My Unusual but Honest Thoughts about Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg

If you've been following me for a while, you know that I usually write about things I love or recommend places to visit. This post, however, is not one of those. I really disliked my time in Pigeon Forge, and while Gatlinburg was slightly better, it wasn't great either.

Friends who know that I prefer to escape to the mountains, especially those in Colorado, had warned me about the touristy nature of these places. However, I was not prepared for the overwhelming level of commercialization in Pigeon Forge.

I was a bit tired from my 9-hour drive from D.C., but when I saw half of a replica of the Titanic and an upside-down bank, I was shocked and disheartened. There were dinosaurs, a Ferris wheel, and loud arcade games at The Island, making me feel like I was in Ocean City, Maryland, or any generic beach spot with a boardwalk. It was all too much—I understand the appeal to families, but I felt completely disconnected from any sense of being in the mountains.

One highlight was the moonshine tasting at Ole Smoky, which a huge building filled with all types of moonshine and some whiskey. For a building this size, I felt like it was calm compared to the outside world and all its noise. After about 1.5 hours at The Island, I was ready to return to my hotel.

The next morning, I headed to Gatlinburg since it was on my way to my campground in Cades Cove.

Gatlinburg still had its touristy elements, like Ripley's Believe It or Not, but it felt a bit less overwhelming. I checked out a local brewery that offered great beer and pizza cooked in a fire that only took seven minutes. I also did another moonshine tasting at Ole Smoky since they have several locations, each offering different tastings (which I discuss in another blog post linked here).

After spending a few hours there, a thunderstorm gave me a welcome excuse to leave. I was eager to escape the touristy atmosphere and immerse myself in natural surroundings. Ironically, I had planned to visit attractions like the skywalk and the gondola in Gatlinburg. Still, I couldn't bring myself to do so when all I could see were mountains overshadowed by commercial attractions. Finding a silver lining in this experience was challenging.

Now, if you're not a nature person like me, if you prefer hiking and camping, and if you're looking for some fun, then these places might be perfect for you. However, if you're heading to the Smokies solely to enjoy nature and unwind, then…

Just

Skip

It.

If I had to choose one place to return to, it would be Gatlinburg, mainly because of its location. At least they had good beer and a decent winery where I enjoyed tasting it. Plus, it's close to the national park and has cell service!

So, here's my honest review of these two towns. Am I wrong to dislike them, even though they attract around 14 million visitors a year? Or am I justified in my feelings? I'm genuinely interested in your thoughts, so please share them in the comments!