This post was last updated on October 28th, 2022 at 07:59 am
Taking a vacation once in a while is essential. Setting out on a trip lets you explore places and things that you’ve never experienced before. Moreover, it further reduces stress and gives you a chance to relax. Your mental and emotional well-being also improves as your environment changes. Hence, taking time off from work and going on a trip with friends, family, or alone can benefit you in many ways.
However, vacationing in the right place matters the most. So choosing a place according to your taste, budget, and flexible accommodation and attractions is necessary. Thus, choosing to vacation in Gatlinburg can be an excellent choice, as the city is full of attractive sites and exceptional parks. Furthermore, the city has delicious food and breathing views, making it the place to go for a vacation.
If you are considering vacationing in Gatlinburg, then you should keep a few things in mind. The following essential tips will help you plan your trip effortlessly and make the most out of it.
Stay in a cabin
Before going on your vacation, deciding where to stay is vital. Checking into hotels at the last minute can be stressful and hectic. Therefore do your research and book a place to stay before your arrival. Furthermore, finding a place that matches your needs and budget is highly advised. Lucky for you, Gatlinburg is an area full of affordable and top-class accommodations.
The city has many hotels and lodges; however, a cabin is the best place to reside. In Gatlinburg cabin rentals are pretty common as they are spacious and reasonable. You can learn more about renting cabins in this area online. In addition, many excellent websites, such as visit my smokies, can provide vital insight into cabins in Gatlinburg.
Moreover, the reason why cabins are a great option is that they offer value for money. You can get a lot, such as a well-equipped kitchen, washing machine, dryer, and cable television. All these necessities make your stay easier and don’t let you be dependent on other services. Additionally, they are also excellent for families and groups. Lastly, you can enjoy other facilities such as hot tubs, play fun and exciting games, and enjoy breathtaking views.
Enjoy water activities
The best thing that Gatlinburg can offer you is fun water activities in the sun. Many places offer various water activities here, but the one that stands out is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can have a splash there that, too, in the presence of nature. Furthermore, the park is one of the most visited parks in the United States of America and has over 14.1 million visitors and 200,000 visitors every year. It’s set between the borders of Tennessee and North Carolina and spans over 520,000 acres of land. The blue mist that flows over the mountains makes the park a unique visitor attraction.
Furthermore, it has one of the most famous and spectacular swimming areas, making it an ideal location for avid swimmers. The best place to swim is in the midnight hole in the big creek. In addition, you can do wading as well; however, make sure to take precautions and do not leave children unsupervised. Similarly, you can chill and relax by tubbing in the park. The only area that allows this activity in the park is the deep creek. Likewise, you can engage in one of the most thrilling activities there, rafting. The best place to raft is in the Pigeon river, as there is a line of rafting outfitters on the river banks. Other rivers you can raft in is Ocoee and Tuckasegee river.
Besides that, the park is home to one of the best canoeing and kayaking places. Nantahala Gorge has made its name for these water activities, and intermediate whitewater paddling finds it a prime location. Lastly, try boating in the park to have a relaxing and comfortable day. It offers two great spots for boating, Fontana lake and Cheoah lake, which are exceptional and breathtaking. The lakes have all the necessary facilities for boating. In addition, you can find different species of trout there as well.
Don’t miss out on the southern delicacies
The south is known for its delicious and tempting food. The area has a variety of restaurants and food that you must try. For example, Gatlinburg is known for its crispy fried chicken that will take your taste buds on a flavourful ride. Do you know what they say in the south? “You haven’t had real chicken if you haven’t had southern chicken.” Thus, Mama’s Chicken Kitchen is the best place to get a bucket of hot fried chicken. The restaurant serves succulent chicken with a side of your choice, such as fries, mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, and gravy.
Furthermore, corn chowder is another southern delicacy that you should try. The chowder is a dense and rich soup with a corn base paired with a protein of choice, like pork, fish, or chicken; and one of the best places to try it at is the Old Mill’s Restaurant. The restaurant is 258 years old and is quite popular among the locals. If you’re a fan of seafood, then Gatlinburg is your safe haven, as you will find a variety of it. Bubba Gump Shrimp and co will fulfill all your fishy cravings. They have a vast seafood menu and offer mama blue’s shrimp gumba and clam chowder.
Finally, end your savory feast with some good old pancakes. Gatlinburg is known for its sweet and fluffy pancakes that are oh-so-tempting. It would be best if you try them from the pancakes pantry as they make their pancakes from scratch and give you a variety of toppings such as fruits, chocolate chips, and syrups. You can also try the Little House of Pancakes, that have gluten-free pancakes on the menu. Their best-selling pancakes are pancakes with Nutella hazelnut cocoa spread. You can also opt for ice cream with them. Hence, giving you the perfect hot and cold experience.
Bring your walking shoes
Gatlinburg is a city that comes with a lot of walking. So you will constantly be going out to places that will require walking. Theme parks like Ankeesta, Ripley’s mountain coaster, and Gatlinburg skylift park are huge theme parks with various activities. You will move back and forth between different park sections, such as the adventure rides areas, dining area, shopping area, etc.
In addition, going to outdoor parks is a lot of physical activity as smoky mountains offer hiking trails of eight hundred plus miles. However, the city is walking-friendly and caters to all pedestrians. Hence keeping all these factors in mind, do not forget to pack your favorite walking shoes, as they will help you enjoy and be more comfortable on your trip.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg is a place that has something for everyone. It caters to both kids and adults, making it ideal for families. The city is full of exciting attractions such as museums, theme parks, outdoor parks, shops, and so much more. It is also a place that is visually appealing and stunning, making it the perfect place to vacation.
However, before going out for your vacation, a few vital tips will aid you in making the most of your trip to Gatlinburg. First, you should find suitable accommodation, hence choosing a cabin will be excellent. Next, you should not miss the water activities offered by the smoky mountain national park. Moreover, eating all the sweet and savory southern food will take your trip to the next level as the place has the best restaurants. Lastly, don’t forget your walking shoes as the city will make you walk a marathon. Thus keeping all these tips in mind will ensure you have a pleasant and memorable vacation.
