Twice a year, the charming mountain town of Gatlinburg holds one of the top rated holiday craft fairs in the Southern United States and a destination for eager shoppers all over the country. Considered to be one of the most popular events this side of the Mississippi, the Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair is an experience that should not be missed! The Smoky Mountain region is rich in Appalachian culture and has a long legacy producing fantastic arts and crafts. In fact, roughly ten minutes away from the town of Gatlinburg, is one of the largest arts and crafts communities in the county known as The Great Smokey Arts And Crafts Community!

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Imagine: the crisp mountain air filling your lungs as you look over the stunning sight of crimson, gold and rose colors splashed across a silvery sky, like a painted masterpiece brought to life. Now add to this daydream the auburn and amber foliage of fall and some wispy, low-hanging mist so iconic to the Smokies, and you have yourself a typical Smoky Mountain sunrise or sunset. Both the beginning, as well as the ending, of a fall day (or any time of the year) in the Smoky Mountains is a sight to behold and should each be experienced once. However, we are quite aware that not everyone is fond of early morning alarms (more…)

Every year, the Smoky Mountains welcome thousands of lovebirds to its rustic beauty to tie the knot and, come the autumn season, you can’t go a mile down the road without passing a ceremony or reception! With breathtaking scenery (that fall foliage is marvelous), a vast selection of excellent wedding vendors, and a seemingly endless list of activities and adventures to choose from, the Smoky Mountains is the perfect wedding destination. However, with the region being so popular with soon-to-be spouses, finding the venue that fits all of your needs while matching your matrimonial vision can feel next to impossible. Luckily, here at Parkside Resort we have venues that, while all lavish and stunning, are able to fulfill all sorts of different wedding day requirements. Read on to find out why Parkside Resort is the perfect place for your fall-time wedding. (more…)

The Smokey Mountains region is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, unbeatable vistas, charming towns and cities, rich history and so on but did you know that the Smokies are also home to some world-class entertainment? (more…)

There’s no denying that there is a ton to do in the Smoky Mountains region. From breathtaking mountainous hikes, to thrilling wooden rollercoasters at Dollywood to more rich, finger-licking good Southern cooking than you could ever possibly eat, you’re bound to stay busy during your stay in the land of blue smoke. However, maybe you’re tired of the usual attractions you find at the top of your internet searches and, instead, are looking for adventures that will leave you with truly unique memories and experiences to take home with you. If this is the case, check out these three one-of-a-kind adventures of the Smokies! (more…)

Anakeesta is Gatlinburg’s award-winning outdoor family theme park and the hottest attraction in town. To help you with planning your mountain adventure, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the attractions, activities, shops and good eats you’ll find after riding to Anakeesta’s summit. Though our list may not include everything Anakeesta has to offer, we hope it gives you an idea of where you’d like to start first! (more…)

In the South, and especially in Tennessee, seeking out the best distilled spirits to try, is not only a must, it’s considered a rite of passage. If you look back through Tennessee history, you may notice that there is a steady undercurrent of firewater running throughout it. As the years have progressed, moonshine – as well as spirits in general – have been entrenched in southern history and become synonymous with Tennessee culture. Since the mid-1700’s, when local Scottish and Irish immigrants began distilling whiskey using surplus corn to share with their communities, moonshine’s legacy has been fraught with scandal. In the 1790’s, new tax requirements and later the Prohibition (ironically, Tennessee was the first state in the US to pass any kind of prohibition law in 1838), drove production underground – quiet literally in some cases. These illicit (more…)

If you’ve done any research into accommodation options in or near Pigeon Forge, TN, you’ve more than likely made note of the various cabins that popped up during your search. It makes sense – with the beautiful, rugged landscape of the Great Smoky Mountains – a wood cabin fits the scene perfectly. However, at Parkside Resort, (more…)

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and outdoorsy folk alike. Every year, millions of people travel to the park to partake in the myriad of activities and destinations it has to offer. From ample and varied vegetation and wildlife, to rushing rivers and winding hiking trails to countless scenic panoramas, you’ll have your breath taken away, regardless of who you are. To help get you started, we’ve compiled a list of 5 must-see destinations located in the Great Smoky Mountains for you to visit this summer. (more…)

Pigeon Forge, a Tennessee town nestled on the edge of the beautiful Great Smokey Mountain National Park, draws roughly 11 million tourists every year. Though small, this picturesque mountain town is jam-packed with activities, events and excursions to demand your attention and hours. With the town’s rich history, penchant for sweet Southern charm, and natural beauty, it makes for the perfect destination for families and friends hoping to make some new summer memories.

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