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Gatlinburg Cheap Hotels–Quality on a Budget

August 14, 2011 By 1 Comment

Cheap, a word synonymous with less money, has its negative connotations. But, for the purpose of this article which lists the best Gatlinburg cheap hotels, “cheap” is a good thing. Cheap means more money for Gatlinburg attractions and restaurants; more importantly, it means a cheaper Gatlinburg vacation while still getting a quality hotel. For the following list of Gatlinburg cheap hotels we considered location, quality of room, and amenities. As for price, each of these Gatlinburg cheap hotels have average rates which hover in the $50 and $60 range, excluding special events, holidays, and peak season.

Gatlinburg Cheap Hotels

(In no particular order)

Johnson’s Inn

Gatlinburg Cheap Hotel--Johnson's InnThis Gatlinburg cheap hotel’s main draw is their location. Located about 100 yards from the Parkway at Traffic Light #6, Johnson’s Inn provides clean, well-maintained rooms at affordable rates. Their June and July rates are around $70 per night, while almost every other month, with the exception of October, is in the $40 and $50 range.

Mountain House Motor Inn

Gatlinburg Cheap Hotel--Mountain House Motor InnAlso located just off the Parkway at Traffic Light #6 (up the street from Johnson’s Inn), the Mountain House Motor Inn is a favorite among Gatlinburg vacationers. They have all exterior entrance rooms and two outdoor pools. More importantly, almost everyone who stays here leaves happy. Like the other Gatlinburg cheap hotels on this list, their claim to fame is decent rates and clean, comfortable guest rooms.

Gatlinburg Inn

Gatlinburg Cheap Hotel--Gatlinburg InnThe Gatlinburg Inn isn’t just any Gatlinburg cheap hotel; this Inn has a lot of history behind it (see: Gatlinburg Inn). As for a place to stay, well, it didn’t make this list because of its status as a Gatlinburg landmark. Located on the Gatlinburg Parkway, the Gatlinburg Inn is one of the best upkept hotels in Gatlinburg. Ms. Wilma Maples, the owner, ensures her rooms are always immaculately clean. Aside from the location, the Gatlinburg Inn’s most outstanding feature is the B&B feel it gives its guests. It is, simply, one of those places where you truly feel as if you’re part of the family, and at rates which are affordable.

 

Obviously, there are more Gatlinburg cheap hotels which provide quality rooms at affordable rates; this is just our list of favorites. We would love to hear your favorites, as well. Let us know by commenting below.

Filed Under: Gatlinburg Hotels

Gatlinburg Golf in the Smoky Mountains

August 10, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Gatlinburg Golf at Bent CreekWith the beautiful mountains, fresh streams, and mild Gatlinburg weather, why not try your swing at a Gatlinburg golf course? There aren’t any Gatlinburg golf courses in Gatlinburg proper, but there are two golf courses located a short drive from Gatlinburg. So, the next time you’re in Gatlinburg, make the short drive to one of these Gatlinburg golf courses and enjoy the greens…Smoky Mountains style.

 

 

Gatlinburg Golf Courses

 

Bent Creek Golf Course

Designed by Gary Player, three-time Masters and British Open winner, Bent Creek Golf course is a Smoky Mountains golfing paradise. Located 11 miles from downtown Gatlinburg on Highway 321, this par 72 course’s front 9 holes are situated against the valley floor, while the back 9 provides challenging holes along the mountains. The Smoky Mountains serve as the backdrop for this picturesque Gatlinburg golf course, and a beautiful mountain stream accompanies golfers throughout the course. If you’re looking for 18 holes of a Smoky Mountains wonderland, this is the Gatlinburg golf course to play.

Gatlinburg Golf Course

Situated adjacent to Dollywood, 5 miles from Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg Golf Course was designed by the renowned William Langford and underwent a $500,000 dollar renovation in 2007 under the direction of Bob Cupp and Associates. Gatlinburg Golf Course doesn’t offer the scenery that Bent Creek provides, but it is, nonetheless, a spectacularly scenic course that provides challenges to golfers of all skillsets.

