The ZORB is a Thrilling Smoky Mountain Adventure

The ZORB Smoky Mountains is a thrilling experience that is truly one-of-a-kind. Offering the Zydro (wet ride) or Zorbit (dry ride) the ZORB in Pigeon Forge will get your adrenaline pumping. The rides take place in a giant, inflatable, 12ft globe that sends you rolling down a specially designed hill. The ZORB globes are essentially a globe inside a globe. You, the Zorbonaut, are placed inside the inner globe and rolled down the hill while cushioned on a 3ft pocket of air.

When I arrived at the ZORB headquarters, I checked in and received my ZORB S.T.A.R.T. Certificate, which meant I was ready for my adventure. After that, I headed outside and took a look at the hill that I would soon be tumbling down. The hill doesn’t seem that long until you reach the top. That’s when you can really see how far you’re going to roll – the length of six football fields. All the same, I was amped to experience the ZORB. I choose to do the Zorbit ride, which promised a head-over-heels adrenaline rush that’ll have you coming back for more.

After strapping into the specially-designed safety harness, I was ready to become a Zorbonaut. At first tumble, I realized this was going to be a blur of blue, green, blue, green. The ride down the hill kept a smile plastered on my face the entire time and even though my eyes remained open during the entire journey, I witnessed only a beautiful mosaic of blues and greens, only aware of what was sky and what was earth. While zorbiting I had the feeling of weightlessness and g-force.

ZORB employees take photos of your adventure that can be purchased once your ride is complete.

I highly recommend becoming a Zorbonaut to anyone that visits Pigeon Forge. I can’t wait to try out the Zydro on my next trip!

Luxury Cabins, Stunning Mountain Views Featured at Dollywood Vacations Cabin Rentals

Dollywood Vacations Cabin Rentals in Pigeon Forge is a luxury cabin property located just minutes from Dollywood and surrounded by the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains. The cabins featured at Dollywood Vacations Cabin Rentals offer guests the absolute best in upscale amenities and they all have stunning views. Plus, the cabins at this resort can accommodate groups of any size, from units that sleep four to units that sleep fourteen, they have something to fit your vacation needs.

When I visited, I stayed in a One Bedroom Cabin and had the pleasure of also viewing a Four Bedroom Cabin. The One Bedroom Cabin (sleeps 4) exceeded my expectations. It featured a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors throughout, a large living room with stone fireplace and exceptional case goods, along with a large flat screen TV and large windows to highlight the fantastic view. The upstairs area was home to the master bedroom with king bed and large master bath with walk-in shower and oversized Jacuzzi. The upstairs also featured a large flat screen TV, pool table and air hockey. The cabin’s relaxing elements were highlighted by two rocking chairs and a hammock on the lower level porch, and a hot tub on the second level, accessed through the loft area. All cabin units are also equipped with a washer/dryer and come with a gift for guests. When I visited, the gift was a Dollywood blanket.

The Four Bedroom Cabin was loaded with amenities and featured plenty of things for your entertainment, including two 55" Wide Screen Televisions, TV’s in each bedroom, six VCRs, a Stereo System with Surround Sound, a PlayStation II, a Game Table, Pool Table, Air Hockey, Fireplace, Gourmet Kitchen and Jacuzzi. The tri-level deck was equipped with rockers and hot tub for guest enjoyment. Plus, the three story cabin was so spacious that it could sleep up to 14 people, with two of the four bedrooms being master suites.

A swimming pool, children’s playground and Wi-Fi access is also available to guests.

A stay at the Dollywood Vacations Cabin Rentals in Pigeon Forge TN is the perfect place to stay for a mountain getaway.

Bear Run Falls Pigeon Forge an Easy Choice for Smoky Mountain Vacationers

Bear Run Falls Pigeon Forge is a condominium resort offering a great location just minutes from Dollywood. The property has Hillcrest and Tower units available, with the Hillcrest units being the newer-style condos. Guests have full access to the indoor pool open all year, the outdoor pool, hot tub and outdoor picnic area with tables and grill. A spa is also located on the property.

