Autumn in the Smoky Mountains: Scenic Days & Entertaining Evenings

Autumn in the Smoky Mountains tour combined mountain sightseeing, live entertainment, and time to explore

Our seven-day tour was a welcome opportunity to leave the everyday routine behind—and let someone else handle the driving.

Settling into Pigeon Forge

After an overnight stop in Indianapolis, we continued to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, for four nights at the Drury Plaza. An evening at the Comedy Barn started our stay with entertainment.

Staying in one place for several nights had its own appeal. The suitcase finally got a little time off, too.

Exploring Biltmore in Asheville

A day trip to Asheville, North Carolina, brought us to Biltmore, where we toured the mansion and enjoyed an included lunch.

The visit gave our mountain getaway a different perspective, with time devoted to architecture and history before returning for a relaxed evening.

Taking the Scenic Route Through the Smokies

Our mountain drive included photo stops before lunch and shopping time in Gatlinburg. Dinner and the Country Tonite Show rounded out the day.

The schedule made room for both looking around and sitting back—a combination that suited a vacation nicely.

Visiting Bush’s and Dollywood

We stopped at Bush’s Baked Beans Visitor Center before heading to Dollywood, where crafts and country music shows added variety to our sightseeing.

From a familiar pantry staple to an afternoon of entertainment, this was certainly no ordinary Saturday.

Heading Home After a Week Away

An overnight stay in Lafayette, Indiana, broke up our return journey before we headed home.

The week had brought together places to explore, shows to enjoy, and time away from our usual responsibilities. Unpacking could wait a little longer. Looking through the photos sounded much more appealing.