Current Travel Deals

• Stay 1 night, Sunday-Thursday through Oct. 25:
  • $159 (reg. $364) for a double queen room
    
  • $229 (reg. $400) for a triple bed suite
    
  
  
• Stay 2 nights, arriving select Fridays-Saturdays: Sept. 21-22, 28-29; Oct. 12-13, 19-20
  • $399 (reg. $690) for a double queen room
    
  • $549 (reg. $1120) for a triple bed suite
    
  
  
• Standard rooms sleep up to four guests, while suites can sleep up to six
  
• All stays include overnight golf cart rental for four or six guests, an upgraded hot breakfast buffet for each guest and a $50 bar credit per booking
  
• Combine multiple vouchers for longer stays
  

• Three- or five-day summer canoe adventure (May-October)
  
• $585 (reg. $780) for a three-day trip for two people, Monday or Friday departures
  
• $1990 (reg. $2655) for a five-day trip for four people, Monday departures
  
• Includes professional guide service, camping equipment (backpack, tent, air mattress, sleeping bag with liner), guide-prepared home-cooked meals, camping and parking permits, and canoeing activities such as wildlife viewing, fishing, swimming, hiking, and scavenging and safety instruction
  
• Note: 13% tax is not included in either option and will be paid directly to Wild Adventures Canada.
  

• 1 night; arrive Sunday-Thursday, Sept. 4 - Oct. 25
  • $159 for a Standard Two Queens room
    
  • $229 for a one-bedroom Luxury Suite
    
  
  
• 2 nights; arrive select Fridays: Sept. 21, 28; Oct. 12, 19
  • $399 for a Standard Two Queens room
    
  • $549 for a one-bedroom Luxury Suite
    
  
  
• Standard rooms sleep up to four guests, while suites can sleep up to six
  
• All stays include overnight golf cart rental for four or six guests, a hot daily breakfast buffet for each guest and a $50 bar credit per group
  

• Stay in a queen room with a private bath through Nov. 1, 2018
  
• $129 for 1 night, daily arrivals
  
• $239 for 2 nights, daily arrivals
  
• Daily breakfast (hot and cold) and parking are included for all guests
  
• Note: Guests must be 21 years or older
  

• Arrive Sunday-Thursday through Dec. 20
  
• $269 for 2 nights in a vineyard-view room for two guests
  
• Daily mimosa breakfast for two ($18 value)
  
• Welcome bottle of wine (reg. $28)
  
• Afternoon wine hour
  
• Not available on: Oct. 7; Nov. 11-12
  

• 2 nights in a Historic Room
  • $119 ... Sunday-Wednesday arrivals
    
  • $159 ... Thursday-Saturday arrivals
    
  • Many of these rustic rooms include a sitting room, golf course views or a balcony
    
  
  
• 2 nights in a Mountain View Room
  • $139 ... Sunday-Wednesday arrivals
    
  • $179 ... Thursday-Saturday arrivals
    
  • Located in the newer building on property, these rooms have a balcony or patio with views of the golf course and mountains
    
  
  
• Not available on:Sept. 16-18, 21, 28-29; Oct. 4-14, 17-23, 26-27; Nov. 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, 21-23
  
• Note: The deal is not valid for pet-friendly rooms.
  

• Travel through Dec. 27
  
• Stay in a Queen Town View room
  
• $99 for 1 night ... arrive Sunday-Thursday
  
• $219 for 2 nights ... arrive Friday-Saturday
  
• Upgrades to Waterfront views are also available
  
• All guests receive complimentary breakfast and Wi-Fi
  
• Not available on: Oct. 8-15, 26-27
  

• Travel through Nov. 28
  
• 3-night stays: $595 for a Forest King or $1155 for an Andaz Suite
  
• 4-night stays: $795 for a Forest King or $1240 for an Andaz Suite
  
• 5-night stays: $995 for a a Forest King or $1550 for an Andaz Suite
  
• 3-night stays come with a $50 resort credit per stay; 4- and 5-night stays come with a $100 resort credit per stay
  
• 15% discount to the spa
  
• The daily resort fee is waived for Travelzoo members
  
• Not available on: Oct. 7-13
  
• Suites not available on: Nov. 6, Nov. 20-23
  

• Travel through March 31, 2019
  
• $99 for 1 night ... Sunday-Thursday
  
• $349 for 2 nights ... Friday arrivals
  
• Stay in a Castle Queen Room
  
• $25 credit per person toward a 50-minute Elemental Nature Massage (reg. $115)
  
• $25 credit toward a gourmet three-course prix-fixe dinner for two at the Castle Restaurant, only valid Sunday-Thursday
  
• Please note, the restaurant is closed on: Nov. 22
  
• Not available on: Oct. 5-7; Dec. 23-31; Jan. 18-20; Feb. 14-21
  

• Travel through Oct. 31, 2018
  
• $129 per night ... Sunday-Thursday
  
• $189 per night ... select Fridays and Saturdays: Oct. 5-6, 19, 27
  
• Stay in a Standard Room with a king or double beds
  
• Pay $50-$60 more per night for a Sundeck Room with a balcony or patio
  
• Daily $25 food and beverage credit (cannot combine multiple nights' credits)
  
• Not available on: Sept. 16-17, 20, 26-27, 30; Oct. 1-2, 7, 9-11, 16-17
  

• $149 for 2 nights in a Deluxe King room at the family-friendly Viejas Hotel, arrive Sunday-Wednesday
  
• $329 for 2 nights in a Deluxe King room at the family-friendly Viejas Hotel, arrive Thursday-Saturday
  
• $299 for 2 nights in a Signature Suite at the adults-only Willows Hotel & Spa (guests must be 21 and over), arrive Sunday-Wednesday
  
• $20 voucher for Locale Kitchen & Lounge
  
• $10 shopping voucher for the Viejas Outlets
  
• Complimentary 1 p.m. checkout
  
• $20 Free Play Cash for use on any slot machine (requires sign up for a VClub card)
  
• Not available: Sept. 21-22; Oct. 7-10, 14-15, 21-22; Nov. 9-10
  

• $149 per night ... Sunday-Thursday arrivals
  
• $199 per night ... Friday arrivals (1-night stay only)
  
• Stay in a Standard Queen Room or Villa Studio Condo
  
• $50 spa credit, once per stay
  
• Late 1 p.m. checkout for weekday stays
  
• Note: Saturday stays are not available with this offer
  
• Not available on: Sept. 17-18; Oct. 7; Nov. 11, 22-23
  

• Stay in a Pool View King; arrive through Sept. 29
  
• Midweek:
  • $105 for 1 night, arrive Sunday-Thursday
    
  • $195 for 2 nights, arrive Sunday-Wednesday
    
  
  
• Weekend:
  • $179 for 1 night, arrive Friday-Saturday
    
  • $299 for 2 nights, arrive Friday
    
  
  
• Upgrade to a Penthouse Suite; click "Continue" for prices
  
• Reduced resort fee of $10 (reg. $29), which covers Wi-Fi, golf-bag storage, bike rentals and outdoor games
  
• Room rate is based on two guests
  
• This deal is not available on: Sept. 20, 25-26, 30
  
• 
  

• Arrive Sunday-Thursday through Dec. 13 or Sunday-Friday, Jan. 6 - March 31
  
• $279 for 2 nights in a standard king or double queen room
  
• $25 resort credit per stay
  
• Room price based on two guests in a king room or up to four guests in a double queen room
  
• Not available on: Nov. 21-24; Feb. 14-17
  

• Stay in a Deluxe room with two beds and a balcony through March
  
• $79 per night ... Sunday-Thursday
  
• $129 per night ... Friday-Saturday
  
• Premium rooms with a Jacuzzi tub are +$10 per night
  
• Brunch is 15% off for Travelzoo members at Harbour House Restaurant on Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
  
• Not available on: Sept. 29; Oct. 5-7, 13, 20, 27; Nov. 10; Dec. 8, 31
  

• Two nights in a Lodge Suite:
  • $419 (reg. $608) per person when two guests share
    
  
  
• Two nights in a One-Bedroom Chalet:
  • $474 (reg. $685) per person when two guests share
    
  
  
• Two nights in a Two-Bedroom Chalet:
  • $365 (reg. $532) per person when four guests share
    
  All stays include:
  • All meals (two dinners, two breakfasts and one lunch)
    
  • Wine and beer with dinner
    
  • CA$80 credit per person toward a grizzly bear viewing experience
    
  • Unlimited access to stand-up paddleboards and sea kayaks
    
  • Use of lodge facilities, such as Wi-Fi, dock/seating areas and evening campfires
    
  • Roundtrip transfers between the lodge and Powell River Airport or Lund, B.C.; airport shuttle departs from the airport at 2 p.m. and the boat departs from Lund at 4 p.m. daily
    
  
  

• Accommodations for two guests in a studio suite in the Pacifico Tower
  
• $299 for 2 nights, arrive Sunday-Wednesday
  
• $349 for 2 nights, arrive Thursday-Saturday
  
• $459 for 3 nights, arrive any day of the week
  
• Two 60-minute Swedish or deep tissue massages (reg. $140)
  
• Four margaritas and four mimosas per stay ($36 value)
  
• Daily American breakfast for two (reg. $15 per day)
  
• Also included: A Fast Pass back into the U.S. after your stay that cuts border-crossing time in half; the Fast Pass Lane is open 8 a.m. - 10 p.m. PT
  
• This deal is not available on: Sept. 21, 28; Oct. 5, 12-13, 19-20, 26; Nov. 2-3, 9, 16, 23; Dec. 14, 21, 29-31; Jan. 1; Feb. 15-17
  

• Stay in a One-Bedroom Suite through Dec. 6
  
• $269 (reg. up to $380) for 1 night
  
• Discounted resort fee of $20 per night (reg. $40), which covers Wi-Fi, valet parking and s'mores roasted by the fire every evening
  
