Month: September 2023

Spooktacular Sojourn: Unveiling the Best Halloween Haunts in Gatlinburg!

Halloween is a fantastic time to visit the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge. Amidst the beautiful changing colors of the leaves, to harvest season, to the spooky Halloween haunted houses, there are plenty of things to do for all ages. Here are the best Halloween haunts in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and the surrounding area.

1. Gatlinburg’s Halloween Spooktacular Event: Gatlinburg hosts a family-friendly Halloween event featuring live music, games, costume contests, and trick-or-treating throughout downtown.

2. Gatlinburg Ghost and Haunt Tours:Take a guided tour through Gatlinburg’s historic and allegedly haunted locations. Learn about local legends and spooky stories.

3. Ripley’s Haunted Adventure: A year-round haunted house attraction in Gatlinburg featuring live actors, special effects, and animatronics to create a thrilling experience.

4. Dollywood’s Great Pumpkin LumiNights: Dollywood theme park transforms into a Halloween wonderland with thousands of illuminated pumpkins, displays, and entertainment.

5. Haunted Houses and Escape Rooms: There are several haunted houses and escape rooms in the area. These include places like The Mysterious Mansion and Gatlin’s Escape Games which may have special Halloween-themed events. The Mysterious Mansion is one of the longest standing and best Halloween Haunts in Gatlinburg.

6. Halloween at Anakeesta: Anakeesta, an outdoor adventure park in Gatlinburg, hosts Halloween events with a haunted rail yard, costume contests, and a magic show.

Still looking for the perfect family cabin in the Smoky Mountains?

Look no further, and book your stay with us!

Mountain views from the deck
Mountain views from the deck
Cabin view of the back deck
Cabin view of the back deck
Fire pit at dusk
Fire pit at dusk
7-seater hot tub
Game room equipped with ping pong, foosball, and pool
Spacious Game room and movie space
Open living room
Open living room
Dedicated movie space + Popcorn machine!
Battle on the arcade games
Dining room + Kitchen island
King master bedroom with mountain views
2nd king bedroom
Downstairs queen bedroom and Roku TV
Downstairs queen bedroom and Roku TV
2 twin bunk beds in the open game room
Jacuzzi off the 2nd king bedroom
Newly remodeled kitchen + island
Newly remodeled kitchen
Driveway at dawn
Lap pool

7. Fright Nights at Fannie Farkle’s: Fannie Farkle’s is a classic arcade in Gatlinburg. During Halloween, they may have special events or spooky decorations.

8. Rocky Top Mountain Coaster’s Coasts & Goblins: During the month of October, Rocky Top Mountain Coaster is hosting the annual Rocky Top Mountain Coaster Coasts & Goblins. As if a thrilling mountain coaster ride is not enough, during these nights riders will enjoy the hills and thrills with incredible lights, goblins, ghouls and ghosts! These special Halloween-themed nights are not for the faint of heart. Bring your friends and prepare for a scare! October 6-31.

9. Haunted Mansion Dinner & Show: Experience a spooky dinner and show at the Grand Majestic Theater in Pigeon Forge, featuring special effects and a captivating storyline.

10. Kyker Farms Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze: Get lost in the corn maze and try to find your way out! This fall experience is a great way to welcome the harvest season. Open September 30-Oct 31.

11. Wears Valley Fall Fest: Sixteen acres of family fun including over 240 crafters, interactive activities, entertainment, children’s events and a great variety of food awaits all in attendance October 20 – 22 at the 10th Annual Wears Valley Fall Festival coordinated by Keep Sevier Beautiful.  The wide array of activities at this year’s event will give families a great way to make memories, experience a variety of fun activities and enjoy the incredible beauty of fall in the Smokies. 

12. Ober Gatlinburg’s Oktoberfest: While not directly Halloween-themed, Ober Gatlinburg’s annual Oktoberfest event offers a festive atmosphere with Bavarian food, music, and activities.

