By Julie Matthews
It is a wonderful time to visit the Tennessee Smokies. The Smoky Mountains are exceptional during every season, however, new attractions and milestone celebrations are elevating this favorite destination to the next level—if that is even possible!
In 2025 Dollywood Parks & Resorts is commemorating a major anniversary—40 years! The world-class park is also marking a couple other big milestones, including Dollywood’s Splash Country’s 25th season and its DreamMore Resort and Spa’s 10th anniversary. Dollywood grows bigger and better with each year, and with all of the excitement happening at the park, including special events and activities, this is a perfect time for a visit.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is another undeniable draw to the region. With all of its natural beauty, it is no wonder it is the most visited national park in the United States. With more than 150 trails covering over 800 miles, the park offers outdoor adventures like nowhere else in the world. Along with stunning scenic views at every turn, discover diverse ecosystems and historic sites throughout the park.
The Tennessee Smokies is also a destination offering top-notch entertainment. Pigeon Forge is a central hub with a number of family-friendly theater shows from comedy shows with good, clean fun to captivating dinner shows with different themes, such as Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction, the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud or the all-new Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show. (See this publication’s Theater Guide for more details.) Experiencing any of these high-quality shows will surely be an amazing addition to any itinerary.
Throughout the year, the towns in the Tennessee Smokies hosts incredible events, from large festivals attracting visitors from all over to small community events honoring local heritage. And due to the state’s rich musical history, it is no surprise that music events are particularly prevalent, with numerous festivals, concert series and other events showcasing the area’s talented music scene. Gatlinburg’s Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales—with event dates spanning through summer, fall and winter—is definitely something to mark on your calendar. Bluegrass fans definitely will not want to miss the 25th Annual Dumplin Valley Bluegrass Festival.
Along with Dollywood, the Tennessee Smokies offer many other family-friendly attractions. For an outdoors experience the entire family can share together, consider riding an alpine coaster, where you can control your own speed as you travel downhill. Or immerse yourself in one of the fascinating indoor attractions offering interactive experiences, such as the Titanic Museum.
Adults will enjoy tasting regional flavors at local distilleries, breweries and wineries. Add in the impressive dining options, with menu items for the whole family, and it is understandable why the Tennessee Smokies is such a spectacular travel destination with something for everybody.
