Gatlinburg has Mountains of Appeal for Visitors

The quaint atmosphere of Gatlinburg, Tennessee draws visitors from near and far. Centered near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg combines outdoor adventure with indoor fun. There are many things to do in Gatlinburg, including activities for families and couples.

On my recent visit to Gatlinburg, I enjoyed all the sites, sounds and fun it had to offer. The parkway through Gatlinburg immediately garnered my attention, as it boasts shop upon shop, where the items are plentiful and prices are affordable. Gatlinburg shopping includes a little bit of everything, such as a store dedicated to hot sauce. Walking the sidewalks of Gatlinburg, guests get a glimpse of a small town, friendly environment where dining, attractions and delicious sweets are just a few steps away.

There are many attractions located along the parkway, including Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Ober Gatlinburg, Hollywood Star Cars Museum and Ripley’s Moving Theater. These attractions are fun for the young and old alike and are easily accessible from all things Gatlinburg.

Many Gatlinburg restaurants are located in the same vicinity as the attractions and shopping available. While I was visiting, I ate at the Smoky Mountain Brewery, which was a great discovery. The service was good, the food excellent and the company fantastic! It is a great place to try a Smoky Mountain brew, eat tasty ribs, calzones and other entrees and relax in a comfortable atmosphere. I would recommend any Gatlinburg visitor to give them a try.

One of the great things about Gatlinburg is their closeness to great hikes. As a lover of the outdoors, I eagerly ventured on a hike through Abrams Falls, which led to a beautiful waterfall. The five mile hike introduced me to the scenic wonder of the Smokies. It was a wonderful way to experience the other side of Gatlinburg.

The hotels and cabins in Gatlinburg also accommodate the needs of every visitor. Seclusion, convenience and luxury can be found in many Gatlinburg lodgings. I stayed at Diamond Mountain Rentals, and was more than please by their warm, comfortable cabin. It was like a home away from home!

Gatlinburg is truly the gateway to the Smoky Mountains. It encompasses all visitors could ask for in a getaway destination. Spring is a wonderful time to travel to Gatlinburg, as the city blooms to life during the spring and summer months.

Springfest Events in Gatlinburg Underway

During the three-month Springfest celebration that begins in early March and continues into the second week of June, visitors witness Gatlinburg’s transformation into spring when the city’s streets overflow with baskets of beautiful blooming flowers and plants. Pansies, daffodils, tulips, mandevillas, bougainvilleas, lantanas, scaveolas and wave petunias are among the many varieties of flowers seen throughout the city. Live entertainment can be found along sidewalks, adding a festive flair to the time-honored Downtown Parkway stroll.

Members of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community display unique handcrafted wares as they gather at the Gatlinburg Convention Center to host their annual Easter Arts & Crafts show Wednesday, March 19 through Saturday, March 22.

On Easter morning, March 23, join in the local tradition and attend Ober Gatlinburg’s 11th Annual Easter Sunrise Service enhanced by the beauty of the Smokies. Free tram rides to the mountain top begin at 5:45 a.m. and continue in 15 minute intervals until the service begins. Complimentary parking at the resort will be provided for those who prefer to drive. A breakfast buffet will be waiting and available at the Ober Gatlinburg Restaurant from 7 a.m. until 10:30 a.m.

The smell of hickory-smoked barbeque fills the air as folks roll up sleeves and dive in to sample their secret sauces on delectable ribs and wings from vendors from all over the Southeast on Thursday, April 17 at Gatlinburg’s Ribfest & Wings. This festive street party features live entertainment, lots of fun and barbeque ribs and wings on the open grill just for your tasting. Live entertainment as well as hot wing eating contests highlight the evening. Kids activities are also available on the Parkway parking lot surrounding the Harley Davidson store across from Hard Rock Cafe near Traffic Light #3.

The 58th Annual Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage, Wednesday, April 23 through Sunday, April 27, is another great event, especially for hikers and nature lovers who love to see delicate wildflowers in bloom. Hosted by Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the University of Tennessee Botany Department and the Gatlinburg Garden Club, this seven-day program offers more than 150 different hiking tours of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, exhibitions, demonstrations, classroom lectures and delightful motor excursions into the wonderful season of spring in the Smokies.

