She is the travel editor at Coastal Living magazine, and her writing appears regularly in publications includingFood & Wine, Southern Living, Travel + LeisureandVeranda. The speed limit is manageable. Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care. You can even walk inside a snow globe, stroll under a 1,000-foot canopy of twinkling lights, and enjoy live trees with decorations. While planning our honeymoon, we purchased tickets on July 4, 2022 for the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Yes, masks are still required when riding the public trolley transportation system in Gatlinburg. The origins of Gatlinburgs arts and crafts community are as creative as its founders. The statistics show that Gatlinburg is less safe than other towns of the same size, and has a higher crime rate than the U.S. national average. The surrounding towns and cities tend to have a similar safety rating to Gatlinburg. However, while many regulations have expired, it can still be confusing at times to plan your vacation while adhering to local guidelines. How does Gatlinburg Compare with Nearby Cities? Read Also: Is it better to stay in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge? Meanwhile, Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort draws aficionados during the winter months. This retired the regulation that visitors must wear masks in all public areas. Gatlinburg continues to monitor COVID-19The City of Gatlinburg continues to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic. As always in unfamiliar place use the Buddy System. Yes, Gatlinburg is safe to walk. Our Top 10, Ranked, Best Hole in the Wall Restaurants in Pigeon Forge, Our Top 5 Ranked, The Ogles vs the Gatlins: The Family Feud That Built Gatlinburg, 9 Best Pigeon Forge Shopping Areas and Outlets, Best Ice Cream in Gatlinburg, Top 6 Ranked, A Look at Dollywood History, the Park Before the Dollywood Era, What To Know About Dollywoods Splash Country From a Local, Anakeesta Offers Sneak Peek on $34 Million Expansion [2023]. Just crowded. Beware of bears It is illegal to intentionally approach within 150 feet of a bear in the park. Its hard anymore, in the shifting standards of our culture, to know what boundaries are appropriate. Always have. Clear skies in lower areas do not guarantee the same weather in the higher elevations. Are There Mountain Lions in the Smoky Mountains? Most visitors to the Gatlinburg area travel by car. For instance, I never sat in a safety seat. Top Ways to Save Money on Your Next Trip to Gatlinburg 95 Things to Do in Gatlinburg TN | A Gatlinburg Bucket List - Wild Hearted Be careful of tourists traps downtown, which has a numbers of expensive things to do. Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center. Check out these local favorites. Many visitors come to the Gatlinburg area to visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. That level of freedom from an early age acted like a booster rocket to my natural streak of independence. True to its reputation as a family destination, Gatlinburg offers a bevy of buffets, pizza joints and barbecue eateries to satisfy even the pickiest of diners. More information on the CDCs recommendation for a booster dose is available online at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html. Also in Pigeon Forge, Huck Finns Catfish is the top place for catfish in the state, according to the readers ofTennesseemagazine, and Mamas Farmhouse fills your table with Southern classics like homemade buttermilk biscuits, country fried steak and banana pudding, all served family-style. It's the perfect time to start planning your Summer Gatlinburg getaway. But Gatlinburg isn't just a gateway to the Smokies. I was on a ground floor hotel room . A Guide to the Road to Nowhere, Smoky Mountains. Road closures may occur due to severe weather events such as winter storms, floods, and tornados. I was relatively surprised to learn that the crime rates are a little higher, but I suppose it is a tourist town. Copy and paste this code into your website. Its a magical place but be aware. Watch out for wildlife. It's free for AARP members. 31. Visit in the offseason You'll find the lowest rates on accommodations in September, March and April. Chimney Tops Trail is a 3.6-mile heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Gatlinburg, Tennessee that features a river and is rated as difficult. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. Nearby Pigeon Force and Sevierville are also have many tourist traps. Know the status of the park's roads, facilities, and trails before you go. In Pigeon Forge, fortify yourself at the Old Mill Pottery House and Cafe with soups, salads, sandwiches and old-school mains like pecan fried chicken, then browse through the charming nearby shops. Summer is hot with temperatures in the 80s, but normally less humid than surrounding areas due to the city's high elevation. The First Independence Day Parade in the Join the celebration in downtown Gatlinburg to mark our nations Independence Day with a spectacular 20-minute firework show starting at 11:00 p.m. BeginningMarch 1, 2023,valid parking tags will be required on any vehicles parking longer than 15 minutes. If you time your visit for April or May, you'll likely catch the explosion of spring wildflowers. More information is available at www.SevierCountyCovidHelp.com. It's accessible from the roads and from a gondola on the strip in the center of the city. The greatest danger in Gatlinburg, as with anywhere else you travel, is other people. Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces. Unfortunately, the answer isnt so clear-cut. Crime Grades map shows that the most dangerous areas of Gatlinburg are the neighborhoods in the towns south. And, of course, Pigeon Forge is home to the incredibly endearing Dollywood, local girl Dolly Partons empire of theme park, water park, resort, entertainment, food and mountain-fueled down-home fun. All is well. First Independence Day Parade in the Nation, Top 8 Things to Do This Summer in Gatlinburg, 5 Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg Memorial Day Weekend, Creativity Reigns in the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi. Welcome to our COVID-19 information center. The DOs & DON'Ts of Christmas in Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge Welcome to Gatlinburg, TN Is Gatlinburg Safe? - Virtual Smokies again. Dont venture off marked trails and know which route youll take before you enter the park. I have been going to both for 30 plus years. To access the national parks Elkmont section, where you can watch the fireflies in wonder, you have to sign up for a lottery. This small mountain town is a destination in its own right, and one that's particularly popular with families thanks to kid-friendly diversions like Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and the Sweet Fanny Adams Theatre. This means that the rate of crime in Gatlinburg is higher than it is in the average city in the U.S. During a standard year, the overall crime rate in Gatlinburg is 44.96 in 1,000. LeConte water is a necessity! Avoid low quality activities and take the downtown sky tram, with beautiful views, instead. Alpine Getaway 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms Red Roof Chalet 4 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms TRANQUIL MOMENTS 2 Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms Vacations may be costly, particularly for families. Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Visitor Centers in the park are open year-round, except Christmas Day. No fussing, no fighting and minimal flirting would be my marching orders for Pigeon Forge. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park often offers a 17% discount to those who plan their visit ahead of schedule, plus a special ticket-combo that includes access to the . However, its important to keep in mind that Gatlinburg receives significant levels of tourists throughout the year, and these numbers arent reflected in its population count. Recently, Sevier County has taken another step to encourage safe travel to the Smoky Mountains by issuing aFace Covering Requirementwhich goes into effect on July 10, 2020. Gatlinburg Coronavirus | Gatlinburg, TN Vacation | Elk Springs Resort We are not endorsed by, authorized by, or affiliated with any mentioned attractions. We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates. For waterpark fun, add on a visit to Dollywoods Splash Country, where you can cool off and clamber all over Bear Mountain Fire Tower and its seven slides. There are lots of t-shirt and candy shops, carnival games, and "gem mines" of questionable quality. You will be asked to register or log in. But that doesnt mean something cant happen. I feel very safe in both locations. Explore Gatlinburg, TN | Things to Do & The Great Smoky Mountains Plan Your Smoky Mountain Getaway We have miles of hiking trails in the mountains and tons of dining, attractions, shopping, and arts and crafts in town. For travel this summer, it seems, all eyes are on Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. The park'sremaining picnic areas close seasonally. There have been in recent years, at least anecdotally, a rise in wilder behavior in Pigeon Forge. Ill never forget this freedom wed always have in Gatlinburg, see the Ghost Show or going into the gag shop to buy stuff like fake 100 dollar bills that were folded and