Don’t make these 10 mistakes when visiting Dollywood at Christmas
I can not emphasize enough how much I love Dollywood. I practically grew up next door to the park, I idolize all things Dolly Parton…
Top 5 free things to do in Gatlinburg at Christmas, ranked
Sevier County is no place to be broke during the holidays. The commercialization of Christmas is a steamroller of bright lights, consumption and celebration, all…
What caused the fire in Gatlinburg in 2016? Here’s the real story
The scars remain. It’s nearly five years later. But large swaths of the forest that burned in November of 2016 have yet to heal. They…
Where to see Santa in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge: Our top 10 suggestions
Santa is officially making his rounds throughout the Smokies in East Tennessee for the 2021 season. And he’s excited to hear about your wishlists! Because…
Black Friday in Gatlinburg: 6 tips on what not to do
I did my first successful Black Friday find in 1986 – getting one of four bargain televisions at the local Wal-Mart, and I’ve loved it…
Donut Friar Gatlinburg: How the punny donut shop became Smokies famous
In the beginning, there was a pun and the pun was good. It was the late ’60s and Gatlinburg investors Jim and June Gerding, owners…
Christmas stores in Gatlinburg: Deck your halls with these 5 local shops
It’s that time of year. The nip of winter is in the air. Thanksgiving is approaching quickly. Colorful holiday decorations are beginning to illuminate the…
What not to do in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge: Our 6 tips
There are several ways to approach a visit to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, or really any vacation. On one end of the spectrum is how…
Big Daddy’s pizza in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg: Is it worth it?
There’s no freezers. Let’s get that out of the way at the top. At Big Daddy’s Pizzeria, they are so committed to freshness, there ain’t a…
10 things you didn’t know about Clingmans Dome
If you’ve ever heard of the Great Smoky Mountains, you’ve probably heard of Clingmans Dome. Being the highest point in the most visited national park…