Spring events continue with Gatlinburg’s Scottish Festival & Games Grand Parade on Friday, May 16 at 6 p.m. at Traffic Light #10 in downtown Gatlinburg. All Scots are invited to march or ride in the parade. On Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18, Mills Park in Gatlinburg becomes competitive ground for the 27th Annual Scottish Festival & Games where clans meet and feature Highland athletics, bagpipe competitions, highland dancing, border collie demonstrations, haggis hurling, entertainment and whiskey tasting, along with food and merchandise vendors.

Gatlinburg's Fine Arts Festival, a family-oriented fine arts festival featuring juried artists from around the country, delicious cuisine and music takes place in downtown Gatlinburg on Saturday, May 17 and Sunday, May 18. Proceeds benefit the Sevier County Arts Council.

Information courtesy of Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce

Gatlinburg combines the Great Outdoors with Family Fun

Located in the rolling hills of eastern Tennessee is a small town with a population of only 4,900. You wouldn't think such a place would make for a great vacation spot. You don't generally find enticing sights and activities the whole family will enjoy in tiny towns such as this. What makes this town the exception is the 500,000-acre playground in its backyard known as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The town is Gatlinburg, TN and because of its location it offers exciting activities and attractions for all age groups that will ensure a vacation you'll remember for a lifetime.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The eight to 10 million people who visit this park annually can't be wrong. You'll soon discover why the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is such a popular area of Gatlinburg. Cabin rentals in and around the area give you ready access to some of the best hiking and wildlife you'll ever see.

With over 800 miles of trails, this hiker's paradise unlocks pathways to hours (or days) of fun, excitement and beauty. Novice hikers will enjoy the gently sloping trails with clear views that wind past powerful waterfalls. Seeking a more strenuous activity? Trek along a wooded trail to the crest of a mountain where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views any time of year. Sunsets and sunrises receive special appreciation from hikers because they deliver a palette of amazing colors that spray vibrant reds, subtle grays and calming blues across the sky. There are some serious photo opps here!

Observing wildlife in their natural habitat offers an experience that will not soon be forgotten, especially since the park is home to so many varieties. Open areas offer the best opportunities to see white-tailed deer, raccoon, turkeys, black bear, elk and other creatures of the forest. Rather view from the comfort of your car? Meander down the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail with your camera ready. You're sure to catch a glimpse a black bear lazily sunning himself.

While the wonders of nature are by far the calling cards of the park, there is also lots of history to take in. Take a few moments to tour some of the nearly 80 historic structures in the park. Just imagine how our ancestors lived as you watch an actual gristmill at work or tour the homes of early settlers. You'll quickly gain a renewed appreciation for the modern conveniences of today!

Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park

Whether you have a need for speed or prefer to enjoy the scenery while skiing, everybody loves Ober Gatlinburg. Cabin rentals and chalets are available in and around the area so you can ski till your heart's content. With eight trails geared for all skill levels, you can push an adrenaline rush with the wind burning your cheeks or slowly zigzag your way to the bottom. Two black diamond trails keep the most experienced skiers entertained while a total of four beginner and intermediate slopes give the entire family a way to enjoy the snow. Never skied before? Enroll in Ski School and hone your talent at the hand of a professional instructor.

Year round ice-skating is also available. The centerpiece of a huge enclosed mall, this rink puts shopping and dining right at your fingertips for the ultimate in convenience.

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

What would it be like to walk under water and actually see stunning varieties of live sea life all around you? You might think it's not possible, but at Ripley's Aquarium it is! As you make your way through a tunnel that goes under the aquarium you'll find yourself engulfed by over 10,000 sea creatures of more than 350 species. Watch as mighty sharks, giant sea turtles and huge schools of playful fish swim over and around you. Have a face-to-face encounter with a colossal octopus or watch seahorses, tropical fish and even piranhas swim within reach.

The Coral Reef area of the aquarium has hundreds of multicolored fish displaying every color of the rainbow. Native to the Indo-Pacific, these species and many others participate in exciting dive shows that occur regularly in the Coral Reef.

The Shark Lagoon is filled with not only sharks, but fish of every shape and size. The 340-foot long glide path allows you to stare down a green sea turtle, giant stingray and - of course - some very large sharks! Don't get so focused you miss the rest of the sea creatures on display.

