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Insider tip: Lots of folks aim for October; come in September or November instead, and youll still see loads of color but with fewer crowds. For instance, I never sat in a safety seat. Prevention is key. Know your limitations. Sevier County Health Department expands vaccine eligibility and offers extended hours to increase access to COVID-19 vaccinationThe Sevier County Health Department continues to offer COVID-19 vaccines and testing. Webcams show current views at various park locations, updated every 15 minutes. We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Then, youre more likely to have a better, safer trip. Yes, masks are still required when riding the public trolley transportation system in Gatlinburg. Just be mindful of the potential dangers, particularly theft, and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. From there, consider the mountain-style amusements like alpine slides and zip lines atRowdy Bear Mountain, Anakeesta and SkyLift Park. Honestly I dont believe our kids are completely safe anywhere but when they reach a certain age they have to be allowed a certain amount of independence and if weve done our job right as a good parent they have been taught the type of places and people they should steer clear of and to always be aware of who is around them at all timesmost importantly if at any time they feel like they are in danger seek help, in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg there is always a person or a shop within arms reach where they can find help. Secondary roadsare subject toseasonal closures. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) maintains water gages that measure flow, river height, and temperature at Little River near Townsend, TN and in Cataloochee Creek in North Carolina. Sevierville is full of outlet malls and has a mini golf range. And its a city built for walking with easily defined boundaries that limit the possibilities for misunderstandings. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. However, that doesnt mean you should avoid this unique destinationjust be aware of the potential dangers and take steps to protect yourself. Best Months to Visit. There are significantly more in some of the surrounding counties. Keep in mind that the towns built these activities specifically to attract tourists. The mountains are calling, and we are here to help you answer, safely. Rates from $125, Smack in the center of town and an easy walk from shopping and attractions, the Historic Gatlinburg Inn offers reasonable prices that include breakfast. But as usual when were traveling, Im more alert, more aware and even more cautious of like wild life. During a standard year, the overall crime rate in Gatlinburg is 44.96 in 1,000. However, millions of people pass through the park each year and are perfectly fine. For individuals who received a Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, the following groups are eligible for a booster shot at 6 months or more after they complete the initial series: 65 years and older Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settingsIndividuals who are 18 years and older and received the single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine, a booster dose is recommended at 2 or more months after the initial vaccine.Eligible individuals may choose which vaccine they receive as a booster dose. Millions of people visit Gatlinburg every year and have a wonderful experience, but that doesnt mean the town is completely safe. Child under 2 must either sit in laps or in seats: There are children in rooms without an adult, Please select a trip duration less than 28 days, There must be at least 1 traveler (age 12+) for each infant in a lap. Practice social distancing and wear a face mask in public spaces. All Rights Reserved. The Health Department will also offer Everlywell Self-Test kits Monday through Friday.The Sevier County Health Department is now offering booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines to certain populations, as of Monday, October 25. Be smart, be firm and you should be fine. The river through Gatlinburg isnt necessarily deep though in heavy rainy seasons it may be somewhat dangerous but that mountain water can be cold with decent currents. Let us know in the comments. Governor Bill Lee has signed Executive Order 80, declaring the end of COVID-19 as a public health emergency in the state of Tennessee. The health and safety of our visitors and employees remains a top priority when welcoming guests back to our area. (865) 436-4178 The National Park does not require masks when social distancing is available outdoors. There is no bad season to visit both towns bustle with shops, shows, events and festivals year-round, and the national park and the areas natural areas are beautiful in every season as well. Its a legit question. Sign up for our free newsletter. My parents turned me loose around age 14 with my 12 year old brother. Pigeon Forge received a slightly higher grade of D-, while, being mindful of what you leave in your hotel room. Plenty of resort towns claim to be year-round destinations, but Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, is truly a place you can visit no matter what date is showing on the calendar.With lively festivals, fall colors, summer hiking and more, there's always something to do in Gatlinburg (and the neighboring towns of Pigeon Forge and Sevierville) every month . Click to reveal Backcountry (backpacking) campsites are open year-round. Bring a map. The rates drop a little as you venture into more rural areas. Am I Required to Wear a Mask? Its a great time to relax in nature with fewer crowds and challenges with high-pressure tourist traps. According to National Parks Traveler, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the most notorious parks for people going missing, with. Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Resorts:Is there anything Dolly Parton cant do? Make Gatlinburg your basecamp for adventure. again. 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. There have been in recent years, at least anecdotally, a rise in wilder behavior in Pigeon Forge. 