The two bedroom hillcrest unit features nice case goods, a medium sized kitchen with granite counters, and an open layout that combines the dining area and spacious living room, which featured a large stone fireplace, leather furniture, 50” flat screen TV, sleeper sofa and access to the outside balcony. The first bedroom is located near the entrance and it connects to a shared common bath. The second bedroom, which is the master suite, was elegant in its décor, featured a comfortable bed and master bath with larger jetted tub and walk-in shower. The tower units are similar in layout but feature slightly older case goods and furnishings. All units come standard with a washer and dryer.

The three bedroom units, which are available only in the hillcrest section, are very spacious and are highlighted by upgraded amenities like a flat screen TV in every bedroom and stainless steel appliances. Some of the three bedroom units are townhouse style, although the one I toured was all one level. One bedroom condos are also available at Bear Run Falls Pigeon Forge TN, and they featuredthe same design as the two bedroom units, only with a smaller amount of square footage. They were, however, very cozy and accommodating. All condos at Bear Run Falls include a patio or balcony, are located right of the golf course and feature wireless internet access.

Two bedroom and three bedroom cabins are also available, in a resort setting, for roughly the same price as the Hillcrest condo units.

Choose Bear Run Falls for your next Pigeon Forge vacation.

Hotel Pigeon Forge Offers Great Rates, Convenient Location to Guests

The Hotel Pigeon Forge is a budget-friendly property offering a great location and southern hospitality to guests. The hotel has double/double and single king units, all of which are decorated in the same floral motif and include the same in-room amenities. The hotel amenities found at this property include a continental breakfast, served from 8am-10am, in a medium-sized breakfast area located in the lobby, which includes biscuits and gravy on the weekends. Plus there is an outdoor pool that is open from 9am-10pm (seasonally) and free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

The double/double room featured at this hotel includes basic in-room amenities like alarm clock radio, coffee maker and iron/ironing board plus all rooms have mini-fridges. Microwaves can be requested on a first come-first serve basis and are free of charge. A 27” TV and desk with chair also come standard in the rooms. The case goods are a bit dated, but the new carpet found in all rooms is a nice update. The bathrooms feature tile and an outside vanity. The king units are very similar in design, although they include a recliner.

Visiting Pigeon Forge is easily affordable when you stay at Hotel Pigeon Forge.

Fully Renovated Spirit of the Smokies Condo Lodge Offers Comfortable Affordability to Guests

The Spirit of the Smokies Condo Lodge Pigeon Forge is undergoing extensive renovations and the large property is in the process of being thoroughly upgraded. From the amenities to the rooms, everything at Spirit of the Smokies offers something new.

The amenities at this property are extensive. They offer a small sundry shop open 24 hours, a large arcade with pool table and 10 games open from 9am-1am, and a large indoor pool with hot tub as well as outdoor pool, also open form 9am-1am. The indoor and outdoor pool connect and offer plenty of sundeck space as well as a very clean swimming environment. Plus, there is a restaurant on-site called the Wood Grill Buffett. Free Wi-Fi is also available throughout the property.

Rooms at this lodge come in three varieties: Double Queen, King Jacuzzi and Kitchenette with Fireplace. The Double Queen room features two comfortable pillow top queen beds with all-new linens, a lodge style décor with all-new case goods, a flat screen 32” TV, mini-fridge and microwave. New carpet has also been installed, with tile in the foyer. The bathroom features a curved shower rod, granite vanity and new sinks. Plus, the unit has access to a large balcony. The King Jacuzzi Suite had the same layout as the aforementioned unit and same in-room amenities, but had an upgraded large Jacuzzi tub with new hardware, a lounge chair and French doors that opened to a balcony. The third room type, the kitchenette with fireplace, is equipped with a full kitchen, dining table, and sleeper sofa. The bathroom in this unit type is an exact replica of the bathrooms in the other room types and it also features the same in-room amenities.

The Spirit of the Smokies Condo Lodge is a great choice for any Pigeon Forge vacationer.

