Explore the Smoky Mountains

From misty mountain sunrises to bustling downtown nights, the Great Smoky Mountains offer something for every kind of traveler. Use this guide to learn about the area, discover must‑do activities, and dive into our latest local stories before you arrive.

Get to Know Gatlinburg & the Smokies


Gatlinburg sits at the doorstep of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, blending small‑town charm with easy access to mountain views, hiking, and year‑round attractions. From scenic drives and local restaurants to family‑friendly fun along the Parkway, it is a convenient home base for exploring both the park and nearby towns like Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. Use this section to learn more about Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains.


Things to do in the smokies


The Smoky Mountains are packed with things to do, whether you want big‑name attractions, quiet time in nature, or a little of both. From world‑class spots like Dollywood, Anakeesta, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies to local favorites in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, you can fill your days with rides, shows, shopping, and family‑friendly fun. When you are ready to slow down, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers hundreds of miles of trails, scenic drives like Roaring Fork Motor Trail and Cades Cove, picnic areas, and wildlife viewing that showcase the area’s natural beauty in every season.


smoky mountain area blog


Our Smoky Mountain Area Blog brings the destination to life with local tips, trip ideas, and stories to help you plan a better getaway. You will find sample itineraries, seasonal guides, favorite restaurants, and spotlights on attractions in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the national park, all written with real guests in mind. Use the blog to decide when to visit, what to do once you are here, and how to make the most of your cabin stay.


Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Planning your stay in the Smoky Mountains starts with choosing the right cabin for your trip. Stony Brook offers everything from cozy 1 bedroom cabins for couples to large group cabins that can host family reunions, retreats, and celebrations, with options in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and nearby mountain areas. You can browse by size, location, and features, such as pet friendly cabins, cabins on the river, Smoky Mountain cabins with pool access, and luxury rentals with indoor pools or theater rooms, so it is easy to find a place that fits how you like to travel. Once you have a sense of what you want to see and do, use this page to match your wish list amenities with a cabin that feels like your home base in the mountains.