When many people think of summer vacation, they think of the beach. The beach is great, but it’s not for everyone. Some people don’t love the sand everywhere, the jellyfish and sharks in the water, or the super hot days on the beach. Maybe the beach isn’t for you, or maybe you’ve just been each summer and want something different. Gatlinburg is an awesome summer vacation spot for lots of reasons, but here are just a few of our favorite reasons why a vacation to Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains beats a vacation to the beach this summer.
- You can have a private indoor pool.
This is definitely a luxurious amenity you won’t find in your typical beach house rentals (or condos) at the beach this summer. You may have access to a community pool or community center pool, but you probably won’t find a house with your own private pool inside! We have a number of cabins with pools, so you’ll have several options when it comes to pool fun. The cabins are also loaded with lots of other great amenities like big screen TVs, game tables, and fully equipped kitchens. - You can spend your days playing in the most visited national park in the U.S.
Since the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is the most visited national park in the United States, then of course visiting it is something you can only do in the Smokies! Along with more than 800 miles of trails to explore, you’ll find horseback riding, picnic areas, fields of wildflowers, beautiful flowing streams, rushing waterfalls, historic buildings, and ranger-led programs like hikes and the Junior Ranger program. They also have the Not-So-Junior Ranger program for all ages! Need even more reasons to visit the park? How about fishing, biking, and viewing the wide array of wildflowers and wildlife? - You can skip the sand (and the sea).
If you’re not a fan of sand in your hair…and car…and condo…then a summer vacation in Gatlinburg is a better pick than the beach. Forget about sandy EVERYTHING and enjoy a nice summer getaway in the Smokies. You also won’t have to worry about jellyfish stings, shark attacks, or any other under-the-sea unknown. - You can beat the heat.
While Tennessee does come with its fair share of hot summer days, it will probably be cooler than your beach getaway, depending on where you usually visit. You can play outside in the Smokies, but there are also dozens of great indoor attractions where you can enjoy a respite from the hot summer sun. Try touring the Titanic Museum Attraction, check out hands-on exhibits at WonderWorks, meet celebrities at the Hollywood Wax Museum, go to a dinner show at Dixie Stampede, or cool off while you browse and buy at the many great shops in the area. - You can spend a summer day at Dollywood’s Splash Country.
Dollywood’s Splash Country is a top waterpark in the South. It features rides, slides, and water features for all ages, making it the perfect place to spend a summer day with the family in the Great Smoky Mountains. The 35-acre park was named the Best New Water Park in America by the World Waterpark Association in 2001 and the Must-See Waterpark Award in 2009 at the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions Expo. Their ride RiverRush was also voted best new waterpark ride of 2013 in Amusement Today’s Golden Ticket Awards. With so many fun water rides, plus canopies and retreats where you can cool off and even order food, Dollywood’s Splash Country will keep you cool on a summer day in Pigeon Forge.
If you’re looking for something new to do this summer vacation, start planning your getaway to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge. We have hundreds of great cabins to choose from, including cozy 1-2 bedroom retreats and comfortable 3-5 bedroom cabins. Planning a summer getaway with all of your family or a big group of friends? Browse our large group lodges that offer plenty of space and are loaded with amenities. Or just give us a call and let us know what you’re looking for. Our reservation specialists can help you find the perfect fit. They can also give you some ideas for what to do in the area, of you can check out our blog for area info, recipe ideas, travel tips, and more! Need some ideas for what to do at the cabin? How about…
- Have a movie night in your private home theater.
- Splash around in your private indoor pool.
- Spend the afternoon playing games in the rec room.
- Take a relaxing bath in an indoor jetted tub.
- Have a glass of wine while enjoying the views from the deck.
- Sit back on a porch swing with a good book.