said Sucker when open to leave on the streets and then watch others lol. Going to Gatlingburg and Pigeon Forge- Coronavirus Scare - Tennessee If you long for the good old days of raised-track go-carting (or are toting the grandkids), strap on a helmet at Xtreme Racing Center. Wanna know where the locals eat in Pigeon Forge? Gatlinburg TN Travel Planning Guide - Gatlinburg Vacation Planning for When in public, wear a cloth face covering over your nose and mouth. But again, as long your kids know how to separate from unwanted notice, they should be fine. 9. Secondary roadsare subject toseasonal closures. I love the place. Pigeon Forge received a slightly higher grade of D-, while Sevierville also received a ranking of D-. Cades Cove, Deep Creek, Greenbrier and Metcalf Bottoms picnic areas are open year-round. As theft is one of the biggest risks, be mindful of your belongings at all times. The rates drop a little as you venture into more rural areas. The best time to visit Gatlinburg is between September and October. Gatlinburg was more smaller, friendlier, southern, and you always felt safe here. Then, youre more likely to have a better, safer trip. If you asked me if Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are safe for my children, the answer would still be yes, but with caveats. Plan far ahead to book your lodging, and prepare for slow-moving traffic. Pigeon Forge:Where to begin? Also, local fireflies blink in synchronous rhythm (a mating thing) for several weeks each year, usually between late May and early June (though it varies some). Information on appointment availability at local health departments can be found at https://covid19.tn.gov/covid-19-vaccines/availability/. With miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, as well as historical exhibits and cabins, and the opportunity to view black bears, elk, deer and other wildlife in their natural habitat, it's easy to see why the park is such a hot spot. Let us know in the comments. The providers terms, conditions and policies apply. Gatlinburg residents generally believe that its safest in the northwest area, which includes areas like Starkeytown and Little Cove. Gatlinburg, TN 37738 (856) 436-5423 Opened in 1973, this aerial tramway was built to provide a safer and cozier way to reach the ski area. For updated road information please call (865) 436-1200. Watch the weather Many secondary roads close during inclement weather, especially in the winter months. Car crashes are the most common cause of death in the park, which is in contrast to many other parks where the most common cause of death is falling. However, you'll need a car to take advantage of the scenic driving loops or to access areas of the national park that aren't within walking distance. Hike with a group, or at the very least, tell others where you plan to be. Wash your hands frequently. A good 20 second scrub with soap and water goes a long way to stop the spread of germs and COVID-19. Pennsylvania and I always feel safe in pigeon forge and Gatlinburg. TN With three entrances to Great Smoky Mountains National Park located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, it's no surprise that visiting the park is the most popular attraction in this eastern Tennessee town. The 5.5-mile-long, one-way, loop road is a favorite side trip for many people who frequently visit the Smokies. To understand why everything Dolly Parton touches is pure magic, visit Chasing Rainbows, Dollywoods museum about her life and career, including a replica of the two-room home where she grew up. Rocky Vs Smoky Mountains which is Better to Visit? Save. This means that there is a good chance of snow and ice. While there is not a state mandate in place, businesses in Sevier County can maintain Covid-19 restrictions and regulations at their discretion for the safety and well-being of their employees and guests. I tell them to stay away from the water without supervision. 75.119.223.251 Explore Gatlinburg, TN | Things to Do & The Great Smoky Mountains The Safest and Most Dangerous Places in Gatlinburg, TN: Crime Maps and Read Also: Is it safe to hike in the Smoky Mountains? I just spent a week at Pigeon Forge . From there, consider the mountain-style amusements like alpine slides and zip lines atRowdy Bear Mountain, Anakeesta and SkyLift Park. There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data. No. The Truth About Newfound Gap Road and Driving - Visit My Smokies Take a rollicking ride through Sedona's natural beauty in a rugged SUV. buffets, pizza joints and barbecue eateries. Governor Bill Lee has signed Executive Order 80, declaring the end of COVID-19 as a public health emergency in the state of Tennessee. Rates from $109. Travel