Gatlinburg, nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, offers a blend of natural beauty, entertaining attractions, and cozy getaways. If you’re planning a weekend trip, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy in this picturesque town.
From thrilling outdoor adventures to relaxing strolls through unique shops and galleries, Gatlinburg has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Gatlinburg this weekend, ensuring your visit is both memorable and enjoyable.
Exploring the Great Outdoors
- Hiking in the Smokies: Start your weekend with a hike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This park, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, offers trails for all skill levels. Whether you choose the easy walk along the Gatlinburg Trail or the more challenging hike to the summit of Mount LeConte, you’re in for a treat.
- Aerial Adventures: For a bird’s eye view of the mountains, consider a ride on the Gatlinburg SkyLift or the Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway. These attractions provide panoramic views that are especially breathtaking in the early morning or at sunset.
- Whitewater Rafting: If you’re feeling adventurous, join a guided whitewater rafting trip on the Pigeon River. This exhilarating experience offers both thrilling rapids and serene floats, depending on your preference.
A Cozy Stay in a Condo
- Relaxing Accommodations: For those seeking a comfortable and private experience, staying in one of the many Gatlinburg condos can be an excellent choice. These accommodations often provide amenities like fully-equipped kitchens, private balconies, and communal pools or hot tubs.
- Convenient Location: These condos are ideally situated, allowing easy access to the town’s attractions while offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. Enjoy a morning coffee with a view of the mountains before heading out for the day’s activities.
- Personalized Experience: Unlike standard hotel rooms, condos in Gatlinburg often offer a more personalized touch, making your stay feel like a home away from home. This can be particularly appealing for couples or families looking for a more intimate getaway.
Delightful Downtown Gatlinburg
- Unique Shopping: Downtown Gatlinburg is a hub of activity, featuring a variety of shops selling everything from handmade crafts to specialty foods. Spend an afternoon browsing through The Village Shops, a charming European-style shopping area.
- Local Cuisine: Gatlinburg boasts an array of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. Sample some Southern comfort food, indulge in freshly made fudge, or enjoy a gourmet meal with mountain views.
- Art and Culture: Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the local art galleries and studios. The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community, located off the beaten path, is home to numerous artisans showcasing their talents in pottery, painting, jewelry, and more.
Evening Entertainment
- Live Music: As the sun sets, the streets of Gatlinburg come alive with the sound of live music. Venues like Ole Smoky Moonshine Holler and The Smoky Mountain Brewery often feature local bands and solo artists, providing the perfect backdrop for an evening out.
- Dinner Shows: While some popular shows are off-limits for this article, there are still plenty of dinner theaters offering a mix of comedy, music, and magic. These family-friendly performances are a great way to end a fun-filled day.
- Stargazing: For a more tranquil evening, head back to the National Park for some stargazing. Far from city lights, the clear mountain skies offer a spectacular view of the stars and constellations.
Discover Gatlinburg’s Rich History and Heritage
- Historical Landmarks: Gatlinburg’s rich history is evident in its well-preserved landmarks. The Ogle Cabin, one of the first settlements in the area, offers a glimpse into 19th-century pioneer life.
Similarly, the Historic Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a must-visit, showcasing the remains of early mountain communities.
- Museums and Cultural Centers: Visit the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, a unique attraction featuring over 20,000 sets of salt and pepper shakers from around the world. Also, the Gatlinburg Heritage Museum celebrates local history through various artifacts and exhibits.
- Cultural Festivals: Throughout the year, Gatlinburg hosts several festivals that celebrate Appalachian culture and history. These events often feature live music, traditional crafts, and folk performances, offering an authentic experience of the region’s heritage.
Gatlinburg’s Natural Wonders and Wildlife
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: This world-class aquarium offers close encounters with a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish. The Penguin Playhouse and the Shark Lagoon are particularly popular among visitors of all ages.
- Wildlife Watching: The Great Smoky Mountains are home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, deer, and wild turkeys. Take a guided wildlife tour, or simply keep your eyes peeled during your hikes and strolls around town.