13. The Island in Pigeon Forge: The Island is a popular entertainment complex in Pigeon Forge. They usually do a free trick-or-treat in the evening of Halloween, and to top it off, they often have seasonal decorations and a lively atmosphere.

Please note that it’s always a good idea to check the respective websites or contact the venues directly for the most up-to-date information about their Halloween events and activities. Enjoy your spooky adventure in the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge!

Book your stay at Smoky Mountains Lodge and lock in our best rates for the season!

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These are our picks! What are the best Halloween Haunts in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge that you’ve been to? Comment below!

Revving Up in the Smokys: Exploring the Best Car Shows in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is the place to be for some of the best car shows around. This area hosts several car shows throughout the year. Walk away with a new ride, check out all the custom build, or simply enjoy the people watching as they flock to the area to appreciate beautiful classics…whatever your vibe, it’s all happening here and throughout the summer.

While specific events can vary, here are some of the best car shows in the area:

Pigeon Forge Rod Run

This popular car show takes place twice a year, typically in the spring and fall. It features a wide range of classic cars, hot rods, and muscle cars. The event includes a rod run where participants cruise along the parkway, a car show at the LeConte Center, a swap meet, and a car corral.

Shades of the Past Hot Rod Roundup

Held in early September, this car show at Dollywood’s Splash Country showcases hot rods, street rods, and classic cars. It features a rod run, a car show, a swap meet, and a car corral.

Corvette Expo

This event, usually held in March, is dedicated to the iconic Chevrolet Corvette. It attracts Corvette enthusiasts from all over the country. The show features a variety of Corvettes on display, a swap meet, a car corral, and various vendors.

Great Smoky Mountain Jeep Invasion

While not strictly a car show, this gathering of Jeep enthusiasts takes place in August. It showcases a wide range of Jeeps, including modified and custom models. This is a fun time to be strolling the parkway as there are tons of decked-out and lit-up Jeeps strolling the Parkway. The event features trail rides, a vendor area, and a show-n-shine.

Still looking for the perfect family cabin in the Smoky Mountains?

Look no further, and book your stay with us!

Mountain views from the deck
Mountain views from the deck
Cabin view of the back deck
Cabin view of the back deck
Fire pit at dusk
Fire pit at dusk
7-seater hot tub
Game room equipped with ping pong, foosball, and pool
Spacious Game room and movie space
Open living room
Open living room
Dedicated movie space + Popcorn machine!
Battle on the arcade games
Dining room + Kitchen island
King master bedroom with mountain views
2nd king bedroom
Downstairs queen bedroom and Roku TV
Downstairs queen bedroom and Roku TV
2 twin bunk beds in the open game room
Jacuzzi off the 2nd king bedroom
Newly remodeled kitchen + island
Newly remodeled kitchen
Driveway at dawn
Lap pool

Pontiacs in Pigeon Forge

This annual event, held in May/June, is specifically for Pontiac enthusiasts. It brings together a collection of classic Pontiacs, Firebirds, GTOs, and other Pontiac models. The show includes a car show, a swap meet, and various activities for participants.

Remember to check the official websites or local event listings for the most accurate and up-to-date information on specific car shows in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg throughout the year, as event schedules can change.

Book your stay at Smoky Mountains Lodge and lock in our best rates for the season!

Book Now: This goes to our secure portal to review your info and confirm booking.

Send Inquiry: If you’re not quite ready to book, you can send an inquiry with any questions.

Have you been to any of these car shows in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg? What was your experience? Any shows we missed? We’d love your thoughts…comment below!

