|
Since the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited park in the nation, the Pigeon Forge area bustles with activity. You put a lot into your vacation planning, and Country Cascades is here to help. There's nothing worse than unexpected expenses, tied-up traffic, poor directions, or any of the myriad of "bad things" that could go wrong with your getaway.
Avoid frustration with these travel tips.
|
|
Traffic Congestion
Whenever possible, ride the local trolleys. Fun Time Trolley, in Sevierville and Pigeon Forge, is headquartered at Patriot Park in Pigeon Forge and has routes throughout both cities. Fares range from 50¢ to 75¢. The Gatlinburg Trolley offers comparable rates and coverage for the city of Gatlinburg.
Car Shows often tie up traffic as visitors slow down to look at roadside displays. Major car shows in Pigeon Forge occur in April and September. If you're not coming for the car show, try to plan your visit around these events to avoid traffic hassles.
Many visitors arrive via Interstate 40 at Exit 407. Winfield Dunn Parkway (Tennessee State Route 66) becomes congested during peak drive-in (Thursday & Friday afternoons/evenings) and departure (Sunday mornings) times. If at all possible, find another route to take during these times.
Sevierville
Finding your way around Sevierville becomes easier once you know a few shortcuts. Main Street is also known as Dolly Parton Parkway and connects Winfield Dunn Parkway to Veterans Boulevard. Veterans Boulevard runs along the East side of Sevierville and Pigeon Forge, traffic here is usually a little less congested than on the main Parkway (US 441). Dollywood Parks Boulevard branches off of Veterans Boulevard, as does Teaster Lane and Dollywood Lane (both in Pigeon Forge).
A few other things about Sevierville: Sales tax in Sevierville is 9.75% on most things, with lodging and attractions having an additional 2% tax. Smoking is prohibited in most public places. Liquor by the drink, beer, and wine are available at restaurants. Beer and wine are available at carryout shops and convenience stores.
Pigeon Forge
Home to Dollywood, Splash Country, Dixie Stampede, Titanic, Comedy Barn, Hatfields and McCoys, Smith Family Theater and so much more! Pigeon Forge lies between Sevierville and Gatlinburg.
Getting around is sometimes difficult, but be adventurous - take a few side streets. From the main Parkway (US 441), Teaster Lane (Light #2) connects to East Wears Valley Rd (Light #3), Old Mill Avenue (Light #7) and Veterans Boulevard. Florence Drive (just off of Wears Valley Road) parallels the Parkway to the West. Florence becomes C.A. King Boulevard and then Rena Street which will lead you to Pine Mountain Road (Light #6) and to Ogle Drive near Light #7.
A few other things about Pigeon Forge: Sales tax in Pigeon Forge is 9.75% on most things, with lodging and attractions having an additional 2.5% tax. Smoking is prohibited in most public places. Beer and wine are available at restaurants and at carryout shops and convenience stores.
Gatlinburg
Lying at the edge of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg has some of the most fantastic views!
Driving and parking here can be frustrating during peak times. If you are staying in Pigeon Forge or Sevierville, park at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center and ride the Trolley into town - you save on parking fees and vexation. Pedestrians in Gatlinburg always have the right of way and traffic can be come backed up on the main Parkway due to this. River Road at Light #5 provides an offshoot to the Parkway, with less foot traffic it's a little easier to get around.
A few other things about Gatlinburg: Sales tax in Gatlinburg is 9.75% on most things, with lodging and attractions having an additional 2% tax. Smoking is prohibited in most public places. Liquor by the drink, beer and wine are available at restaurants. Liquor is also available at "package" stores, and beer and wine are available at most convenience stores.
|