See the Smoky Mountains from the Sky with a Helicopter Tour

The Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge area is nestled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Whether dressed in green during the summer or wearing a snowy blanket in the winter, the Smokies always offer breathtaking scenery. One of the best ways to see the Smokies is with a bird’s eye view provided by these helicopter tours.

For a quick flight around the area, choose the Smoky Mountain Helicopter Tours. You can customize your ride to be up to 40 minutes covering 100 miles. The helicopter takes you over the cities of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge as well as the foothills of the Smoky Mountains. The ride will provide you unparalleled breathtaking views of the Smokies as well as the surrounding areas. Different tour options include the Gatlinburg tour, the See It All tour, and the Bluff Mountain/Pigeon Forge ride. Helicopters can accommodate up to six people, making it the perfect size for a family activity.

For more tour options, check out the Fly the Scenic Skies tours. The tours offered cover a variety of different sightseeing options. The River Island tour will take you over the French Broad River from a height of 1,200 feet. The Douglas Lake Flight covers 12 miles over the Douglas Lake. Another option is the Gatlinburg tour, which is a 36-minute flight that goes over Gatlinburg, Sevierville, and Mount Leconte. With the Grand Tour, you can see all of this and more. Whatever you want to see, you will be sure to find the right tour for you. The ride is narrated by your pilot, so you will know what you are seeing. Whichever tour you choose, it will certainly be an unforgettable experience.

If you would rather explore the Smokies from the comfort of the ground, try Smoky Mountain Carriage Rides. Perfect for a romantic lunch or evening activity, these tours will take you on a scenic ride through the countryside. You can enjoy views of the Smoky Mountains as well as the seasonal beauty of the area, from beautiful fall foliage to pretty spring flowers. You can choose a romantic ride for two or a fun ride for four.

Add Some Humor to Your Gatlinburg Vacation

Escape the cares of the world and indulge in a few laughs with a vacation to Gatlinburg. The Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area offers a variety of comedy shows that will let you forget about the world for a couple hours. Luckily, Gatlinburg is a great family-friendly vacation town, so you can be sure that these comedy shows are appropriate for everyone in your group.

The Comedy Barn has been hailed as “America’s Funniest Family Variety Show,” and it continues to be one of Gatlinburg’s most popular attractions. This show is designed to entertain everyone with juggling, comedians, puppets, and barnyard animal acts, one featuring Arnold, the Mind-Reading Pig. With the country theme, this show is a guaranteed hit among visitors from all backgrounds, and your kids are going to love the animals. This show offers two performance times in the summer and offers performances year round.

For a classic comedy show, check out the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre. Done in the style of 1890s Vaudeville acts, this theater features three original live shows. The Knickerbocker Glories is a raucous, fast-paced Vaudeville show that features comedy, dancing, singing, and slap-stick comedy. The Mystical Magic Medicine Show presents the story of the creators of Flim Flam juice, a magical potion to cure all ailments. During the Christmas season, you can catch the Yuletide Madness show, a performance that celebrates Christmas in traditional Sweet Fanny Adams style. Whichever show you choose, you will be amazed at these talented performers.

For a dinner and a great show, check out the Hoot ‘n Holler Dinner Show. You will enjoy a classic Italian meal while being entertained by the hilarious cast. The show features a Vaudeville-style act complete with dancing, music, and slap-stick comedy. When you go, get ready to be a part of the act because the cast loves to interact with the audience and make them part of the show! Sure to be a memorable experience, this dinner show is a great way to spend an evening. 

Plan a Summer Adventure in Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Adventures await in the great outdoors and the Smoky Mountains that surround Gatlinburg, Tennessee! With the wide variety of outdoor attractions the area offers, you will be sure to find the perfect activity with the appropriate skill level for everyone in your group. Whether planning a group retreat or some quality family time, exploring the outdoors together offers a bonding experience like none other. Check out the ideas below, and don’t forget to pack the sunscreen!

River rafting provides a fun experience unparalleled by other river activities. Experience the thrill of rushing rapids on the Pigeon River Rafting experience. The river features Class III rapids which are appropriate for both novice and experienced rafters. Your experience includes two hours on the river with an experienced guide that will show you the best way to raft and make sure you have an unforgettable time. The river experience begins in Hartford, Tennessee, and transportation is provided from Gatlinburg. The rafting center also features a volleyball court, gift and souvenir shops, and showers. The Pigeon River Rafting experience is a great way to enjoy the beautiful Tennessee outdoors and summer sun.

