Something they don’t tell you about being a parent is that you constantly have to be thinking in the present and the future. For example, presently I am thinking about what ingredients I have at home to make dinner, when am I supposed to give the dog his medicine and what time do I need to leave the house to get to basketball on time. Simultaneously I’m thinking about what summer camps my kids will want to take, when is their next dentist appointment and what the heck are we going to do for Spring Break?!
Why the Smokies, you ask?
First of all, getting there is easy. For many of us, Gatlinburg is a “hop in the car with a few snacks” distance away not a “how long does it take to get to the airport, make it through security, sit for an hour before our two hour flight” distance away.
Second of all, Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains are the perfect combination of family-friendly entertainment, shopping and dining alongside the adventure and beauty of the great outdoors. As a parent, I get that “I’m doing something right” feeling when my kids are playing outside, enjoying nature and entertaining themselves in creative ways.” The Smokies offer just that!
What is there to do there?Â
Ask anyone who’s been to Gatlinburg and they will have their list of favorite attractions, restaurants, trails and more. There is so much to do that everyone has different agenda ideas. But here are a few that top everyone’s list:
Anakeesta: Located in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg, Anakeesta combines the beauty and tranquility of nature with the thrills of an adventure park. Our kids love trekking to the top of Anavista Tower, exploring along the Treetop Skywalk, traversing the Treeventure Challenge Course and discovering all the features of the new Birdventure that includes larger-than-life birdhouses to play in, adventure zones, and giant slides that wind you down more than 50 feet of mountain!
This Spring Break you can also enjoy Anakeesta’s Shamrock Celebration taking place March 14-17th. Their fun take on St. Patrick’s Day features all things Irish including bagpipers, dancers, a green waterfall and seasonal food and drinks.
Dollywood: The award-winning theme park is as entertaining as its namesake. We always spend a full day at Dollywood and leave happy, exhausted and completely entertained. We started going when our kids were really young and there are so many great options for younger kids. But as they’ve gotten older we get to enjoy more of the coasters! Of course, we always take in a live show because if it’s a Dolly-approved show you know it will not disappoint!
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Spring weather can be a bit finicky so it’s always good to have a rainy day plan. Our go-to is Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Walk through underwater tunnels that give you a 360 degree view of an impressive variety of sea creatures including 12-foot sharks. Our favorite is walking through “penguin town” which is what my kids call the large penguin exhibit.
Scenic Hikes: Whether you’ve got a slow-moving three year old or some adventure-seeking teenagers, there are hikes to accommodate every outdoorsman. A few to consider are:
Cataract Falls: a one-mile, fully paved walk to a lovely waterfall.
Chimney Tops Trail: a more rugged 3.3 mile trek with spectacular views at the top.
Grotto Falls:Â a 2.6 mile round trip hike to a beautiful 25-foot waterfall. You can even walk beyond the fall!
Cades Cove:Â If a scenic drive is more your pace, this loop is often a great place to spot different wildlife.
Where Should we stay?Â
There are a plethora of options when it comes to where to stay in the Smokies, but be warned, they book up during busy seasons which includes Spring Break.
Hideaways- This collection of cabins are nestled into the mountains giving them a private and secluded feel, yet are still close to the center of Gatlinburg. Some are even within walking distance of town. The rustic charm of the cabins combined with the comfort of modern amenities make for the perfect mountain getaway.
Long Springs Tiny Homes– Long Springs Tiny Homes is a collection of 16 unique and charming tiny homes that will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a story book. Nestled in the woods, Long Springs also includes several common areas that feature grills, firepits, a playground, hammocks and more.
Margaritaville- If you’d like more resort-style accommodations check out Margaritaville Gatlinburg. It offers the laid-back luxury they are known for including a high-end spa and resort-style pool, but located in the center of Gatlinburg close to shopping, dining and hiking options.
I hope this gives you the jumpstart you need to start making those Spring Break plans to the Smokies because, as they say, it’ll be here before you know it!
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