Celebrate Irish Month at the Titanic!

Come see if you have the luck of the Irish this month at the Titanic Museum Attraction. What do we mean by that you say? Well, all month long the Titanic in Pigeon Forge will be celebrating Irish month by focusing on the people, culture, and history of the small European country that built the Titanic. The Titanic was built in Belfast, Ireland in 1911.

As is becoming custom each year, the Titanic Museum Attraction shines its light on Ireland in March, with Irish stories, music, and dancing. The Titanic takes St. Patrick’s Day and turns it into an entire month of green festivities.

Want to know what it was like for passengers boarding the ship, their lives, the times, then visit Pigeon Forge’s Titanic attraction. Guests can walk down the hallways, cabins, and even the Grand Staircase of the Titanic – just as it was when it set sail on its maiden, yet fateful voyage. Want to know what that iceberg really felt like? You can. You can even dip your hands into 28 degree water and view over 400 personal artifacts from Titanic passengers that were recovered from the ship. It’s a collection that’s valued at over $4.5 million. A few of the items are on display to the public for the first time ever.

The Titanic’s Memorial Room contains the over two thousand names of passengers and crew who were aboard the Titanic when it sank. As previously mentioned, you can view the Grand Staircase, the heart of the Titanic. The beautiful glass dome illuminates the room where many guests made their appearance on the Titanic.

The dates for Irish month are officially March 1-30. Guests can even explore their own Irish roots with genealogy experts. You never know, maybe even one of your relatives was on the Titanic.

The Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, TN is located on the main Parkway. The museum is open from 9am to 5pm. Admission is $20.68 per person. Children 5-12 are $10.77, and children under five years of age are free. Group passes are available.

For more information call 1 (800) 381-7670.

Dollywood’s River Rush Almost Complete!

River Rush, the new $6 million water coaster slated to open in May at Dollywood’s Splash Country, is nearing the completion stages despite quite a burst of winter weather the past few months.

Officials said recently that it’s 95 percent complete and a Mother’s Day weekend grand opening is right on target. RiverRush will be the state’s first water coaster and will be visible from Veterans Boulevard at the western end of the park

If you’re familiar with Dollywood, and especially Dollywood’s Splash Country, River Rush will lay on over an acre of land in a newly-developed area between Splash Country’s Big Bear Plunge and Bear Mountain Fire Tower.

When it opens, RiverRush will transport riders up a conveyor belt before being propelled up hills and around curves. In all, it’s a four-story ride where riders climb 237 feet before making a 25-foot, 45-degree drop through tunnels, rapids and three more drops. It’s one minute and 20 seconds of thrilling splashes and drops.

Construction on River Rush officially started in August and was initially estimated to run to $5 million before a few unforeseen rocks got in the way causing project costs to increase.

In other park news, details of Dollywood’s 2014 expansion are expected to be announced this summer. It will be located on the site of Adventure Mountain, which closed at the end of last season. The project has been billed as as “a significant family attraction” in scope between the park’s $17.5 million Mystery Mine steel coaster and $20 million Wild Eagle, the first wing coaster in the U.S.

With Splash Country’s new water attraction and Dollywood’s Wild Eagle addition last year, Splash Country hopes to increase its attendance by about 10 percent to more than 400,000 visitors, according to park officials.

The water park will open a couple of weeks early this year to have Dolly Parton, who will be in town to kick off Pigeon Forge Springfest, present at its launch.

Dollywood opens to the public on March 22, 2013. Splash Country opens May 11, with a special opening on May 10 for season pass holders.

Plan a Couples Retreat in Pigeon Forge

Planning on getting away with that special someone, but can’t decide on the destination? Well, take a closer look at Pigeon Forge. It’s the perfect locale for a couple’s retreat with its myriad of attractions, dining opportunities, and Smoky Mountain cabins, hotels and bed and breakfasts.

To make the most out of your trip, we suggest checking into one of Pigeon Forge’s many Smoky Mountain cabin rentals. These cabins provide spectacular views of the Smokies while giving you a more intimate feel, more so than a hotel or a bed and breakfast. With your own Pigeon Forge cabin, it’s just you two, the view, and a slew of new memories.

That afternoon or evening, head on over for dinner at Mama’s Farmhouse or the Applewood Farmhouse Grill and enjoy some of the area’s best Southern cooking. If you choose the later, you can even go on a nice walk down by the Little Pigeon River before or after dinner. Maybe you want want some desert? The Apple Valley Creamery is located on the premises and serves some of the best ice cream and baked goods you’re likely to find anywhere in the Smokies.

