Gatlinburg, Tennessee City Guide

The legendary Hollywood Wax Museum today is celebrating its grand opening at a legendary vacation destination — Gatlinburg.

The museum is one of three new attractions arriving in tourism mecca Sevier County, the others being a new thrill ride at Dollywood and the planned Darrell Waltrip Racing Experience at the $114 million Belle Island Village.

The museum is opening after 11 years of trying to get into Gatlinburg, said owner/manager Tej Sundher.  It has 96 sculptures including Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp and Charlie Chaplin.  But there is one star conspicuously missing: Sevier County’s Dolly Parton.

“It (the museum) is almost not complete because we don’t have her,” said Sundher, who noted that the museum is in talks with Parton and hopes to have her likeness in the museum next year.

All the figures are new and for the first time interactive.

“You can get on the bow of the boat (Titanic) with Leo DiCaprio,” Sundher said.

The DiCaprio likeness is an example of the Gatlinburg facility focusing more on new contemporary people.

“We capture a moment in a film that people remember,” he said.  Sundher would not reveal the total investment, but he said each sculpture can run well into five figures to make. Then he said they are shipped in refrigerated containers, often overnight using FedEx.

The museum has to be sensitive to temperatures, and as a result it has a backup air conditioning system, Sundher said.  Gatlinburg sculptor and art store owner Rae Anna Galindo has been retained to ensure quality care of the sculptures, such as fixing broken nails, re-attaching fingers and repairing scratches made by visitors wanting to see if the figures are really made of wax.

In Pigeon Forge, NASCAR sports analyst Jeff Hammond is joining Darrell Waltrip in a 27,000-square-foot multi- and high-tech attraction.  The project will include interactive attractions, theaters, exhibits, the history and future of NASCAR racing and “hands-on racing and full, live production capabilities.”  The Waltrip facility will be part of the 21-acre Belle Island Village, which is slated to open in the fall of 2008.

The village also will include the Debbie Reynolds Hollywood Motion Picture Museum, the Knoxville Zoo’s North American River Otter exhibit, and more than 300,000 square feet of retail space, dining, attractions and lodging.

Also in Pigeon Forge, Dollywood’s Splash Country next spring will open its newest thrill ride, SwiftWater Run.  The $1 million ride offers single or double-passenger tubes that take passengers “through a 54-inch-diameter tunnel that propels them into a large bowl feature. After multiple revolutions, passengers then encounter a corkscrew before navigating a downward chute that plunges into the landing pool,” according to a press release.

Information courtesy of Knoxville News Sentinel Co.

The era of Detroit’s wildest horsepower years will be displayed for one weekend only at the Sevierville Events Center on October 26-27, 2007.  Some of the rarest Chevrolet, Ford, and Chrysler performance street cars and racecars of the 1960s and 1970s have been selected for admission to the 5th Annual Forge Invitational Musclecar Show, the only event of its kind.
These authentic, invitation-only vehicles include the tire-blazing 427-inch Camaros and Corvettes, 426 Hemi-powered Plymouth Barracudas and Dodge Chargers, special Pontiac GTOs, Ford Shelby Mustangs, and much more.

The public is invited to enjoy the show during the operating hours of 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. on Friday, October 26 and Saturday, October 27 from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. , with a general daily admission fee of $10.00 per person.

The once-a-year invitational event, promoted by Tim Lopata, completely outgrew its former location in the Pigeon Forge area and Nashville area and this year Sevierville has been selected to expand the show. The ability to move the cars into Sevierville’s premiere Events Center at Bridgemont, ensured that the multi-million dollar assembly of horsepower would be protected from the elements.

Cars will be coming from all over the country for the 2007 Forge event, and each example has been carefully selected on the basis of its rarity and condition, including a group of rare but unrestored “barn finds” many auto enthusiasts dream of locating. Many other cars are pristine restorations that have never before been seen on public display.

Of special note to racing fans there will again be a tribute to the late Dick Harrell, a professional drag racer responsible for many specialized Chevrolet performance cars of the 1960s era. Harrell, who died in a racing accident in 1971, will be represented by his daughter Valerie, friend Dale Pulde, several employees, friends and several very rare Chevrolet vehicles whose development Mr. Harrell was involved in. There will be a special display of Hemi 426 and Six Pack powered cars from 1964-1971, one of the largest ever in this type of venue.

In addition to the cars, there will be several other racing personalities from the past, a select group of specialized parts vendors, a display of rare automobile dealership memorabilia, new Pro-touring cars and other attractions.

