Vacations And Mountains Are A Great Combination!

Let’s take a trip to the Mountains!

Did you know that taking a vacation is actually good for your health? So many people I know forgo vacation time. The excuses are many… from “I will get too far behind in work if I take a vacation” to “I can’t afford to take a vacation”. I think that the question really is “Can you afford to not take a vacation?”.

Stress, work and every day tasks take a toll on your body. We need to remember that getting away from these stressors is very important. Studies have been conducted and show that vacations really “do a body good”. I know that just breathing in that mountain air really helped me to relax. I could physically feel the tensions slip away.

Now, I know what you are thinking… vacations cost money. You are right. But, a vacation does not have to be expensive. There are so many ways to save money on your travel plans.

For example, I took my family of four on a vacation to Gatlinburg, Tennessee during Christmas. My expenses were under $1000 including meals and excursions! You just have to know the right places to look to get deals. I take advantage of loyalty programs that some of my credit cards offer as well as using online travel bookings. Sometimes you just have to get creative to get the best deals.

Nestled amidst the majestic Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, rich history, and delightful attractions. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, a shopaholic, or a food lover, Gatlinburg has something to offer for everyone. In this comprehensive vacation guide, we will delve into the enchanting experiences and attractions that make Gatlinburg an unforgettable vacation destination. From exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to indulging in local cuisine and immersing yourself in the vibrant downtown scene, get ready for an adventure-filled journey through Gatlinburg, Tennessee.

There are so many fun things to do in Gatlinburg. You can take the skylift to go skiing and ice skating on Ober Mountain and enjoy some mountain roller coasters as well. Just recently, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the US was opened. They have Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies and a lot of fun eateries! Here are some of the fun things we did!

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I will give you brief run down of each.

Aerial Tramway and Ober Mountain

Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and one of the best ways to soak in the stunning vistas is by embarking on an aerial tramway ride and exploring Ober Mountain. These iconic attractions offer visitors an exhilarating and unique perspective of the Great Smoky Mountains, combined with thrilling activities for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Here, we’ll delve into the exciting experiences awaiting you on the aerial tramway and at Ober Mountain.

The Aerial Tramway is a ride to remember. The Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway, also known as the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway, is a must-visit attraction that provides panoramic views and an unforgettable journey. Here’s what you can expect from this high-flying adventure:

Scenic Views: The aerial tramway offers breathtaking views as it glides over the treetops and ascends towards the summit of Mount Harrison. Be prepared to be awe-inspired as you witness the stunning beauty of the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the charming town of Gatlinburg.
Comfortable Ride: Step aboard the spacious tram car, which accommodates up to 120 passengers, and enjoy a smooth and comfortable ride. The fully enclosed cabins provide both safety and a climate-controlled environment, ensuring a pleasant experience regardless of the weather.
Informative Commentary: Throughout the ascent, listen to the informative and engaging commentary that highlights interesting facts about the area’s geography, wildlife, and history. Gain a deeper understanding of the Great Smoky Mountains and its significance.
Photo Opportunities: Don’t forget to bring your camera! The aerial tramway presents numerous photo opportunities to capture the breathtaking scenery and create lasting memories. Be sure to snap shots of the panoramic views and the picturesque town of Gatlinburg as you ascend to Ober Mountain.

At Ober Mountain you will find adventure and excitement. Once you reach the summit of Mount Harrison via the aerial tramway, you’ll discover an outdoor adventure paradise at Ober Mountain. Here are the thrilling experiences that await:

Skiing and Snowboarding: During the winter months, Ober Mountain transforms into a winter wonderland, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, the slopes cater to your needs. Take ski or snowboarding lessons, rent equipment, and carve your way down the powdery slopes.
Snow Tubing: If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your cup of tea, don’t worry! Ober Mountain is also home to a thrilling snow tubing park. Hop onto an inflatable tube and slide down the specially designed lanes. It’s a fun-filled activity suitable for the whole family, and no experience is necessary.
Ice Skating: Lace up your skates and glide across the ice at Ober Mountain’s ice skating rink. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or a novice, this classic winter activity promises hours of enjoyment. Rent skates on-site and create wonderful memories as you twirl on the ice.
Wildlife Encounter: At the Wildlife Encounter, you can get up close and personal with native animals of the Great Smoky Mountains. Learn about their habitats, behaviors, and conservation efforts through educational exhibits and live presentations. This is a great opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts and families with children to appreciate and understand the local fauna.
Scenic Chairlift: For a leisurely and picturesque experience, take a ride on the scenic chairlift at Ober Mountain. This open-air chairlift offers a peaceful journey as it carries you across the mountainside. Relax and absorb the stunning views while gently gliding through the fresh mountain air.

Ripley’s Aquarium

The Aquarium is big enough to fill your morning or afternoon. We initially purchased the glass bottom boat ride but once we saw what it was, we decided not to do it. It is your call. If you have younger kids, they may enjoy it. My kids are teenagers and not interested in that at all. We enjoyed walking around and taking some pictures and learning about the different species they house. It was also a welcome relief from some of the cold rain that was falling that day.

Ocean Realm: Explore the Ocean Realm exhibit, where you’ll encounter a mesmerizing array of sea creatures, including sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and colorful tropical fish. Walk through the underwater tunnel and feel like you’re submerged in the ocean as these majestic creatures swim overhead.
Coral Reef: Witness the vibrant beauty of a coral reef ecosystem. Marvel at the stunning colors and intricate patterns of the coral formations, and discover the diverse species that call this underwater habitat home.
Amazon Rainforest: Journey into the Amazon Rainforest exhibit, where you’ll come face to face with fascinating creatures such as piranhas, giant arapaima, and the elusive red-bellied piranha. Experience the sights and sounds of this lush and biodiverse ecosystem.
Penguin Playhouse: Get ready for some adorable encounters with playful penguins. Watch as these charismatic creatures swim, waddle, and interact in their specially designed habitat. Learn about their behaviors, natural habitats, and conservation efforts.

