The Smoky Mountain National Park area is the second most popular wedding destination in the United States. Many couples exchange vows, celebrate a honeymoon, or rediscover their relationship in this romantic Land of 1,000 Mists. Sevierville, Tennessee is an affordable and convenient location for discovering the Smoky Mountain area.Sevierville caters to travelers with many interests. Adventurers and sedentary lifestyles will find everything from shopping and spas to race cars and whitewater rafting. The history and culture of the area residents bring to life a time when life was much simpler.
Where to Stay
Romantics heading for this area can find log cabin luxury with Oak Haven Resort and Spa. This resort is nestled in the foothills of the Smokies, with each cabin feeling as if the occupants are in a secluded area. The one bedroom cabins offer a gas log fireplace for snuggling in the evenings. The bathroom includes a jetted soaking tub for two and a separate walk-in shower. The screened in back porch celebrates nature with gorgeous views of the foothills. Most cabins also have a hot tub on the back deck, where couples can enjoy a tall glass of bubbly while enjoying the atmosphere of the mountains.
Oak Haven has a game room and pool on-site, as well as a relaxing spa. Rates vary depending on the season, but are reasonable. www.oakhavenresort.com
Where to Eat
Sevierville and the surrounding area offer many choices in dining. Travelers choosing to leave their haven in the morning might enjoy a home-style breakfast at Applewood Farmhouse Grill located at the Apple Barn Complex. Another option is FlapJack’s, where you are greeted at the door by waitresses dressed in ranger outfits.A mid-day meal choice depends on a traveler’s location. If hiking, be sure to pack a delicious picnic lunch that can be enjoyed in the park. You can arrange for a picnic lunch at Country Ritz Sandwich Shoppe (423-453-3354). Romantics spending time in town can catch an old-style diner lunch at The Diner. www.thediner.biz
Fine dining for a romantic evening can be found at Taulbee’s, a local favorite in downtown Sevierville. Reservations are highly recommended as this establishment serves dinner on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights. In nearby Maryville, The Foothills Milling Company is another excellent choice.
www.taulbees.net
www.foothillsmillingcompany.com
Where to Play
If the Smoky Mountains National Park doesn’t offer enough of a playground, romantics can bring out their inner child at NASCAR Speedpark, Ripley’s Old MacDonald Mini Golf, and Dollywood. The Bass Pro Outdoor World is a man’s playground and is located near the Tanger Outlet Mall.
Shows: Dixie Stampede is always packed full of excitement and good eating. Be warned though, you won’t find any silverware in this place. Dollywood's new Great American Country (GAC) Show is full of delightful surprises. There are also many other shows available in the area, such as The Great China Circus and The Legends of China. Tickets can be found at a variety of areas.
Where to Relax
If the view of the mountains is not relaxing enough, check out some of the area day spas. Utopia Day Spa is a rustic retreat of healing and well-being. Couples can enjoy a traditional massage, but I recommend the Nature Massage, where couples enjoy their treatment overlooking a pond with the sounds of birds and crickets. The relaxing sounds of the wind blowing through the trees adds an extra element. www.utopiasparetreat.com Oak Haven Resort and Spa is convenient for couples staying on-property. Couple’s massages are available and day treatments can be arranged.
The mountains are the main attraction in this area, but all that Sevierville offers is an added bonus. To find out more about Sevierville or to plan your stay, visit their official website. Be sure to stop in at the official welcome center when you get into town. If flying, the nearest airport is Knoxville, which is a beautiful 40 minute ride from Sevierville. www.visitsevierville.com
