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| photo credit: Nrbelex via photopin cc |
Visitors to Gatlinburg should not leave without stopping by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is the most popular national park in the country. Visitors can enjoy scenic hikes that include glimpses of wildlife, majestic waterfalls, and incredible views. Whether driving or hiking, this park has so many different roads and vistas that the possibilities are endless. Animal lovers will revel in the fact that the park is home to deer and elk as well as over 1,500 bears. The Smokies are also home to over 200 species of birds, so make sure to bring binoculars. The park is also famous for its vast array of wildflowers, and has over 1,600 species. Those who yearn for a peaceful and relaxing Memorial Day weekend will find that the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an excellent choice. There is no entrance charge for the park, making it an extremely affordable activity that can last the entire day!
Food lovers will find that Gatlinburg has a plethora of restaurants and dining options. Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que has consistently been voted the best for consecutive years. This locally owned and operated establishment has been serving Gatlinburg for 20 years, and is known for its smoked ribs, chicken, pork and beef. Those seeking a steakhouse should check out Alamo Steakhouse, which was voted "Best Steaks" multiple times and earned a recommendation from the Washington Post. Perfect for family dining or a romantic night out, Alamo Steakhouse is open for both lunch and dinner. Gatlinburg even has an option for those who want a taste of Mexico in the Appalachians! No Way Jose's Cantina offers indoor and outdoor dining and extensive menu that includes delicious margaritas, daiquiris and tropical cocktails. Those who want to experience a Memorial Day fiesta should definitely check out No Way Jose's Cantina. To satisfy a sugar craving, visit Kilwin's, a "must visit" stop that serves fresh ice cream, chocolate, candies and their famous Mackinac Island Fudge.
In addition to great food, Gatlinburg is also home to some amazing attractions that are fun for the whole family. The Gatlinburg Space Needle gives visitors a 360 degree view of the city and the Great Smoky Mountains from 400 feet in the air. The Space Needle also offers laser tag, an arcade, a theater, a pizza restaurant and a gift shop. Travelers can also visit Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, which was voted the number one aquarium by Trip Advisor. The aquarium is home to over 10,000 exotic sea creatures and includes the Penguin Playhouse, Touch a Ray Bay, Shark Lagoon, Tropical Rainforest, Coral Reef, and much more. Families can also enjoy a day of horseback riding at Sugarlands Riding Stables, or a wild day of river rafting at Smoky Mountain Outdoors. Gatlinburg has endless possibilities for family fun on Memorial Day Weekend.
Those traveling without kids may want to check out some of Gatlinburg's live entertainment. The Iris Theater is home to a variety of acts, including Bill Gladwell "The Mentalist" and the Hypnotized Comedy Hypnosis Show with Guy Michaels. Gatlinburg also has tons of wineries, breweries and distilleries for those who want to party on Memorial Day Weekend. Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery allows visitors to truly experience moonshine culture. Guests can pick up their very own mason jar of Ole Smoky Moonshine in addition to learning about the history of moonshine with a backdrop of bluegrass music. Those who are seeking nightlife can also check out Loco Burro in downtown Gatlinburg, which has a rooftop patio and fire pit perfect for a romantic night in the Smokies. Downtown Gatlinburg is also home to Crawdaddy's, an establishment known for its karaoke and delicious crawfish. Those who really want to party and get down on their Memorial Day Weekend should definitely stop by Hogg's and Honey's, a lively hot spot where dancing is encouraged.
Its beautiful weather and scenic views of nature make Gatlinburg one of the top cities for outdoor activities. Visitors can fish in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park or in the Little Pigeon River. Avid cyclists will love exploring the miles of bike trails that Gatlinburg offers. Thrill seekers are able to fly through the air at 50 miles per hour via ziplining, which is offered at Ziplines Family Adventure. Those who want to camp during their Memorial Day Weekend can choose from three different campgrounds in Gatlinburg, or inside the national park for a closer-to-nature experience. Other fun outdoor activities available in Gatlinburg include river rafting, golf, hiking, horseback riding, and much more.
Travelers will definitely want to pick up some souvenirs during their Memorial Day Weekend in Gatlinburg. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Loop is home to a bounty of unique stores. This eight mile loop houses a community of artists and craftsmen larger than any other in the country. Visitors can purchase photography, ceramics, jewelry, stained glass, clothing, frameable art, candles, pottery, quilts, and much more. The Village is an adorable shopping center located just off Gatlinburg's main drag. Travelers can browse its 27 eateries, boutiques and galleries while enjoying its Old World atmosphere. From gourmet coffee shops to skin care stores to creameries, The Village should definitely be a stop on the Gatlinburg tour.
Its myriad of dining options, outdoor activities, shopping, and famous national park makes Gatlinburg, Tenneesee the ideal place to spend Memorial Day Weekend. Families can enjoy picnics in the scenic Smoky Mountains, and couples can spend a romantic evening in downtown Gatlinburg with its picturesque views. Whether you are looking for a wild weekend of drinking and dancing or a relaxing few days of communing with nature, Gatlinburg has it all.
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