• A $25 restaurant or spa credit (one per stay, applied at checkout)
  
• Not available on: Nov. 22-24
  

• $149 for 1 night ... Sunday-Thursday through Dec. 20
  
• $398 for 2 nights ... Friday arrivals only, Nov. 2 - Dec. 21
  
• Stay in a Deluxe King or Superior Two Queen (based on availability)
  
• $50 general resort credit, once per stay
  
• Travelzoo guests also receive a $100 credit toward a Land Rover Experience (reg. $275) to kick up mud in an hourlong off-road driving lesson for up to four people, once per stay
  
• Not available on: Sept. 30; Oct. 1, 3-4, 7-11, 31; Nov. 1, 22-24
  

• $389 for 2 nights, arrive Sunday-Wednesday, Oct. 2 - Dec. 19
  
• $489 for 2 nights, arrive Friday-Saturday, Nov. 2 - Dec. 22
  
• Stay in any Inn or Thayer House room (based on availability)
  
• One four-course dinner for two at the Old Inn on the Green Restaurant ($92 value)
  
• One three-course lunch for two at the nearby Southfield Store Cafe ($40 value)
  
• Daily full breakfast for two ($32 value)
  
• Rate based on two guests
  
• Not available on: Oct. 7; Nov. 21
  
• Note: The Old Inn on the Green Restaurant is closed for dinner on Tuesdays in October and Mondays and Tuesdays starting in November
  

• Daily arrivals through Nov. 3
  
• $299 for 2 nights in a Cottage (sleeps six)
  
• $329 for 2 nights in a Hillside Yurt (sleeps four)
  
• $359 for 2 nights in a Meadow Yurt (sleeps five)
  
• $389 for 2 nights in a River Yurt (sleeps five)
  
• Each heated yurt features either a queen bed or bunk bed (call to inquire), sleeper sofa and private deck with grill
  
• Cottages are now sold out on: Sept. 20-22, 28-29; Oct. 6, 12-13, 19-20, 27; Nov. 2-3
  
• River Yurts are now sold out on: Sept. 28-29; Oct. 6, 13, 19-20, 28
  

• Stay through Dec. 13 in a One-Bedroom Suite
  
• $159 per night ... Sunday-Thursday
  
• $249 per night ... select Fridays: Sept. 21, 28; Oct. 5, 12; Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30; Dec. 7
  
• Cheese tasting for two ($20 value)
  
• Hot a la carte breakfast at Buttonwood Grill ($25 value)
  
• Two tickets to the Grand Carousel ($12 value)
  
• Turndown service with custom-made truffles, available exclusively to Travelzoo members ($15 value)
  
• Not available on: Oct. 7
  

• Arrive Sunday-Wednesday, October-February
  
• McBee Cottage or Hearthstone Inn
  • $229 for 2 nights
    
  • Both of these properties are pet and kid friendly
    
  Cannon Beach Hotel or The Courtyard
  • $249 for 2 nights
    
  • Includes continental breakfast with mimosas
    
  • These properties do not allow pets or children
    
  
  
• +$20 for Thursday-Saturday arrivals
  

• $149 for 2 nights, Sunday-Wednesday arrivals through January
  
• Accommodations in a standard room
  
• Daily continental breakfast and evening coffee and tea
  
• Complimentary Wi-Fi and parking
  
• Based on two adults in a room with two beds; children under age 8 stay free
  

• $159 per night ... Sept. 16-20, 23-25
  
• $189 per night ... Sept. 12-14; Oct. 5-12, 14-31
  
• Stay in a room with one king or two queen beds
  
• $25 resort credit per stay
  
• Discounted $20 resort fee (reg. $35)
  
• Kids 12 and under get free breakfast at Pinzimini with paid adult entree (two kids per adult)
  

• Accommodations for two people in a Deluxe One Queen or Deluxe Two Doubles:
  • $105 for 1 night, Sunday-Thursday
    
  • $120 for 1 night, Friday-Saturday
    
  • $205 for 2 nights, arrive Sunday-Wednesday
    
  • $220 for 2 nights, arrive Friday-Saturday
    
  
  
• Daily buffet breakfast for two (CA$25 value)
  
• One bottle of wine per stay (CA$30 value)
  
• Nightly parking for one vehicle (CA$30 value)
  
• Not available on: Dec. 27 - Jan. 1; March 8-10, 26-27
  
• Note: The hotel is undergoing light renovations and some of the surrounding buildings are under construction
  

• Stay in a SoCo Room with a king bed and a single sofa bed
  
• $699 for 3 nights ... arrive Oct. 1-30
  
• $799 for 3 nights ... arrive Nov. 1 - Dec. 19
  
• $949 for 3 nights ... arrive Jan. 2 - April 29
  
• $1049 for 3 nights ... arrive Dec. 21-31
  
• +$50-$100 for a larger Deluxe Room with a king-size sofa bed
  
• Unlimited drinks at the beach bar and meals at the on-site restaurant
  
• Room price based on two guests; additional guests (ages 16+) are $85 per night, payable directly to the hotel
  
• Note: Children under 16 are not permitted at the resort
  

• Travel Sunday-Thursday, Oct. 7 - Dec. 12
  
• Accommodations for two in a Premium Queen Room
  • $137 for 1 night
    
  • $268 for 2 nights
    
  
  
• Each package includes:
  • Daily breakfast for two (reg. CA$30)
    
  • Two tastings at local wineries (reg. CA$30)
    
  • A departure wine gift (reg. CA$35)
    
  • 20% off dinner at the on-site restaurant
    
  
  

• Travel through Dec. 20
  
• Bronze Room
  • $139 for 1 night, Sunday-Thursday
    
  • $279 for 2 nights, daily
    
  
  
• Gold Room
  • $179 for 1 night, Sunday-Thursday
    
  • $369 for 2 nights, daily
    
  
  
• All rooms are furnished with a fireplace and whirlpool tub; Gold Rooms feature a king bed and private sundeck
  
• Daily made-to-order breakfast for all guests and 24-hour access to "raid the fridge" for lunch and snacks
  
• Fitness passes and rowboat, kayak and bicycle rentals are included for all guests
  
• Gold Room guests may receive a free upgrade to a Platinum Room with a kitchen and barbecue, based on availability at check-in
  
• Not available on: Oct. 5-7, 19-20; Nov. 11, 21-24
  
• Availability is limited on the following weekends: Sept. 28-29; Oct. 12-13, 26-27
  

5-, 7-, or 14-Day Campervan Rental to Explore the United States

A road trip can be a romantic getaway, a real-life buddy comedy, or an entirely new adventure. With this deal, your trip begins in Atlanta; from there, you can roam the country as you please in your campervan. Whether you’re hopping between big cities or exploring mountain ranges, you can coast on included mileage: 1,000 (5-day rentals), 1,400 (7-day rentals), or 2,800 miles (14-day rentals).

• Campervan model: Each Mavericks rental has one bed with linens; a rooftop sleeper with a double bed can be added for a fee. Vans are hand painted by artists for a unique look.
• The amenities: Make your own meals on the road using a kitchenette with cookware, a 5-gallon water tank and sink, a solar-supplemented fridge, and a two-burner propane stove.
• Road-trip ready: With the 7- and 14-day options, you’ll get a GPS device and a picnic table.
• Optional add-ons such as awning sunshades can be rented; click here for details.
• 24-hour roadside assistance is available throughout the United States and Canada.

Ideas for Your Road Trip

• Blue Ridge Parkway: Take one of the most scenic drives in the country; the 469-mile highway winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• New Orleans: Get a slightly less touristy taste of the city’s nightlife in the jazz and blues bars on Frenchmen Street.
• Savannah, Georgia: Stroll along River Street to explore antique shops, brewpubs, and galleries housed in converted 100-year-old warehouses.

Hotel at a Glance: Chateau Elan

Embracing both California-grown grapes and the Southeast’s native muscadine, Chateau Elan has become Georgia’s largest wine producer. The 3,500-acre estate bottles more than 20 styles, including the tropically flavored muscadry and a peppery merlot aged in French oak barrels. Visitors can learn more about the winery during guided tours and themed tastings.

• French country style: The 4.5-star hotel’s guest rooms are outfitted with soaking tubs and touches such as wingback chairs and upholstered bed frames.
• Seven restaurants range from gourmet American food to bar bites.
• For sporty types, the property has a Stan Smith–designed tennis center and two championship golf courses.
• Resort life: Guests can unwind during a deep-tissue massage or winery ritual treatmentat a luxurious spa.
• Recent praise: 2018 AAA Four Diamond Award

Braselton, Georgia: Hiking and Boating in North Georgia Mountains

Set in the foothills of the Blue Mountain Mountains, Northeast Georgia is known for its rugged outdoors and scenic beauty. Frommer’s calls it one of “the best-kept travel secrets in the South,” noting its vast open park spaces and purple-hued peaks. The tiny town of Braselton, located about 50 miles northeast of Atlanta, is a gateway to some of the region’s top recreation spots. Fort Yargo State Park offers 20.5 miles of hiking and mountain-biking trails, as well as a 260-acre lake with swimming, fishing, and boating. Lake Lanier is also a popular boating spot, and it’s near a ziplining course and a water park.

Hotel at a Glance: Red Lion Hotel Atlanta Airport

This suburban hotel is a convenient choice whether guests are vacationing in Atlanta or flying out of the city’s airport. A free shuttle whisks travelers between the terminal and the hotel in about 5 minutes. The shuttle also takes visitors to a MARTA light-rail station with service to downtown Atlanta.

• Free breakfast includes fruit, cereals, yogurt, and pastries.
• In-room entertainment: 55-inch TVs and free WiFi
• Fajitas and margaritas are served up at the onsite La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant.
• Downtown Atlanta is about 25 minutes away by car.
• Bring Fido: Your furry kids stay at the hotel free of charge.