You can finish off that first day with one of the area’s best shows or attractions. Located within a stone’s throw of each other are the Titanic Museum attraction, WonderWorks, the Lumberjack Feud dinner show and the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud.

That next day, hit up the Log Cabin Pancake House for a great breakfast and do a little shopping at some of Pigeon Forge’s many shopping destinations – The Christmas Place, Tanger Five Oaks Outlet Mall, or Old Mill Square. That afternoon, stop by a local grocery store and get a few things for a picnic in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  There are so many places to choose from, but one of the best places to take a lunch is Cades Cove, just outside Pigeon Forge in Townsend, TN. Eat in the Cades Cove picnic area then walk around and look at all the historical Cades Cove buildings.

That night, before heading back to the cabin take in what you missed the first night. Whether it be a show, an attraction, whatever. Maybe you want to scoot on over to Gatlinburg and peruse some of their downtown shops and attractions. Go for it! Between Ripley’s Aquarium and all the other spots downtown there’s plenty to fill up an evening. Either way, come back to Pigeon Forge and take in the town one more time before leaving the following day and make plans to come again with your someone special for another memorable time in the Smokies.

Dollywood Express

Hop Aboard the Dollywood Express!

With the popularity of Thomas the Tank engine, it is no wonder that kids from across the country are thrilled when they find out that there is an actual steam locomotive at Dollywood.  And what’s more… you can ride it up around the park for one of the best rides in the park and one of the best ways to take in the park as a whole.  And it Christmas they take this ride to a whole new level by adding lights and the sounds of the Holiday Season to the ride.

The Dollywood Express, the engine and the track came from theme park owner Grover Robbins.  Robbins had built a theme park n Blowing Rock, NC called Tweetsie Railroad.  After acquiring a new engine for his theme park in Blowing Rock, he placed a second one in Pigeon Forge at a new park called Rebel Railroad.  This train, and Rebel Railroad opened in 1961.  That train that started on the tracks in the 60s is still in operation today.  It is a USATC S118 Class 2-8-2 and came from the White Pass.  Engine #192 from this deal – otherwise known as Klondike Katie – is still in operation today at Dollywood.  Along with this engine, they also have engine #70, known as Cinderella that runs on the Dollywood Express track throughout the year.

The train ride is hugely popular.  There is just something to be said for sitting in the passenger cars being pulled behind a steam locomotive that makes the ride up the mountain even more enjoyable.  People line up more than a half hour before the ride leaves the station to make sure that they get a good seat on the train.  After you board, the station master will give you some brief instructions and then you will start your trip up the mountain.  You ride through the theme park itself for most of the ride.  Yo get to wave at the crowds as you journey up into the mountains.  On your trip you will get to see the backside of Dollywood, dioramas of mountain life including a replica farm and of course, you get one of the best views of Dollywood ever – from the moving grandeur of a more then 75 year old steam train.

Make the Dollywood Express part of your Dollywood experience.  Make sure that you get there early.  Make sure you get a good seat.  Buy some refreshments for the journey.  Watch in delight, the children sitting around you.  Marvel at the way their eyes grow as they listen to the steam whistle out of the train and the music that the train makes on the tracks as it journeys through the mountains.

Pigeon Forge Map

With all the new technology that is out there today – GPS, navigation, smart phones, etc., you’d think that the need for actual maps, or road atlases for that matter, would just die out. And while a good portion of people don’t even consider using much less purchasing maps anymore, there are still thousands who come to Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains every year and ask for a map of the area.

Maybe it’s just an old habit, who knows. Whatever the reason is, with so many streets and traffic lights to remember, as well as shops, directions to and from places, a map can still be a pretty handy thing around these parts. Wants to know what road you’ll find at the intersection with traffic light No. 2 in Pigeon Forge? Better find yourself a map, or just glance at the one in this post.

Most places in town offer up their own map with their business, as well as other major attractions highlighted on the map or brochure. It’s still a great way to market whatever you may be offering. Ask any of the major attractions or restaurants around here, they’ve been carrying out this practice for decades. People still remember places that way, especially those vacationing in the area who end up packing their brochure away then discovering it once they return home. It’s almost like you’ve put your own personal stamp on them. The map is just a reminder of the great time they had while vacationing in Pigeon Forge.

So, besides the map to the right, where can you find a Pigeon Forge map around town? Well, if you’re at a place like the Tanger Five Oaks Outlet Mall, you’re bound to see a large brochure, or area attractions stand at some point while you’re walking between shops. There is also a large stand in the hallway that leads to the public restrooms at Tanger near Gap. You’re also sure to find one if you’re at any of the major attractions along the Parkway like the Titanic Museum attraction, Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, or Lumberjack Feud.

