# What to do in Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge in June?

**URL:** <https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187>\
**Category:** In My Humble Opinion\
**Created:** [April 8, 2013, 9:56pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187 "2013-04-08T21:56:06Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 20\
**Page:** 3

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**Author:** ![StGermain](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/stgermain/32/2868_2.png) [@StGermain](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/StGermain)\
**Post date:** [April 10, 2013, 10:04pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/41 "2013-04-10T22:04:07Z")

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> [@I\_Like\_Pie](#):
>
> So, we’re taking a trip to Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge the first week of June. Two adults, no children (yay!), staying in a cabin in Pigeon Forge for four days. We’re already planning on visiting the Ripley’s Aquarium, Smoky Mountain National Park, and some wineries. I’m looking for some other suggestions! I’ve visited the tourism websites and I know there is a ton to do, but I’d like the Dope’s input.  
> We’re in our 30’s and 40’s, respectively, love music, culture and food. And alcohol.

Sex.

Sex.

Sex.

StG

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**Author:** ![missred](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/missred/32/14096_2.png) [@missred](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/missred)\
**Post date:** [April 10, 2013, 11:19pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/42 "2013-04-10T23:19:18Z")

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> [@lost4life](#):
>
> Unless I’m mistaken, I think most of these attractions are about 150 miles from Gatlinburg.

Not that far. **ILP** mentioned that they were headed to Chattanooga as well. Most of these locations are between Gatlinburg and Choo-choo town.

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**Author:** ![FoieGrasIsEvil](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/foiegrasisevil/32/16638_2.png) [@FoieGrasIsEvil](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/FoieGrasIsEvil)\
**Post date:** [April 11, 2013, 12:01am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/43 "2013-04-11T00:01:51Z")

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> [@StGermain](#):
>
> Sex.
> 
> Sex.
> 
> Sex.
> 
> StG

Don’t give her any ideas. Booze takes a higher priority.

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**Author:** ![FoieGrasIsEvil](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/foiegrasisevil/32/16638_2.png) [@FoieGrasIsEvil](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/FoieGrasIsEvil)\
**Post date:** [April 11, 2013, 12:03am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/44 "2013-04-11T00:03:34Z")

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Oh, also: I am planning on bringing my .45 with me. I don’t have a CCW permit, but I have a mild amount of concern over possible being mauled by a bear when we are in the middle of nowhere since so many of them live in the area. I wonder what legal bugaboos I may run into. Upon googling, it looks like I’m good within the limits of a state park in TN, but not really sure otherwise.

ETA: I don’t plan on toting it around everywhere we go, but in Ohio where I am at without a CCW permit you can transport your weapon as long as its in plain view. I am more worried about getting pulled over for speeding or something silly and suddenly running afoul of some law that puts me in jail for firearm possession, even though my firearm is legal.

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**Author:** ![Gagundathar](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/g/a183cd/32.png) [@Gagundathar](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Gagundathar)\
**Post date:** [April 11, 2013, 12:27am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/45 "2013-04-11T00:27:35Z")

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> [@I\_Like\_Pie](#):
>
> We’re staying in a cabin off of a road called Easy Street. It’s not a large group of cabins, the owners only rent three or four if I’m correct.  
> Is the artist’s colony called “Arts and Crafts”? I saw a ton of cabins for rent in an area named that.

Here is a link to the website for Glades Road Arts and Crafts Community:  
[http://www.ci.gatlinburg.tn.us/businesses/shopping/arts\_and\_crafts\_community.htm](http://www.ci.gatlinburg.tn.us/businesses/shopping/arts_and_crafts_community.htm)

If you enjoy ceramics, I suggest Alewine Pottery.  
If you enjoy soap, I suggest Misty Mountain Soap Company.

The fact that I know and like the owners is of no importance. 😉

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**Author:** ![I\_Like\_Pie](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/i/9f8e36/32.png) [@I\_Like\_Pie](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/I_Like_Pie)\
**Post date:** [April 11, 2013, 7:12pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/46 "2013-04-11T19:12:54Z")

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> [@StGermain](#):
>
> Sex.
> 
> Sex.
> 
> Sex.
> 
> StG

> [@FoieGrasIsEvil](#):
>
> Don’t give her any ideas. Booze takes a higher priority.

I don’t even know how to respond to that.

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**Author:** ![I\_Like\_Pie](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/i/9f8e36/32.png) [@I\_Like\_Pie](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/I_Like_Pie)\
**Post date:** [April 11, 2013, 7:16pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/47 "2013-04-11T19:16:19Z")

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> [@Gagundathar](#):
>
> Here is a link to the website for Glades Road Arts and Crafts Community:  
> [http://www.ci.gatlinburg.tn.us/businesses/shopping/arts\_and\_crafts\_community.htm](http://www.ci.gatlinburg.tn.us/businesses/shopping/arts_and_crafts_community.htm)
> 
> If you enjoy ceramics, I suggest Alewine Pottery.  
> If you enjoy soap, I suggest Misty Mountain Soap Company.
> 
> The fact that I know and like the owners is of no importance. 😉

We’re definitely going to visit! I love arts and crafts, I looked at the Misty Mountain Soap website and I can tell you already I’ll be leaving with some goodies.