Atlanta, Georgia: Urban Parks and Renowned Aquarium in Capital of the South

Named 1 of 50 Places of a Lifetime by National Geographic, Atlanta lies near the Chattahoochee River in Georgia’s northwest region known for its famed trees: magnolias, pines, and dogwoods. Despite a metropolitan population of more than five million and what is considered the world’s busiest airport by passenger count, Atlanta seems to always offer a relaxing escape. Stroll through the 185 acres of botanical gardens, hiking trails, and oaks at Piedmont Park, or study one of the country’s largest Civil War exhibitions at the Atlanta History Center.

Anchored by historical Peachtree Street, the city’s midtown area boasts a thriving arts-and-culture scene. Opened in 1929, the Fox Theatre features imposing Egyptian architecture and a custom-made organ with a network of 3,622 pipes. Tours take place on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. The High Museum of Art spotlights more than 12,000 pieces of contemporary and folk art, ranging from Renaissance paintings to photographs from the civil-rights era. Kids might better enjoy the Georgia Aquarium, located downtown at Centennial Olympic Park. One of the world’s largest aquariums with more than 8 million gallons of fresh and marine water and more than 100,000 animals, the aquarium is home to beluga whales, lionfish, whale sharks, bottlenose dolphins, and more.

Hotel at a Glance: Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta

Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta is located in the peaceful town of Duluth, just 30 minutes northeast of downtown Atlanta. The hotel earned TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence in 2015, 2016, and 2017, as well as the top spot on the travel site’s list of Duluth hotels.

• Grab a meal at the onsite Grapevine Restaurant, or enjoy signature dishes and drinks at the gastropub, ArtBar.
• Take a dip: The hotel features jetted tub and a heated indoor/outdoor pool.
• Newly renovated rooms have flat-screen LCD TVs and free WiFi.

Duluth, Georgia: Historical Town on Chattahoochee River Just Outside Atlanta

A few years after the Civil War, a railroad came to Duluth, infusing the small town with a newfound vitality. Duluth’s Southeastern Railway Museum chronicles the history of Georgia’s railroads with exhibits of century-old Pullman cars and restored cabooses, as well as special events for kids. The town’s rich past is also evident at the Duluth Historical Society, which is housed in the stately former home of Georgia’s first female mayor.

The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is about 30 minutes outside of town and is well suited for kayaking, rafting, and hiking. The park is known for its colorful wildflowers, including rare Georgia asters, which show off brilliant purple blooms in October and November. For a more urban day trip, travel the 30 miles to Atlanta to tour the CNN headquarters, explore the Georgia Aquarium, or visit the High Museum of Art, where works by Monet and Toulouse-Lautrec hang alongside historic photographs of the civil rights movement.

Cabins at a Glance: Mountain Air Cabin Rentals

Located in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains, the aptly named Mountain Air Cabin Rentals provide convenient and well-equipped cabins spread across Pigeon Forge and its surrounding communities.

• Indoor jetted tubs in units such as the one-bedroom Sugar Plum
• Fully equipped kitchens: All cabins have them.
• A free breakfast at Reagan’s House of Pancakes is included with your stay (hours of operation vary).
• Discounted offers for food, entertainment, and attractions are available.

Click here for additional information on the cabins.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Family-Friendly Attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains

Though it’s secluded in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is home to some quirky destinations, including Dollywood, a Titanic museum that looks just like the famed ocean liner from the outside, and an interactive children’s museum housed in an upside-down three-story building. In Pigeon Forge’s historical town center, a cluster of old-fashioned specialty shops and restaurants forms the Old Mill Square along the Little Pigeon River. Inside the mill, a pair of 4,600-pound granite stones has been grinding grain since the early 1800s.

Hotel at a Glance: Wind Creek Casino & Hotel

Topped with a curved roof, the Wind Creek Casino & Hotel is an expansive hotel encompassing a casino, a luxurious spa, and spacious guest rooms. The hotel’s hospitality helped it earn a Four Diamond rating from AAA.

• Guest favorite: TripAdvisor users named Wind Creek the No. 1 hotel in Atmore.
• Three onsite restaurants: Enjoy prime steaks and seafood at FIRE Steakhouse (closed on Mondays), all-you-can-eat cuisines from around the world at Taste Buffet, or breakfast at any time of day at Grill.
• Cooking classes: Take a hands-on cooking class with a specialty chef.
• 57,000 square feet: The size of the onsite casino. Also the size of an American football field.
• High-end spa: Relax and rejuvenate with one of many services, or take advantage of the spa lounge, sauna, steam room, hot tub, cold plunge, current pool, workout room, and swimming pool.
• Catch some sun on the deck that surrounds the infinity pool (pool closes for season 11/1/18–3/1/19).
• Cozy up with a movie on your 42-inch flat-screen TV, then drift to sleep on the plush bedding.
• Added perk: This getaway comes with a $50 credit that you can use toward a meal, massage, or other activity at the resort.

Atmore, Alabama: Quaint Village with Abundant Outdoor Recreation

About 50 miles northeast of Mobile, Atmore teems with small-town charms. Orange brick ramblers line Main Street, imbuing the thoroughfare with residential appeal. At the intersection of Main and Craig Streets, historical buildings mark the location of Atmore Heritage Park. The park bustles with alfresco entertainment year-round, hosting events such as seasonal concert series and southern-cooking celebrations. About 2 miles northeast of the park, locals at the Greater Escambia Council for the Arts deliver dramatic, comedic, and musical performances.

Atmore is filled with natural sights, too. Little River State Forest offers hiking, fishing, and swimming amid 2,100 acres of longleaf pine forests. Boats, pavilions, and cabins are available for daily or hourly rent. At Magnolia Branch Wildlife Reserve, a natural lazy river curls through the area, ushering tourists in inner tubes over the sparkling waters. Throughout the year, the forest resonates with the sounds of clip-clopping horses, trickling streams, and rustling pines.

Hotel at a Glance: Sidney James Mountain Lodge

The Sidney James Mountain Lodge has something for every season. When it’s chilly, a trolley takes guests to local ski resorts. Warm-weather days can be spent at the two seasonal outdoor pools—and their poolside cafe—or within the adjacent Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

• Creekside double rooms are the property’s newest units; suites have jetted tubs.
• Take a dip in the heated indoor pool.
• Break a sweat in the lodge’s exercise room or sauna.
• Mountaintop activities such as wildlife encounters and aerial tram rides await at the Ober Gatlinburg Amusement Park and Ski Area.
• Touch a stingray at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, which also has a shark lagoon and penguin playhouse. The aquarium is less than a mile away from the resort.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Charming Artists’ Village amid Great Smoky Mountains

Gatlinburg rests near Tennessee’s eastern border, less than 3 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here, you can hike more than 100 trails that wind past waterfalls and pioneer-era log cabins tucked deep within densely forested mountains. Or, take a bicycle ride on the 11-mile loop through Cades Cove, a broad valley of open meadows where you can see deer, black bears, wild turkeys, and vacationing college mascots. Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point of elevation at 6,643 feet, is a great place to catch the sunset.

Gatlinburg’s main attraction is probably the artists’ loop. It comprises more than 100 craft shops, studios, and cafés, and you can watch artisans as they hand weave baskets and whittle wooden figurines. Downtown Gatlinburg itself is a mountain village filled with old-fashioned ice-cream shops and boutiques selling housemade jams and decorative gewgaws.

Lodge near Lake amid 1,000 Acres of Blue Ridge Beauty

Unicoi State Park Lodge and Conference Center overlooks the rolling landscape of the Blue Ridge Mountains of northern Georgia; you can get postcard-perfect views from the lodge’s picture windows and open-air balconies. Nestled near Unicoi Lake, the lodge’s spacious accommodations are secluded amid more than 1,000 acres of protected wilderness.

An extensive network of hiking trails weaves across the mountain landscape; there’s a meandering loop around the lakefront and a white-knuckle mountain-biking path. You can fish for trout from lakeside docks or shallow stream banks on the property. When evening falls, grab a classic Southern meal made with local ingredients at the onsite restaurant.

Helen, Georgia: Replica Bavarian Village Surrounded by the Appalachians

In 1968, the townspeople of Helen, Georgia—a struggling sawmill town in the Blue Ridge Mountains—hatched a dramatic plan to reinvigorate the economy and boost tourism. Led by local business owners and artists, Helen adopted a German identity, complete with cobblestone alleys, timber-frame cottages, and Old-World towers. Ever since, the town has thrived as a Bavarian-style village, now welcoming nearly two million visitors a year. Several festivals take place in the town every year, most notably a hot-air balloon race, a German-style Mardi Gras, and an eight-week-long Oktoberfest.

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Helen is also home to some incredible countryside scenery. Unicoi State Park and Lodge contains trout streams, mountain-biking trails, and a freshwater lake. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail passes nearby, and the Anna Ruby Falls drop off in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The area’s natural setting lends itself to scenic outdoor activities, including tubing down the Chattahoochee River.

Hotel at a Glance: Nantahala Village

Nantahala Village’s lodge, cottages, and log cabins occupy their own secluded tree-lined paths in the Great Smoky Mountains. It’s a peaceful setting, but close to heart-pounding outdoor adventures that include zipline canopy tours, rafting on the Nantahala River, and mountain hiking just outside the resort. Guests can take in the scenery more passively at the onsite Village Bistro, where dining affords views of distant, mist-veiled mountains.

