Same ole routine got you down? Wishing for a surprise vacation from your spouse or looking for a sign from the heavens to start planning your next trip is all fine and dandy…but it begs the question: why? Why not take life into your own hands and treat yo’ self to a weekend of relaxing, exploring, shopping, dining, and adventuring!
Make this coming weekend a time to remember in the Smoky Mountains, a wondrous place filled with top shops, attractions galore, incredible food…need we say more? It’s never too late to make your trip great, so don’t procrastinate. Alright, rhyming aside…Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee are truly fantastic cities with excitement around every corner and coziness in every cabin. Boy, have we got recommendations for YOU!
Cabin Time Is Quiet Time
Start your weekend off by driving up to a picturesque cabin in the peaceful mountains. Surrounded by nature and secluded from strife, unwind in the outdoor hot tub for a while before watching your favorite wildlife documentary on the big screen TV inside. For dinner, enjoy a 4-course meal prepared by your personal chef and a glass of local wine with dessert.
Now, head to your master suite for a spa bath in the jetted tub — add a rose or lavender bath bomb for a touch of luxury. As sweet scents fill the air and soft instrumental melodies play, focus on the dancing candlelight and let your mind drift into a realm of complete relaxation. Before heading to the king-size bed, drink a cup of hot herbal tea with a romance novel by the warm fire.
New Thoughts, New Experiences
After admiring the breathtaking sunrise views from your private deck, get ready for a day of unparalleled fun in town. What kind of activities spark your interest? Are you more of a thinker or a doer, a planner or an explorer? No matter the case, there’s something fit for everyone in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
For those keen to learn, museums of all kinds can be found all around, from the famous Hollywood Wax Museum to the interactive Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Odditorium. If you want something more hands-on, go-kart your way around the Blake Jones Racing Center or putt-putt to victory at Hillbilly Golf. Up for a bit more excitement? Try tackling the highest climb at TopJump Trampoline Park or breaking out of prison in The Escape Game!
What’s it like to escape prison? See for yourself!
Retail Therapy
Amidst all the downtown attractions awaits a shopper’s paradise. Spend a little time — or a lot — in the local shops for top-notch goods and high-quality services. Plus, a memento or two of your fine time with you would be nice, right?
Take a few selfies in a stylish cardigan from the Mountain Mall, browse the charming stores and eateries at The Village Shops, encounter the spirit of Christmas (year-round) at Bell Tower Square, and find one-of-a-kind items in the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community, which is located around the Tennessee Heritage Arts and Crafts Trail. Be sure to pop in a few of the crafty community shops for a chance to watch local craftsmen at work!
What’s on the Trail
- Alewine Pottery
- Bearfoot Art Gallery
- Firefly Glass Studio
- Good Natured Gifts
- Holly & Willow Pet Barn
- Lorelei Candles
- Misty Mountain Soap Company
- Ownby’s Woodcrafts
- Smoky Mountain Time
- Wrapped Elegance
Food-Filled Fun
With so many exciting attractions and souvenir shops to see, fuel will be the first thing on your mind. Enjoy a breakfast of champions at The Old Mill Restaurant or stop by one of the many pancake houses in the area. For lunch, chow down on country fried pork at Mama’s Farmhouse or a Philly steak sandwich at Cherokee Grill.
What’s on the menu for dinner? How about a dinner show with acrobatics, music, comedy, and a hearty meal? From Dolly Parton’s Stampede to the Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show, this is southern dining at its best! And don’t forget to take a tour around the Rocky Top Wine Trail — collect all the stamps, and a free prize is yours!
Go on an Adventure!
Are you an outdoor enthusiast? Do you live for thrills? Go for a morning hike in the Great Smoky Mountains — the most visited national park in the United States. Who knows? You may even see a black bear! If strolling 40-60 feet above the forest floor is a dream of yours, make it come true on the Tree Canopy Walk at Anakeesta.
Be ready for action at Flyaway Indoor Skydiving — where the power to fly isn’t just a fantasy. With the safety of a wind tunnel, you’ll show gravity who’s boss! For a bird’s-eye view of the landscape, go for the real thing at Skydive Smoky Mountains or sit back and relax on a scenic helicopter tour.
No matter your vacation style, the Smokies are here for YOU, so treat yo’ self!