As a seasoned traveler who’s marveled at African herds on safari and European deer in misty forests, I’ve found Cades Cove in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to be a premier wildlife haven—where open valleys reveal black bears, white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and more against a backdrop of historic cabins and rolling meadows. This…
As a seasoned traveler who’s navigated the car-free canals of Venice and the pedestrian paths of Edinburgh’s Old Town, I’ve found Gatlinburg’s compact charm makes it one of America’s most accessible mountain destinations—where free trolleys and walkable streets let you immerse in the Smokies without the hassle of driving or parking. Nestled at the Great…
Hey there, fellow foodie adventurers! With a passport stamped from cozy bistros in Paris to hidden gems in the Rockies, I’ve got a soft spot for spots that blend heartland flavors with a touch of elegance—like Cherokee Grill in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Tucked in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this steakhouse feels…
As a seasoned traveler who’s wandered through New England’s fiery autumns and the golden hills of Tuscany, I’ve learned that packing for fall in the Smoky Mountains demands a light touch—embracing layers that adapt to crisp mornings and mild afternoons without weighing down your suitcase. Gatlinburg’s September-to-November palette of amber leaves and misty trails calls…
As a seasoned traveler who’s savored the thrill of Alpine vistas in Switzerland and the rugged charm of New Zealand’s adventure parks, I’ve come to see Anakeesta as Gatlinburg’s crown jewel—a mountaintop haven where Smoky Mountain magic meets family-friendly excitement. Perched 600 feet above downtown, this 70-acre park blends breathtaking panoramas with immersive activities, from…
As a seasoned journalist deeply rooted in the Smoky Mountains of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, I’ve savored countless meals that capture the soul of this vibrant town, where American history meets mountain hospitality. With my background in journalism and a passion for storytelling, I’m excited to reveal the hidden culinary gems that locals cherish—far from the tourist…
Hey there, fellow fur-mom travelers! With a backpack full of treats and a leash that’s seen more miles than most sneakers, I’ve turned Gatlinburg, Tennessee, into my ultimate playground for two-legged and four-pawed adventures. Perched at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this charming mountain town welcomes pups with open arms (and…
As a seasoned traveler who’s sought out cozy retreats from the Alpine chalets of Switzerland to the rustic lodges of the Rockies, I’ve discovered that Mountain Shadows Resort Gatlinburg captures that perfect blend of homey comfort and mountain magic—tailored especially for families craving a Smoky Mountains basecamp. Perched just minutes from downtown yet enveloped in…
As a seasoned journalist with deep roots in the Smoky Mountains, I’ve wandered the mist-veiled trails of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where the bold strut of wild turkeys punctuates the forest’s quiet rhythm. My passion for Gatlinburg’s heritage and American history drives me to share the stories of these resilient birds, whose estimated population…
Howdy, folks! Grinning Gary here, your trusty Gatlinburg guide from traveltogatlinburg.com, grinnin’ ear to ear as I serve up my fresh 2025 review of The Donut Friar—that beloved sweet haven nestled right in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg. With over two decades roamin’ these Smoky Mountain streets and tastin’ my way through every bakery from…