Share Your Gatlinburg Story
Whether you're visiting for the first time or Gatlinburg has been your favorite destination for many generations, we'd love to hear the FULL details of your special story or memory about Gatlinburg. Submit your story below and be sure to include a favorite photo of you in Gatlinburg for a chance to be featured on gatlinburg.com, in one of our monthly emails and on Visit Gatlinburg socials*. Share your unforgettable Gatlinburg experience and let your memories inspire others!
*IMPORTANT*
*If your story is chosen to be featured, you will be in the running for the yearly Ultimate Gatlinburg Getaway Giveaway which includes a 3 night stay in Gatlinburg for up to 4 people, a Gatlinburg Attractions Family Pass, 3 restaurant gift certificates, and the ultimate Gatlinburg Prize Pack! To qualify for the grand prize and be featured, you must consent to receiving monthly emails from Gatlinburg and follow Visit Gatlinburg on social. Only submissions which include a photo of you in Gatlinburg will qualify. Please only submit ONE story per email and duplicate entries using the same email will be disqualified.
2025 Featured Stories by Month
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KASI & DAVE STAFFEN
Monongahela, PA
My husband Dave and I got married November 28, 1997 at the Chapel In The Glen. We were just 21 and 25 at the time and got a crazy idea to run off and married. We made some phone calls and got some reservations and ended up having the most wonderful time. We had dinner that evening at The Peddler Restaurant and stayed at a cabin for three nights. I do not remember much more from the trip other than thinking the whole time “I hope this works” and it did! We have been mostly happily married for over 27 years and raised two beautiful daughters. We always say we are going to make it back to Gatlinburg because I am sure it is totally different after 27 years but we have not yet. Hopefully this will be the year! -
ELIZABETH MURRAY
Columbus, Ohio
It was an exciting summer when my 3 year old granddaughter got to experience the Smoky Mountains for the first time. Iris, born with a rare genetic disorder called Koolen-de Vries Syndrome, took to the mountains as I did many years ago. We chose Gatlinburg because of its proximity to the Smoky Mountain National Park as well as its many attractions. This little girl who has had countless hours of physical, occupational and speech therapy was able to walk on a trail in the park, pick berries at Mountain Mist Farms explore Gatlinburg and to her extreme delight, dance with fairies on top of Anakeesta Mountain. It was a trip that our entire family will cherish for a lifetime. And for her to love the mountains as her grandma does, well that’s just priceless! -
ANITA AZEEM
Jefferson City, TN
Two years ago, our family embarked on a new chapter, leaving behind the familiar landscapes of Colorado to plant roots in the rolling hills of Tennessee. Along with our two little adventurers—then aged six and seven—we drove over 22 hours, hearts full of promise and car full of memories, to begin living the life we only dreamed.
Tennessee welcomed us with open arms. The warmth of its people, the kindness of strangers who quickly became friends, and a community that opened its arms to our youngest—who has Down Syndrome—made us feel not just accepted but seen and loved in a way that feels nothing short of remarkable. Through him, we've discovered how boundless joy can be, and how much adventure his heart can hold.
One unforgettable highlight came in June 2024, when Ober Mountain in Gatlinburg was offering a locals' discount. We could not resist. Riding the Aerial Tramway high above the tree tops, we marveled at the stunning mountain views and caught glimpses of black bears and other wildlife. There were thrilling rides, tubing escapades, and so much laughter—especially from our youngster, whose joy permeated the day. It was the most enjoyment he'd experienced in a long while, and a memory that we'll always treasure.
It's been a blessing to live here. We're eternally grateful for the adventures, the folks, and the beauty that surrounds us. And without doubt, we'll be back to explore more of Gatlinburg—there's still so much magic yet to discover. -
NICOLE BERGGREN
Horicon, WI
This spring break my husband and I decided to take our two sons on a trip. This is probably our last year all having the same spring break due to college schedules, so we packed up and headed from Wisconsin to Tennessee. As a family we have never been out of the Midwest, so this was an amazing experience. It was my husband and sons first time seeing mountains, and we could not get enough of them. We did an off-road utv tour, the sky bridge, hiking and more. As nature lovers, we soaked in the wildlife and glorious views. We also enjoyed the live bands and hustle and bustle of beautiful Gatlinburg. We are already planning our next trip!