The American musclecar has come back to the forefront of automotive interest recently, primarily due to high-visibility auction sales in the 100K-and-up range, the revival of the breed itself through late-model cars like the 2007 Shelby Ford Mustang, and a fresh resurgence in performance development from the major manufacturers. The 5th Annual Forge Invitational Musclecar Show will give residents of the Knoxville area a chance to actually see the cars that made history from Detroit when horsepower ruled the streets. The show has been featured in HOT ROD, SUPERCHEVY, MUSCLE CAR REVIEW, MUSCLECAR ENTHUSIAST, MOPAR COLLECTORS GUIDE, COLLECTORS GUIDE TO MUSCLECARS, MUSTANG MONTHY, MOPARMAX.COM, MAXCHEVY.COM, DRAGLIST.COM and more.

"Rarely does an event come along that features the wonderful variety of juried artists as the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair. It is a show that should not be missed!" - Southeast Tourism Society

Gatlinburg combines colorful, breathtaking mountains, cool autumn freshness and the allure of nature's beauty. These are some very good reasons to visit the Great Smoky Mountains this fall. But if you need a little more coaxing, how about making plans to attend one of the Southeast's most popular events — the Gatlinburg Craftsmen's Fair at the Gatlinburg Convention Center!

The Fall Fair runs from October 11-28^th, and is open daily.  Art, crafts and music lovers will find over 200 booths featuring some of the nation's finest work.  Artisans and craftspeople are on-hand to demonstrate their skill, answer questions and offer their unique art for sale.

There are also country and bluegrass music shows.  A few of the performers include Tim Watson and Black Creek, Keith Longbothom and Band, and Dennis Lee and Band.  Tim Watson will perform October 16^th-21^st, Keith Longbothom October 11^th-15^th, and Dennis Lee October 22^nd-28^th. 

Who knew the Tennessee mountain town of Gatlinburg had so many things to see and do?

For starters, take a hike on one of the beautiful trails found at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Go on a guided tour or create your own adventure exploring the park's beautiful forests, waterfalls and wildlife. Just watch out for one of the nearly 1,600 black bears living in the park.

After you've become one with nature, enjoy a scenic ride on one of the nation's largest aerial tramways to the mountaintop Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park. Once there, show off your moves on the enormous indoor ice rink and then sled down the 1,800-foot-long Alpine Slide. There are even two "dry-ride" water slides that don't require swimwear. Channel your inner spider on the Velcro wall jump, which is guaranteed for laughs, even if you're only watching.

Although you're in the mountains, you can explore life under the sea at the Ripley's Aquarium. You can view fish and other marine animals from all over the world in the huge glass tunnel and get close to creatures such as stingrays and crabs.

Ready to shop? Stroll through Gatlinburg's downtown parkway and pop in and out of the 400 shops along the strip and side streets. Candy shops and eateries are plentiful along the way.

For more fun, visit Hillbilly Golf, the self-proclaimed "most unusual miniature golf course" in the country. Then stop by the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum that has more than 17,000 different shakers and pepper mills from all over the world.

Feeling romantic? Love is in the mountain air of Gatlinburg. More than 600,000 people visit the town to get married or attend a wedding each year, earning it the title "The Wedding Capital of the South." Ready to take the plunge? Gatlinburg offers elegant wedding chapels. Or for an unforgettable rite, opt for a hillbilly-themed ceremony.

Not quite ready to tie the knot? Spend time with that special person at a picnic or one of the day spas in the city.

While there's no shortage of hotels in Gatlinburg, we recommend staying in a mountain cabin or chalet. The intimate setting and picturesque views of the Smokies create lasting memories. Most cabins and chalets come furnished and include grills, hot tubs and pool tables.

Gatlinburg is small, covering an area only two miles long by five miles wide. What it lacks in size, however, it makes up for in entertainment.

The Smoky Mountains are a beautiful vacation spot, whether you have a few days or an entire week to explore.  The natural, refreshing outdoor activities combined with the great restaurants and shops create an exciting yet relaxing trip for those of all ages.