Even though Gatlinburg is small in size, it makes a very large impact on those who visit. Whether it's for a weekend or a week's stay in Gatlinburg, cabin rentals throughout the mountains put you in the center of some of Mother Nature's best work. That's probably why so many return time and time again.

Information courtesy of American Chronicle

New Year's Eve in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

One of the biggest celebrations we attend every year is on New Year's Eve. We make plans to be kinder, lose weight, quit smoking- what ever it is we do not like about ourselves. So what better way to ring in a new start then to go to the biggest party we can find.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, known as the gateway to the Smoky Mountains, is no stranger to throwing a party. Over ten million tourists visit Gatlinburg every year. The annual Winter fest Celebration is on the way with over two million lights to brighten the beautiful mountain scenery.

Gatlinburg's annual Celebrations have been noted as "One of the most popular public New Year's Celebrations in America." With New Year's Eve festivities beginning around 11:00 p.m., it is nothing short of an all out street party. Forty Thousand people are estimated to attend this year's street party at the Gatlinburg Space Needle. The Space Needle and Family Fun Center is located across from the Gatlinburg Convention Center. You will be able to gaze into the breathtaking views from the 342-feet high observation deck. The Family Fun center includes the following: a simulated roller-coaster, Air hockey, pool, Arcade games, a Taste Freeze and Old Time Photo and lots more. There will be a live DJ playing today's top music for your listening pleasure. Free party favors are given out to everyone, hats for the men and tiaras for the women.

The Hard Rock Café will also be providing live entertainment. The Hard Rock Café opened in September of 1999 and is the number one place for rock and roll and having a good time. This Hard Rock is a one of a kind as being the only one with a wedding chapel located inside. The Hard Rock staff will do their signature interpretative performance of "YMCA." At midnight atop the 342-foot space needle, you will get to see a Times Square like ball drop followed by a spectacular fireworks display that can be seen all over the city.

For a more romantic evening, join the events at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokey's. Ripley's is one of the largest and most visited aquariums in the county. This state of the art 1.4 million gallon aquarium gets you closer to the ocean's inhabitants than any other. On New Years Eve, they have the annual" Dances with the Sharks" celebration. Here you will be able to bring in the New Year dancing under the glow of the beautiful aquariums. There is a twelve-piece band, as well as a DJ. They will serve hors d'oeuvres and have a champagne toast at midnight to ring in the New Year. You will have to make an early reservation being one of the hot-spots of the evening.

Ober Gatlinburg hosts an annual bash as well. Ober Gatlinburg amusement park and ski lodge rises high above Gatlinburg. They have an indoor ice skating rink, the largest Ariel tramway, a scenic chairlift and lessons are available for beginners to the experts on the slope. The Amusement Park has an alpine slide, arcade, Bungee fun, go-carts and lots more for your family's entertainment. The New Years Eve party kicks off at 7:00 p.m. A buffet dinner, which includes prime rib, salmon, roasted chicken, and much more with desserts included. There are different packages available. You can chose to dance your way into the New Year in the lounge with live entertainment. Also free party favors are given out and hors d'oeuvre's will be served and there is a Champaign toast at midnight.

These are just a few of the parties available for your enjoyment in Gatlinburg Tennessee on New Year's Eve. Whether you chose to spend the night dancing in the street, dancing with the sharks or partying at the ski lodge, you are sure to have a wonderful time along with thousands of other visitors.

Information courtesy of Associated Content

Ober Gatlinburg's Christmas Ice Spectacular

One of Gatlinburg's most colorful and spectacular shows of the holiday season has scheduled performances for Friday and Saturday, December 14 - 15, 2007 and it's free!

The annual A Christmas on Ice Show@ at the Ober Gatlinburg Ice Skating Arena features local amateur skaters performing ice skating routines to traditional Christmas music, choreographed by rink instructor Devon Harman. Show time for both nights is at 8:00 P.M. Dress rehearsals will take place at 6:00 P.M. Wednesday and Thursday, December 12 -13, 2007 for spectators unable to attend the actual show.

The indoor Ice Skating Arena is the centerpiece of Ober Gatlinburg's 62,000 square foot upper Tram Terminal and Mall. The ice arena, crafts market, scenic chairlift, alpine slide, and aerial tramway are all open year round.

The Municipal Black Bear Habitat with live black bears is open spring through fall months, and snow skiing/snowboarding begins in December and, weather permitting, goes through mid-March.

