We are far too occupied with being socially accepted and could all use the break to daydream of more simpler times.
When I was a little girl having an American Girl was all the rage. I was a bit of a tomboy and I didn’t play with a lot of dolls. When I told my dad I wanted an American Girl doll he was a bit surprised. My whole childhood I was the type of child that did chores and respected direction from my elders. Doing this typically meant when I asked for something from “Santa”, I most definitely was going to see it under the Christmas tree.
Standing outside the American Girl Store in Tyson’s Corner Mall
Christmas that year came and went through without any American Girl dolls. Everything else on my wishlist however was underneath the tree. Birthdays and Christmases went by and I kept asking for an American Girl doll. When the American Girl store opened in Chicago in 1998 I knew I was destined to get a doll because it was somewhere we traveled and visited. I’d cut out ads of the store information and talk about all the cool things a child could do there every time I knew we would be close by.
Kaya doll at the American Girl in Tyson’s Corner MallA kitchen play set at the American Girl in Tyson’s Corner MallAmerican Girl doll display in Tyson’s Corner Mall
Time went by and another American Girl store opened in 2003 in New York. At this point, I was a junior in High School and not a little girl focused on dolls. I had stopped asking for an American Girl. I later learned my dad had some issues with the American Girl brand and didn’t want to support them and that is why he hadn’t purchased a doll from them.
At almost 18 years old after my dad had taken a trip to New York I was finally given Josephine. This was the doll I had so desperately wanted ten years prior. She was beautiful and I appreciated the craftsmanship, but that excited feeling I’d had thinking about her at 8 wasn’t there. I honestly didn’t feel much of anything when I unwrapped the box.
Fast forward sixteen years later my husband and I were planning a trip to DC. I had mentioned the American Girl store at Tyson’s Corner. He insisted that we go and that I finally get to check out an American Girl Doll store in person. We even made reservations to eat inside the American Girl Cafe.
I must admit as a 35-year-old with no children or grandchildren I felt a bit silly walking into an American Girl store. All the magic and excitement I had over visiting didn’t flood back to me as an adult. We walked around and looked at all the dolls. My husband offered to buy me a doll of my choice, but I couldn’t justify spending $300 as an adult for something that would only sit up on a shelf. I found myself a bit sad, desperately wishing someone would have thought it was that important when I was 8.
Pretzel Bites at the American Girl Cafe in Tyson’s Corner MallThe decorations inside the American Girl Cafe at Tyson’s Corner Mall are whimsical.Menu at the American Girl Cafe in Tyson’s Corner MallThe napkin ring at the American Girl Cafe in Tyson’s Corner Mall doubles as a take home hair tieInside the American Girl Cafe in Tyson’s Corner
We waited for our lunch reservation time. The American Girl Cafe is so cute with loads of pink. They have chairs for the American Girl dolls, food items to share with the dolls and make a big deal out of celebrating for children. The American Girl Cafe even has dolls for use by children who might not have one yet, so they can experience the fun. The American Girl Cafe also has adult drinks and the food was well prepared and tasty. It was fun watching the little girls get their dolls situated and offer up food and drink to them. Watching and daydreaming it brought me back to days of tea parties and dress-up.
Cotton Candy milkshake at the American Girl Cafe in Tyson’s Corer.
For a few moments, I was that 8-year-old girl again wide-eyed and full of dreams, unspoiled by society and the demands of life. It may sound ridiculous, but it was somewhat therapeutic. This was an experience that deep inside I felt I had missed out on. Sitting there looking around I felt as if a void had been fulfilled and I am glad we went.
If you have a toy you didn’t get as a child you can still go buy it if you think it would give you joy or go visit a special place from your childhood. It is healthy to want to feel those feelings again and to connect back to the innocence that once was and bring back some childhood nostalgia. We are far too occupied with being socially accepted and could all use the break to daydream of simpler times.
Holiday travel often brings a mix of excitement and stress, making it easy to let our inner Grinch surface as we navigate crowded airports, busy roads, and family gatherings. Amid the hustle and bustle, it’s tempting to feel overwhelmed or resentful, overshadowing the joy of the season. While we may encounter delays, packed schedules, and the pressure to please everyone, it’s crucial to focus on nurturing our holiday spirit and approaching the season with a sense of gratitude and openness.