For a unique exploration experience, the Waterfall Jeep Tour is an ideal choice. This experience takes place by the Nantahala River in North Carolina. It is a two-hour guided tour in a Jeep that features a clear Plexiglas roof to make for optimal viewing. The tour takes you through the area mountains to the various beautiful natural waterfalls in the area, giving you ample time for picture taking, while your knowledgeable guide provides information about the sights and area. Snacks are included as well as any needed equipment. The Jeep can hold up to passengers, making it perfect for smaller groups and families.

For a relaxing activity, try the 1 Hour Horseback Ride in nearby Walland, Tennessee. This experience is perfect for novices as the horses are gentle and friendly and the terrain is mostly flat. However, if you are an experienced rider, you can choose an advanced tour. During your ride, you will explore around the base of the Smoky Mountains with the chance to see area wildlife as well as the beautiful scenery. An experienced and knowledgeable guide will lead the way and provide pertinent background information. Getting to the stables does require a short drive from Gatlinburg, but you will find that the experience is well worth it.

Celebrate America in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee are the perfect destinations for July 4th weekend. With special festivals, fun activities, and the shows and shops that can be found in Gatlinburg all year, you will have an exciting and patriotic time in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge when you visit on Independence Day.

The Midnight Independence Day Parade in Downtown Gatlinburg gives you an opportunity to celebrate America before anyone else. This midnight extravaganza annually draws crowds of over 100,000 people. The parade honors all five branches of the armed forces as well as containing entertaining performers, balloons, music, and more. Food vendors are also on hand ready to provide a midnight snack. This midnight parade is definitely a unique and festive way to celebrate July 4th.

If vibrant fireworks are your favorite part of the holiday, then the 4th of July Fireworks Extravaganza at Smokies Park in Sevierville, TN is perfect for you. A great family-friendly event, you will enjoy watching the sky light up with dazzling displays of fireworks. Located close to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, this celebration is a great way to spend July 4th evening.

In Pigeon Forge, the Annual Patriot Festival at Patriot Park is a great family-friendly event. With a variety of food vendors, a performance by the Pigeon Forge Community Chorus, and a salute to veterans and members of the armed forces, this event is sure to provide a patriotic celebration. The festival culminates with a fantastic fireworks show over the beautiful Smoky Mountains.

Another fun and unique July 4th event is the annual River Raft Regatta at the Christus Gardens in Gatlinburg. Perfect for all ages, this race includes all kinds of floating entries, including floating rocks, rubber ducks, and one-of-a-kind boats. The race ends at the Aquarium Bridge in Gatlinburg. Sure to provide a memorable experience, the River Raft Regatta is a great way to spend part of your July 4th day.

Whatever your choice for your July 4th vacation, these Gatlinburg area events are sure to provide a memorable weekend filled with patriotic and fun celebrations.

Fun June Festivals in Gatlinburg

While Gatlinburg offers fun activities and entertainment year round, the summer festivals featured in the city are a great reason to visit. You can visit these events while also enjoying all of the other attractions in the city, which will make your vacation unique and memorable.

A unique annual event in the area is the Smoky Mountain Storytelling Festival. Containing events and features to appeal to visitors of all ages, this festival offers a weekend full of entertainment. The festival takes place June 4-6 and is located at the Country Tonite Theater. Aspects of the weekend include storytelling sessions with professional storytellers, a Haunts and Haints Trolley Tour, and the National Youth Storytelling Showcase. Sure to be a memorable weekend, this festival is a unique addition to any Gatlinburg vacation.

For bluegrass music lovers, the Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival is a must-see festival. Happening on June 11-13, the festival takes place at Dumplin Ridge Farm in nearby Kodak, TN. Headliners of the festival include musical acts Rhonda Vincent & the Rage, The Grascals, The Bluegrass Brothers, and Greenbriar. Bluegrass workshops are also planned for the weekend, and an arts and crafts showcase and food vendors will also be on location. This picturesque farm in the Smoky Mountains is the perfect location to experience bluegrass, making this festival a great reason to come to Gatlinburg.