- Scenic Drives and Overlooks: For those who prefer a leisurely exploration, the scenic drives around Gatlinburg are not to be missed. The Foothills Parkway and the Cades Cove Loop Road offer breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys, perfect for photography enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Adventure Sports and Thrills in Gatlinburg
- Ziplining and Aerial Parks: Experience the thrill of ziplining through the Smoky Mountains. There are several zipline operators in Gatlinburg offering various courses that cater to all levels of adventure seekers. Additionally, aerial adventure parks provide high ropes courses and suspended bridges for a unique treetop experience.
- Mountain Biking and Off-Roading: Gatlinburg’s rugged terrain is perfect for mountain biking and off-roading adventures. Rent a bike or an ATV and explore the numerous trails that offer both challenging rides and spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
- Indoor Skydiving: For an adrenaline rush without the heights, try indoor skydiving. This activity is perfect for those who want to experience the sensation of freefall in a safe and controlled environment. It’s a great way to add a bit of excitement to your weekend getaway.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg is a destination that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and leisurely comfort. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a shopaholic, a foodie, or someone looking to unwind in a scenic setting, this town has something special to offer.
By staying in one of the Gatlinburg condos, you can enjoy a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Remember, the best way to experience Gatlinburg is to explore its diverse offerings and find what speaks to you.
Make this weekend in Gatlinburg one to remember!
This holiday season, delve into the world of contemporary fine jewelry with VL. Cepher, a brand that seamlessly blends artistry, innovation, and a touch of familial warmth. Created by the dynamic mother-daughter duo, Rachel Fogel and Niva Benzino, VL Cepher with its graphic signature, is a testament to designers’ unique backgrounds in artificial intelligence and the visual arts, exuding the timeless elegance of geometric forms.
A Fusion of Backgrounds: What sets VL Cepher apart is the fusion of Rachel and Niva’s distinct backgrounds. With expertise in mathematical sciences and a keen eye for the visual arts, the duo brings a fresh perspective to the world of fine jewelry. This unique combination infuses their creations with a modern edge, making them the perfect choice for those who appreciate the delicate balance of precision and pattern and superb craftsmanship.
Simplification of Forms: VL Cepher’s design philosophy revolves around the simplification of forms to their geometric essentials. The result is a collection that exudes a sophisticated simplicity—a departure from traditional designs. The exploration of geometric shapes adds a contemporary flair to classic pieces, making them versatile enough to be worn with both casual and formal attire.
Precision and Pattern: At the heart of VL Cepher’s creations lies a delicate balance between precision and pattern. Every piece is meticulously crafted to showcase impeccable details that highlight the brand’s commitment to quality. This attention to craftsmanship ensures that each jewelry item is not just an accessory but a work of art—a testament to the brand’s dedication to delivering excellence.
Subtle Sophistication: In a world filled with excess, VL. Cepher stands out for its commitment to subtle sophistication. The jewelry pieces speak volumes through their understated elegance, allowing the wearer to make a statement without overwhelming their ensemble. This makes VL. Cepher’s creations the ideal choice for those who appreciate the beauty of simplicity.
Uncompromising Quality: When choosing a holiday gift, quality is paramount, and VL Cepher doesn’t disappoint. The brand’s dedication to uncompromising quality ensures that each piece is crafted with precision and durability in mind. When you gift VL. Cepher jewelry, you’re not just presenting an accessory; you’re offering a symbol of enduring quality and style.
This holiday season, consider the unique story behind VL Cepher as you search for the perfect gift. Whether it’s a symbol of family bonds, a nod to innovation, or an appreciation for artistic exploration, VL Cepher jewelry is more than adornment; it’s a celebration of the beautiful intersection of tradition and contemporary design. Explore their collection and make this holiday season memorable with a gift that reflects both artistry and innovation.