Many people are familiar with the holiday classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas or the catchy song about him. As a child, I found the movie amusing and entertaining. However, as an adult, this beloved childhood favorite offers deeper reflections on our behaviors and emotions, especially during the often chaotic holiday season. If you haven’t seen the original cartoon or its various remakes, here’s a brief synopsis: The Grinch is a foul, green character created by Dr. Seuss, first appearing in a 1957 poem titled The Hoobub and the Grinch. A hermit living high above the town of Whoville on Mount Crumpet, he is accompanied only by his loyal dog, Max.
The Grinch is particularly irked by the Whos’ extravagant Christmas celebrations, which become even grander each year. When their enthusiasm reaches a fever pitch, he hatches a plan to impersonate Santa Claus and steal Christmas from them. However, no matter how hard he tries, he discovers that he cannot take away their Christmas spirit. With the help of a young Who, he ultimately experiences a change of heart, rediscovering the themes of happiness, love, and the true meaning of the holiday season.
Is the Grinch Relatable?
We all have our inner Grinch, especially during the hectic holiday travel season. Long lines, flight delays, and chaotic family dynamics can easily transform holiday excitement into frustration. The term “Grinch” is often used to describe those who shy away from communal celebrations, and we’ve all encountered that person (perhaps ourselves) who seems to radiate negativity during what should be a joyful time.
In the story, the Grinch’s difficult childhood shaped his adult demeanor. Similarly, many of us carry emotional baggage into the holiday season, which can sometimes cloud our ability to enjoy the moment. Not everyone has had a picture-perfect Christmas, and for those who have lost loved ones or experienced major life changes, this time of year can be especially poignant.
Tips to Keep Your Inner Grinch at Bay During Holiday Travel
To prevent your inner Grinch from ruining the season as you travel, here are some helpful strategies to maintain your holiday spirit:
Set Realistic Expectations: Understand that travel plans might not go smoothly. Delays and unexpected detours are part of the journey, so try to approach hiccups with a sense of humor rather than frustration.
Prioritize Self-Care: Amid the chaos, carve out time for yourself. Whether it’s a peaceful moment with a holiday beverage or a quick walk, make sure you recharge your energy.
Unplug from Technology: Taking a break from social media or distracting screens can help ease stress. Disconnecting can give you more time to enjoy the present moment and connect with those around you.
Embrace Flexibility: Allow yourself to go with the flow. Be open to altering your plans if things don’t unfold exactly as you expected. Sometimes the unplanned moments create the best memories.
Focus on Connection: Remember that the core of the holiday season is about spending time with loved ones. Shift your focus away from frustrations, and enjoy the moments shared with family and friends, whether in person or virtually.
If we aren’t careful, our inner Grinch can surface during the holiday season, overshadowing the joy of connection and celebration. It’s important to embrace the true spirit of Christmas, which lies in love, gratitude, and finding moments of peace amidst travel stress. Approach the season with an open heart, and you just might find that, like the Grinch, you can rediscover the magic of the holidays, even through the chaos of travel.
Perhaps we all have a little bit of an inner Grinch in us and if we aren’t careful it can steal Christmas!
There is something magical about holiday decorations and this time of the year. The twinkling lights, the smell of cookies baking, and the cozy feelings that come with the holidays. Not everyone wants to put up an elaborate display of their own though and going to visit a holiday light display is a great way to enjoy beautiful decorations without the stress.
A list of some of the holiday activities this year at Gaylord National. This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of them, and make a purchase I’ll receive a commission at no charge to you.
The Gaylord National is one of my favorite holiday displays to visit. Not only is the atrium always beautifully decorated and full of Christmas lights, but the hotel also, has many themed activities. Some of the holiday activities for purchase this year include the I Love Christmas Movies walk-through, holiday Build-A-Bear popup, Sweet Shoppe, Tree Lot bar, a rendition of the Christmas Story, and a holiday light show in the atrium (free).
I Love Christmas Movies Experience
Some of my favorite Christmas movie props
One of the new activities this year is the I Love Christmas Movies features a unique walk-through. This experience emerges the visitor in some of the classic Christmas Movies sets such as Year Without a Santa Clause, Christmas Vacation, Christmas Story, The Polar Express, and Elf. In the experience, one can walk into areas with backdrops and props from these movies. Santa’s workshop from Elf, the train from Polar Express, the house from Christmas Vacation, and the town from Year Without a Santa Clause were my favorites of the experience.