• Mountain suites have full kitchens and some have the added luxury of a fireplace and deck.
• Fireplace suites all have indoor and outdoor fireplaces as well as private hot tubs.
• Start the day right with the included bagged breakfast to go.
• Lake Fontana has over 240 miles of shoreline and clear waters perfect for relaxing or recreation

Bryson City, North Carolina: Small-Town Charm in Great Smoky Mountains

The small town of Bryson City sits amid the woodsy slopes of the Great Smoky Mountains in southwestern North Carolina. The Tuckasegee River flows right through town, creating picturesque waterfalls and fishing holes teeming with rainbow and brook trout. On clear days, head a few miles north to catch a 360-degree view of the entire range from the 6,643-foot Clingmans Dome, the highest point of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can also tour the rugged wilderness by train—the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad runs year-round excursions in restored historic railroad cars that depart from Bryson City.

In winter, the Cataloochee Ski Area opens 18 trails and slopes on its challenging downhill course. Once all the snow thaws, whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular at nearby Nantahala Gorge. All the while, downtown Bryson City charms visitors with antique shops, handcrafted pottery, and housemade chocolates.

Property at a Glance: Whitewater Express - Ocoee

Despite what you may infer from the name, there isn’t adventure at every turn on the grounds of Whitewater Express’ Ocoee camp. Sure, the sprawling property acts as the launching point for thrilling whitewater trips down the eponymous Ocoee River, one of the most rafted waterways in the country for its 5-mile stretch of rapids that wends alongside sheer cliff walls and indigenous wildlife. But it’s also known for its cozy, well-equipped cabins, which were built with native logs that emanate a peacefully rustic, back-to-nature vibe.

• Go for a ride on the river: This voucher includes a whitewater rafting trip for two down the Middle Ocoee section of the river, whose class III and IV rapids slalom through the picture-worthy Ocoee River gorge.
• Keep the adrenaline going with one of the camp’s many non-rafting activities, including paintball, a high-ropes challenge course, mountain biking, and horseback riding. One activity is included with this voucher.
• Have your camera ready to snap pics of the breathtaking Appalachian mountains surrounding the more than 225-acre property.
• Fill downtime with disc golf at the onsite 18-hole course, which is open and free to play for all guests.

Hotel at a Glance: GuestHouse Inn Pigeon Forge

Cowboy hats and painted-on jeans aren’t required at the GuestHouse Inn Pigeon Forge, but they’ll certainly help you fit in. The inn is near the glitz-and-glam epicenter of Tennessee—Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede is right down the street, and Dollywood is just a few miles away.

• Take a hike through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park headquarters and several trailheads are about 10 miles away.
• Fuel up for a long day: The inn’s continental breakfast includes staples such as coffee and pastries, along with make-your-own Belgian waffles and three flavors of grits.
• Dining options aplenty: Themed restaurants, diners, and pancake houses pepper the parkway that runs past the hotel.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Family-Friendly Attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains

Though it’s secluded in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is home to some quirky destinations, including Dollywood, a Titanic museum that looks just like the famed ocean liner from the outside, and an interactive children’s museum housed in an upside-down three-story building. In Pigeon Forge’s historical town center, a cluster of old-fashioned specialty shops and restaurants forms the Old Mill Square along the Little Pigeon River. Inside the mill, a pair of 4,600-pound granite stones has been grinding grain since the early 1800s.

Property at a Glance: Henson Cove Place Bed & Breakfast

Henson Cove Place Bed & Breakfast gives guests a peaceful retreat with thoughtful details. The three-room inn sits on more than an acre of land facing mountains and a horse pasture. Photographs decorating the inside and flower gardens sprouting outside are the handiwork of co-owner Mariah Nugent, who collaborates with husband Dave to cook up each morning’s breakfast.

• Gourmet breakfast may include dishes such as frittata and fruit-topped soufflés.
• Included with this package: double-dipped strawberries and two wine tastings at area vineyards. Daily afternoon snacks and complimentary beverages available.
• Mountain-view room: The rustic wood-paneled room is across from a private bath with an antique claw-foot tub.
• Rainy’s Hideaway provides extra seclusion with its separate entrance and location on the second floor.
• Things to do: The nearby Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds host festivals much of the year, as well as concerts from the likes of Lynard Skynard, Alison Krauss, and Luke Bryan.

Lake Chatuge, Georgia: Hiking and Fishing amid Chattahoochee National Forest

Located about 120 miles northeast of Atlanta, Lake Chatuge is sandwiched between the Nantahala and Chattahoochee National Forests. It’s a fine area to go boating and fishing all year long, and to hike a portion of the Appalachian Trail. A trek to the summit of Brasstown Bald, Georgia’s highest peak, rewards hikers with views of four states.

In the nearby town of Hiawassee, charming galleries and stores display quilts and crafts by local artists and artisans. Henson Cove is also on the Georgia Wine Highway with access to multiple area vineyards. All wineries in the region offer samples of Georgia Mountain wines in intimate countryside tasting rooms.

Property at a Glance: Nantahala Cabins

For the traveler looking to get away from it all, Nantahala Cabins offers seclusion and tranquility amid one of America’s most scenic regions. Tucked alongside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the cabins are 10 miles from the nearest towns, Bryson City and Nantahala. Various activities are available nearby, along with mountain biking and horseback riding.

• Choose your cabin: Customers can choose from 10 units. Cabin #6—the three-bedroom Wolf Den—offers space for up to eight people. Cabins #8 and #9 are two-bedroom, two-bath units with views of the mountains.
• For extra seclusion: Book the two-bedroom Edelweiss or Silvermine Hideaway cabins, located about 6 miles from the main office.
• In all units: full kitchens, satellite TV, wireless Internet, air conditioning, heating, porches, and picnic areas with fire pits
• In most units: hot tubs, fireplaces, and mountain views
• Distance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park: about 20 miles

Bryson City, North Carolina: Small-Town Charm in Great Smoky Mountains

The small town of Bryson City sits amid the woodsy slopes of the Great Smoky Mountains in southwestern North Carolina. The Tuckasegee River flows right through town, creating picturesque waterfalls and fishing holes teeming with rainbow and brook trout. On clear days, head a few miles north to catch a 360-degree view of the entire range from the 6,643-foot Clingmans Dome, the highest point of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You can also tour the rugged wilderness by train—the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad runs year-round excursions in restored historic railroad cars that depart from Bryson City.

In winter, the Cataloochee Ski Area opens 18 trails and slopes on its challenging downhill course. Once all the snow thaws, whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular at nearby Nantahala Gorge. All the while, downtown Bryson City charms visitors with antique shops, handcrafted pottery, and housemade chocolates.

Property at a Glance: Valley River RV Resort

Nantahala National Forest surrounds this new RV resort, providing views of the Great Smoky Mountains’ foothills all around. A private pond allows for catch-and-release fishing, and fire pits make for nice spots to roast marshmallows under the stars.

• A little luck goes a long way at the Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino just across the street.
• Site amenities include concrete pads, plus full hookups with 30- and 50-amp electric service, water, and sewer.
• Entertainment: Each site comes with cable TV and free WiFi.
• Squeaky clean: In addition to a bathhouse and laundry facilities, there’s a pet-washing area.
• Things to do near Marble: playing more than 1,000 slots at Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino (4 minutes away) and whitewater rafting at Nantahala Outdoor Center (38 minutes away)
• Nearby cities: Asheville is 102 miles away and about a 2-hour drive; Atlanta is 122 miles away, and about a 2.5-hour drive; Chattanooga 101 miles away, and about a 2-hour drive.

Hotel at a Glance: Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf Club

Just outside Lake Blackshear Resort & Golf Club, pontoons and kayaks glide on the peaceful waters of Lake Blackshear. The resort offers myriad distractions on and off the water, from sportfishing for crappies and bass to golfing on a championship course—a year-round activity due to southwest Georgia’s mild winter weather.

• Lakeside villas feature screened patios or terraces with views of the water.
• Lodge rooms are outfitted with mini fridges and are set near amenities including the fitness center.
• Tee off on the 18-hole golf course’s Dwarf Bermuda greens, which are surrounded by towering pine trees.
• Prime rib and seafood cannelloni are among the gourmet dishes at Cordelia’s. Pair your meal with a bottle from the extensive wine list.
• Bring Fido!: Pets are welcome in the villas for an additional fee (contact the hotel).

Cordele, Georgia: Outdoor Activities and Small-Town Attractions Off the Beaten Path

In his poem “Back Roads to Macon,” Raymond Farr captures the small-town charm of Cordele when he describes a mailbox’s hand-painted sign scribbled with the folksy adage, “Whatever your destination, thank God you arrive.” The town that inspired Farr sits off the beaten path—about 2.5 hours south of Atlanta. It’s dotted with antique shops and quirky specialty museums showcasing the history of cotton-harvesting tools and vast collections of telephones.

The dry Atlantic coastal-plain climate permits year-round outdoor activities. Three miles of hiking trails wind through a wetland ecosystem inhabited by deer, red foxes, and lost hikers.

Hotel at a Glance: Stadium Inn

The Stadium Inn has all the comforts of home, including a free deluxe hot upgraded breakfast of eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, and waffles. Inviting guest rooms feature comfortable mattresses swathed in crisp white bedding, as well as amenities including microwaves, mini refrigerators, and free WiFi. They are located in the Southside District of downtown near the UTC Finley Stadium and music entertainment venues.

• Get a workout The hotel’s fitness center is open 24 hours-a-day.
• Downtown Chattanooga is just minutes from Lookout Mountain attractions, including Rock City, Ruby Falls, and the Incline Railway.
• Bring your pooch: Your pet can tag along for an additional fee.

Chattanooga, Tennessee: Museums and Parks Along the Riverfront

Set along the Tennessee-Georgia border, Chattanooga became a boomtown with the arrival of a major railroad in the late 19th century. The surrounding mountains and ridges made for a scenic backdrop for train passengers coming into the city. Today, the city is known for greener practices than the ones in its railway days: public parks, riverfront walkways, and a downtown electric shuttle are just a few of the improvements. Waterfront Coolidge Park is a popular downtown hangout where kids can hop on a century-old carousel and enjoy acres of open green space. During the summer, you can come here for concerts, festivals, and outdoor movie screenings.