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**Author:** ![Shark\_Sandwich](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/s/f04885/32.png) [@Shark\_Sandwich](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Shark_Sandwich)\
**Post date:** [April 11, 2013, 7:55pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/48 "2013-04-11T19:55:04Z")

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If you want a great place to eat that’s kind of a local secret, go to [The Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria.](http://www.yelp.com/biz/best-italian-cafe-and-pizzeria-gatlinburg#query:best%20italian%20restaurant) It’s just off the main street. It’s not much to look at from the outside, but the service is great, the food is awesome, and the portions are HUGE. Take my word for it, share whatever you order. Chicken parm as big as a frisbee, and calzones as big as a football.

Also, right down by The Mellow Mushroom and Dick’s Last Resort is a place that makes and sells moonshine. They allow anyone of age to taste 12 of their 'shines for free, and they sell it for $25 a mason jar. Tiny shots, but just a few stores down there’s a free wine tasting, and a few stores down from that there’s free whisky tasting.

Hope that helps. Have fun!

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**Author:** ![I\_Like\_Pie](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/i/9f8e36/32.png) [@I\_Like\_Pie](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/I_Like_Pie)\
**Post date:** [April 11, 2013, 9:42pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/49 "2013-04-11T21:42:02Z")

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> [@Shark\_Sandwich](#):
>
> If you want a great place to eat that’s kind of a local secret, go to [The Best Italian Cafe & Pizzeria.](http://www.yelp.com/biz/best-italian-cafe-and-pizzeria-gatlinburg#query:best%20italian%20restaurant) It’s just off the main street. It’s not much to look at from the outside, but the service is great, the food is awesome, and the portions are HUGE. Take my word for it, share whatever you order. Chicken parm as big as a frisbee, and calzones as big as a football.
> 
> Also, right down by The Mellow Mushroom and Dick’s Last Resort is a place that makes and sells moonshine. They allow anyone of age to taste 12 of their 'shines for free, and they sell it for $25 a mason jar. Tiny shots, but just a few stores down there’s a free wine tasting, and a few stores down from that there’s free whisky tasting.
> 
> Hope that helps. Have fun!

This is the kind of info we need, inside information on dining! We’re going to the Mellow Mushroom, just because I love their food. The reviews for Best Italian Cafe and Pizzeria make it sound like it’s a great place to eat. As far as moonshine goes, count me in! Thanks for the tips!

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**Author:** ![lost4life](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/l/c4cdca/32.png) [@lost4life](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/lost4life)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 1:05pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/50 "2013-04-12T13:05:36Z")

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Another thing in Knoxville - A local radio station ([WDVX](http://www.wdvx.com/live-shows/blue-plate-special/schedule/)) broadcasts live music at noon, Monday through Saturday. It’s free to attend and features some very talented bluegrass, Americana style performers. Usually artists (some famous) that are on tour in the area. You can eat lunch while watching the broadcast. If you plan on exploring the Knoxville area at all, it’s worth checking out. Plus, it’s hosted by a lady named Red Hickey!

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**Author:** ![I\_Like\_Pie](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/i/9f8e36/32.png) [@I\_Like\_Pie](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/I_Like_Pie)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 6:23pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/51 "2013-04-12T18:23:45Z")

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> [@lost4life](#):
>
> Another thing in Knoxville - A local radio station ([WDVX](http://www.wdvx.com/live-shows/blue-plate-special/schedule/)) broadcasts live music at noon, Monday through Saturday. It’s free to attend and features some very talented bluegrass, Americana style performers. Usually artists (some famous) that are on tour in the area. You can eat lunch while watching the broadcast. If you plan on exploring the Knoxville area at all, it’s worth checking out. Plus, it’s hosted by a lady named Red Hickey!

I hate to say it, but I fear going close to Knoxville. Then I’ll have to hear "You were only an hour away, why didn’t you come see your grandmother(s)/sister/nieces and nephews/etc? I already have my family from the Kingsport area asking if we’re going to come visit while we’re there. No. No we’re not.

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**Author:** ![Troppus](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/a587f6/32.png) [@Troppus](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Troppus)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 6:27pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/52 "2013-04-12T18:27:58Z")

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> [@I\_Like\_Pie](#):
>
> I hate to say it, but I fear going close to Knoxville. Then I’ll have to hear "You were only an hour away, why didn’t you come see your grandmother(s)/sister/nieces and nephews/etc? I already have my family from the Kingsport area asking if we’re going to come visit while we’re there. No. No we’re not.

Ah, c’mon, you know you’ve been missing that paper mill stench!