2023 Visit My Smokies, The ONLY site you need to plan your Smoky Mountain vacation, is a website owned and operated by Sevier County, Tennessee. City of Gatlinburg FacebookCity of Gatlinburg Police Department FacebookCity of Gatlinburg Twitter. Are masks required in the National Park? For updated road information please call (865) 436-1200. For updated road information please call (865) 436-1200. Read Also: Is it safe to hike in the Smoky Mountains? The aquarium and museums are also worthwhile, and some visitors enjoy the saltwater taffy. Rates from $150. In Pigeon Forge drivers are not looking for pedestrians crossing the main drag. The two peak seasons in Gatlinburg are summer (June, July and August) and the month of October, when the fall foliage is at its zenith. If you're looking for a more upscale menu or a special occasion spot, consider Buckberry Creek Lodge. Ah, the hypocrisy is strong with this one. This retired the regulation that visitors must wear masks in all public areas. Appointments are encouraged but not required. Here some seasonal highlights to consider. I like to think for myself. 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. Though this mountain town does boast a few fine dining establishments, Gatlinburg's culinary scene bread and butter is its casual restaurants. Most incidents are either a burglary, robbery, theft or auto theft. And break in your hiking boots before leaving home. My family loves Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, as a rule we always do everything as a family except when we stay at The Island, there they are allowed to go and come as they please but with a curfew and their cell phones in their pocket to check in with us. But that doesnt mean something cant happen. Use common sense and keep your valuables locked and protected. Most visitors to the Gatlinburg area travel by car. A fun choice: the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, a cornball night of slapstick comedy, over-the-top acting and lots of stunt action. Avoid low quality activities and take the downtown sky tram, with beautiful views, instead. Make Gatlinburg your basecamp for adventure. Most commonly, folks might get into trouble if they do not properly prepare. Id been walking several blocks by myself as a kindergartner. Statistics show that Gatlinburg has higher crime rates than most people would expect of the charming mountain town. 13 Best Museums in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg With Coupons, Who Has the Best Fried Chicken in Pigeon Forge? 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. The city of Gatlinburg is easily walkable and the inexpensive trolley that operates 365 days a year offers service to nearby attractions. Statistically speaking, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the third-most dangerous national park in the country. I have been going to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge several times a year since I was a kid. 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 Sevier County mask mandate officially expired on April 15, 2021, at 11:59 pm. However, this world has gotten so stupid and people have gotten so petty and there are so many criminals and entitled people roaming around with no respect for themselves or other people, you now have to be more vigilant. Pigeon Forge has carnival rides that arent very scary and shows like Comedy Barn and the Black Bear Jamboree. Watch out for wildlife. 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. Our site produces editorial content for the purpose of entertainment. In Pigeon Forge or Sevierville, I would set boundaries differently. 100 search-and-rescue missions each year. I was warned to stay away from suspicious vans and strangers and people with candy. While there are many alternative ways to save on admission costs to Gatlinburg's top attractions, but one of the best last-minute saves is purchasing tickets online. The Smoky Mountains are open and we cant wait to see you! Once redeemed, tickets will be valid until closing time that same evening.". The best time to visit Gatlinburg is between September and October. 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. There are lots of t-shirt and candy shops, carnival games, and "gem mines" of questionable quality. Booster vaccines are also widely available from pharmacies, medical clinics, and other sites. Family-owned and operated Stony Brook Cabins has cabins with one to 15 bedrooms, in rustic and chalet styles. The research weve curated consistently shows that several forms of crime are an issue in Gatlinburg. #9 inBest Weekend Getaways in New England. Dinner shows are big in Pigeon Forge, too. Its old fashioned as all get-out, and the family will love it. The trolley system also links to a park-and-ride lot at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center (1011 Banner Road), just outside of town. We have miles of hiking trails in the mountains and tons of dining, attractions, shopping, and arts and crafts in town. It's the perfect time to start planning your Summer Gatlinburg getaway. Be careful of tourists traps downtown, which has a numbers of expensive things to do. Once you confirm that subscription, you will regularly Enjoy the efficiency of an organized tour led by experts who bring Rome's history to life. 1594 ft) Last Update: 12:19 pm EDT Apr 30, 2023. Why does the world flock here? You've come to the right place (photos by Morgan Overholt and Bill Burris/TheSmokies.com), Gatlinburg was built on a rich and interesting history (left photo by Morgan Overholt/TheSmokies.com; right photo public domain). We encourage your group to stay together and maintain a physical distance of 6+ feet apart from others. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the third-most dangerous national park in the country. The operating hours, policies and procedures of other businesses may change at any time without notice. No. After years of crafting their wares in downtown streets 811 East Parkway, P.O. To access the national parks Elkmont section, where you can watch the fireflies in wonder, you have to sign up for a lottery. The greatest danger in Gatlinburg, as with anywhere else you travel, is other people. Mingo Falls. or Cary, Indiana ? Wireless Emergency Alerts; . Crime Grade lists the most common forms of crime in Gatlinburg as theft, vehicle theft, burglary, assault, vandalism, and drug crimesall dangers created by other people. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate and a partner of other affiliate programs including Booking.com, CJ and Tripster, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases via links found in this article. buffets, pizza joints and barbecue eateries. Again, Id tell them to stay away from water and from strangers seeking their attention. 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. Lunch and dinner:The blue Tennessee skies are the limit here. Ive never seen so many stolen cars I my life. Visitors can get so caught up in the rides, games, and shops that they miss enjoying the . Crisp fall days in October when the foliage reaches its flaming peak draw huge crowds, and visitors can expect traffic delays, especially on holiday weekends. Cloudflare Ray ID: 7c083de07de7fda9 Gatlinburgs downtown streets can get congested, so smart visitors leave their cars where theyre staying and hop on the bright-orange trolleys of the free Gatlinburg Trolley System, which links major spots with the mass transit center at Ripleys Aquarium of the Smokies. There are lots of t-shirt and candy shops, carnival games, and gem mines of questionable quality. All is well. 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. Make sure you have access to a map that doesnt rely on internet access. So when it comes down to it, is Gatlinburg safe? Expect the best but prepare for the worst. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi. The mountains are magical, with their heralded smoky mists that nestle among their ridges and cloak their verdant valleys; their myriad streams, rivers and waterfalls providing a near-soundtrack to every corner of the park and its surrounds; and their stunning variegated ridgelines changing colors throughout the seasons. Read Also: Is it better to stay in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge? Both towns have doubled down on their attractions since those early days. It also has tiny houses (from $170) and canvas tents with comfy beds, private toilets and hot showers (from $159). Nearby Pigeon Force and Sevierville are also have many tourist traps. You're On Vacation, So Treat Yourself | Dining in Gatlinburg, TN. She is the travel editor at Coastal Living magazine, and her writing appears regularly in publications includingFood & Wine, Southern Living, Travel + LeisureandVeranda. The providers terms, conditions and policies apply. 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. 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. 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. Gatlinburg was more smaller, friendlier, southern, and you always felt safe here. In Pigeon Forge, Dollywoods opening day is in March, and the Dollywood Flower and Food Festival runs from April through June. For some Pigeon Forge-esque fun, check outRipleys Aquarium of the Smokiesand theHollywood Star Cars Museum, where you can ogle rides from hit movies and TV shows including Batman and Ghostbusters, see the Beach Boys 1955 Thunderbird, and lots more. I am from. Gatlinburg ranked in the 20th percentile for safety. How does Gatlinburg Compare with Nearby Cities? more information on current conditions Daily operating hours for visitor centers. I agree entirely. Uber does service the airport, but a ride to Gatlinburg will likely be pricey. When in public, wear a cloth face covering over your nose and mouth. The only gripe among diners: the eatery only accepts cash. The world has changed. What is the Greatest Danger in Gatlinburg? You can email the site owner to let them know you were blocked. But youve got to hike to it, and its a steep 5- to 9-mile climb (depending on the trail you choose) that can take most of the day. We've compiled the ultimate list of things to do this summer in Gatlinburg offers a variety of activities, attractions, and scenic adventures to get you through the three-day weekend. Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue then throw the tissue in the trash. We are not endorsed by, authorized by, or affiliated with any mentioned attractions. Stay attentive, use common sense and typical travel caution, you should be fine. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates. Determine how your current coverage works and what options to consider. Gatlinburg is one of Tennessees most popular travel destinations, but is Gatlinburg safe? Gatlinburg is often considered the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains (photo by Hendrickson Photography/shutterstock.com). Dont venture off marked trails and know which route youll take before you enter the park. Put simply, 80% of cities in the U.S. are safer than Gatlinburg. I spent my teenage years here and my parents always allowed me to run around Gatlinburg with my two younger siblings and always stayed at one of the local places on the strip or at Cars at the entry by the river. Once you hear a voice, press 1, then press 1 for road information or 2 for a weather forecast. Anakeesta in winter. Vacations may be costly, particularly for families. Check. And they are never seen again. Admission fees for adults are $28.99 and for children are $19.99. If your feet get tired, take the inexpensive trolley to explore locally. When youre in town, these tips will help you avoid tourist traps and focus on the best attractions. Gatlinburg is in the 20th percentile for safety, meaning 80% of cities are safer and 20% of cities are more dangerous. Hiking in the Smokies is one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg. Just crowded. The Gatlinburg area is a drive destination so human to human contact, which according to health experts is poses the highest exposure risk, with unfamiliar people in congested public places such as an airport or closer exposure on an airplane are minimized.

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