wedding venue located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge, TN, with a number of gorgeous places onsite that all can make a gorgeous setting for a wedding or elopment reception. Honeysuckle Hills is a barn wedding venue in the TN Smoky Mountains with spacious outdoor gardens, horses, country-chic décor and a family staff dedicated to pleasing its couples. Owner and operator Regina makes your wedding experience more personal, planning with you from start to finish.

All-inclusive wedding packages are our specialty for both elopements and weddings with receptions.