For travelers who are fans of both bluegrass and storytelling, the Gatlinburg’s Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales in Downtown Gatlinburg is a perfect event. This event begins on June 12 and continues for the rest of the summer until August 8. Each night, performers will be placed throughout downtown for your entertainment. The acts you will see range from costumed dulcimer performers to storytellers a clogging act. With many of Gatlinburg’s attractions downtown, this festival will be the perfect addition to a vacation itinerary filled with shows.

We offer a wide range of hotels and attraction options for Gatlinburg that will complete your vacation. Whether spending a day at Dollywood or enjoying the music at the Black Bear Jamboree Dinner & Show, you will be sure to have an exciting vacation in Gatlinburg.

Last Minute Memorial Day Weekend Ideas for Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge, TN

No plans for Memorial Day weekend yet? Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, are a perfect quick getaway destination. Aside from the year round features, the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area is hosting several festivals this weekend.

MountainFest in Downtown Gatlinburg, TN

MountainFestis a great annual festival held in Gatlinburg’s downtown that celebrates Gatlinburg’s heritage. Featuring traditional festival features like games, food, special exhibits, and more, this festival is a great time for families and visitors of all ages. You’ll be able to enjoy the great features of Gatlinburg and enjoy special festival features like live bluegrass music and live workshops. MountainFest takes place May 22-24.

Annual Craftsmen’s Fair at the Gatlinburg Convention Center in Gatlinburg, TN

Happening at the same time as the MountainFest, you can catch the Annual Craftsmen’s Fair at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. This fair features over 200 booths with craftsmen and handiworkers. You will also be able to enjoy live musical entertainment. You will be able to talk to the craftsmen, watch live demonstrations, and enjoy the city of Gatlinburg. This fair takes place May 22-24.

With great options for lodging, shows, and attractions, Gatlinburg makes a great destination any time of year. Whether you are interested in exploring Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokiesor checking out Dolly Parton’s theme park Dollywoodfeaturing thrilling roller coasters and entertaining shows, there is plenty to do in Gatlinburg to entertain you. If you want to stay a few nights, we offer a great variety of hotels in the area. From cabins to suites to deluxe hotel rooms, you’ll be sure to find a lodging option to fit your needs.

Ribfest & Wings Offers an Exceptional Taste of Gatlinburg

This April 23, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies will once again be hosting the annual Ribfest & Wings. Held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., guests will have the opportunity to sample and vote on some of the top ribs and wings in the area, with all vendors competing for the “People’s Choice Award.” Additionally, there will be live musical performances during the event, presenting a lively time of food and fun!

Of course, Ribfest & Wings not only offers a day of mouth-watering barbecue, but also presents the perfect opportunity to visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Featuring over 10,000 animals representing more than 350 species, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a rich look into the variety of life found around the world. Exhibits including the Tropical Rain Forest, Ocean Realm, Coral Reef, Shark Lagoon, and Sting Ray Bay paint a vivid look into a variety of ecosystems for an interactive learning opportunity the entire family will enjoy

Live Music Makes Gatlinburg Come Alive

Live music has made Tennessee famous. Nashville is the country music capital of the world and Memphis is renowned for both Elvis Presley and the Memphis Blues. But when you think of Tennessee music don’t forget about the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area. With great live music shows featuring country, bluegrass, gospel and more, Gatlinburg comes alive every year with the sounds of great music. Music fans should consider attending these music shows in the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area in 2009.  

Country Tonite

For a great musical variety show that combines side-splitting humor with quality country music, Country Tonite is the answer. This show is loaded with a variety of talented performers who will entertain you with dancing, jokes and an array of songs from country classics to contemporary country and from patriotic anthems to gospel melodies. The entertainers for this show span across all ages and travel to perform from around the country. Come enjoy the singing, the dancing and the energy at Country Tonite. 

Exalt A Christian Music Concert Spectacular! 