 

Which one of these two Gatlinburg golf hotspots is your favorite to play?

Filed Under: Things to Do in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Deal on Attractions

August 6, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Gatlinburg DealsThanks to a partnership between several Gatlinburg cabin rental companies and GetMoreVacations.com, you can get free tickets to Gatlinburg attractions when you reserve a cabin with a participating cabin rental ageny in Gatlinburg.

The way it works is simple: one free attraction ticket per night stayed is offered as an amenity. In other words, it doesn’t cost extra. Just like the soap in the bathroom, it is an amenity which is provided free of charge. The best part: there’s no catch—no timeshare sales pitch to sit through and no surveys to fill out. Simply reserve your Gatlinburg cabin with a participating Gatlinburg rental agency, and at check-in they will provide you with a VIP card which you can use once per day to gain one free admission at a handful of Gatlinburg attractions. Considering the price of tickets to many Gatlinburg attractions, this could save you around $50 per day.

Gatlinburg attractions which are a part of this deal include:

 

As of the date of this writing, the Gatlinburg cabin rental businesses offering this deal are:

 

For more details on this Gatlinburg deal, visit either GetMoreVacations.com or contact one of the participating Gatlinburg Cabin Rental agencies.

Filed Under: Gatlinburg Deals

Gatlinburg Falls–Luxury Gatlinburg Lodging

August 3, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Gatlinburg Falls EntranceIf you’re looking for a Gatlinburg cabin, but don’t want to deal with the typical hassle of driving first to the cabin rental office to check in, only to drive 30 more minutes across long, twisting mountain roads looking for one particular cabin among what seems like a blue million, look no further than Gatlinburg Falls Resort. Gatlinburg Falls combines the luxury, comfort, and relaxation of staying in a Smoky Mountain cabin with a convenient downtown Gatlinburg location and on-site amenities.

Gatlinburg Falls Location

The cabins at Gatlinburg Falls are spread out over a large partially wooded tract of land overlooking the Smoky Mountains. Each cabin is partially secluded and is accessed via paved, slightly sloping drives which wind throughout the resort. Gatlinburg Falls is located just off East Parkway in Gatlinburg at traffic light 2A (Cartertown Road). The location is roughly a 3 or 4 minute drive to the Gatlinburg Parkway where all the attractions, shops, and restaurants are located. Walking to downtown from your cabin at Gatlinburg Falls is not a likely option, though, considering the abundance of hills and slopes on their property, along with the lack of sidewalks on Cartertown Road. Still, it’s hard to beat their location for a cabin in the Smokies.

Gatlinburg Falls Cabins

Gatlinburg Falls offers many different cabin types. From 1-bedroom honeymoon cabins to an 18-bedroom behemoth capable of sleeping 68 people, Gatlinburg Falls has a cabin big enough, or small enough, to fit your needs. Gatlinburg Falls has cabins equipped with vertical-jetted shower spas, hot tubs, heart-shaped jacuzzis, and fireplaces. Many of their cabins also include extras like arcade games, pinball machines, and air hockey tables. Of course, each cabin is different, so ask what your cabin includes before reserving; although, all of their cabins are equipped with WiFi.

Gatlinburg Falls On-Site Amenities

Gatlinburg Falls’ property includes amenities which are available for use by all guests in public areas. These include:

  • A gigantic heated swimming pool with a waterfall and kiddie pool
  • Workout facility
  • Hot tub
  • Playground
  • Guest Care Lodge to answer questions and give info about the Gatlinburg area

 

The Downsides of Gatlinburg Falls

Cabins at Gatlinburg Falls

The cabins at Gatlinburg Falls are spaced rather close together

No property is perfect; Gatlinburg Falls is no different. Some of the most common complaints on Tripadvisor revolve around the lack of seclusion provided by the cabins—many of the cabins are located rather close to each other; the property is like a sub-division of cabins, for lack of a better description. But, in their defense, many of the cabins located deep in the mountains are much the same. To us, their downtown Gatlinburg location seems like a decent trade-off, especially when seclusion is hard to find at any sort of overnight rental in the Smokies.