Outside the Snow Factory the Build-A-Bear popup shop has many holiday plush to choose from.
Outside the walk-through is a gift shop featuring many products from classic Christmas movies and the Snow Factory area which has many fun holiday-themed activities. Some of the activities this year include an ice hill for tubing, snowball fight games, a Build-A-Bear popup shop, Gingerbread house decorating, a scavenger hunt, and other activities like ice bumper cars. There is enough to keep young and young at heart entertained for the day.
Sweet Treats and Food Options
The Holiday Sweet Shoppe had Hot Cocoa and Eggnog plus the choice of additional alcohol for that extra kick and lots of yummy treats.
The hotel restaurant Old Hickory Steakhouse is a great option if you have time to sit down and enjoy a meal during your visit. I would suggest making reservations in advance if you want to dine there though. Other food options include a marketplace for quick service eats and a popup pizza place in the atrium. There are plenty of options for festive holiday drinks and treats as well in the atrium.
The Tree Lot bar had lots of choices for seasonal holiday drinks.
At the popup Holiday Sweet Shoppe, I tried eggnog with a choice of fireball for an extra kick. The Shoppe also, contained gingerbread houses, holiday treats, Yule log cakes, and desserts to tempt. There was a popup-themed Tree Lot bar in the atrium that had some delicious seasonal drink options as well. I tried the Home for the Holidays cocktail there featuring rum and clove. Both drinks and the macaroon cookies I had at these locations were delicious.
The light show inside the atrium is a must see!
Visiting Gaylord National kicks off our Christmas season and I can highly recommend going to the Gaylord National to celebrate the holiday season. We have made coming to Gaylord National part of our holiday traditions and our first Christmas activity each year. My favorite part of the night is grabbing a drink and watching the light show inside the atrium each year. If you’re local to the National Harbor area the Gaylord National is perfect for a day trip and if you’re a few hours away like me booking an overnight stay extends the fun of this wonderful holiday experience. This would be the perfect place to start a holiday tradition.
I have heard a lot about Great Wolf Lodge since it was built in Williamsburg, VA and it has been one of my places to visit for a while. As an adult in my mid-30s with no children, I kept looking over many reviews, comments, concerns, and complaints dealing with topics related exclusively to people with children. I was hesitant to book a stay at Great Wolf Lodge because of the lack of reviews about adult-only visits. I wasn’t sure if there would be enough for adults to do or if it would be too noisy for us.
Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia a break from adulting!
Make no mistake Great Wolf Lodge’s main focus is on children, but we found there was plenty to do to keep us (adults) entertained as well. I felt that a review of the lodge from an adult without children was due. I should mention we are kids at heart and love theme parks. From the time we arrived at Great Wolf Lodge, we honestly had a blast! For our first visit, we chose to go during Halloween. We figured a lot of people might take their children out and maybe not as many people would be vacationing. During our visit, we found the lodge to be busy, but not packed. (Note: The resort did have Halloween activities for children including trick or treating for Halloween.)
Outside the entrance of Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Va. Wolf ears hey why not!
Inside the lobby of Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaOutside Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaGreat Wolf Lodge is beautifully laid out and definitely has a rustic feel to it.
Upon arrival, I was shocked at the homey feel of the lodge and the lack of a smell of chlorine from the water park. In the lobby when we arrived was a group of children on the floor in front of the fireplace doing a staff-led craft. We used the mobile self-check-in on the app and when we arrived our room was ready for us. Upon check-in in we received an envelope with our wristbands for our stay. We opted to link our credit card to our wristbands putting a $100 hold on the account for charges. This is something to consider if you don’t want to lug around a credit card while you’re at the water park.
Lodging at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
Family Fireplace Suite at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Va
The wristband is also, your room key and will unlock the door outside the lodge going to the parking lot as well (this feature is not on the children’s bands). The lodge was busy, but it wasn’t overwhelming. We easily located our room. The family fireplace suite was spacious with 2 queen beds, a full-size bathroom with a shower/tub combo, a kitchen area with a microwave and mini fridge, a sofa, 2 TVs, and a fireplace which we especially. The lodge has many types of rooms including themed rooms too with cabin bunk areas for children.