For the best in Christian music, you have to experience Exalt: A Christian Music Concert Spectacular! This show will bring you the best in inspirational music from great Christian artists like Amy Grant, Cris Tomlin, Mercy Me, Bill Gaither, Third Day and many more. In addition the show will feature dramatic sketches and humorous interludes to keep you entertained throughout. Performed at the Miracle Theatre, Exalt: A Christian Music Concert Spectacular, is family friendly music that can be enjoyed by all ages. 

Smith Family Show 

 For more family music, the Smith Family Show will delight you and your children as well. Charlie, Jim, and Charlie Bob Smith will bring you the best in country, bluegrass, gospel and oldies music, interspersed with impersonations and hilarious comedy. Don’t miss them performing in perfect harmony and with light hearted humor. They have become Smoky Mountain legends and have performed in the area for over twenty years now! 

TG Sheppard 

Finally, on select dates in 2009, the legendary country star TG Sheppard will be performing at the Smith Family Theatre. Hear him perform some of his hits like Devil in the Bottle, Tryin’ to Beat the Morning Home, Motels and Memories, Show Me A Man, When Can We Do This Again, Last Cheater’s Waltz, I’ll Be Coming Back For More, Do You Want to Go to Heaven,  I Loved ‘Em Everyone, and more. Don’t miss this opportunity to see a country great in the intimate setting of the Smith Family Theatre.

With all the great musical shows on the horizon, a vacation to the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area sounds better than ever. Get ready for musical variety mixed with doses of comedy as you plan your next family vacation to the Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge area, nestled beneath the majestic Great Smoky Mountains. Don’t delay – make your reservations today!

Adventure Takes on Many Forms in Gatlinburg, TN

Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited National Park in the United States. However, the Gatlinburg area has much more to see than just the Great Smoky Mountains. Indoor and outdoor adventure can be found in the Gatlinburg area with many exciting attractions to choose from. You can travel through an indoor rain forest, visit an aquarium, or take a romantic carriage ride.

RainForest Adventures

Welcome to the jungle! At RainForest Adventures you can find yourself in the midst of an indoor rain forest that comes complete with a splendid 25 foot waterfall and is teeming with exotic wildlife like lemurs, tortoises, lizards, snakes and tropical birds. Educational presentations introduce you to the jungle animals and help make this adventure enjoyable and informative.

Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies
  
Descend beneath the water’s surface to explore life under the sea at the Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies. Visit exciting exhibits like the Shark Lagoon and the Coral Reef. Have lunch with stingrays at the Feeding Frenzy Restaurant, where you can watch the rays swim about as you eat.

Smoky Mountain Picnic & Romantic Carriage Rides

Take a romantic carriage ride with your special someone and enjoy the country picnic meal and keepsake picnic basket as you dine with your loved one amidst the grandeur of the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy the carriage ride in any season. You can delight in riding through a winter wonderland, bask in the sun while flowers bloom in the spring and summer, or experience the brilliant fall colors in autumn.

Gatlinburg Spells Fun in So Many Ways

Against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg Tennessee and neighboring Pigeon Forge are towns full of fun, adventure and excitement. Whatever season you want to travel, consider Gatlinburg, Tennessee as your vacation destination. Gatlinburg is full of opportunities for fun in a variety of different ways.

Hoot ‘n’ Holler Dinner Show
  
Take your whole family out for a one of a kind dinner experience at the Hoot ‘n’ Holler Dinner Show. You will be treated to delicious Italian cuisine and live entertainment that encourages audience participation. The Vaudeville style song and dance show will give you an opportunity to shout and sing along with your two cents worth as you delight to the playful atmosphere of the performance.

WonderWorks Pigeon Forge

At WonderWorks you can challenge your mind and your senses at a unique amusement park that enables you to physically appreciate a 5.3 magnitude earthquake, lie on a bed of nails, or feel hurricane force winds against your face. You can also simulate a space shuttle landing and marvel at bizarre optical illusions. The exhibits at WonderWorks will tease and test all your five senses.

Monster Truck Rides

If you are looking for raw power and adventure, hop inside a 12-passenger monster truck with a 454 horsepower engine and massive 66 inch tires for a powerful joyride that will get your adrenaline flowing. Experience the thrill as you grind up the dust and take laps around a dirt track in a hulk of a vehicle.

 
So whether you want to feel an earthquake, feel a truck shake, or just hoot and holler at a great show, Gatlinburg is the place to be.

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