Gatlinburg

[SusanTeach]

Has anyone been there recently? We're thinking about taking the kids snow skiing (or boarding) sometime during the upcoming breaks. It's been 16 years since we were there (on our honeymoon). We'd like to say in a 2 bedroom (at least) cabin with "fun" stuff for the kids (pool table, etc...). I've seen several on their city's website, but would feel better knowing someone has actually stayed in one.

Besides skiing one day, we also want to visit Dollywood since they have a big Christmas production. We thought about ice skating, also. We're thinking of going for 5 days. Any suggestions?

Thanks!

 

[ecsmom]

We live close and have a timeshare nearby so I've never tried the cabins. There are a lot of reviews for them on Tripadvisor, many with photos taken by customers. We try to get to Dollywood at least once during the Christmas season. All of the area is decorated beautifully.

 

[Tigger]

Gatlinburg. ..

I love Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge! It's about 1 1/2 hours from here so we go often!

I have stayed in the cabins at Hidden Mountain (in Pigeon Forge, behind the Apple Barn -- a MUST eat-at restaraunt!) and at another one, who I can't remember the name of. I highly recommend the cabins -- peace and quiet and just beautiful! Southern Living did a review of the cabins in the Gatlinburg area last month; I think that info is online at their website.

Dollywood is a must-see at Christmas. I love the lights, the programs, and everything else! I'd also recommend the Comedy Barn -- it's family-orientened and hilarious! Country Tonight, a music/revue, was awesome last time I saw it. Wonderworks is also a fun, science-based museum that has a lot of hands-on activities (Many classes at my school have gone there as a field trip.). Let's see, what else? I've never been ice skating, because my husband is afraid I'll fall and break something (I"m very clumsy!) Obergatlinburg is neat, as well. Ripley's Aquarium is fun and relaxing, as well.

Have a fun trip! I wanna go now!

 

[Bethany]

Hey Susan!

I am so excited for you and your family going to Gatlinburg, my favorite place! The only cabins we have ever stayed in is Starrcrest Resorts (http://www.starrcrestresort.com/). We have never had a problem and they are always super clean and secluded. They all have extras in the cabins, like foosball, pool tables, X-box, Playstation, etc.
Also, definitely go to Ober Gatlinburg. They have snowboarding, skiing, ice skating, everything you would want for winter fun! It is quite pricey, so you might only get to go for a day.
Let me know if you have any questions! I'm so jealous!

 

[liketeaching1]

I live about 1 hr. and a half from there. It's beautiful this time of year because they decorate for fall with lots of fall flowers, pumpkins. Then after Thanksgiving they will have the winter lights and decorations through January I think (winter fest). Hope you enjoy your trip!

 

[Strawberry_K5]

I love going this time of year! Normally my family will stay in a cabin in Pigeon Forge and drive into Gatlinburg during the day. http://www.mypigeonforge.com/

 

[SusanTeach]

snow boarding

Thanks for the replies! Has anyone ever been snowboarding? I've been skiing, but one son was mentioning snowboarding. Is it easier than skiing? He hasn't done either (teenager). Either way all the kids will have to take lessons, so we're planning that.

 

[Bethany]

SusanTeach...

When we went to Gatlinburg, I really wanted to try snowboarding. However, when I got to Ober Gatlinburg, one of the ski instructors said that snowboarding is SOOOOOO much harder than skiing. Since I can't ski, I decided against it. Maybe another time....

 

[Ima Teacher]

I've been to Gatlinburg at least once a year, and often twice a year for as long as I can remember. I have several "favorites" on my list of places to stay, but they're all motels.

I went there with my DH and in-laws a few years ago when DH's cousin got married, and they decided to stay in cabins. They were TERRIBLE . . . buggy & DIRTY. The roads to get to them were bad, too. There were close to 40 people who went, and we hardly saw anyone because we were spread out all over the side of a mountain. Since we live in the country, the whole "get away in the woods" part isn't all that appealing. I want some action.

As far as filling 5 days, if you haven't been there in awhile then you can certainly do that. We just go for a day or maybe two at a time because we go so often. We've done everything.