Spring Breakout at Great Wolf Lodge Willamsburg, Virginia and a tour of the Majestic Bear Suite
Dining at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
Food Options at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
There are several dining options at Great Wolf Lodge without having to leave the lodge. I liked being able to stay on the property and relax with some bar drinks, not having to worry about taking an Uber or taxi. The Loose Moose is off of the main lobby and is a buffet-style restaurant with a bar. They are open for breakfast and then close and reopen at 5 for dinner. We ate here twice during our stay for dinner and enjoyed our food and our bar drinks. Great Wolf Lodge has a frozen Jack and Coke that is good by the way!
The bar menu and some of the food options we tried while eating at the Loose Moose inside Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia. Themed food (like these for Halloween) are normally on the buffet.
I was most impressed at their concern for dietary restrictions. A staff member came out and went over items that didn’t contain any meat for me and addressed any concerns I had on vegetarian or vegan choices. The salad bar area was full of delicious fresh veggies, pasta salads, potato salad, and a variety of greens. They had a great selection of side dishes too including veggies and an area for main dishes/meats (fish was an option too). Everything we had here was flavorful and tasted fresh.
Other choices for food include pizza and take-and-go salads/sandwiches downstairs from the lobby called the Hungry as a Wolf. There is also, a walk-up restaurant in the water park area called Buckets, a waterpark bar, and an ice cream parlor beside Hungry as a Wolf. In addition, the resort has its own Dunkin’ Donuts in the lobby and we had donuts from there one morning. I enjoyed the ability to place an order on my phone from the resort dining and then pick up my food. It made it hassle-free even to order from our room by using the app.
Turkey and avocado sandwich with Cajun fries from Buckets. They also, have salads and snack options like Bavarian pretzels.Dunkin’ Donuts inside the lobby at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaFresh fruit and Greek yogurt from Buckets
During our time inside the water park, we enjoyed food from Buckets as well as drinks from the bar inside. The bar also had the football games showing on two TVs on Sunday. Just outside the parking lot of Great Wolf Lodge is another food option in the form of a non-lodge restaurant called Sportsman’s Grill. The restaurant is within walking distance of Great Wolf Lodge and stays with the wilderness theme.
Frog legs at Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, Virginia Venison stew Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, VirginiaSteak and potato at Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, VirginiaTuna fish sandwich with fries Sportsman’s Grill Williamsburg, VirginiaThe menu at Sportsman’s Grill is unique with items such a frog legs and venison stew. They also, had generous cuts of beef and seafood options such as a tuna fish sandwich.
Sportsman’s Grill is similar to a game lodge and the walls are covered in taxidermy animal trophies. The menu is unique too with items such as frog legs, venison stew, and alligator gumbo. They also had a nice beer/wine list. We enjoyed having lunch there during our stay.
Things to do at Great Wolf Lodge (Paid Activities)
In addition to the water park, there are many fun activities to do at Great Wolf Lodge. Most are geared directly towards children like the MagiQuest game which has a spot to buy a wand and play an interactive game through the resort. However, as adults, we enjoyed several of the other activities. The lanes at Ten Paw Alley were shorter and it was similar to duckpin bowling with smaller balls and short pins. This bowling was a bit more challenging than normal bowling and we had fun playing.
Playing laser tag at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaMy Mom bowling at Ten Paw Bowling inside Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaHalloween at Build a Bear Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, VirginiaEnjoying some of the (paid) activities inside Great Wolf Lodge including Build a Bear, the Northern Light’s Arcade, Ten Paw Alley and Laser Tag during Halloween at Great Wolf Lodge.
We also visited the Build a Bear during our stay where I stuffed my wolf plush to take home. I’m already a Build-a-Bear fan and was excited about the exclusive options only offered at Great Wolf Lodge. We enjoyed playing a game of laser tag and even had the whole game to ourselves one night. For late-night fun, the Northern Lights arcade is open late, is adult friendly and has many fun traditional-style games that bring back nostalgic feelings.
The price of the tokens was typical of arcades and with $50 worth we enjoyed chasing each other on motorcycles, racing each other in cars, and playing skeetball and basketball against each other. Many of the arcade games give out tickets to redeem for prizes and several of the claw machines allow for play until a prize is won. I felt like a kid again playing some of the games all while enjoying drinks we had gotten from the Loose Moose bar.