Park Place Condominiums Gatlinburg Offers Perfect Mix of Seclusion and Location

Park Place Condominiums in Gatlinburg Tennessee is located on the edge of town, right on the banks of the Little Pigeon River. The tranquil setting is highlighted by lots of foliage, creating a relaxing place to stay while you visit The Great Smoky Mountain National Park, which is just minutes away. The property also offers a small fitness center and medium-sized, secluded outdoor pool to guests.

The units available include two and three bedroom condos. The two bedroom condo I stayed in had the same layout as the three bedroom unit, although the three bedroom has a loft which houses the third bedroom and third bathroom. The loft area of the third bedroom is accessed by a spiral staircase.

Upon arriving at my condo, I was pleased with its spaciousness and open layout. The fully equipped kitchen opens to a dining and living area, which features a mountain stone fireplace and has access to a balcony overlooking the river. The master bedroom also has balcony access and a large master bath with dual sinks, extra large Jacuzzi tub and walk-in shower. The case goods are in moderate condition and the entire unit is very clean. Near the entrance of the condo is the second bedroom, which is furnished with a king bed, and shares access to a shared common bath. A washer/dryer is also included in the unit. All of the condos are decorated in a unique fashion, although they all provide a good mix of at-home comforts.

A stay at the Gatlinburg Park Place Condos provides the perfect mix of seclusion and location for the Gatlinburg vacationer.

Be Amazed at the Cirque De Chine show in Pigeon Forge

Cirque De Chine Pigeon Forge is an entertaining show that packs a lot of action into its two hour production. The talented performers combine movement and music for a one-of-a-kind display of Eastern arts. This show amazed me from start to finish, as these performers defy gravity, pushing their skills to new heights and generally do the impossible with their bodies.

A few of the highlights of this Pigeon Forge show included the human statue routines, during which the performers twist, turn and manipulate their bodies into statue like positions. The athleticism displayed is truly impressive. The Chinese dance segment, which feature a boy and girl performing aerial acrobatics was beautiful and highlighted the grace found in acrobatics. A balancing routine, featuring female cast members, was also a standout as the performers balanced flower torches, while dancing, in their mouths. Another spectacular stunt featured the males of the group jumping through hoops, literally! They would run, jump, flip, or somersault into a stand of hoops, and at one point the hoop was five circles high which totaled 10 feet! The way these performers gracefully swooped through these small circles, and at such a height, was unbelievable. A beautiful sash routine was another highlight. The story is based on a Chinese legend, similar to Romeo and Juliet, and the artistry of the man and woman during the sash segment was truly breathtaking. From swinging high above the crowd to seamlessly working together to perform artful moves, this segment truly brought the show to new heights. Other acts during the show included extreme juggling, chair/vase balancing at unheard of heights, human catapulting and martial arts.

The incredible finale of Cirque De Chine featured the famous flying motorcycles. A giant globe filled the stage and at first one motorcycle climbed inside driving up, down and all around. Then two filled the globe, then three, then four, then five! Watching five motorcycles spin, twist and go and upside down was a great finish to the show and still has my companions and I asking “How’d they do that?”

Young and old alike are enthralled by this show. It’s an easy choice for your next Pigeon Forge vacation.

Econo Lodge Riverside a Perfect Choice for Families

Econo Lodge Riverside Pigeon Forge is a nicely appointed property offering visitors a wide array of amenities and comfortable rooms that make a visit to the Smokies a relaxing one.

There is a large indoor pool area with retractable roof equipped with kiddie pool and Jacuzzi, and several of the hotels rooms face the pool, which is an added bonus. A game room, with 8 arcade games, and guest laundry facility is also available to guests, as well as free Wi-Fi access. An outdoor courtyard, located near the pool, is nicely landscaped and very inviting, and is a great place to enjoy breakfast in the morning. The deluxe continental breakfast, served each morning from 7am-10am, features 23 items, including biscuits and gravy and diabetic options. The breakfast room, which accommodates up to 53 people, can be accessed from the main lobby or from the lower level entrance. A unique feature of the Pigeon Forge Econo Lodge Riverside is that is does have a secluded creek located on property, perfect for enjoying the Smoky Mountain air.

