4 Reasons Why You Should Vaycay in the Smoky Mountains

Contributed by  PAM HILL

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP) has an abundance of rich scenery, wildlife, and diversity. This area is known for its wide range of plant and animal life, along with the majestic scenery, mountain range, and its Southern Appalachian culture. There are about 10 million visitors each year, which makes the GSMNP the most-visited national park in the United States. With all its beauty and grandeur, here are some other reasons why this vacation destination tops the charts for many families:

  • It’s close by. Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park is just a bit over three hours from Charlotte. The route will take you I40 through Asheville so you can enjoy this world-renowned scenic drive as well as other attractions on the way, such as Biltmore estate and gardens.
  • It is economical. The beach can get costly fast for a family, but there are so many lodging options in the Smokies that it keeps costs down; groceries and restaurants are also priced reasonably for families and area attractions offer great discounts, free tickets, and senior/children rates as well. From large luxury cabins to camping under the pines, you will get the most bang for your buck when visiting GSMNP.
  • Kids love it! Often on vacation, it isn’t long before you hear the dreaded “I’m bored” from the kids. However, this area has lots to do to keep your little ones busy. From hiking and ziplining in the mountains to rounds of mini-golf or the haunted mansion, kids will be begging to come back!
  • Rainy-day blues? Forget about it! A rainy day at the beach can be trying for all involved but if you’re in the Smokies, the weather won’t get you down. There are outlet malls and stores galore, with literally hundreds of shops, museums, and novelty stores. This area is filled with dozens of restaurants and packed with an array of attractions, including Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Dollywood, two Margaritaville resorts, and The Titanic Museum, a two-story museum shaped like the RMS Titanic with amazing artifacts on board!

Pam Hill and husband, Ed, have been the owners and operators of Stony Brook Cabins, LLC, since 2004. As a full-service property management company licensed by the Tennessee Real Estate Commission, Stony Brook Cabins in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, offers an array of accommodations— from cozy cabins to luxury 15-bedroom cabins. For reservations, call 800.633.5652 or visit them now at www.stonybrookcabins.com.