Another repeated complaint is the WiFi seems to be unreliable, so if you just have to have internet access, you may want to look again. It does seem, however, they’re always prompt in getting it repaired, but a full day in some cases was common from the complaints we read.

All in all, Gatlinburg Falls is an excellent place if you’re looking for the comfort and luxury of a cabin, but want to be close to the action.

Have you stayed at Gatlinburg Falls? We would love to hear your opinions—the good, the bad, and the ugly.


More Info on Gatlinburg Falls

http://www.gatlinburgfallsresort.com/

Filed Under: Gatlinburg Resorts

Gatlinburg Pictures From the Past

August 2, 2011 By Leave a Comment

We ran across a really cool website today that has loads of old pictures of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Considering I have spent my life in this area, looking at the pictures stirred up plenty of nostalgic feelings for me. Those of you who have been visiting Gatlinburg for a long time will likely have the same feelings.

In addition to pictures, they also have copies of vintage pamphlets and brochures, many of them from defunct attractions like Silver Dollar City.

The website is certainly worth a look whether you come to Gatlinburg every year, or you’ve only been once.

 

Old Gatlinburg Pictures and Pamphlets

 

 

Filed Under: Gatlinburg History

Gatlinburg Weather in the Summer

August 1, 2011 By 2 Comments

Gatlinburg Weather brings sunshine

Gatlinburg, TN weather in the summer usually starts rather mild and becomes progressively hotter as the the summer wears on, before eventually beginning to cool off toward the last of August and first of September. The Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce describes the Gatlinburg weather as “never too hot; never too cold.” Certainly, that is up to each individual, but we beg to differ. While “never too cold” may be a good description for the winter, since it rarely gets very cold then, Gatlinburg summers regularly bring temperatures hot enough to make the devil sweat.

 

Gatlinburg Weather From Late June to Mid July

When summer starts on June 21, the Gatlinburg weather is usually quite pleasurable. High temps usually hover in the 80’s, with the lows hanging out in the 60’s. This trend normally continues through the remainder of June and into the first couple of weeks of July. It is also normal to expect rain at least 2-3 times per week throughout this period. But don’t worry, the rains are usually just part of an afternoon thunderstorm, although one full day of rain per week is normal.

Gatlinburg Weather From Late July to Mid August

By the third of week of July, the Gatlinburg weather is heating up. High temperatures during this time range from high 80’s to mid 90’s, with the latter becoming the norm by the last week in July on through the first couple of weeks of August. Rain during this time can be scarce in some years, but summer rain showers and thunderstorms usually bring ample precipitation.

Gatlinburg Weather From Late August to Mid September

Gatlinburg weather during the last of August brings relief from the heat, as the temperatures during this timeframe revert back to June-like levels. The air gradually cools from this point and on into mid-September as the season changes to fall. Likewise, this is also the period when precipitation levels begin to drop, as they always do as the season gets closer to autumn.

All in all, Gatlinburg weather in the summer isn’t all that bad; just those 4 or 5 weeks with borderline sweltering heat. Other than that, the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce has it about right.

We would like to hear some of your stories about the Gatlinburg weather in the summer. Are there any unusually hot days you remember in Gatlinburg? Or, unusually chilly ones? Also, what are some of your favorite ways to beat the summertime heat in Gatlinburg?

Filed Under: Gatlinburg Weather

Gatlinburg Shows

July 27, 2011 By 2 Comments

If you’re looking for shows in Gatlinburg, you won’t find many—only two to be exact. Most of the shows are located in Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. There, you will find the popular shows like the Dixie Stampede, Comedy Barn, and Country Tonite. But, for what Gatlinburg shows lack in quantity, they make up for with quality. The Gatlinburg shows are both unique (a quality the Pigeon Forge shows lack) and highly entertaining (another quality some of the Pigeon Forge shows lack).

Bill Gladwell’s Hypnotized Comedy Show

Also named as one of the Top 5 Things to Do in Gatlinburg, Bill Gladwell’s comedy hypnosis show is fun for everyone. The basis of Bill’s show is he selects a few volunteers from the audience, and yes they’re really volunteers, hypnotizes them, and has them doing crazy things on stage. On any given night at this show, you could see volunteers clucking like chickens, disco dancing, or believing they’re on a game show. Are you skeptical? Then volunteer and see what happens.

