Smoky Mountains Vacation Tips

Looking for a great fall get away? I have Smoky Mountains vacation tips that you can’t resist. The Smoky Mountains have been added to my annual travel destinations.  They have become a part of my heart and soul.  I spent a week there several years ago, and fell in love.  I’ll be heading back annually, and staying for two weeks when I can.  Dolly Parton and other western singers praise the Smoky Mountains; I understand why.  They are truly one of the most beautiful creations on God’s green earth. It’s a great place for a family destination or weekend get away.  

 

 

 

smoky mountain vacation tips

 

Smoky Mountains Vacation Tips

 

I stay at the Fairfield Glade Wyndham when I’m in the area, which is approximately 60 minutes west of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, TN.  The Fairfield Glade Wyndham is located in a retirement community. It sits on 12,700 beautiful, wooded acres with a marina nearby.  Since I’ve joined the retiree club, it’s perfect for me.

 

There plenty of amenities, which includes a marina, indoor/outdoor pools, several lakes and golf courses.  There’s a 36-hole and three 18-hole golf courses.  They are listed among Golf Digest’s 75 best resort courses in America.  There are daily activities sponsored by the resort and a concierge to assist you with other activities.  You will also find walking trails and tennis courts. The marina has a variety of boats available for your pleasure, and provides an opportunity for a great photo opp.

Additionally, there’s a community center where the kids can play basketball, an arts and crafts center, a game room, and a media center.  There’s a post office, gift store and a Kroger’s grocery store located on the premises too.  With views like this, it makes a fall trip so worth it. Don’t forget your boat, there’s a boat launch.  

 

smoky mountains vacation tips

 

 

So, our unit had 2 bedrooms, a fireplace and a full kitchen.  There was plenty of room to gather around the table for a meal, or to play board games.  Additionally, there was a counter that could be used for additional seating.  The beds are delicious, and the fire place made the condo cozy.  I came home well rested.

Next, you will need a car to venture out to the surrounding areas.  If you head down I-40E, you will head toward Sierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg, TN. The Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Theatre in Pigeon Forge is a great place for an all you can eat dinner.  It’s based on the Hatfield and McCoy feud that took place in Gilbert, WV, my home state.  Take a stroll around the building to check out the country items on display.  We weren’t disappointed, and had quite a few laughs.  There were humorous signs, an outhouse, replica of a moonshine distillery, and more.  If you’re in the area, make reservations. It’s worth a visit.

 

hatfield and McCoy dinner theatre

 

 

 

This truck is everything, lol.  It reminded me of the truck on the Beverly Hillbillies.  Great advertising I may add.

 

 

Check out this crooked, upside down building, Wonderworks.  We had to pull over to check it out.  Your kids will be happy that you did.  They have an indoor Rope Course and Laser Tag for the thrill seekers.  They also have unique programs for students K-12 to learn about Physical Sciences.  There’s Earth Science, Physics and Astronomy.   Block off several hours for this visit. 

 

wonderworks

 

 

Afterwards, we headed toward Cades Cove to check out the wild life in the Smoky Mountains.  It was one of the most amazing experiences of my life.  The mountains in their fall foliage is stunning.  Majestic, bold, beautiful and mighty are a few adjectives that describes them.

 

 

 

 

Cades Cove Tennessee

 

 

Cades Cove is an 11 mile loop through the Smoky Mountains.  Additionally, there are streams, wildlife, churches, vacant cabins dating back to the 1800s and a peace that we often forget.  Through our journey we spotted this mama black bear and her 2 cubs.  Fortunately, we were able to watch them for about 10 minutes before they headed back into the woods.

It was truly an amazing experience to get this close.  They seemed to be oblivious to the cars and people watching them.  Their fur is so shiny and coal black.  The one cub on the far left was adventurous; however, the other club stayed close to mommy.  When we first spotted them, the adventurous club was playing in a tree not far from mom.

 

 

 

Cades Cove Tennessee

 

 

 

We spent several hours just taking our time driving the Cades Cove loop and enjoying the views.  I suggest that you pack a picnic and enjoy your time there.  At the halfway mark, there’s an area to enjoy a lunch and restrooms if you need a break.

 

Surprisingly,  we didn’t see any deer.  Especially, since it’s deer season.  So, the time spent observing the black bears more than made up for the deer not entertaining us.

Last, on our way home we made a quick stop at the Russell Stover Candy outlet.  As a matter of fact, I picked up a few Christmas gifts dirt cheap.  So, be sure to treat yourself to some sweets before you head home.

Finally, I hope you enjoyed my Smoky Mountain Vacation Tips, and will consider visiting the Smoky Mountains for a family vacation in the summer or fall.  There are water parks and Dollywood Amusement Park if you decide to visit in the summer.   You may also want to visit Parrot Mountain in Sevierville, TN.

 

 

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Comments

  1. The pictures are gorgeous! What a wonderful trip you describe and such a variety of activities. The bears are a little too close for comfort, lol, especially when its is a mama with her cubs. I will keep in mind the resort you stayed at!

    • Rhonda Gales says

      Seeing the bears that close up was amazing.  A good camera lens is recommended, I used a zoom lens for the photos.  However, the bears seemed to be unfazed by the cars and people.  I highly recommend the resort, and the journey through the Smokes.  Thanks for stopping by.

  2. I would love to visit that area! I especially love the fall colors and the bears!

    • Rhonda Gales says

      The fall colors were the most beautiful sight that I’ve seen, and the bears an unexpected treat.  If you ever get a chance, check out the area.

    • Rhonda Gales says

      The Smoky Mountains have been on my Bucket List.  I’m so glad I made the trip.  Beautiful area.