Feature Story
ONE IS BETTER…BUT IT’S CLOSE
Two of the most talked-about restaurants in Sevierville are just minutes apart…
Chubby's Restaurant vs Delauder's BBQ
One is a jack-of-all-trades local favorite.
The other is a nationally recognized BBQ powerhouse.
So which one should YOU choose?
Partnerships
RETIRE SMARTER: THE 2026 SOCIAL SECURITY QUICK GUIDE
Most Americans leave thousands of dollars in Social Security benefits unclaimed simply because they didn’t know the rules. The Social Security Quick Guide 2026 gives you the exact numbers, charts, and strategies you need to make the smartest financial decision regarding your Social Security benefits.
Smoky Mountain Lodging
SPRING AND SUMMER CABIN ESCAPES
Ready for fresh mountain air and long summer nights? Discover top-rated cabins, featuring bubbling hot tubs, stunning views, and everything you need for the ultimate warm-weather retreat.
Sip your morning coffee while taking in sweeping, unobstructed vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains right from your private deck.
Melt away your stress after a long day of exploring in these highly reviewed cabins featuring premium, bubbling outdoor hot tubs.
Treat your family to the perfect vacation in a fully loaded cabin that combines breathtaking views, endless game-room fun, and relaxing hot-tub soaks in one cozy setting.
Escape the everyday hustle and reconnect with nature in these warm, inviting, and perfectly sized cabins designed for a peaceful getaway.
Adventure in the Smokies
DRIVE THE TAIL OF THE DRAGON IN AN OPEN-AIR SLINGSHOT
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.
Local Insights
WHAT NOT TO DO ON YOUR VISIT
AVOID THESE PIGEON FORGE STRIP MISTAKES
The Parkway is packed with attractions, restaurants, and traffic—and knowing what not to do can save you a lot of time and frustration.
DON’T DO THIS ON THE DRAGON
The Tail of the Dragon is one of the most famous drives in America—but plenty of visitors make mistakes that can ruin the experience.
THE WEARS VALLEY MISTAKES VISITORS MAKE
Wears Valley is known as the quieter side of the Smokies, but visitors still make a few common mistakes that locals try to avoid.
WHY SOME PEOPLE SKIP THE SMOKIES
Millions of people love the Smokies every year—but there are a few honest reasons the region might not be the right trip for everyone.
News & Events
WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE SMOKIES
⚠️ Insider Alert: Popular Hiking Spot Reopens for Spring
Kuwahi Road, featuring the trail to the highest peak in the Smokies, is now open for spring. Visitors can expect increased crowds as the season warms up.
🌻 Seasonal Fun in the Mountains
Spring in the Smokies is a special time, as the landscape slowly transitions from frosty slumber to the vibrant greens, offering unique outdoor experiences.
Free BBQ Meals at Ober Mountain: Ober Mountain in Gatlinburg is offering free BBQ meals with admission or a tram ride, adding a tasty incentive to visit this beloved mountain attraction.
Firefly Phenomenon: The park is lighting up with the synchronous fireflies at Elkmont — a magical springtime event worth witnessing.
🐦🔥 Guaranteed Good Times
Don't let the weather dictate your fun; the Smokies have plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to keep you entertained throughout your visit!
Dollywood Coaster Explorers Tour: Enjoy a unique Dollywood experience that includes a 3-hour guided tour with front-of-the-line access to Dollywood’s top roller coasters.
Indoor attractions and dining at The Island in Pigeon Forge - especially nice in the early evening when the lights come on.
The Pirates Voyage is back for another season — bigger, louder, and more over-the-top than ever.
Adventure in the Smokies
ONE OF THE NEWEST ATTRACTIONS IN THE SMOKIES
If you’ve already done the shows, the rides, and the usual stops, this off-the-beaten-path Sevierville experience might be exactly what you’re looking for. From scenic chairlift rides to a thrilling mountain coaster, SkyLand Ranch is quickly becoming a must-do stop in Sevierville for families and adventure seekers alike.
Hidden Gems
DINING DO’S AND DON’TS
DON’T MESS THIS UP AT THE PEDDLER
The Peddler is one of Gatlinburg’s most beloved restaurants—but a few common mistakes can seriously affect your experience.
AVOID THE BIGGEST PANCAKE PANTRY HEADACHES
The Pancake Pantry is a Gatlinburg institution, but a few simple mistakes can turn a great breakfast into a frustrating wait.
IS MAMA’S FARMHOUSE WORTH IT?
This popular Pigeon Forge restaurant promises big portions and family-style comfort food—but does it actually live up to the hype?
BEST (AND WORST) PIGEON FORGE MEALS
After years of eating my way through Pigeon Forge, a few meals stand out—for both very good and very bad reasons.
Insider Secrets & Tips + Discounts
THOUGHTS FROM THE SMOKIES
INSIDER NEWS & SECRETS
National Park Attendance
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park continues to be the most visited national park in the country, and it’s not even close. In 2025, the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee and North Carolina saw over 11.5 million visitors.
The next-closest park was Zion National Park in Utah, with ~4.9 million visitors.
LOCAL TIPS
Visitor Safety: March had a surge in emergency incidents, including backcountry rescues. Visitors are urged to plan carefully, carry necessary gear, and stay within their limits while hiking. Note: Cell phone coverage is limited in backcountry areas.
Transportation Tip: Use the Pigeon Forge trolley system for easy, stress-free travel around town.
DISCOUNTS
Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa: Stay near the heart of the action and save on hotels and special packages.
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster: Zip through Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains on a mountain coaster.
Ripley’s: Save up to $27 with the Ripley’s Gatlinburg Aquarium + 2 attractions combo!
Ober Mountain: Save on the Aerial Tram ride and combo packages
SkyLand Ranch: Experience mountain coasters, scenic views & live entertainment
Until next time,
Your Smoky Mountain Adventures Await
