Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee and North Carolina

The Great Smoky Mountains extend from Tennessee and North Carolina. They are most visited in fall for the beautiful fall colors in late October till early November. The highest point is Clingmans Dome at 6643 ft. The drive from Gatlinburg to Clingmans Dome has the best vista points of the mountain range. Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are two small towns near smokies that has small town vibe. 

The wonders of flight, Alpine costers, The Island are some of the fun places to visit in Pigeon Forge. 

Gatlinburg offers fun activities like Sky Lift, Ripley's museums, shopping and lots of activities. But beware of tourist traps and choose activities wisely as they can break the bank very soon.

Dollywood resort offers stay and play packages for adults to relax while kids enjoy the rides.

Clingman's Dome, Forneys Creek, NC

Clingman's Dome is a highly visited spot in Smoky Mountains. At around 6000 feet, this place offers spectacular mountaintop views.  Clingman's dome is around an hour drive from Gatlinburg through scenic roadways. Fall is the best time to visit Clingman's dome. With spectacular fall covers, the mountain range is painted with hues of orange, red and yellow. 

The Welcome center and restrooms are located at the starting of the trail. The trail leads to concrete ramp and climb the ramp to get to the tower top. Though, the hike it self is tedious, the views are well worth the hike and on a clear day, you can catch endless views of mountain range. Due to any reason, if you are unable to hike, do not sweat it. the parking lot it self has equally spectacular views.

Tips: 

1. Expect half a mile hike through steep paved road before you reach the bottom of the ramp for the tower.

2. Wear good walking shoes.

3. Carry water bottles with you as the hike is strenuous and no shops / vending machines are available at the top.

4. Avoid strollers if you can. Pushing the stroller can be very tedious. Baby wearing is the best choice.

5. Parking is very limited. Expect to walk around 1/4th mile after parking before the actual hike.

The Island, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

A trip to Smoky Mountains is never complete without visiting Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. The Island is a 'do it all' kind of place to eat, shop, stay and play. Free parking is available at a walkable distance from The Island. If walking is not your thing, hop on a free tram from parking lot to the main center. 

The island Rope course, with two zip lines and 30 different course is challenging fun for adults and kids. It also has a Wheel that boasts of views. But we skipped it since The Wonders of Fight (Hot air balloon ride) gives a better views of Pigeon Forge.

From restaurants, to candy shops, The Island offers variety of food choices and shopping places.

Wonders of Flight, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Wonders of Flight is a tethered hot air balloon ride. Once you board the hot air balloon, it raises up to 400 feet in the air . The whole activity takes around 10-15 minutes.

 Enjoy the views of Pigeon Forge from 400 feet.

Gatlinburg Sky Lift, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg Sky View is a top Gatlinburg attraction with beautiful views of Smokey Mountains. This chairlift is a fun way to get to the top of the mountain. The chair lift takes you to the top of mountain at 1800 feet. A small gift shop at the top has good collection of souvenirs and snacks. 

Spend as much time you want on the top. Because, this place have the best views around.

A Day in Nashville, Tennessee, USA

Centennial park, a beautiful retreat in the middle of downtown Nashville. Can’t miss the real size replica of Parthenon which is also Nashville's art museum. A replica of Greek goddess Athena inside the Parthenon. Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit the park. With spring blossoms and beautiful summer gardens, the park looks alive.

A quick stop at Gaylord Opryland Resort is a good addition to the trip. This is a small upscale indoor town. Literally!!! Plan to spend a cool winter day indoors. Entry is free. There is free parking available with in short walk. 

A big dome covers the tropical themed resort and offers guests with choice of dining, shopping and free entertainment.

A boat ride indoor is fun activity for both kids and adults. The sound of waterfalls and the sight of colorful fountains is appealing to spend a relaxing afternoon.