Great Wolf Lodge Water Park in Williamsburg, Virginia
Inside the water park at Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
On our first day, we didn’t go into the water park until around 4. They were open from 9-7 the days we visited. On our first time inside we walked around and visually checked out the area. Though the water park was busy we didn’t feel overwhelmed by the foot traffic or by children enjoying the fun.
We opted to go to bar and get some tropical drinks and then go into the 21+ hot tub. The adults-only hot tub is huge and near a family hot tub for people who want to sit with their children. It’s a cozy area and we enjoyed relaxing and having a few drinks before going back to our room when the water park closed.
For those not staying at the lodge there were ample lockers to rent to store belongings, a small necessities shop for things one might have forgotten to bring, and showers/changing rooms. The layout of the park has multiple restrooms too and I never saw people having to wait.
Forget something or want to take home a souvenir? Visit Buckhorn Exchange gift shop inside Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg, Virginia
On our full day at the water park, we rode all of the rides and enjoyed the Howlin’ Tornado the most. Though the rides are inside the water park doesn’t skimp on the size of the tubes and slides with many going outside of the building and looping back in. We liked that there were areas just for smaller children to play, areas geared towards teens/adults, and things families could ride or enjoy together like the wave pool all under the same roof. The Crooked Creek lazy river was one of our favorites and between it and visits to the hot tub, we felt relaxed. We enjoyed being able to ride things together in a double tube.
Review of Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
We don’t live far from Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia so we didn’t venture out during our stay and are familiar with the area. However, for adults that haven’t been to Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, or nearby Yorktown this could be the perfect hotel to use as a base. The lodge rooms can be accessed without going into the children’s areas or the water park for a quieter stay. The rooms are very spacious and clean. The location of the Great Wolf Lodge would make the lodge great for conferences.
I would highly recommend a trip to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Va. We are kids at heart and we can’t wait to go back!
Overall we enjoyed our stay at Great Wolf Lodge and would go again. If you’re looking for a quiet couples weekend this might not be the place for you, but if you love adventure and feeling like a kid again I would highly recommend a trip to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Va. I didn’t see anyone else visiting without children or grandchildren, but I don’t feel like people without children are excluded from the lodge. This was a perfect staycation for us as adults and we were glad we tried Great Wolf Lodge out. This trip was a good break from adulting and who couldn’t use more days like that?
Return Visits to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
Valentine’s treats during a February visit to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
New updated stage area for the children’s events at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia (2023)
Since first writing this blog we have returned to Great Wolf Lodge five times and even went to check out the holiday decorations for Snowland. I honestly like going in the off-season when the lodge is less crowded. During our most recent trips, I have noticed staffing issues have affected Great Wolf Lodge like many establishments. I have seen some ride and amenity closures like the bar running on limited hours or closing down some rides to alternate staff. Guests still get a quality experience but have to be patient with the staff of Great Wolf Lodge.
On our latest visit I liked how the entry to the lobby at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg had been updated. The lobby was always very crowded during the children’s event times with people checking in/being at the front desk and parents watching their children. Now a designated area with a stage has been made for the children’s programs in the lobby and it is not blocking the entryway to the resort. This lobby update was very much needed. I hope to see Great Wolf Lodge continue to improve and renovate the lodge.
Spring Breakout at Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia
If you have any questions about my visits to Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia drop me a comment.
The Oconaluftee River (behind me) in Cherokee is a beautiful area to visit and if you’re ever near the Smokies I suggest checking it out🏔
The Oconaluftee River in Cherokee is a beautiful area to visit and if you’re ever near the Smokies I suggest checking it out. The Oconaluftee area and trails have plenty of places to float/raft, fish, and play. The river here is a place where many families gather, especially the Oconoluftee Island Park. In the evenings or on the weekends many people can be seen playing in the water and enjoying family time together.
When I visit family we like to go to Oconaluftee Island and listen to stories from elders over a bonfire. Fun fact: Cherokee don’t have typical powwow-type dances like you may have seen from other tribes or on TV, but instead hold stomps. Bonfire times and other special events can be found on the Visit Cherokee website.
Museum of the Cherokee
The Museum of the Cherokee is a great place to visit while in Cherokee and gives a better understanding of the tribe and it’s history.