Unveil Mother Nature’s Masterpiece: The Top Secret Spots for Fall Foliage in the Smoky Mountains

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located on the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is a popular destination for experiencing the vibrant fall colors of the Appalachian Mountains. The best locations to see the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains include:

End of September

The leaves are starting to turn, but can be a little spotty. Get to elevations above 6,000 feet for best results

  1. Blue Ridge Parkway: While not within the national park itself, the Blue Ridge Parkway, which connects the Smoky Mountains to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, is renowned for its fall foliage. You can access the Blue Ridge Parkway from the park and enjoy the vibrant colors along the way.
  2. Graveyard Fields – Near Asheville, NC this hiking trail is just off the Blue Ridge Parkway
  3. Rough Ridge – This is a 1.2 mile hike just off the Blue Ridge Parkway
Great Smoky Mountains

Beginning of October

Get to elevations above 5,000 feet for best results

  1. Clingmans Dome: This is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers stunning panoramic views of the fall foliage. The observation tower at the summit provides a fantastic vantage point.
  2. Beach Mountain
  3. Mount Mitchell
  4. Grandfather Mountain

Early October

This is usually the prime time in higher elevations for the fall change of colors on the leaves, especially for elevations around 4,000-5,000 feet. You’ll see amazing colors around most of Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

  1. Blue Ridge Parkway
  2. Nearly all of Great Smoky Mountains National Park
  3. Newfound Gap Road: This scenic drive through the park offers breathtaking views and many opportunities to see the changing colors. There are pull-offs and overlooks along the way where you can stop and enjoy the scenery.
  4. Linn Cove Viaduct: This is a concrete bridge and roadway that cuts through part of Grandfather Mountain, making for an incredibly scenic drive during this time.

Mid/Late October

You’ll start to see areas in 3,000-4000 feet elevation come in with fall foliage in the Smoky Mountains during this time.

  1. Skyline drive – This runs North and South along the Blue Ridge Mountains, near the Shenandoah National Park. You’ll find fall foliage in the higher elevations along this drive.
  2. Pisgah National Forest
  3. Boone, NC
  4. Banner Elk, NC
  5. Maggie Valley/Waynesville

Still looking for the perfect family cabin in the Smoky Mountains?

Look no further, and book your stay with us!

Mountain views from the deck
Mountain views from the deck
Cabin view of the back deck
Cabin view of the back deck
Fire pit at dusk
Fire pit at dusk
7-seater hot tub
Game room equipped with ping pong, foosball, and pool
Spacious Game room and movie space
Open living room
Open living room
Dedicated movie space + Popcorn machine!
Battle on the arcade games
Dining room + Kitchen island
King master bedroom with mountain views
2nd king bedroom
Downstairs queen bedroom and Roku TV
Downstairs queen bedroom and Roku TV
2 twin bunk beds in the open game room
Jacuzzi off the 2nd king bedroom
Newly remodeled kitchen + island
Newly remodeled kitchen
Driveway at dawn
Lap pool

End of October

This is typically the prime time when the fall foliage really starts to explode around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg areas, around 2,000 – 3,000 feet elevation.

  1. Cades Cove – This valley is one of the most popular spots in the park, offering a mix of open fields and wooded areas. It’s a great place to see wildlife and fall colors together.
  2. Chimney Rock/Lake Lure – This is a State park on the North Carolina side.
  3. Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: This one-way loop road is known for its dense forest and beautiful fall colors. It’s a great place for a leisurely drive or a short hike to see the leaves up close.

As for the best dates to see the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains, they typically peak in mid-October at higher elevations and in late October at lower elevations. Keep in mind that fall foliage can be somewhat unpredictable and can vary from year to year due to factors like temperature and rainfall. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, you can check with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park website or local visitor centers for fall foliage reports and updates closer to your planned visit. Planning your trip for mid to late October will increase your chances of experiencing the vibrant autumn colors in the Smoky Mountains.

Book your stay at Smoky Mountains Lodge and lock in our best rates for the season!

Book Now: This goes to our secure portal to review your info and confirm booking.

Send Inquiry: If you’re not quite ready to book, you can send an inquiry with any questions.

When have you visited to see the fall foliage in the Smoky Mountains? What viewing spots or scenic drives do you like most? Comment below!

Battle of the Bird! Local’s Thanksgiving Dinner Guide in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, Tennessee, are beautiful places to spend Thanksgiving with your family. Sure you could go to Cracker Barrel, Shoneys, or Margaritaville, but you want something where the locals go…not something you could get in your hometown.

