Your Summer Vacation in Gatlinburg

When you begin to prepare for your summer vacation to Gatlinburg, one of the first things to do is start planning early! We’ve found that many visitors started making their plans and reserving cabins back in October of last year. As winter turns to spring, more and more vacationers are reserving cabins, condos and hotels for the #2 tourist destination in the Eastern United States – yes…Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. So be sure to reserve your get-away in advance as we are seeing a trend this year in early reservations. Making your reservations as much as three to six months in advance is often a good idea, especially if you plan to visit Gatlinburg during the busy summer months and even into the fall.

Set in the beautiful Smoky Mountains, there are many options to consider for the perfect summer vacation. You may want something secluded or even something right downtown that is walking distance to all the shops and activity.

On to some planning recommendations once you have booked your cabin and vacation:

1.) Schedule your vacation time with your employer.

Be sure that you have the time off to enjoy your Gatlinburg vacation scheduled far in advance. At least two months advanced scheduling is recommended for most employers, and you may even be required to schedule your vacation as far ahead as 90 days in advance.

2.) Plan your transportation.

Most visitors to the area drive as it gives you the flexibility to use your own vehicle, plus most visitors are within a 350 mile drive of the area.

3.) Research the Gatlinburg attractions that you want to visit during your trip.

From hiking and picnicking in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park to shows such as Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede, you will want to familiarize yourself with all of the attractions that surround Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. Some of the other attractions and shows include:

* The Black Bear Jamboree
* Fiddlers Feast
* Sweet Fanny Adams Theater
* Comedy Barn
* Country Tonight

* Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

* Titanic Museum4.) Plan the dates and times for when you will attend shows or perform certain activities.

If required, be sure to purchase show tickets or make reservations to secure your seats for the entertainment you select. *** Traveler tip: there are deals on just about every attraction in Gatlinburg and all it takes is a little searching on the web to find sites that offer coupons or discounts.

5.) Meal planning. If staying in a cabin you more than likely will have a full kitchen at your disposal. *** Note, all of Elk Springs Resort Luxury Cabins include full kitchens with dishwasher, microwave, toaster, coffee maker, ice maker, blender, mixer, knives and cutting boards, mixing bowls and pots and pans. There is even a Gas grill at the cabin. Given the cost of gas and increased transportation costs, you can choose to stay in and have meals at your cabin. Many guests plan their meals and pack coolers with items they will use for their trips, others simply hit the Food City Grocery store located just 3 minutes outside of downtown. It’s a full service grocery store with deli, meats, bakery, pharmacy, etc. They may not have everything, but they have most of what you need. (and one of our guests was pleased to find a nice sized organic section at the store).

6.) Pack for the trip!As the time to depart nears, you will want to give yourself plenty of time to pack the clothes and belongings you and your family will need for the trip. Be sure to pack clothing for all of the activities you plan. Pack swimsuits, hiking gear, dressy clothing for nights out and clothes for relaxing evenings to spend cooking out with the family.

Planning for your summer vacation in Gatlinburg well in advance will make sure you and the family are well prepared and ready when the time comes to make your departure from home. We look forward to seeing you this summer!