Gatlinburg - Gateway to the Smokies

Over the mountains and through the woods. No, youGatlinburg - Gateway to the Smokies haven't found grandma's house. You've found Gatlinburg - lucky you. It doesn't matter how you slice it, Gatlinburg is a novelty, a show and a testament to the fact a little bit of country is good medicine for the soul.

Although Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country, Gatlinburg's laid-back nature is even more popular.

In 1950 Gatlinburg was a sleepy hamlet with only one Gatlinburg - Gateway to the Smokiesretail business. But all that's changed. Today you can find more than 11,000 accommodation rentals and 450 gift stores. What's more, it's second only to Las Vegas in the wedding chapel business.

What it's not:

• A peaceful respite: It's often crowded to the point of overflowing.
• A cold shoulder: Saying hello to people you pass on the street is expected - and refreshing.
• Trendy: Gatlinburg is firmly entrenched in its mountain history and it's not surprising to find ten gallon hats and lingerie sold side by side.

Given the geographic size of Gatlinburg (2 miles long by 5 miles wide) and what's available there, it's not hard to imagine the headache of traffic woes.

If you like multitudes of tourists, visit during peak Gatlinburg - Gateway to the Smokiesvacation times - on weekends and during special events. Otherwise, stick to January to March, late August and early November when room rates dip and traffic eases up.

Have you ever been to the Gatlinburg? Got a favorite hangout? Leave a comment below or reach out to us on Facebook or Twitter – we want to hear your stories!

To comply with the long list of regulating bodies, possibly even Geneva Conventions, and in the interest of transparency, our Stratford getaway was sponsored in part by Rundles and the Stratford Festival. Commentary and perspectives are those of GoGirlfriend.