According to forum posts, some popular hotel options in Gatlinburg include the Hampton Inn Gatlinburg, Greystone Lodge on the River, and Margaritaville Hotel. These hotels are centrally located near attractions and dining options, offering convenience for walking around the town.

For travelers looking for cabin-style accommodations, forum users have recommended Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort and Wyndham Smoky Mountains, which offer a mix of hotel amenities and cabin-style lodging. These are suitable for visitors who prefer a more structured resort environment.

Travelers have called out specific features of some lodgings; for instance, Riverhouse at the Park is noted for its cabin-like decor and riverside rooms, which many find relaxing. Additionally, Bearskin Lodge and Riverhouse offer rooms with balconies for those who enjoy scenic views or listening to river sounds.

During peak times like New Year's Eve, prices for accommodations in Gatlinburg can be quite high. Some travelers mentioned specific hotels like Hampton Inn Historic Nature Trail, where rates may soar around $300 per night during such events.

According to forum posts, some recommended hiking trails in Gatlinburg include the Little River Trail in Elkmont, known for its flat terrain and historical homesites, and the Gatlinburg Trail, accessible from the south end of town and noted for its river views. The Abrams Falls Trail, recently rehabilitated, offers a moderate hike with beautiful scenery and is less rocky and rooty than before.

For those seeking more challenging hikes, the Alum Cave to Mt. LeConte provides a longer, more strenuous option with rewarding views. Another suggestion from the forum is the Middle Prong Trail in the Tremont area, which features cascades and small waterfalls along the path. Porters Creek Trail is also highlighted for its ease and scenic elements, making it a good choice for a gentle hike.

According to forum posts, Pancake Pantry is highly recommended for breakfast, often suggested alongside Calhoun's, which is favored for both breakfast and dinner. Cherokee Grill is also frequently mentioned for its good food, particularly praised for its atmosphere and dinner offerings.

Travelers have called out Chesapeake's Seafood for its quality seafood dishes. Howard's Steakhouse is another popular choice, known for its outdoor seating and creekside dining, providing a pleasant ambiance along with its meals.

For those looking for local flavors, The Peddler is recommended for a romantic dinner, known for its steaks and extensive salad bar. Posts also suggest The Greenbrier for its first-class food and whiskey selection, offering a cozy and upscale dining experience.

According to forum posts, the Smoky Mountains offer a variety of outdoor activities. Travelers have mentioned hiking as a popular choice, with numerous trails leading to waterfalls and scenic views. Additionally, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park provides opportunities for wildlife watching and nature photography.

Some travelers said that the area is great for water sports and adventure. White water rafting on the Pigeon River and zip-lining in the Greenbrier area of the National Park are highly recommended. The Nantahala River also offers rafting and kayaking, with higher water levels leading to more challenging rapids.

For those interested in less strenuous activities, scenic drives like Newfound Gap Road and the Blue Ridge Parkway are popular. Travelers have called out the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail for its easy accessibility and beautiful natural features. Additionally, the area around Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offers arts and crafts communities, live music, and historical sites.

According to forum posts, Gatlinburg experiences a range of weather conditions throughout the year. Summers are typically warm with temperatures in the mid to upper 80s, while winters can see lows in the mid to upper 20s. The area is known for its unpredictability in weather, with conditions that can change rapidly.

Travelers have noted that spring in Gatlinburg is wet, summers are hot and humid with occasional quick showers, fall is pleasant, and winters are cold with a chance of snow. It is also mentioned that the higher elevations in the national park are cooler and can be significantly different from the town itself.

Forum contributors suggest checking local weather forecasts close to your visit, as the weather can be quite variable. They also recommend preparing for a range of conditions by dressing in layers and being ready for sudden changes in weather, especially when planning outdoor activities.

According to forum posts, travelers can find Anakeesta ticket discounts through Sweet Deals offering 2-for-1 promotions in various city markets, including Atlanta, Memphis, and Nashville. Specific URLs like https://www.sweetdeals.com often feature these deals.

Some users mentioned that deals for Anakeesta tickets are sometimes available through Star 102.1's Half Price Hookups at https://wwst.jbgdeals.com. These offers are time-sensitive and may vary in availability throughout the year.

Travelers have suggested checking the deals regularly as they tend to sell out quickly. It's also recommended to monitor different states and cities on the Sweet Deals website for emerging offers.

According to forum posts, the Gatlinburg area offers a variety of scenic drives that showcase the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains. Some of these drives include the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Newfound Gap Road, and the Foothills Parkway.

For many users, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is a highlight, featuring historic buildings and opportunities to see wildlife. Newfound Gap Road is noted for its stunning mountain views and several pull-offs for enjoying the scenery. Additionally, the Foothills Parkway provides expansive views of the Smokies, making it a popular choice for a leisurely drive.

Travelers have also recommended the Cades Cove Loop Road, which is described as an 11-mile, one-way loop that offers chances to see wildlife and visit historic sites. This drive is particularly recommended for its accessibility and the comprehensive experience it offers of the region's natural and historical richness.

According to forum posts, Cades Cove offers a scenic 11-mile loop drive that provides opportunities to spot various wildlife, including bears, deer, and turkeys. Travelers have called out the picturesque landscapes and the chance to see animals in their natural habitat as major highlights.

Some travelers mentioned that Cades Cove is not only about natural beauty but also rich in historical significance. The area features several well-preserved historic buildings, including old homesteads, barns, and churches, which offer a glimpse into early settler life in the region.

Despite its beauty, it’s noted by users that Cades Cove can get quite congested with traffic, especially during peak times, which might lead to prolonged periods spent in the car. However, there are numerous stops along the loop where visitors can get out, stretch their legs, and explore the surroundings more closely.