Picked by the New York Times as 1 of 45 Places to Go in 2012, Chattanooga has seen a resurgence of arts and culture in recent years. It now hosts a number of annual art and music festivals and features several up-and-coming art districts filled with independent boutiques and galleries. Head to the Bluff View Art District for some spectacular views—the historic neighborhood is set high atop stone cliffs overlooking the Tennessee River. In addition to galleries filled with works by nationally recognized artists, the district recognizes the culinary arts, with several restaurants and the city’s oldest artisan bakery.

When you book a top-secret hotel, you’re guaranteed a name-brand property with a rating of 3 stars or higher in the neighborhood we specify. We’ll let you know the name and exact address of your top-secret hotel after you purchase the deal: Look in the redemption instructions for this deal, found in your account and on your email confirmation.

Hotel at a Glance: 3.5-Star Top-Secret Charlotte SouthPark Hotel

You may want to bring a bigger suitcase for your trip to this top-secret hotel. It’s within walking distance of SouthPark Mall—North Carolina’s largest shopping center. You’ll have your pick of more than 150 stores, including Sephora and lululemon athletica.

• Spacious suites: Enjoy a 700-square-foot layout complete with a microwave and a mini fridge.
• Bring your pup: Up to two pets under 75 pounds can stay for $50 per week (non-refundable.)
• Try this: Carolina-style pulled-pork sliders at the hotel’s restaurant
• Unwind in the outdoor pool.

Charlotte, North Carolina: Modern Financial Capital with Thriving Art Scene and Southern Cooking

Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina, and it seems to get bigger every year. As one of the country’s major banking centers, it has shiny new skyscrapers popping up all the time. You can recognize the Hearst Tower by the different colors lighting up its facade throughout the year.

While the city has certainly taken a turn toward the modern, relics of the past are still easy to find. Victorian homes with wide front porches line the streets of the historic Fourth Ward, and you can hail a horse and carriage at the corner of Trade and Tyron. The city’s post-Civil War history is on display at the Levine Museum of the New South; check out the award-winning “Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers” installation. Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood (that’s short for North Davidson) is home to the city’s Historic Arts District. Eclectic galleries and live music venues line the streets, and you can catch an improv show here almost every night of the week.

Resort at a Glance: Elk Springs Resort

What began as Gatlinburg’s small artists’ loop became an 8-mile-long arts-and-crafts haven for weavers, whittlers, and glassblowers. Elk Springs Resort sits in the midst of this creative hub. It’s a private 68-acre estate dotted with luxury log cabins offering rustic decor and contemporary amenities. One-, two-, three-, four-, and five-bedroom cabins each sleep at least two guests. Furnishings nod to the resort’s native cedars and hemlocks with woodsy accents such as hardwood floors and bed frames made from finished tree branches.

• Spy on the Smokies: Most units have good views of the mountains, including some with outdoor decks and patios.
• Mountain luxury: Depending on the unit, you may spend some time soaking in a hot tub, playing games on pool tables, or enjoying other amenities.
• Party time: Four- and five-bedroom cabins can accommodate up to 14 guests.

Gatlinburg, Tennessee: Charming Artists’ Village amid Great Smoky Mountains

Gatlinburg rests near Tennessee’s eastern border, less than 3 miles from Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here, you can hike more than 100 trails that wind past waterfalls and pioneer-era log cabins tucked deep within densely forested mountains. Or, take a bicycle ride on the 11-mile loop through Cades Cove, a broad valley of open meadows where you can see deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point of elevation at 6,643 feet, is a great place to catch the sunset.

Gatlinburg’s main attraction is probably the artists’ loop. It comprises more than 100 craft shops, studios, and cafés, and you can watch artisans as they hand weave baskets and whittle wooden figurines. Downtown Gatlinburg itself is a mountain village filled with old-fashioned ice-cream shops and boutiques selling housemade jams and decorative gewgaws.

Hotel at a Glance: Sunrise Ridge Resort

Sunrise Ridge is a fitting name for this resort in Pigeon Forge. Sunset Ridge would be good, too. The property sits on hill, giving guests in many of its condos views of sunrises and sunsets over the forest and the mountains.

• Homey amenities include full kitchens and laundry machines.
• Family-friendly fun: with a game room and an indoor pool
• Where to relax: the sauna and hot tubs
• What’s nearby: Great Smoky Mountains National Park is about 10 miles away.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Family-Friendly Attractions and Outdoor Activities in the Great Smoky Mountains

Though it’s secluded in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is home to some quirky destinations, including Dollywood, a Titanic museum that looks just like the famed ocean liner from the outside, and an interactive children’s museum housed in an upside-down three-story building. But the top draw is, of course, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, located roughly 10 miles south of Pigeon Forge. You can hike along more than 800 miles of trails that lead past waterfalls and pioneer-era log cabins. One of the best places to catch a glowing sunset is Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point of elevation at 6,600 feet.

In Pigeon Forge’s historical town center, a cluster of old-fashioned specialty shops and restaurants forms the Old Mill Square along the Little Pigeon River. Inside the mill, a pair of 4,600-pound granite stones has been grinding grain since the early 1800s. Another nearby attraction is Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, located a few miles down the road in Gatlinburg. Here, exotic stingrays and four-eyed anableps swim with other sea creatures beneath a backlit waterfall. At the shark lagoon, you can stand inside an enclosed glass tunnel to get an up-close view of green eels, sand tiger sharks, and sea turtles.

When you book a top-secret hotel, you’re guaranteed a name-brand property with a rating of 3 stars or higher in the neighborhood we specify. We’ll let you know the name and exact address of your top-secret hotel after you purchase the deal: Look in the redemption instructions for this deal, found in your account and on your email confirmation.

Hotel at a Glance: 5-Star Top-Secret Atlanta Buckhead Hotel

Upscale amenities help this 5-star hotel blend into Atlanta’s posh Buckhead area. In guest rooms, beds are swathed in 400-thread-count sheets and espresso machines fill cups with fresh brews. A heated indoor pool is bathed in sunshine from skylights and walls of windows.

• Mediterranean-inspired dishes like a trout tagine are served with wine and Georgia beers at the restaurant.
• Best way to cool off: with a housemade cold brew or cold-pressed juice from the coffee bar
• Soothing space: The hotel’s spa takes up an entire floor, complete with private treatment rooms and a boutique.
• Recent praise: AAA Four Diamond Award

Atlanta, Georgia: Urban Parks and Renowned Aquarium in Capital of the South

Named 1 of 50 Places of a Lifetime by National Geographic, Atlanta lies near the Chattahoochee River in Georgia’s northwest region known for its famed trees: magnolias, pines, and dogwoods. Despite a metropolitan population of more than five million and what is considered the world’s busiest airport by passenger count, Atlanta seems to always offer a relaxing escape. Stroll through the 185 acres of botanical gardens, hiking trails, and oaks at Piedmont Park, or study one of the country’s largest Civil War exhibitions at the Atlanta History Center.

Anchored by historical Peachtree Street, the city’s midtown area boasts a thriving arts-and-culture scene. Opened in 1929, the Fox Theatre features imposing Egyptian architecture and a custom-made organ with a network of 3,622 pipes. Tours take place on Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. The High Museum of Art spotlights more than 12,000 pieces of contemporary and folk art, ranging from Renaissance paintings to photographs from the civil-rights era. Kids might better enjoy the Georgia Aquarium, located downtown at Centennial Olympic Park. One of the world’s largest aquariums with more than 8 million gallons of fresh and marine water and more than 100,000 animals, the aquarium is home to beluga whales, lionfish, whale sharks, bottlenose dolphins, and more.

Top Reasons to Stay at Engadine Inn & Cabins

• The Queen Anne–style mansion, built in 1885, stands on 12 wooded acres at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
• Guests can enjoy the drama of sunrise or sunset from vista points on the property. There also is a wood-burning firepit outfitted with Adirondack chairs, perfect for enjoying a glass of wine at the end of a day spent on Asheville’s adventures.
• The well-appointed cabins have fully equipped kitchens, porches, and mountain views.
• Guest rooms in the inn are decorated with period furnishings and luxury bedding.
• A hearty multi-course breakfast is served in the dining room. Guests staying in cabins can enjoy breakfast at the inn ($18/person daily) or a continental breakfast delivered at check-in ($15/person daily).
• Travel to downtown Asheville (15 minutes), Waynesville (20 minutes), or Hendersonville (40 minutes), each of which offers shops, restaurants, and cultural activities.
• Nearby Interstates 26 and 40 make it easy to access attractions such as the famed Biltmore Estate, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the North Carolina Arboretum, Dupont State Forest, and Chimney Rock State Park.

Candler, North Carolina: Outdoorsy Activities in the Blue Ridge Mountains near Asheville

The small community of Candler, North Carolina, sits in the southwest corner of the state, near the Pisgah National Forest and Asheville. The forest spreads across more than half a million acres, encompassing waterfalls, whitewater rivers, and tree-covered peaks. It’s an ideal landscape for mountain biking, horseback riding, and hiking along hundreds of scenic trails.

Nearby Asheville has received numerous accolades from various news and travel resources because the city combines awe-inspiring Appalachian scenery with an artsy spirit, a taste for great food and beer and a burgeoning music scene. Downtown you’ll find art-deco and Victorian-era buildings housing galleries, specialty shops, and restaurants. While you’re in the area, don’t miss the Biltmore Estate, the 250-room chateau built by George Vanderbilt in 1895. Guided tours of the 8,000 acre estate include information on the construction of the house and gossip about its famous residents. You can also tour the onsite winery, and don’t forget to see the gardens which will be hosting pieces from famed glass artist Dale Chihuly.

