Book online Some attractions, such as the Gatlinburg Space Needle and Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, offer discounts for tickets purchased online. Watch the weather Many secondary roads close during inclement weather, especially in the winter months. I like to think for myself. 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. Yes, masks are still required when riding the public trolley transportation system in Gatlinburg. The Sevier County mask mandate officially expired on April 15, 2021, at 11:59 pm. If you time your visit for April or May, you'll likely catch the explosion of spring wildflowers. You can even walk inside a snow globe, stroll under a 1,000-foot canopy of twinkling lights, and enjoy live trees with decorations. 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. Yes. Here are a few ways to make a safer, healthier trip: Maintain physical distance from other parties whenever possible. #9 inBest Weekend Getaways in New England. Statistics show that Gatlinburg has higher crime rates than most people would expect of the charming mountain town. Even in the age of cell phones, they do not wander outside the range of my voice. It's free for AARP members. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates. Areas including the Greenbrier Valley and the Sugarlands, just out of town, were rated as experiencing the most crime. 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.). Notably, Gatlinburg is safer than Pigeon Forge. I am going to write about it in my Review at For the Inn. Why You Should Go It's easily one of America's largest tramways. 37738, Download the official NPS app before your next visit, Trails, backcountry campsites, and shelters that are frequented by black bears may have warnings posted or be closed. 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. Gatlinburg is one of Tennessees most popular travel destinations, but is Gatlinburg safe? Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. 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. All Rights Reserved. Be smart, be firm and you should be fine. Am I Required to Wear a Mask? Gatlinburg is home to a variety of places to stay that can accommodate any type of vacationers, from couples, to families, to large groups. Alum Cave Trail 4th of July week, 3 years in a row.. Maybe someone little intoxicated, thats the worst Ive seen. Yes,always enjoy Gatlinburg and Pigeon forge, never had a problem, even when we seen a bear . I have changed. Smarter Travel also recommends being mindful of what you leave in your hotel room. Not that there hasnt always been some of that, it just seems like theres been more recently. It has 3 chair lifts, 8 ski trails and a wildlife area. And break in your hiking boots before leaving home. 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. When I was in second grade, they made an announcement about a suspicious van around the school. The City encourages all of its residents and visitors to follow CDC guidelines to avoid being exposed to the COVID-19 virus. For more information and updates, check here. The email stated "Ticketholders have 365 days from the original purchase date to redeem their tickets. See the table on nearby places below for nearby cities. Unfortunately, the answer isnt so clear-cut. You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. Off the beaten path, in Gatlinburgs marvelous Arts and Crafts Community, the Austrian teahouse-inspired Wild Plum Tea Room is set in a rustic cabin and offers family and seasonal favorites such as lobster pie, not to mention its renowned hot pimento cheese dip. You can also manage your communication preferences by updating your account at anytime. Despite the figures, most people feel safe in Gatlinburg and visit the town without getting into trouble. The cost of the flex pass ranges from $90 to $150. City of Gatlinburg FacebookCity of Gatlinburg Police Department FacebookCity of Gatlinburg Twitter. Recently, Sevier County has taken another step to encourage safe travel to the Smoky Mountains by issuing aFace Covering Requirementwhich goes into effect on July 10, 2020. Cover coughs or sneezes with tissues and throw them in the trash and wash your hands. Check out the following resources from theGatlinburg Convention & Visitors Bureau.Healthy and Responsible Travel InformationAlso, you may view our social media platforms for more information on the pandemic, as well as other City-based communications. The Gatlinburg Trolley also provides lifts to tourists wanting to get to the Resort. Cades Cove, Deep Creek, Greenbrier and Metcalf Bottoms picnic areas are open year-round. There are grifters and pedophiles in every town, just be on your toes. This retired the regulation that visitors must wear masks in all public areas. The rates drop a little as you venture into more rural areas. True to its reputation as a family destination, Gatlinburg offers a bevy of buffets, pizza joints and barbecue eateries to satisfy even the pickiest of diners. I feel very safe in both locations. Also, if youre into cast-iron cookery (and you should be), dont miss the Lodge Cast Iron Factory Store, the states famed cookware company, which has been making skillets, griddles and more since 1896 in South Pittsburg, near Chattanooga. The operating hours, policies and procedures of other businesses may change at any time without notice. Get inspired to plan your next vacation to the Volunteer State. I could be out of the range of my parents voices for hours and no one ever raised