Delauder’s BBQ has earned national recognition for its smoked meats — but when you’re staring at the menu trying to build the perfect combo platter, the choices can be overwhelming.

Pulled pork, pork belly, brisket, ribs, smoked chicken — which ones should you pick?

We ranked every smoked meat option to help you make the most important decision of your Smoky Mountain BBQ adventure.

DELAUDER’S…WE’VE GOT THE MEATS! →

Want to turn an already legendary drive into an unforgettable adventure? This Slingshot ride through the Tail of the Dragon lets you experience one of America’s most famous mountain roads in an open-air three-wheeled machine with 318 curves in just 11 miles. It’s one of the most thrilling ways to explore the Smokies.

If you’ve never tried one of these Slingshots, they are so much fun. This is an amazing way to experience the Smoky Mountains.

SEE DETAILS AND BOOK YOUR SLINGSHOT ADVENTURE →

There are great places to stay all around the Smoky Mountains, where you stay depends on what your interests 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.

This week marks the unofficial start of the Smoky Mountain “shoulder season.” Schools across the South begin spring break rotations, and that means crowds can change dramatically depending on the day. Early in the week, things often feel calm around Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, but by Thursday and Friday, you’ll start seeing more traffic roll into town as families arrive for long weekends.

Another little-known thing happening right now: wildlife activity is picking up across the national park. Bears are beginning to emerge from winter dens, and deer and turkeys are much more active in open valley areas like Cades Cove. Early mornings and sunset drives this week have been some of the best opportunities of the year to spot animals before peak tourist season arrives.

Late winter in the Smokies is a special time, as the landscape slowly transitions from frosty slumber to the vibrant greens of spring, offering unique outdoor experiences.

Don't let the fickle late-winter weather dictate your fun; the Smokies have plenty of fantastic indoor and weather-proof options to keep you entertained this week!

VIEW THE UPCOMING 2026 EVENTS →

If you’re planning to visit Dollywood this week, here’s a timing trick many experienced visitors use.

Most guests rush to the park right at opening, which means the first two hours often see the longest ride lines of the day. But during spring festivals like the I Will Always Love You Music Festival, crowds spread out later as people stop for shows, food stands, and live music.

🔥The insider move: arrive mid-afternoon instead of first thing in the morning.

You’ll often find shorter wait times and better availability for evening shows as families with small kids start leaving for dinner.

Another Tip: If you want photos around Dollywood without heavy crowds, visit during the last hour before closing. Many guests head out early, and the park can feel surprisingly relaxed.

Until next time,

Your Smoky Mountain Adventures Await