The Great Smoky Mountains have been enjoyed for decades as a place to relax and to admire the wonder of nature. In more recent years, Townsend, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg - the "Gateway to the Smokies" - have provided a great place for people from all walks of life to escape the hectic pace of everyday life for a while and rediscover peace and contentment. Since I've lived there my entire life (until the past year), I can say with authority that the area's reputation as a terrific vacation destination is well deserved. "What's so great about it?", you ask. Well, for starters, there are activities for just about every conceivable interest group. For the outdoorsy, active type there is hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. For families with children, there's Dollywood, putt-putt, go-karts, picnics in the Smokies, and countless other activities. For those looking for a romantic getaway, there are more wedding chapels, honeymoon cottages, and heart-shaped jacuzzis than you can keep up with. For anyone looking for nightlife, look no further than Gatlinburg. If you can't find something to do at night there, you may be comatose. For music lovers (especially country music lovers) there are plenty of music theaters - and new theaters are being built even as you read. And for shop-a-holics, spend some time at the outlet malls in Pigeon Forge. If we haven't listed anything you're interested in, it's merely an oversight. Call the Townsend, Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge Chamber of Commerce and they'll find plenty for you to do in the area.

If all else fails, spend some time in the Smokies learning what it's like to NOT be surrounded by millions of annoying people. And for more ideas on what to do, check out the links we've provided to some of the best places in the Smokies - from places to stay to places to eat even to places to get married. Enjoy your visit!

Check out Rod's Guide for more information on the Smoky Mountains.

Gina Flynn, Web Designer
274 Morning View Drive
Harvest, AL 35749
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gflynn@knology.net