Gatlinburg, Tennessee Trip Guide

This year, my family and I took another fantastic trip to Gatlinburg, Tennessee! Planning a family vacation, searching for the best rates on a hotel, knowing all the good local eateries and finding attractions to enjoy can consume a lot of your time in the weeks before your trip. Hopefully this will help with your next visit to the Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and Gatlinburg area.

Getting There!

Article:: Packing the {Honda} Pilot!

This year, the family and I will pack up and head to The Smoky Mountains for another fun family vacation! It is one of the most precious times of the year when we get to do this. I love getting to go out of town and spend time with just my husband and the kids. Having the opportunity to do this allows for added bonding time between the four of us. We don't take this blessing lightly. It is cherished and talked about all year long.

We typically borrow my in-laws' van when we go on vacation. Our older sedans just aren't up to a long, family road-trip. This year, we are taking a Honda Pilot on vacation! If you are confused like my son was - a Honda Pilot is a vehicle and not a person who flies airplanes. I actually took my son to a Honda dealership to show him what a Honda Pilot was. He was impressed. {Continue Reading}

Article:: Family Road Trip Vehicle - 2012 Honda Pilot

A family road trip to the Smoky Mountains starts with a great (and fun) vehicle! It, of course, must be large enough to comfortably seat all passengers, luggage and every random item that the children can't leave behind for a week. The 2012 Honda Pilot was a fantastic vehicle for the six hour trip from our home to Gatlinburg, Tennessee.
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Hotel/Lodging/Resort

Article:: Fairfield Inn and Suites Gatlinburg North

As much as I love going on a road trip with the family and being gone for days - I am always so nervous about our overnight accommodations. If I haven't seen the hotel, how do I know it will be in a good location with friendly staff and be clean?

Our first trip to Gatlinburg, we waited until we arrived in the area before we decided on a place

to stay. I am glad that we did it that way. Some places that seemed quaint and relaxing in brochures and on a Google search - weren't really that when you pulled into their parking lots.

As soon as we drove into Gatlinburg, we saw the Fairfield Inn. The kids were immediately distracted by their swimming pool and slide. It wasn't a large pool, but perfect for the ages of our children.     {Continue Reading}

Restaurants

Article:: The Alamo - Steak House

One of our favorite local restaurants in Gatlinburg is The Alamo.  We talk about it for months before our actual trip. We place it at the top of our Gatlinburg To Do List. In fact, this year we ate at The Alamo before we even checked into our hotel!

Nestled by a creek where ducks swim and visitors are invited to relax in the shade and enjoy the beauty of the area - The Alamo is a nice place to enjoy a relaxing meal after a day of travel or hiking through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

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Article:: Park Grill in Gatlinburg

Sitting at the edge of town and nestled cozily near the entrance of The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of my favorite restaurants that Gatlinburg has to offer. Driving by and heading toward the park, we almost didn't notice Park Grill to our left. Since we love eating at places local to our vacation spot - we turned around and enjoyed a pleasant and delicious meal. {Continue Reading}

Article:: Carino's Italian Restaurant - Pigeon Forge

It's always exciting to find a new place to eat while on vacation. We typically try to stay with local restaurants while we are away. It's nice to try something we can't find around our hometown.

While Carino's Italian Restaurant isn't local to Pigeon Forge, it is also not a restaurant located closely to us.  We enjoy Italian food very much. Well, we enjoy food immensely.

On the Carion's menu we found a variety of appetizers, entree's and yes - deserts!  The kids enjoyed the Mozzarella with Marinara. I have never seen "Moazzarella Stick" with so much cheese in them! I tried a bite or two. Okay, maybe I took one of them from the kids. Continue Reading}

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Article:: The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If visiting the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg, Tennessee area - you absolutely can not miss taking a trip into The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hopefully, it is one of the reasons you chose to vacation in the area.

Unfortunately, you won't have time to visit every location within the park and travel every trail or see each waterfall.

We managed to narrow down our choices this vacation and hiked to Grotto Falls and to Clingman's Dome. Each on separate days.  {Continue Reading}

Local Attractions

Article:: Ripley's 3 D Moving {Now 4D} Theater - Gatlinburg

Another stop you will want to make while in Gatlinburg is the Ripley's 3-D Moving Theater. It has actually now been updated to 4-D! The kids enjoy rides and movies, so why not add the two together! The moving seats and #D glasses allow you to feel as though you are a part of the movie itself.

We watched the 4-D version of Happy Feet. Of course, you don't watch the entire movie - just a portion. You get to feel as though you are there, sliding on the ice and diving into the water. With snow actually coming at you and the feeling of sliding down the great hills of ice - it is a fun time.  {Continue Reading}

Article:: Ripley's Believe It or Not Odditorium - Gatlinburg

Passing by the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Odditorium in Gatlinburg, TN – you’re immediately drawn to the, well, odd displays that occupy the entrance. The over-sized heavy equipment tire, the giant granite ball floating on a thin layer of water and the robotic statues made entirely of random parts and items.