an alarm. For updated road information please call (865) 436-1200. A scenic road trip through Knoxville and Chattanooga. The National Park does not require masks when social distancing is available outdoors. It offers free rides during the summer and only a 50 cent regular fare. More and more people come and more and more people from other areas move in. Are you safe in Rome? Always be sure to stick to the speed limit and ensure you know all the road rules when driving through Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Nine guest rooms, seven private cottages and three guesthouses make it an ideal choice for singles, couples or families. Cloudflare Ray ID: 7c083de07de7fda9 (865) 436-4178 They must of left . Check out these local favorites. This means that the rate of crime in Gatlinburg is higher than it is in the average city in the U.S. During a standard year, the overall crime rate in Gatlinburg is 44.96 in 1,000. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the third-most dangerous national park in the country. As of July 1, 2020: Businesses in the Great Smoky Mountains are open. The aquarium and museums are also worthwhile, and some visitors enjoy the saltwater taffy. 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. Yes! Do you feel safe in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee? 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 . Never had a problem after that. Most commonly, folks might get into trouble if they do not properly prepare. Does Gatlinburg have any upcoming events? Visit in the offseason You'll find the lowest rates on accommodations in September, March and April. No fussing, no fighting and minimal flirting would be my marching orders for Pigeon Forge. Be warned: It books up far in advance, so reserve early. Directions from Gatlinburg: Visitors should allocate the park entrance from the downtown Parkway. A few classic things to do as a tourist in the Smokies: go to a pancake house, buy fudge and try moonshine. Enjoy the variety of relaxed and fun spots to eat, drink and be merry. Both hamlets are an easy days drive for two-thirds of the population east of the Mississippi River, which means many visitors arrive by car. And, of course, Pigeon Forge is home to the incredibly endearing Dollywood, local girl Dolly Partons empire of theme park, water park, resort, entertainment, food and mountain-fueled down-home fun. 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. The greatest danger in Gatlinburg, as with anywhere else you travel, is other people. Some times wed walk and sometimes wed take the Trolley, it was fifty cents a ride back then (this was thirty years ago) which was a bit expensive for the time so wed just walk. You've come to the right place (photos by Morgan Overholt and Bill Burris/TheSmokies.com), Gatlinburg was built on a rich and interesting history (left photo by Morgan Overholt/TheSmokies.com; right photo public domain). Here are some tips for planning a visit to the area. Road closures may occur due to severe weather events such as winter storms, floods, and tornados. Meanwhile, Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort draws aficionados during the winter months. Ill dig in my heels, unable to hide the white-hot obstinance within. The Smoky Mountains region offers a broad menu of lodging choices, from cozy cabins to inns, lodges and glamping resorts. For the love of Tennessee and the Great Smoky Mountains, we ask that you visit responsibly. Its old fashioned as all get-out, and the family will love it. Just be mindful of the potential dangers, particularly theft, and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Cascading waterfalls, roaming wildlife and a view that stretches out over 500,000 acres this is the countrys most-visited national park. Thats a high honor for the two formerly sleepy little tourist hamlets just seven miles apart, which have maintained their small-town populations (a little more than 4,000 residents in Gatlinburg and about 6,200 in Pigeon Forge) even as they have expanded over the decades into twin juggernauts of pleasures from shopping and eating out to amusements, adventures and moonshine tasting. 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. She is the travel editor at Coastal Living magazine, and her writing appears regularly in publications includingFood & Wine, Southern Living, Travel + LeisureandVeranda. The morning after I looked at the outside of our door it had a Shoe print and a mark on it where it had been definitely kicked. There have been in recent years, at least anecdotally, a rise in wilder behavior in Pigeon Forge. more information on current conditions Daily operating hours for visitor centers. 2023 Smarter Travel Media LLC. The D grade means the rate of crime is higher than the average US city. Gatlinburg TN 35.73N 83.49W (Elev. Gatlinburg:Start by walking the compact downtown, browsing in its many shops. See over 1,000 amazing places to stay in the Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville and the Smoky Mountain area of East Tennessee. Make Gatlinburg your basecamp for adventure. Heavily trafficked overlooks, trails, or inside historical homes located throughout the park are examples of this. Ill never forget this freedom wed always have in Gatlinburg, see the Ghost Show or going into the gag shop to buy stuff like fake 100 dollar bills that were folded and said Sucker when open to leave on the streets and then watch others lol. Performance & security by Cloudflare. Is Gatlinburg Safe? - Virtual Smokies Webcams show current views at various park locations, updated every 15 minutes. 