Primary roads such as US-441 (Newfound Gap Road), Little River Road, and the Cades Cove Loop Road are open year round, weather permitting. Are masks required in the National Park? Hiking Trails Around Gatlinburg, TN | Smoky Mountains Unfortunately, the answer isnt so clear-cut. Spring:An abundance of blooms in the Smokies, where there are more than 1,500 varieties of flowering plants, makes the national park a colorful marvel (check out Gatlinburgs Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in April for proof). The Forney Ridge Trailhead can be found here. If you are visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, plan ahead and drive carefully. Be patient, stay attentive, and if you need to pull over due to weather or other circumstances, then pull over. When youre in town, these tips will help you avoid tourist traps and focus on the best attractions. #9 inBest Weekend Getaways in New England. I feel safe there with my husband. A good 20 second scrub with soap and water goes a long way to stop the spread of germs and COVID-19. Fall:Its all about those mind-blowing changing leaves. The health and safety of our visitors and employees remains a top priority when welcoming guests back to our area. Backcountry (backpacking) campsites are open year-round. Our cabins, campgrounds, condos, restaurants, attractions, stores and other establishments are working hard to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for our guests under the Tennessee Pledgeguidelines. The two peak seasons in Gatlinburg are summer (June, July and August) and the month of October, when the . Why You Should Go It's easily one of America's largest tramways. Road closures may occur due to severe weather events such as winter storms, floods, and tornados. To get a taste of local Gatlinburg culture, skip the kitschy souvenir shops and visit one of several local galleries, including the Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Community, to watch local artists and craftsmen create everything from paintings and pottery to handmade brooms and jewelry. They have far more potentials for those encounters than not to be honest. Yes, Gatlinburg is safe to walk. We are not endorsed by, authorized by, or affiliated with any mentioned attractions. Secondary roadsare subject toseasonal closures. Yes. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html, https://covid19.tn.gov/covid-19-vaccines/availability/. When analyzing violent crime, property crime, and other crime in Gatlinburg, Crime Grade categorized Gatlinburg as having an overall level D crime grade. Do Not Forget to Pack Water When You Hike. Even when I know I shouldnt, I bristle at being told what to do. So theres a greater chance of getting lost or getting into a road accident. The mountains are calling, and we are here to help you answer, safely. For instance, I wouldnt hesitate to give them the freedom to explore The Island in Pigeon Forge or one of the outlet malls or even some of the larger strip malls or areas. If you are staying in a cabin that might not be overly secure, take electronics and valuables with you during the day or lock them in your suitcase. Do Businesses require face coverings? Secondary roads are subject to seasonal closures. A note on navigation: In the national park and the surrounding areas outside of the two towns, cell service all but disappears, and navigation (and changes of plans) can be tricky! Know the status of the park's roads, facilities, and trails before you go. No. Most commonly, folks might get into trouble if they do not properly prepare. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue then throw the tissue in the trash. Keep in mind, the road may close for safety in the case of black ice or excessive snow. For more tips on what to do if you encounter a bear, visit the National Park Service website. Appointments are encouraged but not required. In Gatlinburg, the compact downtown thrums with strolling shoppers, and its alpine branding has gone uphill literally to outdoor amusement zones, such as Anakeesta and SkyLift Park, overlooking the town. You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked. Put simply, 80% of cities in the U.S. are safer than Gatlinburg. 2023 Visit My Smokies, The ONLY site you need to plan your Smoky Mountain vacation, is a website owned and operated by Sevier County, Tennessee. Just crowded. Expect the best but prepare for the worst. The aquarium and museums are also worthwhile, and some visitors enjoy the saltwater taffy. What is the Greatest Danger in Gatlinburg? How does Gatlinburg Compare with Nearby Cities? Crime Grade lists the most common forms of crime in Gatlinburg as theft, vehicle theft, burglary, assault, vandalism, and drug crimesall dangers created by other people. My family loves Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, as a rule we always do everything as a family except when we stay at The Island, there they are allowed to go and come as they please but with a curfew and their cell phones in their pocket to check in with us. I love the place. AtDollywood, of course, where you can pay homage to an American treasure and her vision for family-style entertainment. However, its on par with the Tennessee average. Welcome to Gatlinburg, TN Id been walking several blocks by myself as a kindergartner. The city of Gatlinburg is easily walkable and the inexpensive trolley