Feature Story
A BRITISH PUB IN THE SMOKIES
Just minutes from the Gatlinburg strip, The Rampant Lion offers something completely different from the usual Smoky Mountain dining scene. This Celtic public house serves classic British dishes like fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd’s pie alongside Scottish ales and whiskey.
If you’re looking for a place that feels a little less touristy and a little more authentic, this hidden Gatlinburg pub is worth discovering.
Local Insights
WHAT NOT TO DO ON YOUR VISIT
7 GATLINBURG MISTAKES
An insider’s guide on what not to do when visiting Gatlinburg.
10 PIGEON FORGE TIPS
Make your visit to Pigeon Forge a trip to remember by following these tips.
DINNER SHOWS DO’S & DONT’S
Advice from a local on booking and attending dinner shows.
Sponsor Spotlight
PARTICLE FOR MEN
The Science-Backed Solution for Eyebags, Dark Spots & Wrinkles
Reduce eyebags, dark spots and wrinkles with the #1 selling anti-aging solution for men. Based on advanced clinical research, Particle Face Cream ensures you look and feel your best every day. Get 20% off now with the code BH20!
Smoky Mountain Lodging
LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO STAY
There are great places to stay all around the Smoky Mountains, where you stay depends on what you’re interest are and how much you’re willing to spend. Simply select the city you’re interested in, and you’ll get a map showing available accommodations.
News & Events
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE SMOKIES
⚠️ Insider Alert: Gatlinburg SkyPark’s Music on the Mountain
Beginning March 2nd and continuing through May.
Enjoy music above the city of Gatlinburg while taking in the fantastic views at Music on the Mountain. The lineup includes not only local talent but also artists who traveled from across the globe.
Featured artists on the schedule are Taylor Teasley and Tori Hughes out of Nashville, Shaun Abbott from Knoxville, Richard Bennett, and Fiddling Leona out of East Tennessee and Tokyo, Japan, Georgia Owen, Gavin Harper from Sevier County, and Ethan Morgan from Colorado. The setting is something you will not forget. From country to indie rock and bluegrass, there is something for everyone.
🌻 Seasonal Fun in the Mountains
Pre-spring in the Smokies is a special time, as the landscape slowly begins its transition
from frosty slumber to the vibrant greens of spring, offering unique outdoor experiences.
Escaping Winter: If you’re like me and winter feels chiefly like being grounded for three months, anticipation overflows. I watch the 10-day forecast for any sign that we have turned the corner. Sure, it is early, but hit some trails and look for the early wildflowers that manage to peek through.
Keep an eye out for wildlife. With less foliage, it can sometimes be easier to spot deer, turkeys, and even black bears (from a safe distance, of course!) foraging in the valleys as they begin to emerge more actively.
Unpredictable weather: March can still bring unpredictable weather, so check the forecast before heading out for a hike. Even at higher elevations, snow and ice can still be significant, making trails impassable or dangerous. Always be prepared for changing conditions, even if your plans are for lower altitudes.
🐦🔥 Guaranteed Good Times (Rain, Snow, or Shine)
Don't let the cooler weather dictate your fun; the Smokies have plenty of fantastic options where you can warm up and still be entertained!
Anakeesta opens for the season on March 9th. Importantly, guests must travel by the Ridge Rambler while the new Chondolas are being prepared. There will also be some areas temporarily under construction. Admission will be on a timed-entry basis, and you are strongly advised to purchase tickets in advance.
Arts and Crafts: Don’t miss the Great Smoky Easter Arts and Crafts Show at the Gatlinburg Convention Center (March 10-15). Items at this event are handcrafted and unique. Demonstrations are part of the event. Admission is free, but be prepared to purchase that special item! The houses are 10 am-5 pm.
Alcatraz East Museum is the best place to visit when it rains (or anytime for that matter). Through March, see the “Sticky Fingers, Heavy Consequences” exhibit. As you may guess, this temporary display features the consequences of shoplifting.
Hidden Gems
THE BEST OF THE SMOKIES
BEST GATLINBURG BITES
So, where do the locals like to eat in Gatlinburg? See for yourself.
ULTIMATE LUNCH PICKS
Something for everyone, from sandwiches to chicken & dumplings.
Sponsor Spotlight
DON’T MISS RIPLEY’S IN GATLINBURG
Ripley's has eight attractions packed into Gatlinburg, and they're some of the best ways to spend a day in the Smokies. Walk through an underwater shark tunnel at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, explore 500+ bizarre artifacts at the Believe It or Not! Odditorium, race down the mountain on the Ripley's Mountain Coaster, or brave the Haunted Adventure if you dare.
Their combo pass bundles multiple attractions together at a great price — perfect for families or anyone who wants to make a full day of it.
Insider Secrets & Tips + Discounts
THOUGHTS FROM THE SMOKIES
INSIDER SECRETS
Take advantage of the changing seasons
Embrace the "shoulder season" magic in the Great Smoky Mountains this spring by exploring the quieter, high-elevation trails like Andrews Bald, where the Fraser fir forest offers a moody, ethereal experience before the summer crowds arrive. To experience the park’s most unique, breathtaking, and often overlooked spring spectacle, hike the Alum Cave trail in early morning to see the morning sun illuminate the Laurel Falls area before the crowds arrive.
LOCAL TIPS
Beat the chill and enjoy some indoor fun! This week is perfect for exploring the many museums, aquariums, and dinner shows in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. You'll find plenty to do no matter the weather.
While the main road (US-441) through the national park is generally clear, some higher-elevation roads, like Newfound Gap Road or the Foothills Parkway, can still experience icy patches or temporary closures this time of year. Always check the National Park Service website for road conditions before heading out.
DISCOUNTS
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa: Stay near the heart of the action and save on hotels and special packages.
Ripley’s: Save up to $27 with the Ripley’s Gatlinburg Aquarium + 2 attractions combo!
Nantahala Outdoor Center: Pigeon River rafting in the Smokies
SkyLand Ranch: Experience mountain coasters, scenic views & live entertainment
Until next time,
Your Smoky Mountain Adventures Await