If you’re looking to see Native American artifacts and learn more about the history of the Cherokee tribe I highly suggest checking out the Museum of the Cherokee. The layout of the museum is great and the exhibits are very interactive. The collection of Native American artifacts is impressive. The museum is also, within walking distance to many shops and food options.
Indian Village-Cherokee, North Carolina
There are many things to see and do in and around Cherokee, Nc. The peace and tranquillity of the Indian village alone is worth the drive.
If you’re looking to see the heart of the Cherokee people I would also suggest visiting the Indian village. The village isn’t far up the mountain from the museum and has tours daily with Native American guides that explain the culture, history, and way of life. The village also has a walking trail and gardens to explore.
The internal flame is worth a walk down to the theater where the Unto these Hills takes place, but I highly recommend getting tickets to watch the performance too in Cherokee, North Carolina.
Combined tickets can be purchased that include multiple attractions such as the Unto the Hills drama. The theatrical interpretation of the journey of the Cherokee people is a must-see. The internal flame in front of the theater is worth a walk down to the theater and I highly recommend getting tickets to watch the performance.
Visiting the Great Smoky Mountain’s National Park
The Great Smoky Mountain National park offers plenty to enjoy and some one of a kind photo opportunities and hiking experiences.
If you’re into hiking Cherokee has many beautiful trails. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is also a close drive from Cherokee and offers a plethora of trails and photo opportunities. Hiking part of the Appalachian trail is an unbeatable experience.
Things to do in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Overlooking Gatlinburg, Tennessee
As you drive from Cherokee, NC to the Great Smoky Mountain National Park you will also, be close to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. From where I was staying in Cherokee it was only 37 miles to Gatlinburg. If you’re not familiar this area along with Pigeon Forge is a known tourist hotspot. It is a vacation destination in itself and has everything you can imagine in terms of entertainment, restaurants, and shopping. During this trip, I didn’t spend much time in Gatlinburg, but I have been there several times with family.
Skylift Park in Gatlinburg, Tennessee offers amazing views, plenty of chairs to sit, gift shop, concessios and areas to capture the perfect photos.
Skylift Park-Gatlinburg, Tennessee
One evening of the trip was dedicated to Gatlinburg. While there I wanted to revisit one of my favorite attractions and ride on the Skylift. This ride is a Gatlinburg icon and I remember riding on it as a child. I was excited to be able to finally check out the new partial glass bridge this trip as well. Tip: The Skylift Park allows multiple visits in a day with paid admission and it is the perfect spot to catch the sunset.
While at the Skylift park, a storm came up and we stayed put there for a couple of hours. There is a gift shop, concession-style restaurant, and bar on top of the mountain. Along with the beautiful views, there are plenty of chairs to sit on and areas to capture the perfect photos. We decided to enjoy lunch there too and had pizza and beer with the mountain views. The concession area had fresh food and the bar staff were very friendly.
Sugarlands Distillery- Gatlinburg, Tennessee
One of the other activities I decided to do while in Gatlinburg was to visit Sugarlands. I enjoy a good drink and have heard so many positive things about this distillery. I am not a stranger to moonshine and grew up with a family that proudly made their shine.
Watching programs like Moonshiners on the History Channel piqued my interest in this topic as an adult. I was excited to be in Gatlinburg and to finally get to check out Sugarlands for myself. Tasting tours are available for $5 and I tried 12 tiny samples of different varieties of their moonshine, plus a cream liqueur. Honestly, it was all amazing!
The bar inside Sugarlands in Gatlinburg, Tennessee didn’t disappoint and their drinks were made with lots of shine and sass.
Sugarlands also has a huge gift shop and after our tasting, we purchased several types of shine to take home. The $5 tasting fee is knocked off a shine purchase too which was nice. There were several deals for a percent off certain items and a free item after 5 when we visited. We also enjoyed some fun cocktails and live music in their bar behind the gift shop. Sugarlands was a great way to spend our evening in Gatlinburg and a fun way to experience something different.
There is so much to do and see in this area of the Smoky Mountains from Cherokee, Maggie Valley, and Gatlinburg to Pigeon Forge anyone could make a multi-week vacation out of it. There is something to appeal to everyone in the family too from history, water activities, food/drink, and the outdoor lifestyle. I know I can’t wait to plan another trip back to the area.
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The Virginia Hype Girl: Uncovering the Best of Virginia and Nearby Adventures! 
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