If you’re looking for some travel inspiration and a fun destination during the Winter months, upcoming Spring or perhaps you’re ready to get a head start on planning your Summer travels for 2021 — we suggest considering a place that we think is quite possibly one of the friendliest in America, and that’s Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Located in the 16th state in our Nation, this Tennessee treasure is within a day’s car drive of nearly two-thirds of the USA. Location – location!
For our latest “Destination Spotlight” in our popular series that airs on our nationally syndicated travel radio show, we chose Pigeon Forge because of its family-friendly offerings and stunning natural mountain surroundings. This is a place that really does offer something for everyone and although Pigeon Forge is family-friendly -– with the sheer amount of varied activities, it also works well for couples and large groups too.
Pigeon Forge can be looked at as a playground for all as there are no shortages of attractions, great music venues, theatre, fabulous food offerings, and of course, the iconic country star Dolly Parton’s stamp on the area is everywhere.
Starting with the theme park incorporating her name, Dollywood is an Appalachian-themed and styled amusement park with numerous rides and attractions, an adjoining water park, and a museum housing her memorabilia — including costumes from her dazzling career. There are plenty of places to stay, including the luxurious DreamMore Resort and Spa or if you prefer a quieter, rustic theme, Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Cabins may suit you. There are also many other accommodations that all have one thing in common — great Southern hospitality.
In addition to the live musical concerts at Dollywood, Pigeon Forge is known for an array of dinner shows and musical revue theatres. A few popular ones include Dixie Stampede, Hatfield & McCoy, and the Smoky Mountain Opry. Tickets sell fast and with reduced capacity these days, if you book your visit for early 2021, be sure to check the revised and latest guidelines for indoor venues.
This summer, Great Smoky Mountains National Park just 20 minutes from Pigeon Forge, set a record for attendance and although some portions have been closed due to the pandemic — most of the park has remained open and it is traditionally the most visited National Park in the USA. Along with its rich culture of Southern Appalachian history, the diversity of plant and animal life is renowned and the topography is quite the sight. Some of the highest mountains in the eastern portion of North America are part of this range, including Mount Guyot and Clingman’s Dome. The Appalachian Trail passes right through the middle of the park on its route from Georgia to Maine.
All in all, you really can’t go wrong with Pigeon Forge and the surrounding area. You’ll find culture, entertainment, luxury accommodations, camping and wilderness activities, a Wine Trail, countless outdoor activities, and one of the most scenic and visited mountain ranges — The Great Smoky Mountains. It’s why we feel this is a location that’s worthy of your travel dollars.
Best wishes for a Wonderful Holiday Season — Safe and Happy Travels!
Robert & Mary Carey, Hosts
America’s #1 Travel Radio Show
www.RMWorldTravel.com
Photo credit: Provided by Robert & Mary Carey
