The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most visited national park in the United States. 11 Million visitors made the Smoky Mountains their vacation destination in 2017 and that doesn’t look to be slowing down any time soon. Who can blame them? The Smoky Mountains are one of the most beautiful mountains ranges in the Northeast and the home to a wide variety of wildlife, great hiking trails with waterfalls and scenic overlooks, and a tremendous amount of activity for the outdoor enthusiast. In addition to all the outdoor activity and adventure, there are three gateway towns to the Great Smoky Mountains that offer countless numbers of activities. Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville are great family vacation destinations and include such fun activities as the premier theme park Dollywood, Alpine Mountain Coasters, Mini-Golf, Shopping, Restaurants, and so much more.
I can still remember taking my first born to see his “first Christmas lights” at Shadrack’s synchronized Christmas light display in Bristol, TN. At six months old he was probably less than enthuzed, but his dad and I were mesmerized by the immersive drive through Christmas light experience. Viewing Christmas light displays in our pajamas with hot cocoa and candy canes has now become a family Christmas tradition.
These Smoky Mountain adventures should definitely be on your bucket list!! If outdoor family vacations and adventure are your go to favorite vacation, then the Smokies has everything you need.
In this Complete Guide To The Smoky Mountains, we share the best times to visit the Smoky Mountains, the best Smoky Mountains hikes and scenic drives, and the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains for each season.
If you are you looking for a hotel in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and need a hotel near Dollywood large enough for your family to spread out, don’t overlook the new Home 2 Suites in Pigeon Forge. Convenient to The Island and other Pigeon Forge attractions this brand new Hilton property is perfect for a budget friendly family hotel in Pigeon Forge.