Ripley’s Aquarium offers more than just passive observation. It provides interactive exhibits and educational programs that allow visitors to learn and engage with marine life in a hands-on manner. Here’s what you can expect:

Touch-A-Ray Bay: Get up close and personal with gentle stingrays and experience the unique sensation of touching their velvety wings. Learn about these fascinating creatures and their role in the ocean ecosystem.
Penguin Painting Experience: Unleash your creativity and join the penguins in an artistic endeavor. Participate in the Penguin Painting Experience, where you’ll assist the penguins in creating one-of-a-kind masterpieces using nontoxic paints. It’s a fun and educational activity suitable for all ages.
Dive Shows and Feeding Demonstrations: Witness captivating dive shows and feeding demonstrations led by the knowledgeable aquarium staff. Learn about the feeding habits, behaviors, and conservation status of various marine species as you observe them in action.
Sleepovers and Behind-the-Scenes Tours: For a truly unique experience, consider participating in a sleepover at the aquarium. Spend the night surrounded by fascinating marine life, engage in special activities, and enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour to learn more about the inner workings of the aquarium.

Ripley’s Aquarium is committed to marine conservation and research initiatives. The facility actively participates in efforts to protect and preserve marine ecosystems and species. Through partnerships with organizations dedicated to marine conservation, the aquarium contributes to research, rehabilitation, and breeding programs aimed at safeguarding vulnerable marine populations.

Eateries

This goes without saying. The two places that stood out the most to me, was Dick’s Last Resort and Log Cabin Pancake House. We went to Dick’s Last Resort for dinner with a group of friends. Let me tell you, I don’t think I have laughed so much at dinner ever in my life… ever. I won’t tell you what made us laugh so much. It is something you need to go and experience for yourself. If you go, let me know in the comments and what you thought of it.

The Log Cabin Pancake House is amazing! By far one of the best breakfast restaurants you will go to. The ambiance of the building itself was captivating. And the food… you won’t leave hungry! We had to wait about 45 minutes to get a table, but it was worth the wait.

Other than these two standouts – there are several other places worth mentioning.

You must indulge in the flavors of Southern comfort and local cuisine. Here are a few eateries that will take your taste buds on a delicious journey:

The Peddler Steakhouse: Nestled along the Little Pigeon River, The Peddler Steakhouse is a Gatlinburg institution known for its mouthwatering steaks. Choose your cut of meat from a selection of prime beef and watch as it’s grilled to perfection at your table. With its rustic charm and scenic views, this restaurant provides an unforgettable dining experience.
The Wild Plum Tea Room: For a delightful lunch or afternoon tea, visit The Wild Plum Tea Room. Located in a charming cottage, this eatery offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with delicious sandwiches, homemade soups, and freshly baked scones. Enjoy a pot of tea and savor the flavors while surrounded by the quaint ambiance.
The Park Grill: Situated just steps away from the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Park Grill specializes in Southern cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. From succulent barbecue ribs to fried green tomatoes, this restaurant captures the essence of the region’s culinary heritage.

Gatlinburg’s culinary scene extends beyond Southern fare, offering a variety of international cuisines to tantalize your taste buds. Here are a few notable establishments:

Best Italian Café & Pizzeria: If you’re craving authentic Italian flavors, head to the Best Italian Café & Pizzeria. Indulge in handcrafted pizzas, savory pasta dishes, and flavorful seafood specialties. With its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, this eatery brings a taste of Italy to the heart of Gatlinburg.
Cherokee Grill: Combining rustic elegance with international flavors, Cherokee Grill is a popular choice for those seeking a memorable dining experience. From grilled salmon to tender filet mignon, their menu offers a diverse range of dishes influenced by both American and international cuisine. Don’t forget to try their signature cocktails and delectable desserts.
Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina: Craving Mexican flavors? Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina is the place to be. This vibrant eatery serves up a wide selection of Tex-Mex favorites, including sizzling fajitas, flavorful tacos, and refreshing margaritas. Enjoy your meal on their rooftop patio, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

These were just a few of the highlights. There are a lot of fun things to do in this little mountain town. More than meets the eye!

We went during the Christmas season. There is just something magical about a vacation plus a holiday. And the added bonus of the snowfall that happened while we were there was icing on the cake!

There is one thing I don’t think I would recommend. We drove to Gatlinburg. We had a couple of options on the way to go – up the Blue Ridge Mountains (the shorter way in miles) or the main highway. Well, since we had never driven the mountain route before, we figured… Why not? I can tell you this – one time of this drive was enough for me!

It is a beautiful drive but looking out the window and seeing a steep drop that is only stopped, if you go off the road, by a few trees was a bit unnerving. If you are into that kind of adventure – by all means take that route. For me, I will take the “long way ’round”.

Anyway, back to deals. There are many ways to find deals and affordable options because who wants to add to their stress from a financial perspective? I enjoy my vacations.

If you are like me, your vacation will involve a lot of physical movement and exercise — something I try to keep up with whether I am at home on a regular schedule or on vacation. Keeping physically active on a vacation can increase its benefits for your body and brain. Cardio exercise has been shown to improve your mood, reduce risk of heart disease, and combat stress.

I truly believe that is one of the reasons that I have maintained my “youthfulness”. So many people say you slow down as you age. I think that you only slow down as you age if you believe the myths that you have to slow down.

There is no time like the present to get a vacation in… no matter how long or how short!