Category: Local Guides

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, TN, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Guests of Mountain Laurel Chalets vacation rentals often seek creative ways to have a nice time and enjoy nature. One of the most delightful ways to experience the beauty of this region is by enjoying a leisurely picnic surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. We're happy to share our suggestions for the best places to have a picnic near Gatlinburg, where you can savor a meal while soaking in the ...

When planning a vacation to the Smokies, guests hope for beautiful, sunny weather for mountain hikes and exploring Gatlinburg. However, sometimes weather doesn’t always cooperate, and you may find yourself with a rainy day during your vacation. Here’s a list of fun rainy day activities to do around Gatlinburg, when Mother Nature isn’t on our side! ...

For many of us, our vacations simply must include time with the family dog. Thankfully it's become easier than ever to bring our pets along with us when we travel! If one adequately plans ahead, most activities can be dog-inclusive, providing ample quality time with the furbabies. We are continually adding more pet-friendly Gatlinburg cabin rentals to our program as well (and when we say pet friendly, that only refers to dogs! Sorry, we can't allow cats at this time). ...

Ober Mountain (formerly Ober Gatlinburg) has long been a mainstay in the city of Gatlinburg. In spite of the many changes in the area over the last sixty years, Ober has remained largely the same and has built much of its reputation on the sense of nostalgia it provides. ...

Life is short and time with those we love is in limited supply. Yes, it's easy to become consumed by the routines and demands of daily life, but it's important to prioritize spending time with those we cherish, particularly our elderly loved ones. If you're seeking a destination to escape the monotony of everyday life and make unforgettable memories with family members like Mom and Dad, Grandpa and Grandma, and Aunts and Uncles, look no further than the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. With a wide ...

Gatlinburg is known for its quirky approach to tourism and long history of southern hospitality. It only makes sense that there is a long list of interesting (and fun) reasons our beloved city is simply irresistible. Enjoy a few of these little tidbits, and remember, it's always a good time to visit the magical city that is Gatlinburg. ...

The weather is starting to warm up and the flowers are starting to bloom which means that spring is just around the corner! You don’t have to venture far into the park to enjoy a hike. If you’re a beginner hiker looking for a leisurely walk... ...

Bears, bears everywhere! This year has been a year of bears. Recently, the Great Smoky Mountain’s National Park Service issued a park alert of increased bear activity. Although these furry creatures appear cute and cuddly, it’s important to keep in mind that they are wild and unpredictable animals. ...

History is everywhere here in East Tennessee! A walk down the Gatlinburg Parkway, consists of live folk and bluegrass music, old family recipes of homemade candies and shops filled with original artwork crafted by local artisans. Many of these skills and recipes have been passed... ...

Winter has officially arrived here in Gatlinburg! Snow has fallen which means road conditions can become a little unpredictable on these mountain roads. Provided are some resources for visitors planning a winter escape to the Great Smoky Mountains. City Updates For city updates, follow Gatlinburg on .. ...