The kids immediately began to touch, push and move the granite ball. They were amazed that they were able to easily move something as large as they are.

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Titanic Museum - Pigeon Forge

I am so glad that on this trip to the Smoky Mountains, we were able to visit the Titanic Museum. Driving through Pigeon Forge, you can't help but take notice of the breathtaking ocean liner just before the mountain view.

Well, it isn't the entire ship.  However, it is very large.

The museum is located on the main road through Pigeon Forge - you will not miss  it as you drive by.  

Standing next to it, you can only imagine the grandeur of the RMS Titanic. {Continue Reading}

Article:: Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies - Gatlinburg

One of the most amazing attractions in Gatlinburg is Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. You will easily spend a few hours in amazement as you stroll by {and under} the various exotic displays.  I am fascinated with the natural world around us and enjoy introducing it to my children. {Continue Reading}

Article:: The Track - Pigeon Forge

Driving through Pigeon Force, the kids nearly had their faces pressed against the window in an attempt to check out all the attractions. There are so many exciting places to see and activities to choose from - it can be a little overwhelming.

One attraction will catch your immediately. Especially if someone is Bungee Jumping or trying the Sky Flyer as you pass by.

{Continue Reading}

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Park Grill in Gatlinburg

Sitting at the edge of town and nestled cozily near the entrance of The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of my favorite restaurants that Gatlinburg has to offer. Driving by and heading toward the park, we almost didn't notice Park Grill to our left. Since we love eating at places local to our vacation spot - we turned around and enjoyed a pleasant and delicious meal.

Image Credit: parkgrillgatlinburg.com

No ordinary steakhouse in Gatlinburg, TN, the Park Grill Steakhouse was built on the dreams of Geoffrey Wolpert. Mr. Wolpert’s vision was not to create just another steakhouse in Gatlinburg but rather an experience complete with the warmth of a magnificent mountain lodge. Combine this with the unsurpassed flavors of hand cut, hickory grilled steaks and specialty entrees and that’s what make makes the Park Grill Steakhouse, Gatlinburg’s Grand Steakhouse!

Serving only the finest, freshest cuts of naturally aged steaks grilled over the open flames of Real Tennessee Hickory does truly satisfy the steak connoisseur. Our Rainbow Trout, Pecan Chicken and other delicious local favorites fulfill the tastes of those who have a yearning for other flavors.

By establishing a tradition of high quality dining and service, coupled with a uniquely mesmerizing atmosphere, when dining at the Park Grill Steakhouse, you are certain to have an incredible Smoky Mountain dining experience that will keep you and your family returning for generations to come!

The service was excellent and the menu options were all so very tempting. I'm pretty sure my glass was never empty. Our server seemed to whisk by and fill it before it ever reached a halfway point while always leaving a fresh basket of oven hot bread at our table.

Dan enjoyed one of their many steak options while I tried the Pecan Chicken. They were both delicious and I can't wait to visit Gatlinburg again and try more of their dishes.

All four of us decided to try the salad bar while we waited for our entrees. It was large enough that it could have been a meal in itself.

If you haven't tried Park Grill in Gatlinburg, you will need to schedule it into your next trip. The menu is delicious and unique.


Directions to Park Grill

Park Grill Menu

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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

If visiting the Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg, Tennessee area - you absolutely can not miss taking a trip into The Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Hopefully, it is one of the reasons you chose to vacation in the area.

Unfortunately, you won't have time to visit every location within the park, travel every trail or see each waterfall.

We managed to narrow down our choices this vacation and hiked to Grotto Falls and to Clingman's Dome. Each on separate days.

Clingman's Dome

Due to the steep climb and my growing fear of heights, I would have assumed this to be my least favorite hike. However, the drive and hike to this location are very much worth the view you find in the end.

At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is the highest point in Tennessee, and the third highest mountain east of the Mississippi. Only Mt. Mitchell (6,684 feet) and Mt. Craig (6,647), both located in Mt. Mitchell State Park in western North Carolina, rise higher.

The observation tower on the summit of Clingmans Dome offers spectacular 360° views of the Smokies and beyond for visitors willing to climb the steep half-mile walk to the tower at the top.

On clear days views expand over a 100 miles. Unfortunately, air pollution often limits viewing distances to under 20 miles.

Again, with my escalating fear of heights, the winding walkway was a bit difficult for me. I stayed in the center and slowly made my way to the top - while my son ran ahead as fast as his little legs would go.

Though a beautiful storm was slowly making its way onto the horizon, we still had an amazing view of the surrounding mountains.


In fact, the entire drive and hike to the dome is completely beautiful.  Even if you aren't able to make it up the path to the tower, you will still find an amazing view from the parking lot.  At the point, you are still able to look out on a vast portion of the surrounding park.

