Quick Answers to 7 Most Asked Questions About Gatlinburg

Some of these will sound a little vague and repetitive, but I’d like to briefly answer some of the most asked questions about Gatlinburg. They say there’s no such thing as a stupid question. Sure, that may be true, but I have seen some doozies in some groups. My intention is not to be mean and degrading. Gatlinburg sees many first-time visitors on a daily basis. Hopefully, this list can be shared to someone who is thinking about a Smoky Mountain vacation, and maybe they’ll think twice before posting in a group where they will likely get a snarky response from the many keyboard warriors that populate the social media-sphere.

1. What’s the Weather Like?

I put this one first because it’s probably a daily ask on Facebook. Tennessee weather is fickle and unpredictable. I always advise people to check the weather forecast daily starting a week prior to their visit. That way they can pack whatever clothes they are comfortable with, instead of spending a cool couple hundred on warm gear.

2. What are the Chances of Seeing a Bear?

Pretty good if you have a wide variety of activities that include places like Cades Cove and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. If you’re staying at a cabin in the mountain, again, your chances are good. Don’t count on it though. And, be careful what you wish for. Keep your doors locked, please don’t feed them, and keep your distance. Mama bear won’t be happy if your trying to close in on her cubs.

3. Where Should We Eat?

If you ask me, there are no bad places to eat in Gatlinburg. There are hidden gems, not-so-hidden hot spots, and good Southern grub all around. It’s hard to tell someone where to eat without some information on what kind of cuisine they want. Plus, it’s subjective, so I would feel guilty guiding someone to some place they ended up disliking. Go with your gut, and check out Facebook groups, and my page of course, for what people are saying.

4. Where Should I Park?

For the love of Christmas, if you are able-bodied, hit the $10 lots at the Aquarium or the Fred McMahan Parking Garage at light #3. I cringe when I see people park in $20 or $25 lots, then complain about it. Better yet, find a hotel in town, and walk everywhere without paying for parking. If you have problems walking, I suggest the Park-N-Ride at the Welcome Center and utilizing the trolley free of charge. There are a few hourly lots if you won’t be in Gatlinburg long. Two of note: one by Hillbilly Golf, and one on River Road by Tom and Earl’s Back Alley Grill. I know the latter is $2 per hour, and Hillbilly Golf is either $1 or $2. I can check back with you on that.

5. Will it Be Busy?

Depends on your idea of busy, but Gatlinburg is the Gateway to the most visited national park in the country, so that’s your first clue. Weekdays are normally not bad at all unless it’s July or October. Sometimes you can tell when kids are on a school break during the year in the area, but that varies. Weekends are almost always busy no matter the time of year, and you will likely be waiting in line for food and attractions. Do it at your own peril, and don’t be disgusted that thousands had the same thought. Also check the events calendar before you go. Car shows are the worst for traffic, noise and overall, it can be a nuisance to everyone. I’m not talking about the majority of people who enjoy them. It’s always a minority ruining it.

6. Is it Hard to Find a Place to Live?

This is more for people like myself who actually made it happen after a long process of dreaming about it. Likely, it’ll be very tough. We found a place to live at a fairly new apartment complex in town, but we had to wait 5 months, and you could be waiting longer. We feel very lucky. Real estate prices are high because it is a desired place to live for many people, so if you are looking to buy, be prepared for some sticker shock.

7. What Should We Do If It Rains?

Well, you have a few options. I’ll give you three: Put on a rain poncho and go about things like you normally would; stay inside and hope it stops soon; go visit an attraction or eatery in town. I get it. I don’t like bringing an umbrella (another option) and dealing with the rain, but it happens here, and you should be happy being in Gatlinburg anyway. If not, unfortunately, it isn’t for you.

Obviously, there are many other questions that are asked, but hopefully it helps if you or someone you know is planning a visit. Again, you’re going to get many answers on Facebook, but you can get a good idea if you’re not too sensitive. Some people will be rude, so keep that in mind as well. I will probably get hate for this post alone:) Happy planning! Do lots of it!

Thank you for reading and subscribing to my publication. I want to make my posts purposeful, and I’m happy to give some guidance, and maybe a little entertainment from time to time. Stay tuned for much more from me, including a wrap-up of the Chili Cookoff! I appreciate you all!