It’s gifting season once again! As a mother, aunt, and godmother, I still struggle with finding something on-trend that the teens and twenties in my life will really love, so I went straight to the source. Meet guest curator Clare Daly! She’s a New York-based creative (and my goddaughter!) and I’m so excited to welcome her to the blog.
New to Empty Nesting?
If your recent renter is looking to decorate their new digs, help them say goodbye to the dreaded landlord special. This golden, scalloped Anthropologie switch plate (#3) and the Wayfair mid-century-inspired armchair are perfect to make a starter apartment their very own. The armchair (#10) is available in so many cute colors, and it’s on sale! Add in this sweet sleeping cat lamp (#9) because no one uses the big light these days— it’s all about ambiance.
Whether or not your Gen Zer is new to the kitchen, Shelly Westerhausen Worcel’s Every Season Is Soup Season (#2) couldn’t be an easier gift. The base recipes for everything from quick broths to days-long chilis establish a strong culinary foundation. Worcel’s tips and tricks for freezing and storing will come in clutch when a long day at the office calls for nothing more than a microwave. WFHing? Make a bowl of tomato basil for lunch and rest it on this multi-functional acrylic laptop stand (#15) that blends into any desk setup.
For the Fashion Forward
Your Gen Zer with a heart of gold (…or not) will obsess over Elizabeth Cole’s Nixine Necklace (#1). The evil eye symbol, known for its ability to repel bad vibes, is one of this holiday season’s hottest trends. Accented with Swarovski crystals, the California-designed, Rhode Island-crafted necklace is perfect for warding off the very worst: a gifting faux pas.
Hop on the athleisure train with this Alo Yoga sherpa jacket (#11). Complete with a removable hood, it is an adorably versatile option for heading to the gym, running to class, or anything in between. Designed in neutral colors and sized for layering, the recipient of this gift can make this fuzzy bomber a daily driver in their Fall/Winter wardrobe. Pair it with this Oat Milk tee (#12) and your Gen Zer will never have to remind a barista of their lactose preferences again.
Fellow twenty-something teenage girls, listen up. Work shoes with style do exist! Put these two on-the-pulse pairs on your list. Right. Now.
Sam Edelman Jildies (#14) gives you 4 inches of height and leans into the square-toe Mary Jane Renaissance. Clunky, cute, and classy for under $200. Also, Express just collaborated with iconic shoe designer and social tastemaker Brian Atwood for an affordable take on haute designs. Any pair of Atwood’s are a major slay, but I love these pointed flats (#14) with a silky bow. Translation for moms: These are the grown-up versions of the shoes you made us wear, often kicking and screaming, for every first day of school until we were, like, 12. No, it’s not hypocritical. They’re cute now! Read Nicole’s post about the collab HERE.
Makeup & More
If I could only have two beauty items, I would keep my Merit Beauty Minimalist Stick (#7) and Glossier You fragrance. The Minimalist, true to its name, can replace multiple pieces in your Gen Zer’s makeup bag. Its variety of shades blend into the skin seamlessly—all over, undereye, and on problem spots— and choose a darker shade for a creamy, matte contour. Looking to gift their first signature scent? Glossier You is IT. If you don’t know Glossier by now, I’m convinced you’ve taken up residence under the world’s most soundproof boulder. I digress.
I’d prefer to find my perfect scent on the shelf, instead of painstakingly poring over each element at these so-called “fragrance labs” I keep seeing pop up in New York. Once again, I digress. Gluten-free and vegan with base notes of pink pepper and iris, Glossier’s unisex eau de parfum (#6) (is an amazing experiment in skin chemistry. Spritz or roll it, but don’t rub! Make sure to let it settle in on its own. When the fragrance settles, the base combines with the body for an elevated natural scent unique to the wearer that compliments any outfit or event.
