Let me preface this post by saying that this area provides enough content for dozens of posts. The amount of attractions, restaurants, lodging, and entertainment that are packed into this area is overwhelming. We love this area for a variety of reasons, but always visit on our way somewhere else, so we usually don’t spend more than two nights at a time. You could easily spend a week or more exploring and not scratch the surface. This post will cover what we did in the 2 nights we visited in July 2023. I will add on and link additional trips and national park info in the future.

The popular Synchronous Firefly viewing dates will be announced April 25th, and the lottery will take place Friday, April 28th. Mark your calendars for a chance to be chose for parking passes for this iconic event in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.