that operates 365 days a year offers service to nearby attractions. In the next 24 hours, you will receive an email to confirm your subscription to receive emails After years of crafting their wares in downtown streets 811 East Parkway, P.O. Pigeon Forge boasts its own system of forest-green trolleys, with five routes that connect the towns North and South Parkways, Dollywood, the Gatlinburg Welcome Center and Wears Valley Road (all routes begin and end at the trolley station on Old Mill Drive in the Old Mill District). All Rights Reserved. You wont leave empty-handed nor should you. Heavily trafficked overlooks, trails, or inside historical homes located throughout the park are examples of this. Statistically speaking, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the third-most dangerous national park in the country. The greatest danger in Gatlinburg, as with anywhere else you travel, is other people. Be warned: It books up far in advance, so reserve early. I tell them to stay away from the water without supervision. The best time to visit Gatlinburg is between September and October. That, coupled with moderate temperatures, offseason rates and few crowds, make September a great month to visit. The National Park does not require masks when social distancing is available outdoors. A fun choice: the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, a cornball night of slapstick comedy, over-the-top acting and lots of stunt action. Is Gatlinburg Safe? What To Consider With Advice From a Local Beautiful! Read Also: Is it safe to hike in the Smoky Mountains? Winter:Both towns dress up to the shining nines for the holidays Gatlinburgs mountaintop SkyLift Park goes all out with Lights Over Gatlinburg from early November through Jan. 31 (including lit-up trees that dance!). With only the crime rate considered, Gatlinburg is statistically as safe as the Tennessee state average while being less safe than the national average. Click Here. Also, local fireflies blink in synchronous rhythm (a mating thing) for several weeks each year, usually between late May and early June (though it varies some). Located near the entrance to the park, visitors say the lodge-like Park Grill is underrated, and several patrons raved about the barbecue, generous salad bar and friendly service, commenting that the restaurant is fun, especially for kids. We just went there I love it but my child is special needs so he doesnt live like we did an most likely wouldnt even if he wasnt people are sick an steal kids for trafficking all over. After roughly 6 miles, hikers should reach the Clingman's Dome parking area. Anakeesta in winter. Enjoy the variety of relaxed and fun spots to eat, drink and be merry. Is Gatlinburg, TN Safe? That level of freedom from an early age acted like a booster rocket to my natural streak of independence. If you pull up a crime map on City Data, statically, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge crime rates are a bit higher than the national average. See below for information and press releases from the City of Gatlinburg as it relates to the pandemic.Visiting Gatlinburg soon? Can You Take Rocks from the Smoky Mountains? Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. She is the travel editor at Coastal Living magazine, and her writing appears regularly in publications includingFood & Wine, Southern Living, Travel + LeisureandVeranda. The trolley system also links to a park-and-ride lot at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center (1011 Banner Road), just outside of town. Our favorite place to go. Top Ways to Save Money on Your Next Trip to Gatlinburg However, you'll need a car to take advantage of the scenic driving loops or to access areas of the national park that aren't within walking distance. When analyzing violent crime, property crime, and other crime in Gatlinburg, Crime Grade, categorized Gatlinburg as having an overall level D crime grade. There are lots of t-shirt and candy shops, carnival games, and "gem mines" of questionable quality. John Gullion, Managing Editor at the Citizen Tribune, is a freelance contributor for TheSmokies.com LLC the parent company of TheSmokies.com and HeyOrlando.com. Once redeemed, tickets will be valid until closing time that same evening.". I said in a serious tone . If you're looking for a more upscale menu or a special occasion spot, consider Buckberry Creek Lodge. Booster vaccines are also widely available from pharmacies, medical clinics, and other sites. If you long for the good old days of raised-track go-carting (or are toting the grandkids), strap on a helmet at Xtreme Racing Center. MANY sites to explore along the way (scenic overlooks, The Chimneys Picnic Area, Newfound Gap, Clingmans Dome and the Spruce Fir Nature Trail on Clingmans Dome Road, Luftee Baptist Church at Smokemont, Mingus Mill, the Mountain Farm Museum, etc.). Cookies are used for measurement, ads and optimization. Healthy and Responsible Travel Information, City of Gatlinburg Police Department Facebook. Crime Grades map shows that the most dangerous areas of Gatlinburg are the neighborhoods in the towns south. I just spent a week at Pigeon Forge . Also? In Pigeon Forge, the lure of the roadside attraction has evolved into large-scale museums with Vegas-meets-Myrtle Beach architecture a massive shiplike Titanic Museum keeps company with an equally massive upside-down