Advice from Smokies Experts

Maximize every single second of your visit to the Smoky Mountains with advice from area experts. As local folks who live here, they are your eyes and ears on the ground. They have an intimate knowledge and understanding of the Smokies and are here to make sure you are in the know. From the best restaurants and hotels to hikes with the most majestic views to prime trout fishing spots and everything in between, you’ll find all the information you need to have the best Smoky Mountains vacation ever.

Here’s Where to Find the Best Live Bluegrass Music in the Smoky Mountains This Summer

Here’s Where to Find the Best Live Bluegrass Music in the Smoky Mountains This Summer

It’s summer in the Smoky Mountains, and the sounds that fill the air around here are the splashing of waterfalls, the chirping of birds, the buzzing of bees and - of course - bluegrass music. There’s nothing quite like the twangy pluck of a banjo combined with the lively strains of a fiddle to get

Jackie TuckerJuly 6th, 2022|

Have a Wet and Wild Summer with the Best Whitewater Rafting in the Smoky Mountains

Have a Wet and Wild Summer with the Best Whitewater Rafting in the Smoky Mountains

When spring and summer temps begin to rise, and the mountain waters turn to raging rapids, you know it’s time for one of the most popular outdoor activities in the Smoky Mountains – whitewater rafting! The Smokies have some of the most exciting rafting trips you could ask for, with everything from heart-pumping Class IV

Adeel AtherJune 29th, 2022|

Episode 63: Kim Ross of the J Creek Cloggers

Episode 63: Kim Ross of the J Creek Cloggers

About this Episode: This episode explores the world of Appalachian dance, and why it is so important to keep the culture alive. Joseph is joined by our special guest, Kim Ross. Kim has roots firmly entrenched in the Southern Appalachians. A native of Snowflake Virginia, not far from the historic Carter Family Fold and

Joseph Franklyn McElroyJune 28th, 2022|

Freedom Rings Throughout the Smokies with These 2022 4th of July Events

Freedom Rings Throughout the Smokies with These 2022 4th of July Events

Independence Day celebrations in the Smoky Mountains are back with a bang in 2022! Discover one-of-a-kind things to do, and enjoy all your favorite patriotic festivities decked out in red, white and blue. Catch a parade, listen to live music, feast on classic summer dishes and drinks, and – of course – enjoy colorful fireworks

Jackie TuckerJune 22nd, 2022|

The Best Pet Friendly Hotels in the Smoky Mountains

The Best Pet Friendly Hotels in the Smoky Mountains

The most memorable vacations happen when your best friend is riding shotgun, and for animal lovers your “ride-or-die” traveling companion often comes in the four-legged variety. Thankfully, when you head to the Smoky Mountains, you don’t have to worry about leaving your pal behind. While pets aren’t allowed inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park,

Jackie TuckerJune 15th, 2022|

Episode 61: Tar Heel Lightning - Talking NASCAR with Dan Pierce

Episode 61: Tar Heel Lightning – Talking NASCAR with Dan Pierce

About this Podcast In this episode, Joseph is joined by our special guest Dan Pierce, he is a renowned author, columnist, and consultant. He earned degrees from WCU, the University of Alabama, and the University of Tennessee before becoming a history professor at UNC Asheville. Dan is an avid outdoorsman, passionate about NASCAR, moonshine

Joseph Franklyn McElroyJune 14th, 2022|

Engage All Five Senses with These Delightful Things to Do in Maggie Valley, NC

Engage All Five Senses with These Delightful Things to Do in Maggie Valley, NC

Known for its friendly small-town hospitality and unrivaled location, Maggie Valley, North Carolina is an ideal place to enjoy the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. With laid-back style and fascinating Appalachian heritage, this charming town is filled with vintage motels, cultural festivals, car and motorcycle rallies, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. Get ready for

Jackie TuckerJune 10th, 2022|

Episode 60: Masterful Stories in the Smokies with Author Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle

Episode 60: Masterful Stories in the Smokies with Author Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle

About this Episode: In this episode, you'll learn what it takes to become a successful author while you discover the upbringing in the Cherokee culture. Joseph is joined by our special guest, Annette Saunooke Clapsaddle, a renowned author, writer, and educator. She is the author of Even as We Breathe, one of the best

Joseph Franklyn McElroyJune 7th, 2022|

Make it the Best Father’s Day Ever with These 7 Things to do in the Smoky Mountains

Make it the Best Father’s Day Ever with These 7 Things to do in the Smoky Mountains

Turn this Father’s Day into a trip your dad will always remember with an incredible Smoky Mountain adventure. Enjoy quiet moments of relaxation while fly fishing, bond over a daring zipline excursion, toast to a great life with some mountain moonshine, or just soak up the fresh air in the great outdoors. It’s really

Jackie TuckerMay 30th, 2022|

8 One-of-a-Kind Things You Can Only Do in the Smoky Mountains

8 One-of-a-Kind Things You Can Only Do in the Smoky Mountains

From cultural discoveries to animal encounters to just plain fun and amusement, the Smoky Mountains are filled with fun and unusual adventures that the whole family will enjoy. Read on to discover ten of the most quirky and unique things to do in the Smokies! Synchronous Fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park Every

Adeel AtherMay 19th, 2022|