Asheville Media Mentions:

• Forbes, “The 15 Coolest Places To Go In 2018”
• CNN, “18 Best Places To Visit In 2018”
• SmartAsset, finished in the top two cities for the third consecutive year, calling Asheville a “beer lover’s paradise.”
• Expedia names Asheville as one of the “Top Rated Vacation Destinations in North America” in May 2018
• National Geographic Traveler names Asheville as on the the “Top 10 Music Cities in the US” in May 2018
• FlipKey, a TripAdvisor company, names Asheville as one of the “Top 25 Best Pet
• Friendly Vacations in America” in February 2018

Property at a Glance: River Place Condos

These spacious condos overlook the Little Pigeon River in Pigeon Forge. Many one-, two-, and three-bedroom units have private balconies with views of the water or the Great Smoky Mountains, and the property’s owners often get compliments about the quiet atmosphere.

• Luxurious amenities include full or partial kitchens, gas fireplaces, and hot tubs.
• Stay connected with high-speed WiFi, complimentary local newspapers, and flat-screen TVs with HBO.
• Distance from the Smokies: about 10 miles

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Family-Friendly Attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains

Though it’s secluded in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is home to some quirky destinations, including Dollywood, a Titanic museum that looks just like the famed ocean liner from the outside, and an interactive children’s museum housed in an upside-down three-story building. In Pigeon Forge’s historical town center, a cluster of old-fashioned specialty shops and restaurants forms the Old Mill Square along the Little Pigeon River. Inside the mill, a pair of 4,600-pound granite stones has been grinding grain since the early 1800s.

Hotel at a Glance: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Knoxville

If you like to pair outdoor adventures with big-city attractions, consider Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains. This hotel puts you within 40 miles of the national park and just 10 miles from downtown Knoxville, where you can dive into the town’s bluegrass scene, try its famous biscuits, and visit the iconic Sunsphere.

• Where you’ll stay: Spacious guest rooms feature free WiFi and beds swathed in signature bedding.
• Most important meal of the day: Guests can start their day with hotel’s complimentary breakfast spread including a selection of hot dishes.
• Many restaurants and shops are within walking distance of the hotel.
• Stuff to do: Catch a show at the Clarence Brown Theatre or lock eyes with a western lowland gorilla at the Knoxville Zoo.

Knoxville, Tennessee: College Town near the Great Smoky Mountains

The Tennessee River cuts right through the middle of Knoxville, and along its banks lies one of the cornerstones of the city: the University of Tennessee campus. The university’s football team, the Tennessee Volunteers (or “Vols”), has won six national championships since their first season in 1891. They play right on campus in Neyland Stadium, a beast of a venue that can hold more than 100,000 fans. Not to be outdone, the women’s basketball team has won eight national championships and are a perennial powerhouse. It’s largely thanks to the Lady Vols’ success that Knoxville was chosen as the site for the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.

But there’s more to Knoxville than its fabled athletic programs. In 1982, it hosted the World’s Fair, which produced perhaps the city’s most recognizable landmark: the Sunsphere, a giant, shimmering golden ball on top of a tower. From World’s Fair Park downtown, you can walk to Market Square, which features boutiques, restaurants, and a seasonal farmers’ market. A few blocks away, the opulent Tennessee Theatre hosts musical acts, touring Broadway shows, and classic films.

Property at a Glance: Randall Glen

Life’s simpler pleasures are the focus at Randall Glen, a small, rustic resort nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains. You can hike on the nearby hills, milk a cow, tell ghost stories around a bonfire beneath the stars, and then retire to an old-fashioned log cabin. A working farm on the property supplies fresh produce for cookouts.

• Mountain trails lead past creeks, trout ponds, and meadows. Explore them on foot or horseback.
• Wood-burning fireplaces add coziness to each cabin.
• Meet the neighbors: Goats, sheep, and free-range chickens roam the farmland.
• Pan for gold: The resort’s gem mine contains rubies, sapphires, amethyst, and other stones and is open year-round, weather permitting.
• Game room with ping pong, billiards, and foosball
• Internet café with fresh espresso
• Distance from downtown Asheville: about 23 miles

Asheville, North Carolina: Artsy Town in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Downtown Asheville is an eclectic mix of boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries housed in buildings designed in art-deco, Beaux-Arts, and neoclassical styles. The city’s premier attraction is Biltmore, billed as the largest home in the United States. You can take a self-guided tour of the 250-room chateau, which was built for steamboat-and-railroad tycoon George Vanderbilt in 1895. Be sure to visit the gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted—they’re in full bloom in early spring.

While you’re in the area, take one of the most scenic drives in the country: the Blue Ridge Parkway. The 469-mile highway winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Stretch your legs on a hike up to the panoramic lookout at Looking Glass Rock in Pisgah National Forest, or amble along a portion of the Appalachian Trail; the famed footpath goes past Asheville on its 2,180-mile journey from Mount Katahdin in Maine to Springer Mountain in Georgia.

Hotel at a Glance: Baymont by Wyndham Clinton

Located right off the main arteries of I-75 and Route 61, Baymont by Wyndham Clinton provides the perfect home base for travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature in the Appalachian Mountains or traverse the restaurant-heavy cityscape of Knoxville. And to ensure guests are properly fueled for bouts of local exploration, the hotel provides a complimentary breakfast.

• Fit a workout in by taking a few laps in the heated indoor pool or by stopping in the onsite fitness center.
• Stay connected thanks to the free WiFi.
• Where you’ll stay: guest rooms comes feature cable-equipped HDTVs, sitting areas, and workspaces.
• Bring Fido along: the hotel offers pet-friendly rooms for an additional fee.
• Things to do nearby: Little Ponderosa Zoo & Rescue Center (9 mi); Gibbs Ferry Park (10 mi); American Museum of Science and Energy (15 mi)

Hotel at a Glance: Best Western Plus Music Row

Best Western Plus Music Row is located minutes from downtown Nashville, giving guests easy access to the city’s top attractions. The hotel is within walking distance of Music Row’s recording studios and live-music venues and just 1 mile from the Country Music Hall of Fame. There’s something for sports fans, too: Nissan Stadium (football) and Bridgestone Arena (hockey) are nearby.

• Home away from home: Guest rooms feature 40-inch LCD TVs, microwaves, and refrigerators.
• Free perks: WiFi, parking, and hot breakfast
• Get a workout using the weights, treadmill, and stationary bike in the onsite fitness center.
• Cool off with a dip in the outdoor pool.

Nashville, Tennessee: Music Lovers’ Paradise

Nicknamed Music City, Nashville is the undisputed capital of country music—the place where artists such as Patsy Cline and Dolly Parton hit it big and where generations of singers, strummers, banjo pickers, and fiddlers have taken the stage at the Grand Ole Opry. Despite its country roots, the city has also embraced other genres, including rock, rap, and jazz. You’ll find some of the best Nashville music venues along Honky Tonk Row, as up-and-coming musicians and songwriters step into the spotlight. Nearby, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum showcases an extensive audio archive and a memorabilia collection that includes Elvis’s golden Cadillac, Willie Nelson’s bandanna, and artifacts from iconic rockers including Lynyrd Skynyrd and Bob Dylan.

Just southwest of downtown lies the 132-acre Centennial Park, which is adjacent to Vanderbilt University. The city’s premier outdoor space features a full-scale replica of the Parthenon alongside a 42-foot-tall statue of Athena. Inside the faux Parthenon, you’ll find a permanent collection of 19th- and 20th-century American art.

Hotel at a Glance: Econo Lodge White Pine

The Econo Lodge White Pine is within day-trip distance of several quaint towns in the Smokies. After long days spent riding roller coasters at Pigeon Forge’s Dollywood or visiting artists’ studios in Gatlinburg, guests can head back to the hotel to rest up.

• Free continental breakfast kicks the morning off with waffles and cereal.
• In-room amenities include a microwave and a mini fridge.
• Free WiFi makes it easy to share pics of the area’s mountain scenery.
• Pups welcome: Pet parents should contact the hotel for details.

White Pine, Tennessee: Mountain Town Outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The town of White Pine is about 45 miles from the Gatlinburg entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Here, more than 100 trails wind past waterfalls and pioneer-era log cabins tucked deep amid densely forested mountains. Drivers and bicyclists ride on the 11-mile loop through Cades Cove, a broad valley of open meadows where visitors might see deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point of elevation at 6,643 feet, is a great place to catch the sunset.

Property at a Glance: Creekwalk Inn

Located between Cosby and Gatlinburg, Creekwalk Inn’s romantic cabins and cozy rooms make comfy home bases for explorations of nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Units are nestled on a private forested property with a hiking trail to the Little Pigeon River trout stream below. Guests staying at the cabins will check-in at the address given, then travel to their rental. The property is located 12 miles outside of Gatlinburg.

• Country-style furnishings such as handcrafted beds and wooden rocking chairs
• Romantic escape: Relax in your cabin’s private hot tub or by the fireplace.
• Gaze out at the forest from the comfort of a wraparound porch or balcony.
• Nearby activities include hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.

Cosby, Tennessee: Appalachian Wilderness near Lively Entertainment

Among the many Appalachian peaks rising above Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the nearly 5,000-foot Mount Cammerer stands out: it has a glassed-in fire tower at its summit, which boasts 360-degree views of surrounding hardwood forests. Starting near the town of Cosby, the Lower Mount Cammerer Trail wends up the alpine cliffs. The challenging trail remains accessible year-round to well-bundled climbers and sniffles-prone mountain goats thanks to eastern Tennessee’s moderate climate. Linking to the Mount Cammerer path, the Appalachian Trail forms a gateway to thousands of miles of hiking.

The area also offers multiple whitewater-rafting and ziplining options. About 20 miles to the east of Cosby, the entertainment enclaves of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge feature country-music revues and live comedy shows.