107 Park Headquarters Road This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. Box 527 2021 Gatlinburg TN. The city of Gatlinburg is easily walkable and the inexpensive trolley that operates 365 days a year offers service to nearby attractions. Yes, Gatlinburg is safe to walk. Keep in mind that the towns built these activities specifically to attract tourists. Great Smoky Mountains National Park:Remember to check out our guide to Americas most popular national park, but heres a little advice from Great Smoky Mountains spokesperson Dana Soehn on how not to end up in the parks biggest tourist lures of Alum Cave Trail, Cades Cove and Clingman Dome. Welcome to our COVID-19 information center. There are many events planned for 2022in Gatlinburg. Travel Safe To Sevier County, TN 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 Pledge guidelines. 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. I have been going to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge several times a year since I was a kid. A fun choice: the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, a cornball night of slapstick comedy, over-the-top acting and lots of stunt action. 8 life-saving tips. A Guide to the Road to Nowhere, Smoky Mountains. The Smoky Mountains are open and we cant wait to see you! All is well. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) maintains water gages that measure flow, river height, and temperature at Little River near Townsend, TN and in Cataloochee Creek in North Carolina. 10 Things Not to Do While on Vacation in Gatlinburg In between all the hiking, dining, and sightseeing, youll want to squeeze in an afternoon or two for that most-treasured American pastime: shopping. Never had any problems but that was 30 plus years ago.. 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. Statistically speaking, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the third-most dangerous national park in the country. That, coupled with moderate temperatures, offseason rates and few crowds, make September a great month to visit. Lunch and dinner:The blue Tennessee skies are the limit here. It was the only time we had any issues the entire week. Once redeemed, tickets will be valid until closing time that same evening.". If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. As always in unfamiliar place use the Buddy System. . Avoid low quality activities and take the downtown sky tram, with beautiful views, instead. Pennsylvania and I always feel safe in pigeon forge and Gatlinburg. However, while many regulations have expired, it can still be confusing at times to plan your vacation while adhering to local guidelines. The Health Department will also offer Everlywell Self-Test kits Monday through Friday.The Sevier County Health Department is now offering booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines to certain populations, as of Monday, October 25. 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!). The price of gas seems to always get in the way of vacation fun. While planning our honeymoon, we purchased tickets on July 4, 2022 for the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Backcountry (backpacking) campsites are open year-round. I would instruct the kids to stay where they are supposed to be. Best Months to Visit. For updated road information please call (865) 436-1200. The fall foliage begins to appear in mid-September at the higher elevations. Keep in mind: that elevation is also responsible for rapid changes in the weather pattern, meaning you should pack layers no matter when you visit. See below for information and press releases from the City of Gatlinburg as it relates to the pandemic.Visiting Gatlinburg soon? The mountains are magical, with their heralded smoky mists that nestle among their ridges and cloak their verdant valleys; their myriad streams, rivers and waterfalls providing a near-soundtrack to every corner of the park and its surrounds; and their stunning variegated ridgelines changing colors throughout the seasons. Most incidents are either a burglary, robbery, theft or auto theft. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. The two peak seasons in Gatlinburg are summer (June, July and August) and the month of October, when the . With only the crime rate considered, Gatlinburg is statistically as safe as the Tennessee state average while being less safe than the national average. Travel Smarter! A good 20 second scrub with soap and water goes a long way to stop the spread of germs and COVID-19. They have far more potentials for those encounters than not to be honest. 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. Tips on Avoiding Gatlinburg Tourist Traps - SmarterTravel I said in a serious tone . Other great spots for hearty homestyle breakfasts in Gatlinburg are Crocketts Breakfast Camp (dont miss the cinnamon rolls) and Little House of Pancakes, a low-key local institution. And Dollywoods Smoky Mountain Christmas sparkles with millions of its own lights, special shows and holiday fireworks. I had a wonderful childhood with a level of freedom that would border on negligence today. But I have seen enough signs in reststop restrooms on our way there about human trafficking that I am always on alert. Road closuresmay occur due to severe weather events such as winter storms, floods, and tornados. Be careful of tourists traps downtown, which has a numbers of expensive things to do. For a more authentic experience, spend at least half your visit hiking and picnicking in the mountains. 