Maps are just another way to connect all your favorite shows, attractions, restaurants, and shops in Pigeon Forge. It’s a way of discovering the Smokies that isn’t totally extinct just yet. And there’s just something about them that makes you think that they’ll continue to help guide visitors for years to come.

Gigi’s Cupcakes in Pigeon Forge

If you’re like most people who live in this area, or vacation here regularly, you’ve got a pretty large sweet tooth. Now, there are a number of places in Pigeon Forge and the surrounding towns to keep it at bay, but there are a few newer spot that have their own unique offerings. One of those places is Gigi’s Cupcakes in Pigeon Forge.

Gigi’s Cupcakes got its start in Nashville, TN and has now franchised itself out to places like Pigeon Forge, Knoxville, etc. Usually if you’re good enough to franchise, people like what you’re selling and this is spot on true for Gigi’s Cupcakes.

In short, Gigi’s Cupcakes is what their name says they are. They offer delicious cupcakes of every kind and flavor. Just a glance at their menu, which changes from day to day, and you’ll see flavors you never thought you’d ever see on a small, personal cupcake. From carrot cake to chocolate salted caramel, coconut macaroon, midnight magic, miss princess, mochachino, orange cranberry walnut, sticky bun, strawberry shortcake, wedding cake, and white midnight magic, their daily cupcake selection is sure to leave even the most picky of cupcake connoisseurs in awe.

Other services offered by Gigi’s include planning for large wedding orders and the ability to place a personal order on the internet and schedule a pick-up.

Gigi’s Cupcakes in Pigeon Forge is open from 10 am to 10 pm.

Gigi’s Cupcakes
2430 Teaster Lane, #103 (Stop Light No. 2)
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee 37863
(865) 774-4114
http://www.gigiscupcakesusa.com/pigeonforgetennessee

Dollywood’s Festival of Nations

Find out why Dollywood’s Festival of Nations is one of the best events to attend in Pigeon Forge, TN. The Festival of Nations at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee has entertainment for the entire family!

If you haven’t yet visited Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, the Festival of Nations is an excellent time to do so. Held between March 22 – April 23, 2013, this month long international event showcases performers from around the world, as well as highlighting many different cultures. The Festival of Nations at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, TN is a captivating sight, featuring some of the world’s best entertainment, plus art, dancing, music and food.

2013’s Festival at Dollywood features Spirit of the Dance, a wildly entertaining Irish dance troupe. This spell binding show is more than just your average tap performance. You’ll see a powerful, foot-stomping show with performers in fantastic costumes. This show offers incredible music and amazing dances seen by more than 30 million people around the world – you’ll be glad you chose to come.

Of course, Spirit of the Dance isn’t the only show you’ll see at Dollywood during the Festival of Nations. The Paper World Show by Mimirichi is a comedic performance by Ukranian clowns that will leave you chuckling in your seats.

Atahualpa, from Ecuador, offers South American traditional songs and dance rhythms. They play both native instruments and modern keyboards and guitars, resulting in a fascinating blend of cultures. Los Pampas Gauchos will bring their Argentinian flair to Dollywood. The show is filled with traditional dancing, as well as performances that include drums, boleadoras, knives, capes, and whips.

Zebra Stelzentheater of Germany will entertain the crowds with a fun and lively performance featuring stilt dancing that will have guests clamoring for an encore performance.

The Zambian Vocal Group brings different tribes together, forming one sound and creating a unified performance. They perform a capella, with no instruments, singing traditional hymns as well as original pieces. You’ll hear traditional African rhythms, complex harmonies, and unique vocal percussion, too.

If you’ve never been to Dollywood, this is the time to attend. You’ll see all the usual attractions, plus the wonderful performances and sights of the Festival of Nations. Also be sure to check out our list of tips for visiting Dollywood.

If you’re looking for a place to stay while in town then be sure to check out our list of the best hotels in Pigeon Forge, TN and our list of Pigeon Forge cabins. Also be sure to check out the full calendar of events in Pigeon Forge, TN.

Musick’s Mountain Theater

If you’re coming to Pigeon Forge to be entertained, there is no shortage of great venues to choose from whether you’re wanting to see a show, a musical, a dinner show, or whatever may be appearing at that time. One place you may want to circle on your visit list is Musick’s Mountain Theater in Pigeon Forge, especially if bluegrass is your thing.