Hotel at a Glance: Crowne Plaza Charlotte Executive Park

Set about 15 minutes from downtown Charlotte, this Crowne Plaza is near several attractions. Thrill seekers ride roller coasters at Carowinds amusement park, and shoppers choose from more than 150 stores at SouthPark mall.

• The best views come with executive rooms—they’re on higher floors.
• Where to eat: Food For Thought Restaurant in the lobby
• Splashy fun: heated indoor pool and seasonal outdoor pool
• Free ride: The hotel runs a round-trip shuttle to the airport.

Charlotte, North Carolina: Modern Financial Capital with Thriving Art Scene and Southern Cooking

Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina, and it seems to get bigger every year. As one of the country’s major banking centers, it has shiny new skyscrapers popping up all the time. You can recognize the Hearst Tower by the different colors lighting up its façade throughout the year.

While the city has certainly taken a turn toward the modern, relics of the past are still easy to find. Victorian homes with wide front porches line the streets of the historic Fourth Ward, and you can hail a horse and carriage at the corner of Trade and Tyron. The city’s post-Civil War history is on display at the Levine Museum of the New South; check out the award-winning “Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers” installation. Charlotte’s NoDa neighborhood (that’s short for North Davidson) is home to the city’s Historic Arts District. Eclectic galleries and live music venues line the streets, and you can catch an improv show here almost every night of the week.

Hotel at a Glance: Wingate by Wyndham Columbus

This Wingate by Wyndham hotel has a new look, from the cushy lounge furniture in the lobby to the blue-and-chocolate decor in the guest rooms. Each recently remodeled room is outfitted with amenities like a mini fridge and a microwave, along with free WiFi.

• Free breakfast comes with options such as fresh waffles and fruit.
• Best places to relax: the indoor pool and the outdoor patio
• Staying in shape: The fitness center is stocked with cardio machines and free weights.
• What to do in Columbus: visiting the first home of playwright Tennessee Williams, which is on the National Register of Historic Places

Hotel at a Glance: Baymont by Wyndham Nashville Airport/ Briley

Located a stone’s throw from Nashville International Airport and just 10 minutes from downtown, this hotel provides comfortable and convenient accommodations for visitors to Music City. Kick back while watching a show on your flat-screen TV or surfing the web with free WiFi in your room. In the morning, head downstairs for a free continental breakfast.

• Distance from the airport: less than 3 miles
• Break a sweat in the onsite fitness center.
• Newly-renovated: Each room has been recently renovated, and feature new appliances, including a microwave and fridge, bathroom, brand new mattress, and new carpet.
• Bring Fido: Pets weighing less than 40 pounds can stay in select rooms for additional fee.
• Nearby attractions: Johnny Cash Museum (10 mi. away), Grand Ole Opry (5 mi.), and Nashville Zoo (7 mi)

Nashville, Tennessee: Music Lovers’ Paradise

Nicknamed Music City, Nashville is the undisputed capital of country music—the place where artists such as Patsy Cline and Dolly Parton hit it big and where generations of singers, strummers, banjo pickers, and fiddlers have taken the stage at the Grand Ole Opry. Despite its country roots, the city has also embraced other genres, including rock, rap, and jazz. You’ll find some of the best Nashville music venues along Honky Tonk Row, as up-and-coming musicians and songwriters step into the spotlight. Nearby, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum showcases an extensive audio archive and a memorabilia collection that includes Elvis’s golden Cadillac, Willie Nelson’s bandanna, and artifacts from iconic rockers including Lynyrd Skynyrd and Bob Dylan.

Just southwest of downtown lies the 132-acre Centennial Park, which is adjacent to Vanderbilt University. The city’s premier outdoor space features a full-scale replica of the Parthenon alongside a 42-foot-tall statue of Athena. Inside the faux Parthenon, you’ll find a permanent collection of 19th- and 20th-century American art.

Hotel at a Glance: Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island has long been an upscale vacation destination, and the Sonesta resort is another jewel in the island’s crown. A $30 million renovation of the AAA Four-Diamond resort has added even more luxurious features, from refreshed rooms to a new spa and new pools. The beach is a short walk through the property’s landscaped grounds, and a shuttle transports guests to nearby golf courses located in Shipyard Plantation.

• Splash around in the lagoon-style pool, unwind in the shaded pool, or lounge on deck chairs while kids play in the children’s area.
• Come hungry: The resort has four dining options to choose from, including casual appetizers and evening cocktails at Bayley’s Bar and Terrace.
• Have a relaxing massage at Arum Spa or indulge in one of the body treatments, such as hydrating body wrap or tropical sugar scrub.
• Rent a bicycle from the resort and zip around the property before exploring the bike-friendly island.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Coastal Beauty and Year-Round Outdoor Adventure

Set along the Atlantic coast about 30 miles northeast of Savannah, Georgia, Hilton Head Island is a prime setting for the relaxed oceanfront living. The subtropical climate makes the island a haven for outdoor-sports enthusiasts, especially golfers, who can choose from dozens of championship courses. Additionally, more than 50 miles’ worth of bike and rollerblade pathways crisscross the island, many of them leading to Hilton Head’s wealth of justly lauded beaches.

Hotel at a Glance: Origin Beach Resort By Emerald View Resorts

Origin Beach Resort is set in Panama City Beach, one of Florida’s liveliest swaths of sand. The shops of Pier Park, Jimmy Buffet’s iconic Margaritaville, and Ron Jon Surf Shop are all nearby. The luxury condominiums overlook the Gulf of Mexico, and many offer ocean views.

• Distance from the beach: It’s just across the street.
• In-room amenities: flat-screen TVs, DVD players, and Internet access
• Go for a swim in the fourth-floor pool or soak in the hot tub, which overlooks the beach.
• Now that’s entertainment: Head to the on-site movie theater to catch a flick.
• Grab a bite at Sharky’s Beachfront Restaurant and Tiki Bar, across the street. The eatery specializes in fresh seafood, such as mahi-mahi, snow-crab legs, and shrimp and grits.

Panama City Beach, Florida: Sugar-White Beaches and College Spring Breakers

Panama City Beach’s slogan—“The World’s Most Beautiful Beaches”—may seem boastful. But TripAdvisor helped back up this claim in 2013, naming the local St. Andrews State Park as having 1 of the top 25 beaches in the United States. The park also has two fishing piers, a jetty, and a boat ramp, plus nature trails for bird watching. Elsewhere in town, you can arrange a scuba-diving trip to explore the area’s dozens of natural and artificial reefs.

Every March and April, spring breakers descend on the white-sand beaches and fill the streets outside dance clubs. The rest of the year, however, the atmosphere is more relaxed and geared toward families. There are numerous amusement parks along the 20-plus miles of shoreline. Many of the popular seafood restaurants and bars here overlook the Gulf of Mexico.

Hotel at a Glance: All Season Suites

The All Season Suites positions visitors to Tennessee perfectly between three of the state’s top sites: Knoxville, Dollywood, and Gatlinburg. That means that in less than an hour’s drive, you can head to the gateway to the Smoky Mountains and back again with enough time to enjoy the thriving nightlife of the city in K-Town.

• Wake up to a complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast.
• Make home-cooked meals in your room’s kitchenette complete with refrigerator, stovetop, and dishwasher.
• Stay active: The fitness center is open 24 hours.
• Surf the web: Free WiFi is included.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Family-Friendly Attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains

Though it’s secluded in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is home to some quirky destinations, including Dollywood, a Titanic museum that looks just like the famed ocean liner from the outside, and an interactive children’s museum housed in an upside-down three-story building. In Pigeon Forge’s historical town center, a cluster of old-fashioned specialty shops and restaurants forms the Old Mill Square along the Little Pigeon River. Inside the mill, a pair of 4,600-pound granite stones has been grinding grain since the early 1800s.

Hotel at a Glance: Mountain View Inn

As its name suggests, the Mountain View Inn is conveniently nestled in the Southern Appalachian mountain range within reach of various natural parks and outdoor attractions. Just a short 30-minute drive from the inn, guests can hike the forests of Red Clay State Park and learn about local Cherokee history. Venturing into nearby Chattanooga, the Incline Railway at Lookout Mountain ferries visitors up a steep slope to breathtaking views of the surrounding forests and towns.

• Pet-friendly: For an additional fee, guests don’t have to leave their furry family members behind when staying at the inn.
• Free perks: WiFi and long-distance calling are complimentary.
• Things to do in Cleveland: A few miles from the inn is the Cherokee National Forest, with its two rivers, Museum Center, and arboretum.

Cleveland, Tennessee: Scenic Town near Cherokee National Forest

Situated on the Hiwassee River in southeastern Tennessee, Calhoun is a dot on the map about a half hour from Chattanooga. The town’s proximity to the Cherokee National Forest makes it a good home base for outdoor adventure. The forest stretches along the North Carolina border, encompassing more than 640,000 acres of wilderness. Hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails wind through the scenic Appalachian Mountains, and you can fish for large-mouth bass and yellow perch in the many lakes, rivers, and streams. The area also offers some of the region’s best whitewater rafting. In fact, the Ocoee Whitewater Center hosted a number of events during the 1996 Summer Olympics.

Hotel at a Glance: Mountain Harbor Inn

Mountain Harbor Inn was selected as 1 of the world’s top 10 resorts in its category by BedandBreakfast.com and was the first Tennessee property added to the website’s Diamond Collection. Every suite at this child-free property overlooks Douglas Lake in the Great Smoky Mountains. 