Here are our top restaurants in the area visited by locals that have traditionally served Thanksgiving dinners. Keep in mind that availability and offerings may change from year to year, so it’s a good idea to call ahead or check their websites for the most up-to-date information. Also, due to Thanksgiving being a popular holiday for dining out, making reservations in advance is highly recommended.

1. The Old Mill Restaurant

  • Summary: The Old Mill Restaurant is a charming establishment located in Pigeon Forge, known for its historic ambiance and Southern cuisine. Thanksgiving at The Old Mill typically features a traditional turkey dinner with all the fixings. The Old Mill remains our #1 pick on our Thanksgiving Dinner Guide in Pigeon Forge
  • Average Cost: Expect to pay around $25-40 per person for the Thanksgiving meal.
  • Reservations: Reservations are recommended and can be made through their website or by calling.

2. The Peddler Steakhouse

  • Summary: The Peddler Steakhouse, located in Gatlinburg, offers a rustic dining experience with a focus on top-quality steaks. For Thanksgiving, they often serve a special holiday menu alongside their regular offerings.
  • Average Cost: Prices vary depending on your choice of steak or Thanksgiving specials, but plan on spending around $30-60 per person.
  • Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended, especially for Thanksgiving.

3. Park Grill Steakhouse

  • Summary: Situated in Gatlinburg, the Park Grill Steakhouse is known for its delicious steaks and seafood. They typically offer a Thanksgiving buffet with a variety of traditional and Southern dishes.
  • Average Cost: The Thanksgiving buffet cost is usually around $35-45 per person.
  • Reservations: Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for holiday dining.

4. Calhoun’s Restaurant

  • Summary: Calhoun’s features an upscale mountain lodge atmosphere. Conveniently located on the Parkway in the center of the Pigeon Forge shopping area. They’ll be serving up a special Thanksgiving dinner.
  • Average Cost: Prices vary based on your choice of food/drinks, but expect to spend approximately $25-40 per person.
  • Reservations: It’s advisable to make reservations, especially during the holiday season.

Still looking for the perfect family cabin in the Smoky Mountains?

Look no further, and book your stay with us!

Mountain views from the deck
Mountain views from the deck
Cabin view of the back deck
Cabin view of the back deck
Fire pit at dusk
Fire pit at dusk
7-seater hot tub
Game room equipped with ping pong, foosball, and pool
Spacious Game room and movie space
Open living room
Open living room
Dedicated movie space + Popcorn machine!
Battle on the arcade games
Dining room + Kitchen island
King master bedroom with mountain views
2nd king bedroom
Downstairs queen bedroom and Roku TV
Downstairs queen bedroom and Roku TV
2 twin bunk beds in the open game room
Jacuzzi off the 2nd king bedroom
Newly remodeled kitchen + island
Newly remodeled kitchen
Driveway at dawn
Lap pool

5. Mama’s Farmhouse

  • Summary: Mama’s is a popular restaurant buffet that gives you an all-you-can-eat experience. You can expect special Thanksgiving dishes and turkey during Thanksgiving.
  • Average Cost: Prices for the buffet are approximately $20-40 per person.
  • Reservations: It’s advisable to make reservations, especially during the holiday season. For reservations call 800-992-9780.

6. Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant

  • Summary: Located in Sevierville, just outside Pigeon Forge, the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant is known for its Southern comfort food. They typically serve a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with a country twist.
  • Average Cost: Thanksgiving meals are usually priced around $20-30 per person.
  • Reservations: Reservations are recommended for Thanksgiving dining.

Remember to check with these restaurants closer to your travel dates to confirm their Thanksgiving offerings, prices, and reservation policies. Enjoy your Thanksgiving vacation in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg!

Book your stay at Smoky Mountains Lodge and lock in our best rates for the season!

Book Now: This goes to our secure portal to review your info and confirm booking.

Send Inquiry: If you’re not quite ready to book, you can send an inquiry with any questions.

Have you spent Thanksgiving in the area? What restaurants would you add to our Thanksgiving Dinner Guide in Pigeon Forge? We’d love to hear your thoughts. Comment below!