| The Smoky Mountain towns of Pigeon Forge and | | | | Smokies Festival will feature something new this |
| Gatlinburg, Tennessee offer a vast array of | | | | season as well-The Polar Express 4-D Experience. |
| entertainers, family fun and outdoor activities that | | | | This theme park attraction is based on the hit |
| bring millions of visitors each year. Nestled near | | | | 2004 Warner Bros. movie of the same name and |
| the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains | | | | will take guests on a 4-D virtual experience, similar |
| National Park, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg have | | | | to the one seen in the major motion picture. It is |
| emerged as a top vacation destination due to its | | | | a holiday treat that's sure to be a family favorite. |
| family-friendly values and easy-on-the-budget | | | | Adventure Quest in Pigeon Forge also opened in |
| attractions. Of course, Dollywood is one of the | | | | the month of July, with more attractions to open |
| main reasons why families flock to the area, as it | | | | in mid-August. Currently, visitors have access to |
| is Tennessee's top theme park attraction. | | | | Pirate Golf, a tropical island, neon-lit mini-golf |
| In July, the Country Tonite Theater welcomed | | | | course, ensconcing visitors in a pirate theme |
| legendary performers Ronnie McDowell and | | | | throughout. The Mirror Maze, The Vault areas, as |
| George Jones to their stage. McDowell had a | | | | well as the Hurricane Simulator are also open. |
| one-night only performance, while Jones graced | | | | Time Twister is slated to open in the ensuing |
| the stage twice during his stay. The Country | | | | months, with a Distortion Room and Sound |
| Tonite Theater always features a great line-up of | | | | Simulator (similar to Guitar Hero) also in the |
| performers, so be sure to check our blog for any | | | | works. |
| upcoming shows. | | | | Gatlinburg announced the National Storytelling |
| Tennessee's favorite attraction, Dollywood, also | | | | Conference, scheduled for August 8th and 9th. |
| announced some new additions and changes | | | | This conference will showcase members from |
| during the month of July. First, the | | | | seven regions of the country as well as a concert |
| always-anticipated Dolly Parade, which traditionally | | | | featuring four of the most acclaimed storytellers |
| kicks off the beginning of a new season at | | | | in the nation, including Doc McConnell. There are |
| Dollywood, has been moved from April to May | | | | also fringe performances and story swap events |
| for the 2009 season. Dollywood's Christmas in the | | | | to enjoy. |
