GATLINBURG, TN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

A Family Vacation Guide To The Appalachian Mountains

Nestled deep in the valley on the Little Pigeon River's west fork, Gatlinburg, TN is surrounded on three sides by the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Settled in the early 1800s, it's first was named White Oak Flats for the native white oak trees covering the land. It's said a middle-aged widow, named Martha Jane Huskey Ogle was the first settler. She came with her family to start a new life in what her late-husband said was a Land of Paradise. Not long after, families like the McCarter, Reagan and Trentham made residence along streams and hollows.

Around 1854, Radford C. Gatlin came to White Oak Flats and opened the Second General Store. In a short time controversy surrounded him and he was banished from White Oak Flats. However, the city still bears his name.

Gatlinburg did not changed much in the first century since it had been founded. When the Civil War erupted, locals had mixed feelings; some were for the Union, others the Confederacy. However, the people of White Oak Flats tried to stay neutral. Although only one Civil War skirmish was fought in Gatlinburg, TN, many raids had been made by both sides trying to get resources needed to keep the war effort going. For a lot of the South, deprivation and hardship stayed long after the war.

With the creation of the Appalachain National Park, tourism had a big boost in the Gatlinburg, TN area's economy. Many displaced mountain families moved into town, developing new enterprises or taking jobs in new hotels, restaurants and service facilities to meet the needs of the tourist industry.

Tourism slowed during World War II. But, by wars end, tourists returned with vengeance and the sleepy little village of Gatlinburg, TN expanded to meet the high demands. Formally incorporated in 1945, Gatlinburg, TN has since developed into a four-season resort and convention mecca.

While in Gatlinburg don't forget to visit the Mysterious Mansion

Gatlinburg's Mysterious Mansion

And take a cable car ride to Ober Gatlinburg

Ober Gatlinburg Cable Car

Enjoy the marvelous ice skating rink at the top of the mountain

Ice Rink At Ober Gatlinburg

Visit the unique car shows that are often held in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg, TN car show

Don't miss visiting the Aquarium In The Smoky's - it' the greatest aquarium found anywhere in the world !

Aquarium In The Smokies - Gatlinburg, TN

And if the day is rainy, by all means take a short drive on any of the roads outside of Gatlinburg; you'll be amazed at the majestic beauty before you.

Rainy Day In The Forest - Gatlinburg, TN

Today, boasting of the likes of the infamous 'Dollywood,' Gatlinburg, TN is a family 'must stop' if you are ever in the area!