Mysteries and rumors surrounding Biltmore as passed down through generations When I visit Biltmore, I always think about how we are trained to think of great houses as places of secrets and mystery. And when we think of the enormous North Carolina estate, a playground for people with enough money to buy their way out of trouble, the mind tends to wander.
Tennessee native offers tips on black bear safety from Bear Wise There is a lot of wildlife to see in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee and North Carolina. I grew up in East Tennessee, and I’ve come across black bears on several occasions. To be honest, I’m never sure that it gets old. However, it also makes me sad to
Attractions in the Smoky Mountains that actually make special accommodations for guests in wheelchairs, as recommended by a local I see a change in the Smoky Mountains. The ADA, of course, has been a big driver in terms of improving accessibility for area attractions. But as larger corporations have moved in, it has become a standard course to plan with
How Goats on the Roof got its start, and why we can’t seem to get enough Look, I’ve lived in the Smokies for a long time. I’ve seen a lot of attractions and tourist attractions come and go. Everything from restaurants to rides to places selling ice cream, homemade fudge and tourist trinkets. In this town, if you want to
There’s an immersive Christmas village in Tennessee that keeps it festive 365 days a year Christmas in my house starts on Thanksgiving Day. While my wife is inside preparing a traditional Thanksgiving meal, I’m outside decking the house for Christmas. We run strands of colorful lights along the eaves of our small front porch. We decorate the bushes. I’m a Christmas guy. We’re Christmas
Things you never knew about the Biltmore Estate: $100 loans, pink hair and family drama Every time I visit Biltmore I am amazed. Amazed by its beauty, the architecture and its rich history. I’ve been fortunate enough to take the tour many times now – both self-guided and with audio. Below, are some of the fascinating facts I learned along
A local offers his opinion on the famous glass-bottomed bridge in Gatlinburg In recent years, the Gatlinburg SkyPark’s glass-bottomed SkyBridge has become one of the most iconic attractions in the Smoky Mountains. As a local who has had a first-row seat to witness how the Gatlinburg skyline has transformed in recent years, I can understand why. It is not only
A mom shares her favorite things to do in Gatlinburg with her family In my experience, I find that those visiting Gatlinburg for the first time are often surprised by the number of attractions competing for their tourist dollar. What seems like a sleepy mountain town can sometimes feel like an array of neon lights and eye-catching, quirky displays. But
Anakeesta vs SkyPark: A Side-by-Side Comparison While both Anakeesta and Gatlinburg SkyPark (formerly SkyLift Park) offer fun ways to soak in gorgeous views of the Great Smoky Mountains, it can be hard to choose just one. So let’s compare some of the differences between Anakeesta and SkyPark to help you plan your next Gatlinburg vacation. Note: Prices mentioned in this
The Biltmore estate has been a place of beauty, wonder and mystery since George Washington Vanderbilt II committed his fortune to create a mansion and grounds worthy of the best houses of Europe in the mountains of Western North Carolina. The Biltmore House and estate – which was 125,000 acres at its peak – is many things. It’s a testament