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5 Things I Won’t Do Again In Gatlinburg

by Corey Piccirillo
5 Things I Won't Do Again In Gatlinburg

I’ve been visiting Gatlinburg, Tennessee since I was a child, and it’s one of my favorite vacation spots. From its classic mountain town charm to endless outdoor activities, it has something for everyone. But even though I still love spending time in Gatlinburg, there are certain things that I won’t do again anytime soon! So if you’re considering booking a trip to Gatlinburg anytime soon – here are 5 things I won’t do again in Gatlinburg!

Things I Won't Do Again In Gatlinburg - Drive The Mountains At Night

1. Driving in the mountains at night

Driving in the mountains at night can be dangerous, especially in an unfamiliar place like Gatlinburg. Not only is visibility dramatically reduced, but the terrain is more difficult to navigate in the dark. The Great Smoky Mountains are well known for having very steep slopes. Additionally, more wildlife is present, increasing the risk of an animal-related collision. It is best to avoid driving in the mountains at night in Gatlinburg, instead opting for a daytime drive.

Looking for what to do in Gatlinburg? You can always check out Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg

2. Try to do too much in one day without a plan

Gatlinburg is full of activities and attractions, so it can be easy to get overwhelmed with all the options and try to do too much in one day. This can end up making your trip more stressful and less enjoyable. In the future, I will plan out my days in Gatlinburg before I arrive and be sure to factor in time for rest. I will also make sure to prioritize the activities and attractions I want to see the most and make sure I have enough time to enjoy them. Also, don’t be afraid to spread out your activities over a few days. You don’t have to try and cram everything into a single day. Gatlinburg offers plenty, so take your time and enjoy the experience. 

Things I Won't Do Again In Gatlinburg - Driving In The Smokies Without Maps Downloaded

3. Drive down the winding mountain roads without GPS downloaded

The winding mountain roads of Gatlinburg can be very challenging, even for the most experienced drivers. Driving without GPS can be dangerous due to the unfamiliarity of the terrain and the potential for dangerous turns and curves. It is highly recommended that you use downloaded GPS maps if you plan on driving in the area, as it can help you stay on the right route and avoid potentially dangerous situations. This allows you to access your maps even if you have no cellular or internet connection – which you most likely won’t have in the mountains.

Things I Won't Do Again In Gatlinburg - Skip Out On Local Cuisine

4. Skip out on the local cuisine

Gatlinburg offers a wide variety of local cuisine you won’t want to miss! From the unique flavors of the local restaurants to the delicious treats from the many candy shops, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your appetite. Local cuisine is often some of the most unique and flavorful food in the world, and it can be a great way to get to know the culture and people of a place. Be sure to take advantage of the opportunity to explore the local food scene and experience the culture of Gatlinburg.

Things I Won't Do Again In Gatlinburg - Spend Too Much Time In Souvenir Shops

5. Spend too much time in the souvenir shops

Although Gatlinburg has some excellent souvenir shops, there are also plenty of other activities to enjoy. Some of the most popular outdoor activities include exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, hiking along the Appalachian Trail, taking a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway, and rafting and fishing on the Little Pigeon River. There are also plenty of unique attractions and entertainment options to explore, such as Ober Gatlinburg, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, and Anakeesta. With so much to do, there’s no reason to miss out on all the great activities Gatlinburg offers! You can always grab a quick souvenir at the Knoxville airport (if you took a plane to travel) or go to Parkway in downtown Gatlinburg to grab a souvenir. 

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Gatlinburg is a great place to visit, but there are some things you should avoid. Make sure you call us for discounts on your next trip to make sure you’re getting the best deal! We look forward to helping you plan your next vacation in the beautiful Smoky Mountains.

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