Toys for Totes
One of my go-to gift ideas is to fill something: a water bottle with candy, a basket with grooming essentials, etc. I can never have too many totes, so receiving one that’s sturdy and stylish, like this Baggu (#8), would make my holiday. As for the filling, go for my favorite gifts to get: a vinyl record of the latest Taylor Swift album and the cutest self-care book there is. At the time of publication, 1989 (Taylor’s Version) (#5) is still the stuff of “Suburban Legends”. For those who have yet to indoctrinate into the Swiftie persuasion, that’s a vault track on the most recent release. Instagram sensation Maybell Eequay’s inspirational little frog characters have arrived on the page in Little Frog’s Guide to Self-Care (#13). Positive messages, plus the sweetest drawings, what’s not to love? Throw in this Heyday 35mm Film Camera (#16) to capture the other goodies and memorable moments of the holiday season and beyond.
Happy gifting!
It’s easy to love life during the spring and summer months. After all, what’s not to love about long and warm sunny days, when there are a million things to do and everyone seems to be in a good mood? But in the winter months, things become a little more challenging. The dark, chilly afternoons and evenings force us to be inside more, and if your home isn’t up to standard, then you’ll have to ensure a long few months until the warm weather returns.
So let’s make sure that doesn’t happen. In this post, we’ll run through a few easy tips that’ll have you enjoying the winter season in your house.
Get in the Kitchen
The colder part of the year is the perfect opportunity to get in the kitchen and cook up a delicious winter dish. When there’s a chill in the air and there’s nothing to do, spend your time cooking up a soup, chili, or curry — all of these dishes will keep your internal engine warm and toasty. You can also consider baking bread or making cookies, both of which will be delicious and give your home a sweet winter smell.
Bring the Heat
There’s not much you can do about the temperature outside your property. But inside your home? That’s all on you. You’ll find you can enjoy winter much more if you’re warm and toasty inside your property. There are multiple ways to increase the comfort of your home, including upgrading your windows, sealing off any drafty spots, and working with a furnace repair company to ensure your furnace is in full working condition. If you have a classic fireplace, then be sure to order plenty of wood so you can keep the fire roaring all season long.
You can also look at investing in a few new throws and blankets — they’ll be the star of the show when you want to add a little coziness to your home.
Entertainment Options
Spring and summer are for exploring the world and doing outdoor activities. In the winter, we’ll spend a big chunk of our time at home, so make sure you have fun things to do while you’re there. Could now be the right time to upgrade your entertainment set-up? Buying a large TV (or projector), getting a few subscription services, and fitting your living room with a new couch will allow you and your family to spend many cozy evenings together as you work your way through all those great TV shows and movies.
Cozy Reading Corners
Of course, you’re not going to watch TV all winter. This time of year is the perfect opportunity to spend long days with your head in a good book. If you can put together a cozy reading corner, one that allows you to read in peace for hours on end, then you won’t care how long winter drags on. Add in a steaming cup of tea and one of those cookies you’ve made, and you’ll be in bliss.
PXG clubs are made to spec to ensure our game-changing technology is dialed into each player’s unique swing.
4 WAYS TO GIFT PXG CLUBS
- Buy golf clubs online – if you know the golf club specifications and the type of clubs your special someone would love, select, configure, and buy clubs online, and ship directly to you or your gift recipient. Be sure to check the option to add a special message to your order.
- Call PXG Player Support at 844.PLAY.PXG – our specialists will help walk you through the golf club fitting and recommend options best for your recipient.
- Schedule an in-person fitting at a PXG Retail Store or location near you.
- Drop a hint! Our online club configurators include a little button that helps gift recipients share exactly what they want. Check out our PXG driver club configurator and look for the button with a little gift-wrapped box.
For any golf lover, our in-person fitting experience is a real treat. Each player works with a dedicated PXG Fitting Specialist who’ll learn about their swing, and their goals, and find the best club configuration to enhance their game. After all, it’s more fun when you play well! For players who love to dive into the technology and statistics – PXG Fitting Specialists are aided by Trackman™ technology which shows the player’s angle of attack, launch, and ball flight characteristics, distance, and more! Check this video above for a real-world look at a custom driver fitting experience.
