Free Things To Do in the Smokies for the Budget-Minded Traveler – Part 3
Franklin & Highlands Edition This is part three of a five part series that will help stretch those vacation dollars a little further by exploring free things to do in the Smokies of North Carolina. Part one – Waynesville, Maggie Valley, and Sylva Edition Part two – Bryson City Edition With both indoor and outdoor […]
A Great Smoky Mountain Weekend Warrior Itinerary
A full weekend in the Great Smoky Mountains? Are you kidding? If you find yourself in this lucky predicament, then this weekend itinerary will help you make the most of your brief visit. The phrase “Weekend Warrior” will take on a whole new meaning while you experience some of the most iconic treats these mountains […]
Smoky Mountains Spring Break
Have you been to the Great Smoky Mountains in the springtime yet? Well, what are you waiting for? The weather is lovely and unpredictable – sometimes there’s even a bit of all 4 seasons in one day, no joke. The trees are greening, the wildflowers are blooming, the days are longer and sweeter. And there […]
Springtime Festivals in the Great Smoky Mountains
Oh, spring! Who doesn’t love the new flowers blooming and the trees budding back into a season of pure lushness? After the long winter, who doesn’t crave temperatures that feel almost too pleasant to be true? If spring in general doesn’t get your motor revving, plan a visit to the Smokies and you are sure […]
Rainy Day Adventures in the NC Smokies
The NC Great Smoky Mountains get just the right amount of rain to cultivate their abundant lushness, but no one wants downpours on their vacation. Here are our favorite rainy day adventures to help chase away the rainy-day blues. Stay Warm and Dry Inside Harrah’s Cherokee Casinos Harrah’s Cherokee Casino and Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River […]
Free Things To Do in the Smokies for the Budget-Minded Traveler – Part 2
Bryson City Edition This is part two of a five part series that will help stretch those vacation dollars a little further by exploring free things to do in the Smokies of North Carolina. Part one can be found here. Going on vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are our top picks for […]
Museum of the Cherokee People – A New Vision
Cherokee is known for many things – its many lakes, rivers, streams, fishing and beautiful mountains, and in more recent years, its casino. It’s also home of the Museum of the Cherokee People, formerly known as The Museum of the Cherokee Indian until a recent rebranding to align more authentically with the Cherokee, as people. […]
Winter Train Excursions in the Smoky Mountains
The Great Smoky Mountain Railroad has extended its operating season into the winter. These train trips allow you to experience the beauty of the winter season in the Smoky Mountains. You’ll be able to see unobstructed mountain views from their cozy and festive train cars. An Incredible Experience – No Matter the Season Whichever time […]
Free Things To Do in the Smokies for the Budget-Minded Traveler – Part 1
Waynesville, Maggie Valley, and Sylva Edition This is part one of a five part series that will help stretch those vacation dollars a little further by exploring free things to do in the Smokies of North Carolina. Going on vacation doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are our top picks for exploring the NC […]
Rolling The Dice In A Smoky Mountain Paradise
Explore not just one casino, but two, here in these Great Smoky Mountains of Western North Carolina.
How To Help Protect the Smokies
There are seven principles of Leave No Trace which help ensure the care and safety of the natural resources, the wildlife and our fellow visitors.
We’re On The Road To Nowhere
Discover the fascinating “Road to Nowhere,” officially known as Lakeview Drive East.
New to You – Antiquing in the Smokies
When it comes to antiquing in the Smokies, your experiences can range from curated show rooms to flea markets to giant warehouses that require treasure hunting through mountains of uncatalogued items. The quaint town of Waynesville is home to several antique shops worth visiting. One of our favorites is Spenceberry Antiques. They offer a wide […]
Celebrate Smoky Mountain Holiday Traditions
Not much beats the the Smoky Mountain holiday season! Enjoy a cozy and festive holiday escape with plenty of gorgeous winter-time mountain views to go around in addition to the small town feel of holiday spirit. Wander among dazzling light displays, ride the Polar Express, enjoy a parade on main street, and support local small […]
Exploring 4 of Our Favorite Lakes In the NC Smoky Mountains
Explore the lakes in the NC Smoky Mountains region for a serene and beautiful experience. Take part in water sports, hiking, or simply relax by the water. These lakes have something for everyone, and each has its unique charm and recreational activities, making them fantastic destinations for anyone looking to explore the natural beauty of […]
Best Breakfast Spots in the Smoky Mountains
There is no one definition of breakfast in the NC Smoky Mountains. For some, it’s an old-fashioned breakfast feast piled high with country goodness at a no-frills diner, for others it’s the bite of an inky espresso accompanied by a flaky pastry, and for others, it’s breakfast elevated to the status of fine dining. Here […]
Living Large with Tiny Life Homes
The mountain town of Franklin, NC lies in the heart of the Nantahala National Forest at the outermost edges of Western North Carolina. Known for extraordinary outdoor adventures, beautiful scenery, and an easy way of life, it has become a popular destination for those seeking a simpler existence. It was with that mindset that Tiny […]
Where to Find Beautiful Fall Color in the Smoky Mountains – The Final Week
This coming week, outside is where it’s at! Outside all day, if you can work that out. Soaking in these last warm fall days while the final leaves of the season change their hues and fall away is an excellent way to spend time here in the NC Smokies. You’ll still find leaves in transition, including the […]
Disruption: The Museum of the Cherokee Indian Exhibit
The Museum of the Cherokee Indian is a leader in the museum Disruption movement, aiming to return art and cultural artifacts to its rightful place and people of origin. The Disruption exhibit features the contemporary work of tribal artists. These pieces replace the culturally sensitive and funerary objects previously on display. Some of the removed […]
Heads Up: New Parking Fee at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A new “Park It Forward” program has been implemented for visitors wishing to park within the Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP). As of March 1, 2023, parking tags are being sold for $5 per day, $15 per week, or $40 per year per car. Passes are for sale online at Recreation.gov or Smokiesinformation.org for […]