THE SMOKIES
Welcome to the first edition of the new Smoky Mountain Insider!
You might notice things look a little different. We’ve been hard at work behind the scenes to create a more curated, valuable, and beautiful newsletter experience for you.
While our look has changed, our mission remains the same: to help you discover the real Smokies. Each edition will now bring you a more focused blend of stories, insider knowledge, and practical advice for your next adventure.
Thank you for being part of our journey!
THE SMOKIES TEAM
Feature Story
BRICK OVEN TAP HOUSE
From crispy calamari to brick-oven pizza in the heart of downtown Hendersonville, this spot has a lot going for it.
A wood-fired oven, mountain charm, and a family favorite we’ve loved for nearly 20 years — but is Mezzaluna really worth the stop?
Local Insights
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
BILTMORE ESTATE
A look at the elegant Biltmore Estate after 130 years of existence.
Sponsor Spotlight
FUND YOUR NEXT TRIP TO THE SMOKIES
We’re often asked how we manage to travel so frequently and explore all the hidden corners of the US. One of our favorite travel tools is the Capital One Venture Card.
It’s simple: every dollar we spend earns unlimited 2x miles that we can redeem for any travel expense — from cabin rentals in Wears Valley to flights into Knoxville. It’s the card we use daily to turn our regular spending into future travel adventures.
If you’re planning your next trip, consider signing up. You can earn a 75,000-mile bonus (equal to $750 in travel) after meeting the initial spending goal. Plus a one-time $250 travel credit in the first year.
(Heads up: This is our personal referral link. If you sign up, we may receive a bonus, which helps us keep Smoky Mountain Insider running at no extra cost to you. This is a product we personally use and trust!)
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
⚠️ Avoid a Wasted Trip to Cades Cove
Planning a trip to Cades Cove this week? Hit the brakes! The National Park Service has closed the entire Cades Cove Loop Road to all visitors, starting this past Sunday and running through noon on Friday, February 13th, for hazardous tree removal. It will close again from Feb 23-27.
Don’t let it ruin your trip! While the crowds are scrambling to find alternatives, here’s your insider move: head to the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail instead. It’s less crowded, offers stunning winter views, and you can still explore historic cabins and beautiful waterfalls. It’s the perfect way to get that classic Smokies experience while everyone else is just figuring out the main loop is closed. Stay ahead of the curve!
Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights: Pigeon Forge & Sevierville remain lit for a little while longer with 5 million holiday lights.
Love Is In The Air at SkyPark: Starting February 7th, Gatlinburg SkyPark features a “Tunnel of Love” on the SkyBridge, decorated with red and white lights.
Tennessee Songwriters Week: On February 23, 2026, the Hard Rock Cafe in Pigeon Forge hosts a showcase, highlighting local musical talent.
Trolls in the Smokies: There are only a few days left to visit these unique creations in Asheville, NC.
Hidden Gems
WORTH THE DETOUR
ENJOY THE VIBE
A comfortable place to dine outside the hustle of Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge.
Insider Secrets & Tips + Discounts
THOUGHTS FROM THE SMOKIES
“When I come here, it’s a feeling like nothing else. It has grown, as all things must. But the Smokies will never lose their charm and their magic."
INSIDER SECRETS
The 100-Year-Old Market Hiding in Plain Sight
After you’ve enjoyed that delicious brick-oven pizza at Mezzaluna in Hendersonville, you’ll be just steps away from a true local treasure that most tourists miss. Instead of heading back to the main drag, take a short walk over to Church Street and find the Henderson County Curb Market.
For a century, this has been the go-to spot where local artisans and farmers sell their goods directly to the community. You won’t find typical tourist souvenirs here. Instead, you’ll discover handmade mountain crafts, fresh-baked goods, and unique preserves you can’t get anywhere else. It’s the most authentic shopping experience in town and the perfect place to find a meaningful memento from your trip.
LOCAL TIPS
Skip chain restaurants, you can find at home - try unique local spots instead
The Gatlinburg Space Needle offers panoramic views of the town and mountains
Dinner shows like Dolly Parton's Stampede fill up fast - book in advance
DISCOUNTS
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