Of course, hypnosis isn’t the only facet of the show. Bill is also a mentalist. Ever had your mind read? No? Then you should check out his show Head Case.

Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre

The acts at Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre are different from any other show you will see in the Smokies. They usually do two new and completely original shows each year. These two shows alternate every other night throughout the year. They also do a Christmas show during the holiday season. Each of these acts are produced to emulate the the music halls of the late 19th century.

The bottom line is this place is a hilarious blast. In our opinion, the best thing about this theatre, along with the side-splitting comedy, is the intimacy it provides. You automatically feel right at home as soon as you enter. Many of the unique acts which have debuted at Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre have went on to perform in Las Vegas and Atlantic City.

There may not be many Gatlinburg shows, but there are certainly enough to keep you entertained. We would love to hear your experiences with either of these shows in the comments.

Filed Under: Gatlinburg Attractions, Things to Do in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Inn–A Historic Part of Gatlinburg

July 26, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Gatlinburg Inn

When walking down the Gatlinburg Parkway, you probably wouldn’t realize it, but a large part of Gatlinburg’s rich history is still preserved among the shops and attractions. Across the street from Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum, the Gatlinburg Inn, a living, breathing part of Gatlinburg’s yesteryears, sits nestled among the hustle and bustle of the busy mountain tourist town.

The Gatlinburg Inn

The Gatlinburg Inn was the third major hotel constructed in Gatlinburg. Built between 1937 and 1940 by the late R.L. Maples, the Gatlinburg Inn was home to the city offices between 1946 and 1947, Gatlinburg’s first press newspaper started at the inn, and Gatlinburg’s first dentist once had an office at the Gatlinburg Inn. Some of the famous figures who have once laid down their heads in the Gatlinburg Inn include:

  • “Larry Bird” Johnson
  • Liberace
  • Dinah Shore
  • J.C. Penney
  • Tennessee Ernie Ford
  • Melville Bell Grosvenor

The Gatlinburg Inn is also a silver screen star, having appeared in the 1970 movie A Walk in the Spring Rain. Room 388 at the Gatlinburg Inn is especially historic. It was in this room that Felice and Boudleaux Bryant wrote “Rocky Top,” Tennessee’s state song, in 1967.

Wilma Maples, wife of the late R.L. Maples, still runs the Gatlinburg Inn today. Mrs. Maples, on top of owning and operating one of the most historic landmarks in Gatlinburg, was one of the first employees of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Dedication to the Park and the community is something Mrs. Wilma Maples still possesses and is known for today. She is a regular donor to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, her most significant donation being 100 acres for the Park to extend its boundaries. She was also a significant donor for establishing a Walters State Community College campus in Sevier County.

So, the next time you’re in Gatlinburg, veer off the beaten path of the Gatlinburg Parkway and stop by the Gatlinburg Inn to take in a piece of Tennessee history still standing and operating in downtown Gatlinburg. Or, give them a call and make your reservation to stay there and sleep with history.

Additional Reading on the Gatlinburg Inn

The Gatlinburg Inn

Gatlinburg Inn Owner Gives Back to Smokies, Community College

Filed Under: Gatlinburg Hotels

Gatlinburg Attractions You Shouldn’t Miss

July 26, 2011 By 4 Comments

With so many things to do in Gatlinburg, there’s no way to see all the attractions in Gatlinburg. But, if this is your first time in Gatlinburg, there are a few Gatlinburg attractions you must visit. Or, if you’ve been before and somehow skipped these Gatlinburg attractions, be sure to visit them the next time you’re in town. Chances are they’ll become regular stops for you on every visit to Gatlinburg.

Gatlinburg Attractions

Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Attractions--Ripley's Aquarium

Image Courtesy of www.gatlinburghospitality.com

Also listed as one of the Top 5 Things to Do in Gatlinburg, the Gatlinburg Aquarium is a sight for all ages. Visitors to the Aquarium see every type of fish imaginable, along with crabs, octopuses, and sea turtles. And that’s merely a scratch on the surface. One of the highlights: toward the end of the trip, visitors get the opportunity to pet the stingrays.