HOW TO SCHEDULE A PXG CLUB FITTING
To surprise your special someone with an in-person PXG fitting, call us at 844.PLAY.PXG or find a fitting location near you and schedule a fitting online.
UPGRADE THEIR PXG GAME TO THE NEXT LEVEL OF PERFORMANCE
Is your special someone already a proud member of the #PXGTroops? Surprise them with an upgrade to our newest generation of equipment. Just call 1.844.PLAY.PXG and provide our Player Support Team with their name and shipping address. Our team will be happy to find their previous order and match their club specifications.
GIVE THE GIFT OF STYLE WITH PXG APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES
From stocking stuffers to statement pieces, PXG apparel and accessories have it all. Our seasonal collections, tried and true essentials, and special edition capsules are packed with bold styles, perfect for on or off the course.
As a bonus, our iconic black boxes and bags make for elegant giftwrapping. It’s sure to surprise and delight at first sight.
Shop our latest men’s and women’s apparel and check out our accessories including golf bags, premium leather luggage, golf towels, and more.
Happy Gifting!
HOW TO BUY CUSTOM GOLF CLUBS…FOR SOMEONE ELSE
PXG clubs are made to spec to ensure our game-changing technology is dialed in to each player’s unique swing.
4 WAYS TO GIFT PXG CLUBS
- Buy golf clubs online – if you know the golf club specifications and the type of clubs your special someone would love, select, configure, and buy clubs online, and ship directly to you or your gift recipient. Be sure to check the option to add a special message to your order.
- Call PXG Player Support at 844.PLAY.PXG – our specialists will help walk you through the golf club fitting and recommend options best for your recipient.
- Schedule an in-person fitting at a PXG Retail Store or location near you.
- Drop a hint! Our online club configurators include a little button that helps gift recipients share exactly what they want. Check out our PXG driver club configurator and look for the button with a little gift-wrapped box.
For any golf lover, our in-person fitting experience is a real treat. Each player works with a dedicated PXG Fitting Specialist who’ll learn about their swing, and their goals, and find the best club configuration to enhance their game. After all, it’s more fun when you play well! For players who love to dive into the technology and statistics – PXG Fitting Specialists are aided by Trackman™ technology which shows the player’s angle of attack, launch, and ball flight characteristics, distance, and more! Check this video above for a real-world look at a custom driver fitting experience.
HOW TO SCHEDULE A PXG CLUB FITTING
To surprise your special someone with an in-person PXG fitting, call us at 844.PLAY.PXG or find a fitting location near you and schedule a fitting online.
UPGRADE THEIR PXG GAME TO THE NEXT LEVEL OF PERFORMANCE
Is your special someone already a proud member of the #PXGTroops? Surprise them with an upgrade to our newest generation of equipment. Just call 1.844.PLAY.PXG and provide our Player Support Team with their name and shipping address. Our team will be happy to find their previous order and match their club specifications.
GIVE THE GIFT OF STYLE WITH PXG APPAREL AND ACCESSORIES
From stocking stuffers to statement pieces, PXG apparel and accessories have it all. Our seasonal collections are tried and true essentials, and special edition capsules are packed with bold styles, perfect for on or off the course.
As a bonus, our iconic black boxes and bags make for elegant gift wrapping. It’s sure to surprise and delight at first sight.
Shop our latest men’s and women’s apparel and check out our accessories including golf bags, premium leather luggage, golf towels, and more.
Happy Gifting!
Photo by Cameron Smith on Unsplash
Designing a bathroom can present both challenges and opportunities. It requires a blend of creativity and attention to detail to strike the balance between functionality and aesthetics within the confines of space. No budget for an extravagant bathroom remodel? By planning and employing some do-it-yourself techniques, you have the potential to transform your cozy bathroom into an inviting sanctuary.
Understanding Your Space
Before anything, it’s essential to grasp the layout and limitations of your bathroom before embarking on any design changes.