Smarter! Webcams show current views at various park locations, updated every 15 minutes. Share this page on your favorite Social network, Sevier County Health Department expands vaccine eligibility and offers extended hours to increase access to COVID-19 vaccination. These gateway towns to the country's most-visited national park, Great Smoky Mountains, recently ranked in the top-three summer travel searches on Expedia (behind perennial Florida heavyweights Orlando and Destin). The world has changed. I highly recommend that people, children and teens included, utilize the local mass transit Trolleys. Click to reveal As of July 1, 2020: Businesses in the Great Smoky Mountains are open. They barely pay attention to other motorists around them. Are masks required in the National Park? It offers free rides during the summer and only a 50 cent regular fare. For larger airports with more flights, Atlanta to the south is about four hours away by car, and Charlotte, North Carolina, is about four hours to the east. Where is the Most Dangerous Place in Gatlinburg? Great Smoky Mountains National Park:Remember to check out our guide to Americas most popular national park, but heres a little advice from Great Smoky Mountains spokesperson Dana Soehn on how not to end up in the parks biggest tourist lures of Alum Cave Trail, Cades Cove and Clingman Dome. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it. Make sure you have access to a map that doesnt rely on internet access. Take in the parks many shows, enjoy little-kid-friendly areas, go full thrill on the Lightning Rod wood/steel hybrid roller coaster (max speed: 73 mph! AtDollywood, of course, where you can pay homage to an American treasure and her vision for family-style entertainment. Breweries:Craft breweries, which have popped up in the Smokies like wildflowers in April, make for great places to relax after an active day or as lunch and dinner destinations. For fun tastings and shopping, try the Ole Smoky Tennessee Distillery (three locations in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge) or the Old Forge Distillery and the more upscale Junction 35 Spirits, both in Pigeon Forge. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park 7,007 Observation Decks & Towers, Amusement & Theme Parks Ghost and Haunt Tour of Gatlinburg 897 from $30 per adult Top Rated Wine and Shine Walking Tour 393 from $48 per adult 2022 Moonshine Mountain Coaster 1,249 Amusement & Theme Parks 2022 Hillbilly Golf 2,247 Miniature Golf 2022 Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail 1,767 Know your limitations. Alum Cave Trail Locals prefer the iconic Pancake Pantry with many saying that you can't leave the Smokies without stopping in for some pancakes. Stay attentive, use common sense and typical travel caution, you should be fine. Sweets and moonshine:If you come to the Smokies and dont spend time perusing (and purchasing) delicious, nostalgically packaged fudge, taffy and other confections at Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen in its circa-1950s store in downtown Gatlinburg, then you need to go back and ask for a do-over. (865) 436-4178 Check the aurora borealis off your bucket list. Click Here. Are you safe in Rome? Travel Safe To Sevier County, TN Our cabins, campgrounds, condos, restaurants, attractions, stores and other establishments are working hard to ensure safe and enjoyable experiences for our guests under the Tennessee Pledge guidelines. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. In general, if you choose a trail not leading to a waterfall or an iconic peak, as soon as you walk a mile into the backcountry, the sights and sounds you experienced along the roadway disappear, Soehn says. Prior to the pandemic there was talk about a route that would even go out to the Bass Pro Shop and Stadium just north of I-40, along with stops out at the KnifeWorks. A scenic road trip through Knoxville and Chattanooga. Vacationers often start in Gatlinburg and make their way to one of the parks famous paths where they can find Theres Shoppingand Then, Theres Shopping Bring your best walking shoes. The rates drop a little as you venture into more rural areas. Holly Johnson|Marisa MndezApril 28, 2023, Brittany Chrusciel|Gwen PratesiApril 21, 2023, Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. ForsterApril 21, 2023, Lyn Mettler|Timothy J. ForsterApril 20, 2023, The U.S. News & World Report travel rankings are based on analysis of expert and user opinions. As for moonshine, you owe it a try (the commercial stuff wont kill you like the backcountry homemade stuff). Take your time (you can easily do this all day), shopping for everything from pottery and woodworks to fine leatherwork and specialty foods.