SpringBreak Planner

By Amber Bouthot

Looking to get away for a week, or even a few days, over Spring Break? Looking for something a bit more economical? There are many family-friendly destinations within driving distance.

Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Distance: 484 miles | Drive time: approximately 8 hours

This area has exploded in popularity over the last decade and now offers everything from touristy amusement park attractions to endless miles of hiking trails for nature enthusiasts. There are plenty of lodging options available too: from hotels and resorts to Air bnbs and cabins. If you have a large group, you can get a luxury cabin with awesome mountain views for a very affordable price.

MUST SEES: Gatlinburg Sky Bridge, www.gatlinburgskylift.com

The longest pedestrian cable bridge in North America. Offers nighttime experiences too!

Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, www.dollywood.com

Dolly Parton’s amusement park featuring rides, slides, music, food and laughter day and night.

The Island in Pigeon Forge, islandinpigeonforge.com

A new shopping, dining and entertainment destination, including a 200 foot tall Ferris Wheel boasting impeccable views.

Cades Cove Scenic Loop, www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/cadescove.htm

You can walk, bike, or drive this 21-miles loop through a picturesque and wildlife filled valley surrounded by mountains.

MUST SEES:

New River Gorge Bridge, www.nps.gov/neri/planyourvisit/nrgbridge.htm

The iconic steel arch bridge was once the longest in the world and welcomes travelers to this cherished region.

Fayetteville, fayettevillewv.gov

Located on the edge of the New River Gorge, the Town of Fayetteville has been voted one of America’s coolest small towns. It offers historic sites, picturesque parks, access to the New River Gorge, fine dining, shopping, and activities.

Thurmond, thurmondwv.org

Now an abandoned train town, from 1895 until the mid 1950’s, Thurmond was the hub of Gorge rail activity. The Thurmond Depot was a pivotal player in this busy coal town. The original depot was built in 1899, and like many great buildings of the era, it was destroyed by fire. The depot was rebuilt in 1904; that’s the same building that stands in Thurmond today.

MUST SEES: Gateway Arch National Park, www.nps.gov/jeff/index.htm