Grotto Falls

The hike to Grotto Falls wasn't nearly as difficult - though it is still a hike that you will want to prepare for.  The kids really enjoyed being back amongst all the trees and stopping throughout the trip to enjoy the view and take a sip of their water.

Once you reach the falls, things become a little crowded.  This is especially true if there are a lot of other hikers enjoying a hike to Grotto Falls.  It's best to sit back and wait your turn for a trip to walk behind the falls. 

Trillium Gap Trail meanders through an old-growth hemlock forest and actually runs behind the 25 foot high waterfall. The cool, moist environment near the falls is ideal for salamanders and summer hikers. The hike is 3 miles roundtrip and considered moderate in difficulty.

The roundtrip distance to the waterfall is 3 miles and the hike is generally considered moderate in difficulty. It takes about 2-3 hours to hike to the waterfall and back.

Carry drinking water with you. Portions of this trail are rocky - sturdy hiking shoes are recommended. Do not attempt to hike the trail in sandals or flip flops. Pets and bicycles are prohibited on the trail.

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Carino's Italian Restaurant - Pigeon Forge

It's always exciting to find a new place to eat while on vacation. We typically try to stay with local restaurants while we are away. It's nice to try something we can't find around our hometown.

While Carino's Italian Restaurant isn't local to Pigeon Forge, it is also not a restaurant located closely to us.

We enjoy Italian food very much. Well, we enjoy food immensely.

On the Carion's menu we found a variety of appetizers, entree's and yes - deserts!

Photo Credit: Carinos.com

The kids enjoyed the Mozzarella with Marinara. I have never seen "Moazzarella Stick" with so much cheese in them! I tried a bite or two. Okay, maybe I took one of them from the kids.

Breaded in special seasonings.
Served with spicy marinara.

Photo Credit: Carinos.com

Dan and I had the Sicilian Fire Sticks!  He is always looking for something spicy!  They weren't too hot and spicy but more than we thought the kids could handle.  

Tomato-basil tortillas rolled with Italian sausage, chicken, bacon, roma tomatoes, jalapenos and Italian cheeses.  Served with spicy marianara sauce and ranch.

Photo Credit: Carinos.com

Savannah and Joey stuck to their tradition choice of pizza.  They each received their own pizza, which was large enough that they could each shared one and had some left over.  

I did the right thing as a mother, and tasted their yummy looking pizza.  I had to make sure it was good, right?  It was delicious as well.

Photo Credit: Carinos.com

I was overwhelmed with choices and on the suggestion of our server, I decided on the Grilled Chicken Bowtie Festival.  I don't prefer any type of red sauce on my pasta - so this was perfect for me!  The serving was so large, I wasn't able to finish it - but don't worry, I tried!

Sliced grilled chicken sautéed with bacon, fresh garlic, red onions and roma tomatoes, tossed with bowtie pasta in a creamy asiago cheese sauce

Dan chose the Grilled Ribeye Steak.  Yes, I did try that as well.  Though he doesn't have his cooked as well done as I do, it was also pretty delicious. 

A flavorful 12 ounce richly marbled, center-cut Ribeye grilled to your liking and served with rosemary potatoes and vegetable medley

Photo Credit:  Carinos.com

Between the favorable portions, the appetizers and the bread with salad - I wasn't sure there would be any room for desert.  However, one glance at the desert menu - and we decided to give it a try!  It was hard to pass up the cheese cake, chocolate cake and ice cream.

If we order a desert, we usually share the desert between us.  Portions are usually so large that no one could eat an entire desert on their own.  Carino's, however, offers mini versions of several of their deserts.  So, the kids and I opted for Mini Turtle and New York styles cheese cakes as well as Homemade Tiramisu and Italian Chocolate cake.  

Our sever was fantastic and as you can see - we loved the menu options! The only downside, is that the closest Carino's to us is an hour away.  Guess what, not a week after being home - yes, we drove that hour to Carino's!


Find a Carino's location near you.

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Ripley's 3 D Moving {Now 4D} Theater -Gatlinburg

Another stop you will want to make while in Gatlinburg is the Ripley's 3-D Moving Theater. It has actually now been updated to 4-D! The kids enjoy rides and movies, so why not add the two together! The moving seats and #D glasses allow you to feel as though you are a part of the movie itself.

We watched the 4-D version of Happy Feet. Of course, you don't watch the entire movie - just a portion. You get to feel as though you are there, sliding on the ice and diving into the water. With snow actually coming at you and the feeling of sliding down the great hills of ice - it is a fun time.

The kids enjoyed it and could probably have sat through and entire full length 4-D movie if those were available.

There are of course various movie options and the choices will change periodically.  So check out the listings and see if anything fits your tastes.  It doesn't take too much of your time and is a thrilling little adventure for the kids.

www.tiffanynoth.com/2012/05/ripleys-3-d-moving-theater-now-4-d

www.ripleys.com/gatlinburg/your-visit/ripleys-3d-moving-theater

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