• Notable praise: The bed and breakfast won TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence from 2011 to 2017 and was inducted into the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame for winning the award five years in a row.
• Included with your stay: breakfast, a sunset cruise, and dessert by candlelight (suite and condo stays only)
• In-room amenities: microwave, refrigerator, and free WiFi
• For extra amenities: Choose the condo for a hot tub and fireplace or the luxurious waterfront cabin for a great view of the lake, plus an extra large patio with a barbecue grill.
• Get pampered with a hot-stone or Swedish massage.
• Lakeside activities: Rent a boat, a pontoon, or a paddleboard from the inn.
• Distance from Great Smoky Mountains National Park: about 28 miles

Dandridge, Tennessee: Mountain Town near Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Settlers moving west across the Appalachian Mountains founded the town of Dandridge in 1783 and named it after Martha Dandridge Custis Washington, the wife of President George Washington. Several old buildings in the National Historic District downtown have been carefully preserved, including a handful of taverns and a Greek Revival–style courthouse that dates back to 1845. Be sure to stop in the circa-1911 Tinsley-Bible Drug Co for a hamburger or old-fashioned sundae. The town is also home to the Bush’s Baked Beans visitor center, as well as a small museum and the original general store where the company was founded in 1897.

The Gatlinburg entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just 27 miles away. Here, more than 100 trails wind past waterfalls and pioneer-era log cabins tucked deep amid densely forested mountains. You could take a bicycle ride on the 11-mile loop through Cades Cove, a broad valley of open meadows where you might see deer, black bears, wild turkeys, or vacationing college mascots. Clingmans Dome, the park’s highest point of elevation at 6,643 feet, is a great place to catch the sunset. The Bassmaster Elite Series is held here at Douglas Lake every year; it’s considered 1 of country’s top 10 lakes for crappie and largemouth-bass fishing.

Hotel at a Glance: The Inn at Crestwood

In 1948, Claus Moberg purchased a 30-acre apple orchard in North Carolina’s High Country, where he built a summer cottage for his family. In 2004, the estate was transformed into The Inn at Crestwood, where guests can admire the property’s mountain views and be close to the charming towns of Boone and Blowing Rock, as well as the Blue Ridge Parkway. The original design is still evident throughout the spacious inn, which displays Moberg’s original artwork and floor plans.

• Where you’ll stay: a guest room or suite that looks out on the woods.
• For maximum space, book the villa suite, which has a full kitchen and a living room with a gas fireplace.
• Southern-inspired dishes dominate the menu at The Table Restaurant, open for dinner Wednesday–Sunday.
• Spa facilities include a lap pool, dry sauna, and fitness center.

Blowing Rock, North Carolina: Scenic Hikes and Skiing in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Blowing Rock sits on the edge of the 500,000-acre Pisgah National Forest in northeastern North Carolina. The town, named for a rock formation, is a home base for outdoor recreation in the Blue Ridge Mountains—especially hiking, whitewater rafting, fly-fishing, and horseback riding. Moses H. Cone Memorial Park, a historic estate on 3,600 acres of forests and meadows, has 26 miles of carriage roads designated for walking and horseback riding. To see the sights from a car, head to the Blue Ridge Parkway, a scenic motorway through the Appalachians.

Aside from the parkway, there’s plenty to do year-round here, from whitewater rafting and fly-fishing in the summer to cross-country and downhill skiing in the cooler months. About 25 miles northwest of Blowing Rock is Beech Mountain Resort, a popular ski spot with 17 trails for all skill levels. According to Fodor’s, it’s the highest ski area in the eastern United States, at 5,500 feet above sea level. Back in town, Blowing Rock’s Main Street is lined with antique shops, boutiques, and upscale bistros.

Hotel at a Glance: Wilderness at the Smokies

Despite its name, you might find a few things at Wilderness at the Smokies that aren’t naturally occurring in the wild. For one, it’s rare that you find water slides growing with the trees, but you’ll definitely find them at the Wilderness at the Smokies. In fact, you’ll find enough to fill three water parks—one indoor and two out—which are exclusively reserved for guests to the resort. But that’s not all the fun: ropes courses, rock climbing, and a mega arcade full of games are also part of the resort’s entertainment options. This Getaway comes with two, all-stay passes to Adventure Forest which include admission to attractions such as Tree Top Towers, Daredevils Drop, and Moonshine Run.

• Ready, aim, fire!: Perfect your sharp-shooting at the laser tag arena.
• Secret agents welcome: Test out your super-spy skills with the Copperhead, a laser course where you’ll twist and contort your body to avoid the beams.
• Bring your appetite to the onsite Thirsty Miner and Hidden Trail Restaurants, where kids eat free.
• Get creative at paint-your-own-pottery nights.
• Perfect your southern twang at Dollywood, which is about 9 miles away.
• Hike through a different kind of wilderness at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is about 18 miles away.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: Family-Friendly Attractions in the Great Smoky Mountains

Though it’s secluded in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is home to some quirky destinations, including Dollywood, a Titanic museum that looks just like the famed ocean liner from the outside, and an interactive children’s museum housed in an upside-down three-story building. In Pigeon Forge’s historical town center, a cluster of old-fashioned specialty shops and restaurants forms the Old Mill Square along the Little Pigeon River. Inside the mill, a pair of 4,600-pound granite stones has been grinding grain since the early 1800s.

About Your Great Wolf Lodge Getaway

Travel Dates

• Book to stay between September 6 and October 31.
• Prices vary by day; the price listed is the lowest possible and may not be available all days.
• Click on a date on the booking calendar to see the individual prices by day.

Inclusions

• Daily water park passes for each registered guest, up to the maximum room occupancy, are included in all options.

See additional details regarding room occupancy, water park passes, and more on the Fine Print & Details tab above. See FAQs here.

Property at a Glance: Great Wolf Lodge Charlotte/Concord

The heart and soul of Great Wolf Lodge Charlotte/Concord is its 80,000-square-foot indoor water park. Splashy rides such as the Howlin’ Tornado—an enclosed water slide that shoots you through a six-story funnel—and a zero-depth-entry wave pool with 3-foot swells surround the park’s iconic hub: a four-story treehouse with a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. Younger kids will have a blast with the water slides and gentle spray features of Whooping Hollow and Cub Paw Pool.

The water park, which hovers around 84 degrees all year long, isn’t the resort’s only family-friendly activity. You’ll also find mini bowling at Ten Paw Alley, an arcade with more than 100 games, and Scooops Kid Spa, complete with ice-cream-sundae pedicure chairs.

• Extended and exclusive water park access: You can enter the water park at 1 p.m. on the day you check in and stay until close on the day you check out (essentially 2 days’ water park admission). And since there are no day passes for outside visitors, resort guests have exclusive access and won’t get stuck in long lines.
• Family-friendly fun: The resort has games and activities for kids of all ages. Explore all activities by age group here.
• Hands-on crafts and activities such as face painting and balloon twisting at Cub Club can entertain young children when they want a break from the water park action.
• Roomy suites comfortably sleep up to eight people. Some units provide extra privacy with enclosed bunk beds.
• Restaurants galore: The resort contains six restaurants and snack bars where you can dig into everything from wood-fired steaks to signature waffles.
• Add a Paw Pass or Pup Pass to your stay to enjoy kid-friendly activities and sweets at Creation Station, Bear Paw Sweets & Eats, and more at a discounted rate. See everything that’s included—as well as other available packages—here (additional fees apply).
• Safety first: Complimentary life jackets in multiple sizes and trained lifeguards help keep families safe and secure.
• Distance from Charlotte and Raleigh: about a 25-minute drive from Charlotte and a 2.5-hour drive from Raleigh

Our Guide to Great Wolf Lodge

Eight Ways to Make the Most of Your Great Wolf Lodge Vacation

Our best tips on how to avoid crowds, dine on a budget, and dress down at Great Wolf Lodge

About Your Great Wolf Lodge Getaway

Travel Dates

• Book to stay between September 6 and October 31.
• Prices vary by day; the price listed is the lowest possible and may not be available all days.
• Click on a date on the booking calendar to see the individual prices by day.

Inclusions

• Daily water park passes for each registered guest, up to the maximum room occupancy, are included in all options.

See additional details regarding room occupancy, water park passes, and more on the Fine Print & Details tab above. See FAQs here.

Property at a Glance: Great Wolf Lodge Atlanta/LaGrange

The heart and soul of Great Wolf Lodge Atlanta/LaGrange is its 93,000-square-foot indoor water park. Splashy rides such as River Canyon Run—a raft water slide—and a zero-depth-entry wave pool with 3-foot swells surround the park’s iconic hub: a four-story treehouse with a 1,000-gallon tipping bucket. Younger kids will have a blast with the water slides and gentle spray features of Whooping Hollow and Cub Paw Pool.

The water park, which hovers around 84 degrees all year long, isn’t the resort’s only family-friendly activity. You’ll also find an arcade with more than 100 games, as well as mini golf.

• Extended and exclusive water park access: You can enter the water park at 1 p.m. on the day you check in and stay until close on the day you check out (essentially 2 days’ water park admission). And since there are no day passes for outside visitors, resort guests have exclusive access and won’t get stuck in long lines.
• Family-friendly fun: There are plenty of games and activities for kids of all ages. Explore all activities by age group here.
• Hands-on crafts and activities such as face painting and balloon twisting during the Lunch Time Lineup can entertain young children when they want a break from the water park action.
• Roomy suites comfortably sleep up to eight people. Some suites provide extra privacy with enclosed bunk beds for kids.
• Where to eat: There are 10 restaurants and snack bars, including a pizza joint.
• Add a Paw Pass or Pup Pass to your stay to enjoy kid-friendly activities and sweets at Creation Station, MagiQuest, and more at a discounted rate. See everything that’s included—as well as other available packages—here (additional fees apply).
• Safety first: Complimentary life jackets in multiple sizes and trained lifeguards help keep families safe and secure.
• Distance from Atlanta: 69 miles

Our Guide to Great Wolf Lodge

Eight Ways to Make the Most of Your Great Wolf Lodge Vacation

Our best tips on how to avoid crowds, dine on a budget, and dress down at Great Wolf Lodge