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. In the meantime, please feel free The river through Gatlinburg isnt necessarily deep though in heavy rainy seasons it may be somewhat dangerous but that mountain water can be cold with decent currents. Travel experts agree there are several advantages to hiring a vacation planner. Her further advice, especially during peak periods: Have two to three ideas that day. Face Covering Poster 8.5x11 - Sevier County, Face Covering Poster 11x17 - Sevier County, Face Covering Poster 8.5x14 - Sevier County, What is open in Sevier County? With miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, as well as historical exhibits and cabins, and the opportunity to view black bears, elk, deer and other wildlife in their natural habitat, it's easy to see why the park is such a hot spot. AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that empowers people to choose how they live as they age. Or maybe its Pigeon Forges long-ago ranks of go-cart tracks and other amusements that drew road-tripping families in station wagons. National Weather Service Rates from $150. TN Cover coughs or sneezes with tissues and throw them in the trash and wash your hands. I did have it deadbolted. Ive never seen so many stolen cars I my life. Fall (particularly October) is a popular time to visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Gatlinburg, TN Weather - The Weather Channel As long as you use common sense and remain alert to your surroundings, Gatlinburg is a fun and exciting destination that is definitely worth visiting. Know before you go - Gatlinburg Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Know the status of the park's roads, facilities, and trails before you go. Javascript must be enabled to use this site. For travel this summer, it seems, all eyes are on Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Information on appointment availability at local health departments can be found at https://covid19.tn.gov/covid-19-vaccines/availability/. Welcome to Gatlinburg, TN For example, tattoo shops will charge you $10 to apply a temporary tattoo you could buy and apply yourself for less than a dollar. Did anyone consider escorting me to school? Sign up for our free newsletter. Save. to search for ways to make a difference in your community at 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. 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. Gatlinburg, Tennessee Travel Guide - Jam Travel Tips Then, youre more likely to have a better, safer trip. Stay home when sick, except to get medical care, and avoid close contact with people who are sick. It's accessible from the roads and from a gondola on the strip in the center of the city. 13 Best Museums in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg With Coupons, Who Has the Best Fried Chicken in Pigeon Forge? again. Safe Boating; Rip Currents; Thunderstorms; Space Weather; Sun (Ultraviolet Radiation) Safety Campaigns; Wind; Drought; Winter Weather; INFORMATION . Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. However, masks are required when entering any Park building or institution, or when social distancing is not available. Inattention can be an issue in Pigeon Forge. Dont venture off marked trails and know which route youll take before you enter the park. Drop in at the Smoky Mountain Brewery (two locations, in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge) or the Gatlinburg Brewing Company. As long as your kids know how to separate themselves from a potentially uncomfortable situation instruct them to seek refuge in a store, restaurant or other public places and ask for help from employees then they should be fine. You can step back in time in these mountains and glimpse what life might have been like in simpler times.. They make a great way to getc around both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg with a multitude of stops and routes for each of these cities. Roaring Fork Motor Trail. Are masks required in the National Park? I tell them to stay away from the water without supervision. Its hard anymore, in the shifting standards of our culture, to know what boundaries are appropriate. If your feet get tired, take the inexpensive trolley to explore locally. Sometimes they go on vacation to indulge the parts of themselves that are repressed in their everyday interactions. Rocky Vs Smoky Mountains which is Better to Visit? As theft is one of the biggest risks, be mindful of your belongings at all times. Gatlinburg Travel Guide | U.S. News Travel Yes, masks are still required when riding the public trolley transportation system in Gatlinburg. To access the national parks Elkmont section, where you can watch the fireflies in wonder, you have to sign up for a lottery. Are masks required on the Trolleys? Gatlinburg, TN 2023: Best Places to Visit - Tripadvisor Alpine Getaway 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms Red Roof Chalet 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms TRANQUIL MOMENTS 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms Updates are available for Newfound Gap Road (US-441), Little River Road, Laurel Creek Road, and Cades Cove Loop Road. Staying safe in Gatlinburg largely comes down to common sense. Read Also: Is it safe to hike in the Smoky Mountains? 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. 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.