Travel to Gatlinburg for a Smoky Mountain Christmas

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg celebrate the holiday season with the starts of Smoky Mountain Winterfest. Over five million lights are aglow on the Parkway, from Sevierville to Gatlinburg. Plenty of magical Christmas scenes and seasonal spirit fill the atmosphere, creating a unique and truly memorable Smoky Mountain Christmas.

This is a great time of year to enjoy southern hospitality with spectacular holiday shows & entertainment steeped with tradition. Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas turns into a winter wonderland, complete with Christmas shows, holidays foods and thrilling rides. Back by popular demand is the Babes in Toyland production, a fascinating and beautiful show featuring acrobatics and seasonal music. They offer several musical and theatrical productions as well as their famous "Carol of the Trees." This show is a pyrotechnic and light show synchronized to holiday music. The Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival at Dollywood is a celebration treasures tradition and invites your family to create a treasure of your own.

Spectacular holiday shows and entertainment can also be found in Pigeon Forge Theaters. The Smith’s Christmas Show, Country Tonite Christmas Show, and Rock and Roll Christmas Show provide an atmosphere of song and dance that is sure to get every member of the family in the Christmas spirit. Whether country tunes, gospel hymns or old time rockin’ songs are your favorite, these show will have something to please you!

The attractions in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are a great way to relax, explore and have fun. They’re also a great way to see the dazzling lights displays. A Holiday Tour of the Lights can be had at Scenic Helicopter Tours in Pigeon Forge, while guests in Gatlinburg can get an aerial view of the lights on an Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway. Gatlinburg attractions include a variety of Ripley’s Believe It or Not attractions, including a museum, haunted house, mini-golf and movie rider. They make a great escape for families in need of some quick fun!

There is a Trolley of Lights that can also be takes advantage of. The trolley will take you on a magic tour of the twinkling lights and festive displays. Also be sure to check out the incredible deals at the Pigeon Forge Shopping Malls. The outlet stores are a great place to stock up on gifts and the quaint, boutique shops will allow you to purchase that something special for that special someone.

Lodging in the Smoky Mountains is also a favorite part of the Smoky Mountain experience. A cabin in the forest can create the perfect environment for memories that will last forever. Between the scenic views and luxurious amenities, you and your family will feel right at home. There are plenty of Pigeon Forge hotels and Gatlinburg lodging properties to choose from too, so everyone can find something to fit their budget.

A holiday getaway to the Smoky Mountains is a treasured trip that will create memories that last a lifetime. Begin your holiday planning today!

Ober Gatlinburg perfect Cold Weather Activity

High atop Ski Mountain overlooking Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is Ober Gatlinburg: the winter vacation destination within a day’s drive of over 50 percent of the United States population. At Ober Gatlinburg you can find resort-style skiing with friendly certified instructors. All of the ski instructors at this Gatlinburg attraction are trained regarding modern equipment and techniques. Visitors will feel confident knowing the ski school is a member of both the Professional Ski Instructors of America and the Swiss Ski School organization.

Parking is a no-hassle amenity since you can park your car downtown and simply ride the aerial tram. Make sure you bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views on the way up and the way down! We deduct $5 from the lift ticket price when you purchase a tram ride. It doesn’t get much easier than that.

Ober Gatlinburg has eight trails and is serviced by two quad and one double chairlift. That keeps visitors skiing on the slopes instead of standing in lengthy lines waiting! Ober Gatlinburg begins making snow for the slopes as soon as the temperature drops and are carefully monitored and groomed with state of the art snow-grooming equipment. This helps keep the surface smooth and consistent and lets you enjoy your run that much more! Ober Gatlinburg ski resort also boats the only ice skating in Gatlinburg. Don’t worry if you forget your skates, you can rent them there, along with any ski equipment you may need. The 140’x75’ indoor skating rink in this Gatlinburg, Tennessee attraction is open year-round. The rink is surrounded by shops and snack areas for those who simply prefer to watch instead of skate.

Not only does Ober Gatlinburg feature ice skating and exclusive Gatlinburg skiing, there are also two 1,800-foot tracks winding down the mountain known as the Alpine Slide. Your trip down the mountain in a brake-equipped sled also includes a scenic trip up the mountain in a chairlift. Plenty of incredible photo-taking opportunities!

Information Courtesy of American Chronicle