For a pleasant mountain getaway, consider staying in either Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Only seven miles apart, the pleasant drive between the two destinations goes by quickly and offers up lovely views of the lush forests amid The Great Smoky Mountains. Being in such close proximity of a variety of attractions, staying in either city means twice the attractions and double the fun.
Gatlinburg, nestled at the foot of the Smokies, has many shops, arcades, restaurants, an aquarium and Ripley's Believe it or Not Museum. Ober Gatlinburg gives visitors the opportunity to ski or snow tube on one of the mountaintops above the village, and the aerial tramway taken to the resort offers up spectacular mountain views. The Gatlinburg Space Needle is another opportunity to take in the beautiful scenery high above the city. Gatlinburg's downtown is centrally located so parking and walking is the most feasible way to travel about and take in all the village's sights and attractions.
Just a short drive away, Pigeon Forge is more spread out and full of dinner shows, arcades and rides, a water park, amusement park, horseback riding, shopping and many dining options. The Dixie Stampede is a can't miss dinner show, complete with a huge Southern supper, a fabulous before dinner show and a North versus South rivalry. Dollywood, a theme park featuring roller coasters, a water park and live entertainment, will keep the family busy for hours or possibly even days. The Apple Barn Cider Mill and General Store and The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant must be visited for a delicious serving of homemade apple fritters and apple butter, and a supply of delicacies to take back home as well. Outlet mall shopping is also nearby, offering many great deals and a variety of stores.
Driving between the two vacation spots is incredibly easy, and will allow you to make the most of your trip to The Great Smoky Mountains. Giving you many more options in dining, entertainment and shopping, the combination of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg is splendid and complimentary to each other. Many visitors take advantage of this benefit when vacationing in The Smokies.