mansion housing WonderWorks, a pop-science museum for kids. Share this page on your favorite Social network, Sevier County Health Department expands vaccine eligibility and offers extended hours to increase access to COVID-19 vaccination. Avoid the park crowds You can avoid large crowds during the peak summer months by visiting early in the morning (most travelers tour the park from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) or by sticking to off-the-beaten path trails and attractions, such as Greenbrier Cove and Abrams Creek. When you're not in the park enjoying its natural wonders, you'll likely spend time admiring it from several of Gatlinburg's top attractions, including the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway. Youll find options with hot tubs, fireplaces and porches with rocking chairs. It's free for AARP members. But that doesnt mean something cant happen. Naturally, with more people comes more crime, so the crime rate isnt necessarily reflective of Gatlinburg residents themselves, nor does it necessarily mean that Gatlinburg residents are at the same risk as tourists in densely crowded areas. Family-owned and operated Stony Brook Cabins has cabins with one to 15 bedrooms, in rustic and chalet styles. Its not all amusements in Pigeon Forge. The City encourages all of its residents and visitors to follow CDC guidelines to avoid being exposed to the COVID-19 virus. Avoid low quality activities and take the downtown sky tram, with beautiful views, instead. Areas including the Greenbrier Valley and the Sugarlands, just out of town, were rated as experiencing the most crime. Pick up an old-fashioned paper route map to make your navigations seamless and perhaps even more fun. Most visitors to the Gatlinburg area travel by car. Dont venture off marked trails and know which route youll take before you enter the park. Her further advice, especially during peak periods: Have two to three ideas that day. Cover coughs or sneezes with tissues and throw them in the trash and wash your hands. Sevier County Health Department expands vaccine eligibility and offers extended hours to increase access to COVID-19 vaccinationThe Sevier County Health Department continues to offer COVID-19 vaccines and testing. Tracey Minkin is an award-winning writer and editor based in New Yorks Hudson Valley. That said, its still important to watch out for vehicles and practice regular road safety. Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. Sevierville is full of outlet malls and has a mini golf range. Even in the age of cell phones, they do not wander outside the range of my voice. But youve got to hike to it, and its a steep 5- to 9-mile climb (depending on the trail you choose) that can take most of the day. Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (856) 436-5423 Opened in 1973, this aerial tramway was built to provide a safer and cozier way to reach the ski area. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. I seen the same kid panhandling because he had gotten stuck with no gas and no money. The Truth About Newfound Gap Road and Driving - Visit My Smokies Know your limitations. I have changed. Gatlinburg was more smaller, friendlier, southern, and you always felt safe here. Lunch and dinner:The blue Tennessee skies are the limit here. Maybe they want to flirt. Nearby Pigeon Force and Sevierville are also have many tourist traps. Ensure that anything you carry is secure, either in a zipped pocket that you can watch at all times or in a zipped bag that is secured to your person. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates. The only gripe among diners: the eatery only accepts cash. Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi. Why does the world flock here? Yes! During a standard year, the overall crime rate in Gatlinburg is 44.96 in 1,000. This retired the regulation that visitors must wear masks in all public areas. Or maybe its Pigeon Forges long-ago ranks of go-cart tracks and other amusements that drew road-tripping families in station wagons. Click here for the latest COVID-19 data for Sevier County.The City encourages all of its residents and visitors to follow CDC guidelines to avoid being exposed to the COVID-19 virus. I trusted my son at about 15 alone, always fine.. Standing and peering over his shoulder as he toured the mean streets of Southern Indiana was par for the course. Explore Gatlinburg, TN | Things to Do & The Great Smoky Mountains Plan Your Smoky Mountain Getaway We have miles of hiking trails in the mountains and tons of dining, attractions, shopping, and arts and crafts in town. For waterpark fun, add on a visit to Dollywoods Splash Country, where you can cool off and clamber all over Bear Mountain Fire Tower and its seven slides. There are currently no travel restrictions in Tennessee; however, we encourage everyone to follow health and safety practices. Gatlinburg is home to a variety of places to stay that can accommodate any type of vacationers, from couples, to families, to large groups. Gatlinburg:Start by walking the compact downtown, browsing in its many shops. RV camping and glamping:The Ridge Outdoor Resort in Sevierville is a popular spot for RV hookups (about $90). First of all, logistically I consider Gatlinburg to be the safer of the two. If you time your visit for April or May, you'll likely catch the explosion of spring wildflowers. This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. Planning ahead, in this case, can dramatically reduce your chance of getting lost or going missing. See over 1,000 amazing places to stay in the Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and the Smoky Mountain area of East Tennessee. Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Are you safe in Rome? The park's eight other campgrounds and five horse camps close seasonally. Gatlinburg continues to monitor COVID-19The City of Gatlinburg continues to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic. There are significantly more in some of the surrounding counties. Now grab your car and explore Gatlinburgs true treasure: the Arts and Crafts Community Loop an 8-mile country road linking more than 100 shops featuring local arts and crafts. Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Updates are available for Newfound Gap Road (US-441), Little River Road, Laurel Creek Road, and Cades Cove Loop Road. Drop in at the Smoky Mountain Brewery (two locations, in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge) or the Gatlinburg Brewing Company. We have miles of hiking trails in the mountains and tons of dining, attractions, shopping, and arts and crafts in town. Resorts:Is there anything Dolly Parton cant do? Only 1 1/2 hours from our home in Virginia, we also were allowed so much freedom and trusted everyone. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. With all there is to see and do in Gatlinburg, you'll be thankful to have this informative guide to help make your Gatlinburg vacation better than ever! Am I Required to Wear a Mask? These gateway towns to the country's most-visited national park, Great Smoky Mountains, recently ranked in the top-three summer travel searches on Expedia (behind perennial Florida heavyweights Orlando and Destin). As theft is one of the biggest risks, be mindful of your belongings at all times. www.aarp.org/volunteer. For updated road information please call (865) 436-1200. Early spring (March to May) constitutes Gatlinburg's low season. Not to be outdone, the Pigeon Forge Winterfest features more than 5 million Christmas lights in cheery displays, plus shows, special events and parades. Although many recent visitors loved Crockett's Breakfast Camp, some called it a tourist trap, likening it to "a Cracker Barrel on steroids" and lacking in quality. I spent my teenage years here and my parents always allowed me to run around Gatlinburg with my two younger siblings and always stayed at one of the local places on the strip or at Cars at the entry by the river. Check out these local favorites. Its smaller, of course. I like to do for myself. Check. The likelihood of being a victim of crime jumps up to 1 in 14, while its around 1 in 40 in other parts of the town. You can step back in time in these mountains and glimpse what life might have been like in simpler times.. Businesses throughout Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville have reopened following extensive guidelines from the CDC. For something a little slower-paced, get in some Putt-Putt time at Professor Hackers Lost Treasure Golf. Plenty of resort towns claim to be year-round destinations, but Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is truly a place you can visit no matter what date is showing on the calendar.With lively festivals, fall colors, summer hiking and more, there's always something to do in Gatlinburg (and the neighboring towns of Pigeon Forge and Sevierville) every month . Follow US-441S for approximately 15 miles. I truly wish I could return to this time. Then, make a right turn onto Clingman's Dome Road. More information on the CDCs recommendation for a booster dose is available online at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. However, this world has gotten so stupid and people have gotten so petty and there are so many criminals and entitled people roaming around with no respect for themselves or other people, you now have to be more vigilant. Smarter Travel also recommends being mindful of what you leave in your hotel room. As always in unfamiliar place use the Buddy System. 8 life-saving tips. I called the office and they said they were going to check the cameras to see if they could see who it was. Most incidents are either a burglary, robbery, theft or auto theft. Check here for updates and more information. Locals prefer the iconic Pancake Pantry with many saying that you can't leave the Smokies without stopping in for some pancakes. Rates from $104, Right on the Parkway, the Appy Lodge (named for the Appalachian Trail, which crosses the park) is an affordable alternative with rustic style and a senior discount. Whether strolling down a flat hike or trekking up to Mt. Take in the parks many shows, enjoy little-kid-friendly areas, go full thrill on the Lightning Rod wood/steel hybrid roller coaster (max speed: 73 mph! Travel experts agree there are several advantages to hiring a vacation planner. Sign up below to get the latest updates about Smoky Mountain tourism regarding COVID-19. If your feet get tired, take the inexpensive trolley to explore locally. Road trips with my grandparents left me bouncing around in the expansive back seat of Paps giant Buick. Let us know in the comments. However, that doesnt mean you should avoid this unique destinationjust be aware of the potential dangers and take steps to protect yourself. Uber does service the airport, but a ride to Gatlinburg will likely be pricey. Pack your bags and leave the kids behind for your next cruise adventure. Rates from $162, Cabin rentals:There are loads of cabin rentals, both near the towns or tucked into the surrounding hillsides, and they often come with gorgeous views. 