No matter how much I have traveled, I am still amazed at how little I have seen or at how much there is left unseen.

This past Memorial Day weekend, this Allergic Traveler went to Gatlinburg, TN and Pigeon Forge, better known as Dollywood.  Dolly Parton has donated so much to this community that she is well revered here. Her contributions to the medical community alone are quite impressive. It would be great if she could donate to the food allergy community as well!

I have never experienced anything quite like this place. The scenery is breath taking. The drive through the Smoky Mountains National Park is a reminder of how small we actually are. We saw a bear, a deer, and wild turkeys!  This country has such beauty. I am glad we got to embrace it. Now Gatlinburg is an experience in itself. There is something for everyone and probably too much of everything too! There are lots for kids to do. But be prepared for sensory overload.  It’s pretty loud and visually you are never quite sure where to look. I would compare it to Las Vegas or Myrtle Beach but set in the mountains instead. Here is a small list of things to do:

  1. Biking
  2. Fishing
  3. Camping
  4. White Water Rafting
  5. Golfing
  6. Mini putting
  7. Race tracks
  8. Theaters
  9. Wax museums
  10. Outlets
  11. Wineries
  12. Gondola ride
  13. Etc…

There is no way you can get bored. All restaurants were accommodating to my food allergies and no restaurants seemed put out even though they were very crowded. I think my favorite thing about this place is that it was well priced. Meals were affordable, hotels were reasonable and even the extra curricular activities were inexpensive. All in all, it was a great getaway for my husband and I. I am glad he surprised me with such an adventure.