• The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is wondrous outdoor mecca providing a myriad of activities for those who enjoy long hikes or short hikes, picturesque views, wildlife watching, waterfalls and the occasional bear sighting.
• On my recent trip to the Smokies, I ventured to The Sinks, a waterfall that can be spotted from Little River Road.  This waterfall is easily accessible for viewing and allows for visitors to explore the waterworks up close and personally.  The road The Sinks is located on is also a great connector road, leading to U.S. 441, which goes directly through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as well as to Cades Cove, a nature loop that’s very popular.
• Meigs Falls is located very close to The Sinks, and is also easily accessible.  This waterfall is created by Meigs Creek joining the Little River.  The dramatic combination creates a plunging water source perfect for those who enjoy waterfalls but are unable to hike for long amounts of time. 
• US Highway 441 is a beautiful road to travel, as it goes directly through the Smoky Mountains.  This is a perfect time to slow down, relax and enjoy the picturesque setting that surrounds you.  There are plenty of scenic overlooks, nature trails and quiet walkways to explore.  This highway also offers the occasional wildlife discovery.  On my trip through, I spotted a black bear roaming through the connecting forest.  Many cars were able to pull over and capture this unusual moment. 
• Newfound Gap Overlook is also located on this stretch of highway.  It offers the roads highest viewing point, with an elevation of 5,048 feet.  A stop here allows visitors to peer into Tennessee as well as North Carolina’s Oconaluftee Valley.
• Clingman’s Dome is the parks highest point, with an elevation of 6,643 feet.  The 7 mile stretch of road leading to the hike entrance gradually climbs the dome, with the resulting hike being a very steep but short half mile.  The uphill hike offers amazing views along the way, as well as a spectacular 360 degree panoramic view of the Smoky Mountains.  Whether in a hazy mist or on clear day, the sights are beautiful and well worth the hike.
• Traveling on US Highway 441 will lead visitors to the town of Cherokee, North Carolina.  Approximately 2 miles outside of this Indian town, is Mingus Mill.  It was originally built in 1886 and the turbine mill ground corn into meal and wheat into flour for over fifty years for the mountain community near Mingus Creek.  The historical structure was restored when the National Park was created and is an interesting look back in time. 
• Once you arrive in Cherokee, NC there are several areas to explore.  There is an 18^th Century replica of an Indian Village as well as unique shops.  This area also has several outdoor activities to take advantage of, such as tubing, horseback riding and fishing.
• Located near the Cherokee area is Mingo Falls.  This waterfall is approximately 120 feet high, making it one of the tallest and most spectacular in the southern Appalachians.  The hike to the waterfall is only a half-mile but is considered moderate in difficulty due to the steep set of stairs required and the earthy terrain that leads directly to the falls overlook.  This breathtaking waterfall is a great picture opportunity and is also well worth the climb. 
• From Cherokee, you can easily access the Three Falls loop.  Comprised of Tom Branch Falls, Juneywhank Falls and Indian Creek Falls, this area provides three fabulous waterfalls.  The hikes to Tom Branch and Indian Creek Falls are combined and easy in difficulty.  Juneywhank Falls is moderate in difficulty, but at a height of 90 feet, is about 60 feet taller than either of its nearby counterparts.
• Fontana Lake was a wonderful discovery that provided beautiful mountain scenery while also being home to the clearest emerald green waters I’ve frequented in recent years.  This mountain lake was a water haven, especially with the easily rentable boats offered at Fontana Marina.  The opportunity to cruise this lake as well as swim its fresh waters was a welcomed one!
• The Fontana Lake area also offers several spectacular scenic spots.  The dam itself offers great picture taking opportunities and is the tallest concrete dam east of the Rocky Mountains. The road leading west from the dam takes visitors through Deals Gap.  The stretch, which is largely in Tennessee, is roughly 11 miles in length and contains 318 curves, making it one of the curviest roads in the nation.  Located on the southwestern corner of the Park, the area is largely forested with several scenic overlooks and pull-off points.
• There are plenty more scenic opportunities in and around the dam.  The Foothills Parkway leads to Thunderhead Mountain, the highest point in this section of the park, and provides beautiful vistas.  Look Rock Tower does as well, and it is a perfect place to view sunsets as well as panoramic views of the Smokies. 
• Cades Cove, a popular nature touring area, is located near the Townsend area and is a great place to unwind and wrap-up your Smoky Mountain Experience.  Cades Cove offers the widest variety of historic buildings of any area in the national park. Scattered along the loop road are three churches, a working grist mill, barns, log houses, and many other faithfully restored eighteenth and nineteenth century structures.  Cades Cove also offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the Park.  White tailed deer and turkey are often seen, with the occasional black bear sighting also possible.

 There are so many things to do in the Smoky Mountains, it is impossible to cover all of the waterfalls, hikes, scenic drives and outdoor activities in one trip.  The Smoky Mountain experience, however, can be accomplished in a matter of days.  I was only able to explore for three days and still experienced all that is listed above.  A trip to the Smoky Mountains, near Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, is a must for all outdoor enthusiasts as well as those who have an explorer’s spirit.  The breathtaking views, the enthralling scenery, the flowing waters…it’s all at your doorstep when you enter the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 

TripAdvisor, a travel community, today announced the top 10 amusement parks (outside Orlando) in the U.S., according to traveler popularity and TripAdvisor editors. Ober Gatlinburg made the list at number eight.