25 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN - Family Destinations Guide Hence, using the Smoky Mountains sightseeing flex pass allows you to choose from three or five attractions while saving up to 30%. Everything along the strip is well lit, and I would be shocked if most of the area isnt covered by the stores security cameras. Dont miss the cutting boards and Tennessee Mountain bow knives at Foxcreek Woodworking or the richly glazed rustic pottery at Fowlers Clay Works. When in public, wear a cloth face covering over your nose and mouth. Here are some tips for planning a visit to the area. Once you confirm that subscription, you will regularly I was relatively surprised to learn that the crime rates are a little higher, but I suppose it is a tourist town. So whether youre stepping into the myriad splendors of Great Smoky Mountains National Park or stepping out at Dollywood, enjoy that feeling of a trip back in time when you visit Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Once you hear a voice, press 1, then press 1 for road information or 2 for a weather forecast. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. While we do our best to bring you the most up-to-date information, TheSmokies.com LLC makes no warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of any content contained within. Pigeon Forge received a slightly higher grade of D-, while Sevierville also received a ranking of D-. Inattention can be an issue in Pigeon Forge. Most of the shopping and activities downtown are overpriced. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Make Gatlinburg your basecamp for adventure. Re: Going to Gatlingburg and Pigeon Forge- Coronavirus Scare. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Is Gatlinburg Safe? - Virtual Smokies Both towns have doubled down on their attractions since those early days. I feel at home there. Yes, masks are still required when riding the public trolley transportation system in Gatlinburg. more information on current conditions Daily operating hours for visitor centers. Here are a few ways to make a safer, healthier trip: Maintain physical distance from other parties whenever possible. Was there last week. In Gatlinburg, dig into hickory-smoked beef brisket, chicken, pork ribs and pulled pork at Bennetts Pit Bar-B-Que, or try the rainbow trout at Smoky Mountain Trout House, where the kitchen prepares this tasty catch 10 different ways. Welcome to our COVID-19 information center. To take on these towns is to dig into every type of tourist treat, but they wouldnt exist without the very thing that brought them to life in the first place, which is their role as gateway towns. Gatlinburgs downtown streets can get congested, so smart visitors leave their cars where theyre staying and hop on the bright-orange trolleys of the free Gatlinburg Trolley System, which links major spots with the mass transit center at Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies. As of July 1, 2020: Businesses in the Great Smoky Mountains are open. But again, as long your kids know how to separate from unwanted notice, they should be fine. Car crashes are the most common cause of death in the park, which is in contrast to many other parks where the most common cause of death is falling. This small mountain town is a destination in its own right, and one that's particularly popular with families thanks to kid-friendly diversions like Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. For travel this summer, it seems, all eyes are on Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Visitor Centers in the park are open year-round, except Christmas Day. Crime Grade rates Pigeon Forge as slightly safer than Gatlinburg in terms of overall crime. Never had a problem after that. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try A scenic road trip through Knoxville and Chattanooga. For the love of Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains, we ask that you visit responsibly. While there is not a state mandate in place, businesses in Sevier County can maintain Covid-19 restrictions and regulations at their discretion for the safety and well-being of their employees and guests. By continuing to use our site you agree to our privacy policy. In fact, it's such a hit that Gatlinburg's population balloons during peak tourist season from less than 4,000 residents to more than 40,000. Its bigger and wider and more filled with drivers who arent necessarily watching for pedestrians. You know how much freedom to allow, what boundaries to set. Anything they can steal, they will. Explore Gatlinburg, TN | Things to Do & The Great Smoky Mountains Current Conditions - Great Smoky Mountains - National Park Service Travel news, itineraries, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox. For instance, I never sat in a safety seat. 13 Best Museums in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg With Coupons, Who Has the Best Fried Chicken in Pigeon Forge?
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