Dollywood/WDW back to back trip comparision

[AnnaFloridaLover]

Wow, you've vacationed here


Welp, thanks for the broad generalizations. As I'm sure you know, the same could be said of your local Walmart.

The OP was talking about the tourists in Gatlinburg not about the local Walmart. I guess, as a tourist there recently, I could be offended but it actually made me lol.

Amberpi, have you ever visited a place you were uncomfortable in? I live in a big city and I can assure you that there are undesirable parts. There are less than desirable parts of every region. Of course we all have a different view of what is desirable or not. Some people come to my city and hate the busyness of it, the homeless people sometime can be very scary, there are lots of aggressive drivers, strangers are not as friendly, there are dirty areas of downtown plus generally there are more freaks in a big city. If someone talks about the city I reside in like that I say, true but I love it anyway. Their opinion isn't wrong.

I've heard great things about Nashville and as I said I was in Knoxville which I liked. Have you spent time in the Gatlinburg area and what are your thoughts on it? Did you grow up in the area or live there?

 

[cabanafrau]

Does anyone not love Dolly?

The area is a tourist trap and I'm a traveller but not into tourist traps. Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge somewhat remind me of Niagara Falls, the Canadian side. Without the guns and religion. Didn't make it to Dollywood but I wish I had. I wanted to see the museum.

The OP was giving her personal view and it might help someone. Some people go back regularly to Niagara Falls. It's just personal taste.

I've been to Niagara Falls many times in my life, so many times I don't know the number. For me it's about the falls. Standing near the precipice and experiencing the immense power of nature in that way has an effect on me -- I have heard it has something to do with the ions being released from the water itself, but I have no idea how true that is.

As far as tourist traps I can understand and agree, however off the top of my head I actually would recommend a visit to Rock City near the TN/GA border. We took our daughters when they were young and were absolutely amazed at the heart and natural beauty to be found in what we anticipated to be a kind of hokey tourist trap.

As for gun shooting tourism, I believe Vegas far outstrips the TN Valley -- apparently largely frequented by British tourists, among others. Holds no appeal for us, but I've read enough questions and reviews to understand they have lots of large and machine-gun type weapons to fire and it's rather expensive (in the opinion of someone who doesn't have an interest).

 

[powellrj]

I am planning a long weekend to Dollywood soon and was wondering what the Margaritaville Hotel or Inn are like and if you liked them over Dreammore. I was thinking about spending one night at each, but hate the thought of moving that much.

We love Dollywood and had season passes one year. We have never been in the fall, so I wanted to go and see the decorations. I also want to go at Christmas. We have done the cabin and the condo and this year I want to try a hotel and see if its easier to get around in. The only thing I hate is the traffic!

 

[luvsJack]

Wow, you've vacationed here


Welp, thanks for the broad generalizations. As I'm sure you know, the same could be said of your local Walmart.

Wow, really? Calm down. I personally love TN. Used to want to live there. Every part of it seems so very different.

My ex's Mom was born and raised in TN, close to the KY border. I traveled with her to visit her mother a few times and met a lot of her family. Church and guns were still there. I mean I personally don't care but the fact is it's true just as it is for much of the south.

 

[klacey1]

We ate at the Mexican Place ( forgot name but has the escalator up and roof top, on the strip).. Worse dining experience for us in the Smokies.... I was blown away.. my DD ordered Mac and Cheese.. The server walks to our table with her plate WHILE SQUEEZING THE MICROWAVE BAG OF MAC INTO HER PLATE AS HE WAS APPROACHING OUR TABLE!! and then just walked away with the empty bag... Sureal... I mean I know in most places Mac and Cheese is most likely not made on location and heated but man, do it in the kitchen !!!

I personally adored Gatlinburg and did not cast judgement on any of my fellow tourists, so I'll avoid commenting on the first part of your post. However, we ate at the same Mexican place you did and totally agree it was absolutely disgusting! The food was not good quality or tasty and we were served a two-person margarita that could not have had more than a thimble of tequila in it. It was 99% sour mix for $30. When we brought that to the manager's attention, he totally copped an attitude, was ridiculously rude, and refused to try to make the situation better. (No making a new drink, taking the drink off the bill, or bringing us a floater of tequila to add to the drink. My friend and I had a sip each and left the rest on the table. Still had to pay full price.) I'm truly excited to go back to both Dollywood and hopefully stay in a cabin or hotel walking distance from the Gatlinburg strip, but I'd NEVER go back to that restaurant!!

 

[AnnaFloridaLover]

I personally adored Gatlinburg and did not cast judgement on any of my fellow tourists, so I'll avoid commenting on the first part of your post. However, we ate at the same Mexican place you did and totally agree it was absolutely disgusting! The food was not good quality or tasty and we were served a two-person margarita that could not have had more than a thimble of tequila in it. It was 99% sour mix for $30. When we brought that to the manager's attention, he totally copped an attitude, was ridiculously rude, and refused to try to make the situation better. (No making a new drink, taking the drink off the bill, or bringing us a floater of tequila to add to the drink. My friend and I had a sip each and left the rest on the table. Still had to pay full price.) I'm truly excited to go back to both Dollywood and hopefully stay in a cabin or hotel walking distance from the Gatlinburg strip, but I'd NEVER go back to that restaurant!!