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**Author:** ![FoieGrasIsEvil](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/foiegrasisevil/32/16638_2.png) [@FoieGrasIsEvil](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/FoieGrasIsEvil)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 6:36pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/53 "2013-04-12T18:36:58Z")

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Well, _I’m_ going to Knoxville. She can be all huffy back at the cabin.

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**Author:** ![I\_Like\_Pie](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/i/9f8e36/32.png) [@I\_Like\_Pie](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/I_Like_Pie)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 6:39pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/54 "2013-04-12T18:39:53Z")

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> [@Troppus](#):
>
> Ah, c’mon, you know you’ve been missing that paper mill stench!

The odors of Mead and Eastman still linger in my childhood memories. There’s definitely nothing like those smells!

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**Author:** ![I\_Like\_Pie](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/i/9f8e36/32.png) [@I\_Like\_Pie](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/I_Like_Pie)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 6:44pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/55 "2013-04-12T18:44:30Z")

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**Troppus** where abouts do you live?

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**Author:** ![Troppus](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/a587f6/32.png) [@Troppus](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Troppus)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 6:47pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/56 "2013-04-12T18:47:19Z")

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> [@I\_Like\_Pie](#):
>
> The odors of Mead and Eastman still linger in my childhood memories. There’s definitely nothing like those smells!

That hasn’t changed much, sadly. But you wouldn’t believe Broad Street. Last few years Kingsport acquired some incredible outdoor art installations which rotate and move about town. [Here are some pics.](http://www.google.com/search?q=kingsport+sculpture&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=PFVoUfqtKIX29gSQYQ&ved=0CAoQ_AUoAQ&biw=1526&bih=870) Riverfront Park has been connected to the farthest end of East Stone Drive and has a very [successful birding program](http://www.kingsportbirdingtrail.com/)that follows the creek and river. Pretty sure this new [park and playground at Warrior’s](http://www.google.com/search?q=darrell's+dream+boundless+playground&hl=en&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=ElZoUfztLIKi8ASC_IGACA&sqi=2&ved=0CAcQ_AUoAQ&biw=1526&bih=870)inspired me to have a child so I can play on it someday. Bays Mountain installed a pretty sweet ropes course and mountain bike trails.

Kingsport’s growing, and it’s prettier and _slightly_ less stinky. If that ain’t a ringing endorsement, what is?

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**Author:** ![Troppus](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/a587f6/32.png) [@Troppus](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Troppus)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 6:59pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/57 "2013-04-12T18:59:46Z")

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> [@I\_Like\_Pie](#):
>
> **Troppus** where abouts do you live?

Check your PMs

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**Author:** ![festiva76](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/f/8e8cbc/32.png) [@festiva76](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/festiva76)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 7:41pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/58 "2013-04-12T19:41:48Z")

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> [@I\_Like\_Pie](#):
>
> We’re in our 30’s and 40’s, respectively, love music, culture and food. And alcohol.

About the alcohol: Sevier County appears to be dry (except pubs and restaurants,) but the city of Gatlinburg has a couple of package stores. There is one on East Parkway heading out of town toward Cosby, and there is one on the “Spur” between Pigeon Forge and G-Burg. There may be others but this is all I have found. Too much stuff to do to list..I always tell people Pigeon Forge is just like Myrtle Beach without the beach. Hell, there’s even a Joe’s Crab Shack. I actually lived in Gatlinburg in my teens after the family and I vacationed up there for many years. Awesome to visit. Not so much to live.

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**Author:** ![I\_Like\_Pie](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/i/9f8e36/32.png) [@I\_Like\_Pie](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/I_Like_Pie)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 7:50pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/59 "2013-04-12T19:50:52Z")

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> [@festiva76](#):
>
> About the alcohol: Sevier County appears to be dry (except pubs and restaurants,) but the city of Gatlinburg has a couple of package stores. There is one on East Parkway heading out of town toward Cosby, and there is one on the “Spur” between Pigeon Forge and G-Burg. There may be others but this is all I have found. Too much stuff to do to list..I always tell people Pigeon Forge is just like Myrtle Beach without the beach. Hell, there’s even a Joe’s Crab Shack. I actually lived in Gatlinburg in my teens after the family and I vacationed up there for many years. Awesome to visit. Not so much to live.

From what I understand Sevier County now sells liquor by the drink in all jurisdictions but only allows package sales in Gatlinburg. It used to be a completely dry county though. We’re going to take some booze of our own since taxes are cheaper here.

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**Author:** ![festiva76](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/f/8e8cbc/32.png) [@festiva76](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/festiva76)\
**Post date:** [April 12, 2013, 8:17pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/what-to-do-in-gatlinburg-pigeon-forge-in-june/655187/60 "2013-04-12T20:17:39Z")

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> [@somepumpkin](#):
>
> You’ll not be far from Newport, TN which has a (un-substantiated) reputation for where you can attend a church w/ serpent-handling as part of the Sunday service.

Newport (and Cocke County in general,) also happens to be the drug capital of East Tennessee. Some mighty fine weed (amongst other things) and moonshine are produced in those hills.

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