Accommodations at this Pigeon Forge hotel include Double Queen, King and King Jacuzzi rooms. All rooms are considered “petite suites” as they come equipped with a mini-fridge, microwave, coffee maker and Serta Perfect Sleeper Beds. A bright décor of oranges, blues and yellows accents all of the rooms, which have nice cedar case goods, a 27” TV and L-shaped vanity located outside of the bath. The King Jacuzzi rooms feature a large corner Jacuzzi, and are more spacious than the aforementioned rooms. All of the units were very clean and were well presented during my visit. It is important to note the Double Queen rooms are a bit larger than the King rooms.

The Econo Lodge Riverside is an excellent choice for families on vacation in the Pigeon Forge area.

Enjoy Rustic Elegance at White Oak Lodge & Resort in Gatlinburg

Experience the mountains of Tennessee at White Oak Lodge and Resort in Gatlinburg. Home to impressive two and three bedroom cabins plus a recreation center, this property is the perfect place to get away from it all. They have artfully combined rustic charm and modern elegance to create a resort that is truly top notch. Located on 16 acres that borders the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, the resort’s cabins are beautifully crafted and offer 1,500 square feet of space to guests. Plus, all of the cabins have the same floor plan so you know exactly what you’re getting each and every time you stay.

The three bedroom cabin I stayed in featured an open layout on the main floor which included a kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counters, a rustic dining table and inviting living room with leather furniture, large flat screen TV with DVD player plus a stone gas fireplace. The large master bedroom was also located on the main floor. It was beautifully decorated with lodge décor and featured upscale case goods that really accented the lodge-style. It was also equipped with a flat screen TV and had a separate access to the screened-in porch with hot tub. The master suite bath was very spacious and had dual vanities and an extra large walk-in shower. A stacked washer/dryer was also located in the unit. Two additional bedrooms were located upstairs. Each bedroom was equipped with a flat screen TV and they shared a bathroom that was highlighted by upgraded hardware, dual sinks and granite counters. Excellent furnishings were found throughout the cabin, and really made the place feel exceptional. The cabins have a large porch with rocking chairs and the aforementioned hot tub.

The two bedroom cabins at White Oak Lodge Resort offer the same layout and design as the three bedroom unit, except the upstairs area features only one bedroom. The upstairs bedroom was equipped with a corner whirlpool tub, flat screen TV and has a small balcony. The bathroom had dual sinks and a large walk-in shower. The loft area of the two bedroom units also had a game area with pool table.

To make your stay at White Oak Lodge Resort Gatlinburg even more enjoyable, there is a recreation center with a magnificent u-shaped saltwater pool accented by stone grottos, two waterfall features, a zero-entry access point plus a Jacuzzi. Adjacent to the pool area is a stone gas fire pit. Tennis courts and basketball are also available.

Enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains at this impressive resort.

Country Cascades is Remodeled, Renovated and Renamed for the 2010 Season

Country Cascades, formerly Country Inn & Suites, is an inviting property offering interior corridor rooms, a secluded location plus the upgraded amenities guests deserve while on vacation. The hotel has been recently remodeled, and its charming décor and comfortable rooms reflect the renovations. The exterior of the hotel also has a fresh, new look as it received an extensive paint job in early 2010.

Upon arriving at the hotel, I was pleased with their expansive lobby, which featured art by local artist Ken Jenkins, and was equipped with a computer for guest use. Their Aquatic Center can be accessed from the main floor as well. There is a large indoor pool and hot tub, in an atrium-style enclosure, and secluded, medium-sized outdoor pool that was very clean and perfect for sunbathing. Plus, the pools at Country Cascades are non-chemical based as they use a salt-water blend instead of chlorine to purify their pools. A guest laundry, small fitness center and arcade are also located on-site. Wi-Fi service is available throughout the hotel free of charge.

Mill Creek runs right behind the property creating the perfect place to have a picnic, bbq or just play in the great outdoors. The Country Cascades also serves a deluxe continental breakfast in a medium-sized, very clean, breakfast room. The breakfast, which includes waffles, is served from 6:30am-10am.

