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The
Smokies Go Global in Sophisticated Sevierville Also known as the proud hometown of Dolly Parton, this gateway gem to the Smokies offers a global potpourri of entertainment, activities and shopping experiences sure to please. From Chinese acrobats, Russian aerialists and German stilt walkers to rare airworthy warbirds and endangered rainforest species from around the world, there’s something for everyone. The choices are truly global! And while staying in sophisticated Sevierville; be sure to save a day for “back to nature time” in the Smokies, the nations most popular and perhaps most beautiful National Park. Surreal blue mists - a trademark of the Smoky Mountains - ensure an ever changing landscape that will mesmerize and enchant the most jaded urbanite. All photographs are by Karin Leperi except as indicated. |
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The road to the Smokies will take you to the heartland of America — and beyond.
Hailing from the Suining Sichuan Province of China, “The Great China Acrobats” show has more than 40 performers and 500 stupendous costumes. In a parallel tradition of Cirque de Soleil, the agile performers are utterly captivating in their feats of power, grace and contortion. This is a “must see” show.
The middle and right photos above are courtesy of Great China Acrobats. From the world-renowned Moscow Circus to the stilt walkers of Germany (Zebra Stelzentheater), Dollywood goes global in its annual Festival of Nations. This is a wonderful opportunity to try various ethnic foods originating from Russia, Germany, Hungary, Mexico and various other nations. Be sure and try a southern favorite, pork rinds – which, believe it or not, is recommended on the Atkins diet, or so I’ve been told.
Above photo courtesy of Dollywood
At Rainforest Adventures, come discover 500 live animals representing 150 species. The rainforest critter collection includes birds, lizards, snakes, turtles, bugs and animals, the majority which have been born or hatched in captivity. An authentic environment transports guests to tropical areas around the world, while interactive animal shows educate and entertain.
Airworthy Warbirds are the foundation of the aircraft collection At the Tennessee Museum of Aviation, almost all aircraft on display are “flyable.” Makes sense since the runway is just outside the hangar door, allowing for impromptu fly-bys. The museum houses two airworthy P-47 Thunderbolts, a real treat since only 10 of these rare airplanes are currently flying in the United States.
Above photo courtesy of Tennessee Museum of Aviation
With 8 action-packed tracks and NASCAR Silicon Motor Speedway Simulators, this place gets the adrenalin pumping. Interactive games, speed bumper boats along with family and kiddie rides makes this a place with definite family appeal. Discover Elvis at the Muscle Car Museum as you take a trip back in time to the nostalgia of the 50s, 60s, and 70s – when muscle cars reigned supreme.
Find out what’s forbidden at Forbidden Caverns, a legendary place of Indian myths and Bootleggers of the 1920s.
Shop for artisan pottery at the Old Mill Square and check out the innovative works of 26 year-old budding artisan Tommy Bullen.
Save time for a scenic horseback ride with Five Oaks Riding Stables, in the “peaceful foothills” of the Smoky Mountains, or as they say, “Take A Ride on the Mild Side!”
Everything is “apples” at the Apple Barn. From delicious apple fritters at the Applewood Farmhouse to apple wine, candy, pies, and jams and jellies, you are sure to find a taste to tempt your palette. How about a handmade jawbreaker or apple wood smoked ham?
At the Robert A. Tino Gallery, contemplate beautiful watercolors and giclées that capture the landscape of the Southern Appalachian Mountains. Better yet, purchase a piece of Smoky Mountain heritage from Tino’s award-winning and widely acclaimed inventory of paintings, cards and gifts.
Choose a room with a view that includes southern hospitality and charm evocative of “Gone with the Wind” at award-winning Clarion Inn Willow River.
Relax and unwind at the end of a long day with a massage that comes to you in the privacy of your cabin or hotel room. Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone massage and spa services are available at very affordable prices from Beneficial to Life Therapeutic Massage.
And then there's Dolly and friends, the essence of the Smokies!
Above photo courtesy of Dollywood
World Class Entertainment Great China Acrobats Dixie Stampede Dinner & Show Worldly Things to See and Do Rainforest Adventures Dollywood – The Smoky Mountain
Family Adventure Five Oaks Riding Stables Tennessee Museum of Aviation Robert A. Tino Gallery, Inc. NASCAR Speedpark Floyd Garrett’s Muscle Car Museum Forbidden Caverns Shopping and More The Old Mill Pottery -at the Historic
Old Mill Square Smoky Mountain Knife Works –
The World’s Largest Knife Showplace Tanger Five Oaks Outlet Center Great Places to Eat Cobblers Taulbee’s Restaurant Up the Creek – Fish Camp &
Grill The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant Rooms With a View Clarion Inn Willow River And at the End of the Day Beneficial to Life Be a friend to the Smokies Visit the website of the Friends of Great Smoky Mountains National Parks |
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