Feature Story
I FINALLY FOUND MY FAVORITE BURGER IN THE SMOKIES
Letās settle this once and for allā¦
š Who has the best burger in the Smoky Mountains?
We ranked the top contenders ā from stacked BBQ monsters to classic diner favorites.
And somehowā¦
š A seafood spot took the #1 spot.
Not everyoneās going to agree with this list ā but these burgers are next-level.
Sponsor Spotlight
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Local Insights
A RICH HISTORY
REMEMBERING THE LOST ATTRACTIONS
Attractions can come and go in the blink of an eye. Explore some of the past attractions.
SPOTTING CELEBRITIES IN THE SMOKIES
Highlighting locations where you might see celebrities enjoying the Smoky Mountains.
FAMOUS MOVIES FILMED IN THE SMOKIES
The mountains have been home to a few forgettable movies and a handful of classics.
THE LAST FAMILY IN CADES COVE
Cades Cove is a national treasure with a rich history and a jewel of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Sponsor Spotlight
SAVE MONEY ON THE THINGS YOU BUY ONLINE - FOR FREE
We get asked all the time how to stretch a budget further without giving up the things you love. One of the easiest wins we've found isĀ Capital One ShoppingĀ ā a free browser extension that automatically finds and applies coupon codes at checkout, compares prices across retailers, and even sends youĀ exclusive email bonus offersĀ like "$25 back when you spend $75 at Ripleyās" or other brands you shop.
You don't have to do a thing. It runs quietly in the background and pops up the moment it finds a better deal for you. Over 30,000 stores are supported ā Amazon, Target, Walmart, and thousands more. It takes about 30 seconds to install and costs absolutely nothing.
(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 your interests are and how much youāre willing to spend. Simply select the city youāre interested in, and youāll get a map showing available accommodations.
News & Events
WHATāS HAPPENING IN THE SMOKIES
ā ļø Insider Alert: Three Bald Eagles Missing
Following recent storm damage, three bald eagles have escaped from Dollywoodās Eagle Mountain Sanctuary. Efforts are underway by the American Eagle Foundation and Dollywood staff to locate and protect these majestic birds. The sanctuary is the largest preserve of non-releasable bald eagles in the nation. See the latest.
š» SEASONAL FUN IN THE SMOKIES
Spring in the Smokies is a special time, as the landscape slowly transitions from frosty slumber to the vibrant greens, offering unique outdoor experiences.
Explore Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail: Now open for the season, this scenic motor trail offers spectacular views and access to historic sites. Perfect for a springtime drive or hike.
New Marker: A milestone marker has been placed at the highest peak in the park (Kuwohi Observation Tower) to celebrate the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.
š¦āš„ GUARANTEED GOOD TIMES (Rain or Shine)
Upcoming events you wonāt want to miss.
Firefly Viewing Event: Mark your calendars for May 20-27 for the National Parkās magical synchronous firefly viewing at Elkmont. A lottery system (starting April 24th) will be used for vehicle reservations to help manage crowds. This is a must-see natural spectacle unique to the Smokies!
Smoky Mountain Bigfoot Festival:Ā On May 2, 2026, in Townsend, TN, come celebrate Bigfootās ābirthdayā with live music, vendors, a 5K run, and family-friendly fun.
Hidden Gems
BATTLING IT OUT
š„© BATTLE OF GATLINBURGāS STEAKHOUSES
See which restaurant wins for flavor, atmosphere, and value.
š PAULA DEENāS vs MAMAāS FARMHOUSE
Two Southern staples go head-to-head for the best comfort food.
š BLUE MOOSE CHALLENGES CALHOUNāS
Blue Moose, a new up-and-comer, takes on Calhounās - see who claims the crown.
š³ A TRIPLE THREAT WITHIN WALKING DISTANCE
We compare The Cottage, Local Goat, and Puckettās to see where your dining dollars should go.
Insider Secrets & Tips + Discounts
THOUGHTS FROM THE SMOKIES
BEAR ENCOUNTERS AND SAFETY
Increased bear activity has led to temporary closures of several trails and backcountry areas, including the Ramsey Cascades Trail. Visitors are reminded to carry bear spray, keep a safe distance, and never feed wildlife.
LOCAL TIPS
Parking Passes: Parking passes are required in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for vehicles parking longer than a few hours. Plan accordingly to avoid fines.
Hiking in GSMNP:Ā Enjoy hiking and nature walks in GSMNP, but be sure to check trail conditions and bear activity updates before heading out.
DISCOUNTS
Dollywoodās DreamMore Resort & Spa: Stay near the heart of the action and save on Hotels and Special Packages.
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster: Zip through Tennesseeās Great Smoky Mountains on a mountain coaster.
Ripleyās: Save up to $27 with the Ripleyās 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
