The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited National Park in the United States. In 2018, there were over 11 MILLION visitors to the park!
With those statistics, it’s no wonder so many people love come here again and again to visit the towns around the park. And making memories in the Smoky Mountains has become a family tradition. Isn’t it time you took a Smoky Mountain Vacation?
Pigeon Forge
There are so many things to do in Pigeon Forge!
Explore the car shows, museums, go-carts, indoor snow tubing, arcades, The Island, the Old Mill Historical district and more!
The Old Mill Restaurant, Pottery Cafe, Local Goat, Carino’s, Bull Fish Grill, The Blue Moose and JT Hannah’s are just some of the restaurant options.
Of course, you HAVE to get some pancakes for breakfast at one of the local pancake houses. That’s a tradition you don’t want to miss!
The Island
The Island, in Pigeon Forge, is one of the most visited areas of the city.
You’re sure to find something you’ll love in the many shops that line the walkway. Restaurants, such as the renowned Paula Dean’s and Mellow Mushroom, are on trend and offer a variety of food options.
Relax in the all-weather rockers as you watch the musical fountain and the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel in the center area of The Island.
Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg is the closest town to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park entrance.
Ripley’s Aquarium, in downtown Gatlinburg, is rated as one of the best aquariums in the country.
Hundreds of local shops line the main streets through the town. Parking is at a premium, so prepare ahead for that. It’s best to find parking and then take your time walking through the shops, restaurants and attractions downtown.
One of the newest attractions is Anakeesta and the Gatlinburg Sky Walk – don’t miss those!
Cherokee, NC
Located across the mountain, about 35 miles from Gatlinburg, Cherokee is home to the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation.
The National Park Service operates the Ocanoluftee Visitor Center and offers a glimpse at 18th-century farming life in the Smokies. This is one of the few places in the Park where you will likely see elk.
In Downtown Cherokee, you’ll find Harrah’s Casino.
In summer at the outdoor Mountainside Theatre, the drama “Unto These Hills” tells the Cherokee’s tribal story.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The GSMNP is a must see during your trip!
Fun Facts:
- 522,427 acres
- 850 miles of backcountry trails
- 384 road miles
- 342 structures
- 16 peaks exceed 6,000 ft. in elevation
Cades Cove is the most popular area of the GSMNP.
Bears, deer, coyotes, turkeys, foxes, wild hogs, and other wild animals are plentiful in Cades Cove. But BEWARE! Follow all Park rules and regulations – do not approach any wildlife and do not pick wildflowers or any other plant life.
You’ll definitely want to bring your camera along. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos along the 11 mile loop.
Be courteous of cars behind you. Do not stop in the roadways. There are pull-offs that will allow for cars to pass by.
Visiting the historical buildings will take you back to a time long ago.