The rooms at the Pigeon Forge Country Cascades have all been upgraded and now feature flat screen 32” TVs and DVD players, plus all rooms now have plush pillowtop mattresses and mini-fridges. All rooms also have new carpet, updated case goods and have a floral décor. The Double Queen units are equipped with a large vanity and moderate-sized bath area. The Celebration Suites, all located on the 7th floor, feature vaulted ceilings, which really added to the atmosphere of the rooms. They also feature medium-sized Jacuzzi tubs, extra-large windows, and are equipped with microwaves.

Choose the Country Cascades for your next Smoky Mountain getaway.

Newly Renovated Holiday Inn Pigeon Forge an Immaculate Lodging Choice

The Holiday Inn Pigeon Forge is an immaculate, newly remodeled property that offers a wealth of amenities and conveniences for its guests. From the moment I arrived at the hotel, I was impressed with its stunning lodge-style lobby which boasts a beautiful flagstone fireplace, hardwood floors and spacious lounge area. After checking in to my newly renovated room, I made use of the array of amenities available.

Most of the properties amenities are located on the main floor. There is a small business center with two computers and copy/fax/print services, plus an indoor pool and arcade. The large indoor pool was very clean and inviting. It had a waterfall feature, plenty of lounge space, a hot tub plus a sundeck outside. The arcade, which has 12 games, is located in the same area, which is convenient for families. Louie’s Grill is also open to guests and it serves breakfast from 7am-10:30am. There is an $8.95 charge for the breakfast buffet. Louie’s is also open for dinner from 5pm-8pm. On weekends, The Marketplace Café is open and it offers sandwiches, light snacks and on-the-go type items. There is also a fitness center available, open from 5:30am-11pm, equipped with six machines and a flat screen TV. The hotel is also equipped with Wi-Fi, which is a free service to guests.

King and Double/Double rooms are available at the Pigeon Forge Holiday Inn. All rooms are newly renovated and featured triple sheeted pillow top beds that were very restful, a mini-fridge, microwave, sofa chair, 27” TV and new case goods. The bath area had a granite vanity and curved shower rod for extra space. The motif is simple earth tones of browns, greens, golds and whites with a hint of wildlife to accent the lodge-style of the hotel. All rooms also have large windows accenting the spaciousness of the rooms.

The all indoor corridor Holiday Inn Pigeon Forge is a top place to stay when you play in the Smokies.

Comfortable, Clean Accommodations can be found at Holiday Inn Express Pigeon Forge

The Holiday Inn Express Pigeon Forge was a wonderful place to stay on my recent trip to Pigeon Forge. Newly remodeled, the property offers quality accommodations and amenities that make guests feel right at home. Plus, Pigeon Forge entertainment and shows were just steps away, which made enjoying the area very easy.
The Pigeon Forge Holiday Inn Express features a large indoor pool area with hot tub in an atrium-style enclosure that allowes for plenty of sunlight. It connects to a courtyard that is perfect for sunbathing. The spacious area was very clean and also has public restrooms. There is also a guest laundry located on the 5th floor and a picnic area with swing set for the kids located behind the pool area. A medium-sized game room was also available to guests. Plus, a computer was available in the lobby that offered free internet access with copy/print/fax services. However, free Wi-Fi was available throughout the hotel. The free hot breakfast that was served in the morning, from 6:30am-10am, was a great way to start my day. It featured standard continental breakfast items as well as hot items like eggs, cinnamon rolls, sausage and bacon.
Accommodations at the hotel include Double/Double and Single King units. I had the pleasure of staying in a Double/Double Unit, which was equipped with a very comfortable bed featuring fine linens and pillows that made for a restful night’s sleep. It was furnished with a sofa chair, mini-fridge, microwave and 27” TV. The décor featured greens, golds and whites. The bathroom area had a curved shower rod and large vanity area, and felt spacious for a standard hotel unit.
The Holiday Inn Express is a great choice for travelers to the Smoky Mountain region.