Hey there, fellow explorers! With countless miles of winding roads under my wheels and a heart full of Smoky Mountain magic, I’ve uncovered some of Gatlinburg’s best-kept secrets on four wheels. Tucked at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this Tennessee gem is my go-to for soul-stirring drives that blend misty vistas,…
As a seasoned traveler who’s wandered through countless European artisan villages and now turned my gaze to the heart of America’s Appalachians, I can tell you that Gatlinburg’s Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is one of those rare finds that feels like stumbling upon a living museum. Nestled just outside the bustling downtown, this…
Howdy, y’all! It’s Grinning Gary, your ol’ pal from traveltogatlinburg.com, grinnin’ wider than a Smoky Mountain sunrise! I’m here to lead ya through the top 5 family-friendly trails around Gatlinburg, Tennessee—paths so easy and fun, they’re perfect for tots, teens, and everyone in between. These trails, nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains,…
Hey there, fellow travelers! With years of exploring America’s most charming spots under my belt, I’ve fallen head over heels for Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Nestled at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this mountain town bursts with adventure, flavor, and that irresistible Southern hospitality. As a seasoned travel expert who’s wandered these misty…
Why the Smokies Are a Photographer’s Dream There’s a reason the Great Smoky Mountains are among the most photographed landscapes in America. From the hazy blue ridges that seem to roll on forever to the fiery sunsets that melt into the valleys, this national treasure feels like a living painting. But here’s the catch—most visitors…
Who Says You Need a Car? Gatlinburg has a way of slowing you down — in all the right ways. The scent of warm fudge drifting from open shop doors, the sound of a distant dulcimer echoing through the hills, and that first glimpse of the Smokies rising behind the town… it’s a place that…
Gatlinburg on a Budget: No BS, No Bounce Houses Let’s get something straight: doing Gatlinburg on a budget doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means cutting through the nonsense. You don’t need a $300-a-night lodge with antler chandeliers. You don’t need to spend half your weekend standing in line for pancake stacks big enough to feed a…
Beyond the Souvenir Shops: Discovering Gatlinburg’s Cultural Side Let’s be honest—when most people think of Gatlinburg, “museum hopping” probably isn’t the first thing that comes to mind. More often, it’s pancake houses, scenic drives, and a stroll down the Parkway with taffy in hand. And while all of that has its charm (believe me, I…
Two Iconic Drives, One Big Question If you’re heading to the Smokies and trying to decide between Cades Cove or Roaring Fork, let me tell you—you’re not alone. It’s one of the most common questions I hear from first-timers and return visitors alike. And the truth is, it’s not about which loop is better. It’s…
Why Summer in Gatlinburg Is More Than Just Mountains Howdy, folks! Grinning Gary here—and lemme tell ya, if you think Gatlinburg is just about the great outdoors, you’re missin’ out on half the magic. Sure, we’ve got hiking trails that’ll make your boots weep with joy and mountain views that could stop your heart in…