Gatlinburg is definitely one of my favorite family vacation spots. Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, which happens to be the most visited National Park in the United States, Gatlinburg is a perfect setting for a family adventure.
In the middle of town you will find plenty to do. From shopping in the numerous souvenir and antique shops, to miniature golf and laser tag, your family will never get bored. I have been to Gatlinburg many times and still have not done it all. By the way, did I mention the restaurants?! Get ready for some good eats & sweet treats at just about any chain restaurant you can imagine and too many pancake houses to count. If you enjoy skiing, visit Ober Gatlinburg ski resort. Those who don't ski can still take a Sky Lift up the mountain for a terrific view.
When you get ready to get out of the high traffic and rat race you can head off into the mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is filled with nature's wonders and some great hiking trails to view them. You can take the family on trails that lead right up to breath taking waterfalls and hidden creeks. Cades Cove is a great historical village not far from Gatlinburg. Drive along the loop and you are guaranteed to see plenty of wildlife such as deer, foxes, turkeys, and you might be lucky enough to see a black bear. You can go into old cabins and churches, visit the historical grave yards, even visit an old mill that still works. My family loves to have a picnic lunch next to the creek. Bring some extra spending money for the gift shop. You may also want to camp over night or view the trails from horseback.
A trip to Gatlinburg would not be complete without going in to nearby Pigeon Forge. Famous for being home to country music legend Dolly Parton's theme parks, Dollywood & Splash Country, Pigeon Forge has much to offer - Amusement Parks, Outlet Malls, Theatres galore!
Many of the attractions in the area are seasonal, so be sure to plan ahead before heading out to Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge. You can find great deals on hotel rooms if you look around. Also, stop by the Visitor Centers. They often offer free nights or even free weekends at their cabins just for listening to a timeshare sales pitch. It can be well worth it!
Visit my website for more great family vacation destinations!
http://www.familyvacation.familystraighttalk.org
Mahmud Yusoff, who grew up in Kg Tanjung Tokong in Penang, shares with us his thoughts on the uncertain future facing the villagers:
I was born and grew up in the kampung until Form Five and later left for further studies and work in KL; so my heart is never far from developments in the kampung
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