Of course, the main event during any visit to Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg is the walk through the shark tank. The shark tank is built around the walkway; so, during your walk through the exhibit, sharks are literally swimming beside you, around you, and above you. Whether you’re 3 or 100, you’re sure to enjoy the Aquarium.

Ober Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Attractions--Ober Gatlinburg

A ski resort in the winter; amusement park in the summer, there are so many things to do at Ober Gatlinburg, it could be granted its own zip code. During the winter months, Ober Gatlinburg visitors enjoy skiing, snow tubing, snow boarding, and ice skating; although, ice skating is also available in the summer.

The summer months provide visitors with multiple amusements, such as waterslides, wildlife exhibits (featuring a black bear), mini golf, an arcade, and a carousel. There’s also a maze and other various rides and slides.

Heck, even the transportation to Ober Gatlinburg is fun: the Aerial Tramway. Besides the attractions, Ober Gatlinburg also offers restaurants and shopping. Ober Gatlinburg is, indeed, a tourist destination within a tourist destination.

Gatlinburg Space Needle

Gatlinburg Attractions--The Space Needle

Take an elevator ride 400 feet to the Space Needle’s observation deck. The top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle provides what is likely the best view in Gatlinburg. Not only are you offered an aerial view of downtown Gatlinburg, but also a panoramic view of the Smoky Mountains. At a price of $7.95 for adults, $5.95 for children 5-12, and free for children under 5, there’s no excuse for not visiting the Space Needle to take in the gorgeous views. Besides, it only takes an hour at the absolute most. Discounted tickets can also be purchased in advance at their online store.

When you come down,  stop by the arcade located on the ground level or have some of the best pizza in Gatlinburg at the Flying Saucer Italian Bistro, also located in the Space Needle. Even if you don’t play in the arcade or eat the pizza, the Space Needle is simply one of those things in Gatlinburg you have to see at least once.

 

Each of these Gatlinburg attractions are absolute can’t miss places. If you have your own list of can’t miss places, we’d love to hear it. Also, feel free to share your experiences with one of these Gatlinburg attractions.

Filed Under: Gatlinburg Attractions, Things to Do in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg Ziplines

July 25, 2011 By 1 Comment
Gatlinburg Ziplines

Image Courtesy of www.gatlinburg.com

Gatlinburg ziplines and canopy tours are the newest craze to hit Gatlinburg. It almost made our Top 5 Things to Do in Gatlinburg list, and it would have if it were suited for a more general audience. But, considering the Gatlinburg ziplines are a heart-pounding experience, it just isn’t for everyone. That being said, if you’re in good health and enjoy a little thrill-seeking, you will have a blast.

Gatlinburg Ziplines Info

What are Ziplines?

Ziplines are cables mounted on pulleys that, in Gatlinburg, are suspended from tree to tree. The zipliner slides down these cables via a safety harness which is attached to the cables. With most ziplines each “zip” brings you to a platform in a tree where you will then attach to the next zipline and repeat the process. Gatlinburg zipline tours, also known as canopy tours, have guides who go along to ensure the safety of the zipliners. Gatlinburg ziplines offer some incredible views of the Smokies and are an excellent means of exploring nature with a bird’s eye view.

Gatlinburg Ziplines Typical Requirements

  • At least 8 years old
  • Weigh between 70 and 300 lbs
  • Be in good physical and mental health
  • A signed waiver

Gatlinburg Ziplines Tour Providers

CLIMB Works Canopy Tours
155 Branam Hollow Rd.
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
(865) 325-8116
Prices: A 3-hour zipline tour is $89 for adults and $79 for participants 15 and under.
Ziplines Family Adventures
322 Historic Nature Trail
Gatlinburg, TN 37738
(865) 430-9475
Prices: $59 per person for a 9 zipline tour over the Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg
Filed Under: Things to Do in Gatlinburg
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