Assessing Your Bathroom Layout
- Evaluate the placement of fixtures. Explore layouts that could enhance both flow and functionality.
- Identify any corners or underutilized spaces that could be repurposed for storage or decorative purposes.
- Be mindful of plumbing constraints that might impact your design choices.
Measuring and Planning
- Accurate measurements are crucial when working with space. Take measurements of your bathroom, including wall length, width, height, and other surfaces.
- Sketch out a plan depicting the layout, allowing you to envision arrangements for fixtures and furniture.
- Consider using graph paper or online tools to create scaled drawings that help visualize design options for your bathroom.
Color and Light – Creating the Illusion of Space
Color and lighting have an impact on how we perceive the size of a bathroom. By selecting the right color scheme and incorporating lighting solutions, you can create an illusion of more space and a breezier atmosphere.
Choosing the Right Color Palette
- When choosing colors, opt for light and bright shades like beige or soft pastels. These colors reflect light.
- Give the impression of a space. If you prefer colors, use them sparingly as accents or on one wall to add depth without overpowering the room.
- Consider adding materials such as wood or stone to bring warmth and texture while still maintaining a feel.
Lighting Solutions
- Maximize light by keeping windows clear and using curtains or blinds that allow sunlight to filter through.
- Layered lighting also includes overhead lights for general illumination, task lights near the sink and mirror for specific tasks, and accent lights to highlight certain areas.
- Installing dimmers will give you control over intensity, enabling you to create atmospheres according to your preferences.
Smart Storage Solutions
Storage is a crucial aspect of any bathroom, but it becomes particularly important in a small space. By utilizing vertical space, hidden storage, and multifunctional furniture, you can keep your bathroom clutter-free and organized.
Vertical Storage Ideas
- Utilize space by installing shelves or cabinets that make use of height rather than width. Hidden storage options like concealed cabinets can help keep your bathroom clutter while multifunctional furniture serves purposes without taking up much space.
- Maximize the use of wall space in your bathroom by installing shelves, cabinets, or hanging organizers.
- To make the most of space, consider using ladders or floating shelves. Keep towels neatly organized by mounting towel bars or hooks on walls.
Hidden and Multifunctional Storage
- Choose a vanity that has built-in drawers or cabinets to keep bathroom essentials concealed.
- Another option is to go for a toilet with storage space behind the tank or a pedestal sink that offers storage options.
- Utilize decorative baskets or boxes to organize toiletries and other items.
Selecting Fittings and Fixtures
When selecting fittings and fixtures for your bathroom, it’s important to consider their size and style so that they complement the space without overwhelming it.
Space-Saving Fixtures
- Choose a compact toilet with a smaller footprint to save floor space.
- Consider a wall-mounted sink to free up space.
- Get a shower enclosure with sliding doors, or opt for a walk-in shower.
Accessorizing Wisely
- Select accessories that are proportional to the size of the bathroom and complement the overall design style.
- Use mirrors to create the illusion of space and reflect light around the room.
- To bring a vibrant feel to your bathroom, consider incorporating plants or fresh flowers.
DIY Decor and Finishing Touches
Small DIY projects and finishing touches can add a personal touch and elevate the overall look of your bathroom.
Easy DIY Decor Projects
- Paint an accent wall in a bold color to add a pop of personality.
- Create a custom storage solution using recycled materials or inexpensive hardware.
- Repurpose vintage or thrifted items as decorative elements.
The Final Touches
- Hang artwork or framed photographs to add visual interest and personality.
- Install a soft and inviting bath mat to enhance the comfort and style of the space. Select a bath mat that complements the color scheme and adds a touch of texture.
- Enhance the ambiance with candles or aromatherapy diffusers to create a relaxing and spa-like atmosphere.
You don’t need to spend a fortune on renovations or hire designers to turn your bathroom into a chic and practical space. With some creativity, careful planning, and a little do-it-yourself spirit, you can design a bathroom that showcases your style while making the most of the space you have.