Ober Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg, Tennessee

"We are amazed, and very pleased, due to the prestigious companies on this list," said Kathy Doyle, Marketing Director for Ober Gatlinburg. "I do think (we were included) because we are unique. As far as I know, we are the only ski resort in the country that has an amusement park attached to it."

According to TripAdvisor, list decisions were based on destinations that offered something for every kind of visitor, from wonderful family rides and shows, to great food and games, to thrilling rides and coasters.

Smokey Mountain Magic: Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park,
       Gatlinburg, Tennessee
       An amazing scenic aerial tramway up to Ober Gatlinburg gets visitors
       started in style, Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort and Amusement Park gives
       patrons everything but the kitchen sink: skiing, indoor skating,
       restaurants, an alpine slide, a pirate ship and fun house, go-karts,
       mini golf, a shooting range, water raft rides and a black bear habitat.
       One TripAdvisor traveler said, "I loved riding the new tram to Ober
       Gatlinburg. The view is fantastic."

"These amusement parks feature much more than cotton candy and carousels," said Michele Perry, director of communications for TripAdvisor. "Travelers like thrills but not spills -- TripAdvisor reviews were littered with comments about the importance of amusement park cleanliness."

Information courtesy of Sevier County News

Gatlinburg is well known for its amenities and attractions, but it received an extra plug when it was included in the travel book "101 Best Outdoor Towns: Unspoiled Places to Live, Visit and Play."

Released this month by Countryman Press and written by Sarah Tuff and Greg Melville, "101 Best Outdoor Towns" provides information about possible vacation spots for those who like outdoor activities but appreciate the amenities offered indoors.

"This is the first type of book of this genre that we've done," said Tuff during a phone interview from her Vermont home. She and Melville have written many articles about outdoor towns for magazines and used that as the basis for "101 Best Outdoor Towns."

"A lot of research came from stories we've done for magazines and an innate knowledge for hot spots and adventure for outdoor travel," Tuff said. For this book, she said they wanted to look beyond the obvious and locations that have become too expensive for the average tourist.

"We wanted to find small outdoor-oriented towns that were still affordable and had access to national parks and state parks, but also had great coffee shops and pubs and art scenes," she said.

Gatlinburg fit those descriptions well enough that it made the cut among the hundreds of locations the authors considered, among other factors and Census data. Gatlinburg was the only Tennessee spot to make the list. Its closest neighbor on the list is North Carolina's Bryson City.

"We started with hundreds and spent about a year really identifying which towns we wanted to profile," she said. "Neither of us are scientific, but it was a scientific process. The fun part, of course, was visiting and researching and writing, which is what we know best."

Tuff conducted the research on Gatlinburg in April 2006, accompanied only by a "very, very small visitor," she said. "I was pregnant with my daughter at the time. It was right before the barbecue festival and it was just a lively weekend in town with lots of visitors. The hills were extremely green. In Vermont and the hills don't get green until May or June."

The arts and crafts community, Tuff said, added something special.  "It had such a great feel to it, a little oasis," she said.

Gatlinburg's proximity to the Smokies was a big plus.  "I'd heard great things about Gatlinburg, but didn't realize how close it was and you're really smack in the mountains. In fact, you can walk out of your hotel in Gatlinburg and be in the Park in five minutes."

She said she remembers walking out of her hotel and seeing fishermen in the river, surrounded by restaurants and hotels.

"It's a great mix of outdoors and town life in one package," she said.

Tuff said readers can find "101 Best Outdoor Towns" at most bookstores and online at Amazon.com. Along with a short essay on each town, the book includes tips on lodging, dining and preparing for outdoor adventures.

For Gatlinburg, the extra publicity is "always great," said Walter Yeldell of the Gatlinburg Department of Tourism. For the most part, Yeldell said the attention always has something do with the national park. He pointed out a recent publication, "100 Places You Have to See Before You Die," and those from the past like, "Heaven on Earth, 100 Must-See Destinations."

In the latter, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was listed among sites like the Taj Mahal and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Being in such famous company is an eye opener, Yeldell noted.  "The Great Smoky Mountains is listed as one of the top places to visit in the world and we live here," he said.

Yeldell added that Gatlinburg is often the subject of travel articles, but also draws interest from publications related to housing and retirement.

"We get a modest number of people that do express interest in writing general travel information," he said. "I had one called Mature Living, and it was about a hundred great condo sites, a hundred great places to retire, and they listed Gatlinburg in their national publication."

Yeldell said he was interviewed just a few months ago by a couple updating their book, "Great Towns in America."

How much impact these books and articles have is hard to say, Yeldell said.

"To say it's had a direct impact, I would say that it has," Yeldell said.

Information courtesy of The Mountain Press