Musick’s Mountain Theater puts on a great show featuring bluegrass, gospel, and old time mountain music performances from some of the area’s most talented musicians.  The theater just opened it doors in November with a grand opening performance by bluegrass legend Dr. Ralph Stanley & The Clinch Mountain Boys. Throughout the rest of December, Nathan Stanley & The Clinch Mountain Boys performed as the host band at Musick’s to rave reviews.

Expect much of the same for 2013. The theater is scheduled to close for the months of January and February before opening back up in March. The theater will be doing some major marketing for the house show and will open back on March 1 with a show called The Bluegrass Express featuring the band Mountain Glory. There will be special guests scheduled every night.  The list of Artist that will be performing at this theater is very impressive. Check out their web site at www.musicksmountaintheater.com for the most up to date schedule.

Musick’s Mountain Theater
140 Showplace Blvd.
Pigeon Forge, TN 37876

The Park’s Natural Beauty

Every year the Great Smoky Mountains National Park releases numbers reflecting the popularity of the park and on average that number seems to rise with each and every passing year. That was the case this past year and leads to one conclusion: The park’s natural beauty is awe-inspiring and draws people from all over the world and from all walks of life.

Even during the holidays and the cold weather months people are drawn to the park. So why even put it to a question? Well, the natural beauty is the park’s primary factor for bringing in so many tourists, there are other factors as well. And though it’s an overwhelming factor, it isn’t the only factor.

Besides citing the park’s beauty, people consistently praise the locals, exclaiming how nice people are who live in the Smoky Mountain region which includes the towns of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville.

Many vacationers who come to the area will go so far as to take one of the many guided tours offered of the park, before going of on their own. Tours like the Roaring Fork Auto Tour and the numerous ones offered through Cades Cove in Townsend, TN are especially popular. Cades Cove is especially popular with bikers who cruise the loop early in the mornings hoping to spot a bounding deer or fox.

Others, like the many honeymooners that come to the area opt to get out on some of the park’s many trails by themselves. Surely there is a hike for you of the 150 or so official trails recognized by the National Park Service. Just be sure to check the park’s notices for temporary closures. This is just so that you know whether or not the trail you are considering hiking is open and that there are no warnings for it.

Also, if you’re going to be getting out into nature, make sure that you leave early enough so that you’ll arrive back before dark. On average, Smoky Mountain hikers travel about 1.5 miles per hour, though many do traveler slower. Sundown in the region can occur anywhere from just after 5 p.m. in December to almost 9 p.m. in June.

Sweet Frog in Pigeon Forge

The words “Sweet” and “Frog” might lend one to mistake what has become a very popular Pigeon Forge desert stop for a boutique pet store. However, if you’re from around here you know that Sweet Frog is one of the area’s up-and-coming sweet treat shops specializing in premium frozen yogurt.

At Sweet Frog, they’re all about making the best frozen yogurt around – the kind you want to tell all your friends about when you get back, or one you’d even post to your Facebook page! It’s delicious soft-serve frozen yogurt, combined any way you want it, then topped off with whatever topping(s) you desire. Everyday you’ll see fresh toppings added to the bar. All make for a light healthy treat, a decadent dessert, or whatever you make of it. Everyone deserves something sweet and good for them.

The flavors, the toppings, it’s all in how you make it at Sweet Frog in Pigeon Forge. The Sweet Frog staff will bring a smile to your face when you visit, as well as a tasty treat.

So we gone on and on about the business itself, but what about all those flavors mentioned? Here’s just a sample of a few of the great and unique tastes you’ll find at your local Sweet Frog: Apple Pie, Blueberry Acai Tart, Cake Batter, Egg Nog, Georgia Peach, Huckleberry, Key Lime, Maple Bacon Donut, Orchard Cherry, Pink Grapefruit Tart, Reese’s Peanut Butter, Sweet Coconut, Taro, and many more.

sweetfrog1

When it comes to rising all-natural yogurt companies, you won’t find many growing as fast as Sweet Frog. Sweet Frog is built on a simple concept: Operate under a bright, positive, family-friendly environment where customers can create their dessert, their way – at a very modest price point. This concept is pushing the Sweet Frog in cities across the country due to their delicious products, great service, and an atmosphere built around food and fun.

Sweet Frog is a Christian-based entity aimed at bringing happiness to the lives of its consumers through great treats and a positive attitude. In the name Sweet Frog, F.R.O.G stands for Fully Rely On God – and they strive to be an example of that in every community they serve.