What is it about restaurants in high tourist areas? I've have a few stories like yours. Once, after visiting the Vatican we were walking back to our room but my kids were just going to die RIGHT NOW if they didn't eat. I knew the restaurants around the area were going to be traps but the whiners won. We ducked into a pizza place which was outfitted cafeteria style. My three kids got a slice of pizza each and a can of coke. I got a side salad and I can't remember what my husband ordered. We had to order at the counter and pick up our food but you don't pay until you are finished eating. Big mistake. The tables were disgusting so I asked someone who worked there to wipe one off for us. The pizza slices were pathetic and I think my salad was just wilted iceberg lettuce. The bill came to $200 Euros! I argued with the manager about but he would not budge. We were outright robbed as far as I was concerned.

Moral of the story: Visit the Vatican but pack a lunch for the little brats.

 

[klacey1]

What is it about restaurants in high tourist areas? I've have a few stories like yours. Once, after visiting the Vatican we were walking back to our room but my kids were just going to die RIGHT NOW if they didn't eat. I knew the restaurants around the area were going to be traps but the whiners won. We ducked into a pizza place which was outfitted cafeteria style. My three kids got a slice of pizza each and a can of coke. I got a side salad and I can't remember what my husband ordered. We had to order at the counter and pick up our food but you don't pay until you are finished eating. Big mistake. The tables were disgusting so I asked someone who worked there to wipe one off for us. The pizza slices were pathetic and I think my salad was just wilted iceberg lettuce. The bill came to $200 Euros! I argued with the manager about but he would not budge. We were outright robbed as far as I was concerned.

Moral of the story: Visit the Vatican but pack a lunch for the little brats.

That is INSANITY!!!

 

[AnnaFloridaLover]

I've been to Niagara Falls many times in my life, so many times I don't know the number. For me it's about the falls. Standing near the precipice and experiencing the immense power of nature in that way has an effect on me -- I have heard it has something to do with the ions being released from the water itself, but I have no idea how true that is.

As far as tourist traps I can understand and agree, however off the top of my head I actually would recommend a visit to Rock City near the TN/GA border. We took our daughters when they were young and were absolutely amazed at the heart and natural beauty to be found in what we anticipated to be a kind of hokey tourist trap.

As for gun shooting tourism, I believe Vegas far outstrips the TN Valley -- apparently largely frequented by British tourists, among others. Holds no appeal for us, but I've read enough questions and reviews to understand they have lots of large and machine-gun type weapons to fire and it's rather expensive (in the opinion of someone who doesn't have an interest).

I haven't heard of Rocky City but now I'm intrigued. Have been to Vegas twice but not for 5 years. Don't remember any machine gun adverts.

I've been to the Falls many times as well. I could stare at the Falls all day from a hotel room, with a glass of wine. Love the rainbows that are almost constantly over the Falls. Niagara Falls strip though is just cheesy. Great for kids but it holds zero interest for me. Last time I was in Niagara Falls for a conference I decided to go to a casino out of boredom. I put $20 in a slot, pushed a button twice and my money was history.

Myrtle Beach felt the same way. Super cheesy tourist trap strip. I absolutely loved the beach though and the people were all wonderful.

I'm still bummed that I didn't get to visit Dollywood, considering the great things I've heard about it. I highly doubt I will be back to the area.

One interesting thing about the cabin I stayed in. There were approximately 74 5 star reviews and not one mentioned the extreme religious theme (that wasn't visible in the pictures). I've had such great luck with VRBO however it is interesting what guests won't reveal in their reviews.

 

[AnnaFloridaLover]

That is INSANITY!!!

It still hurts to talk about and that was around 6 or 7 years ago.

ETA. This may have been the place: https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaura...eviews-Caffe_Vaticano-Rome_Lazio.html#REVIEWS

After reading the reviews, I'm quite sure it was the place. It amazes me that they are still getting away with this.

 

[Mimifree]

I live in TN just a few hours from Pigeon Forge. I have been there many times but never to Dollywood. I don't like shows and most of our family doesn't ride big coasters. I have been several times for work conferences but enjoyed the personal trips where we rented a cabin. Many of them are very nice. Gatlinburg is definitely the dated tourist area. The only thing I love there is this one awesome pancake place. I know what the PP is saying about the tourists in Gatlinburg. Many do have the people of Wal-Mart feel. I think they go to Gatlinburg because it can be an affordable vacation spot. Also Paula Deen's restaurant is very good. Love the butter cake. Also, the place another PP mentioned is actually called Rock City. It's in my hometown of Chattanooga. It's another cool but kitschy tourist spot. But neither of these places beat Disney for the best vacation spot!

 

[Gumbo4x4]

I haven't heard of Rocky City but now I'm intrigued. Have been to Vegas twice but not for 5 years. Don't remember any machine gun adverts.

I've been to the Falls many times as well. I could stare at the Falls all day from a hotel room, with a glass of wine. Love the rainbows that are almost constantly over the Falls. Niagara Falls strip though is just cheesy. Great for kids but it holds zero interest for me. Last time I was in Niagara Falls for a conference I decided to go to a casino out of boredom. I put $20 in a slot, pushed a button twice and my money was history.

Myrtle Beach felt the same way. Super cheesy tourist trap strip. I absolutely loved the beach though and the people were all wonderful.

I'm still bummed that I didn't get to visit Dollywood, considering the great things I've heard about it. I highly doubt I will be back to the area.

One interesting thing about the cabin I stayed in. There were approximately 74 5 star reviews and not one mentioned the extreme religious theme (that wasn't visible in the pictures). I've had such great luck with VRBO however it is interesting what guests won't reveal in their reviews.

Rock City is right at Lookout Mtn at Chattanooga. I didn't care for the man made additions (wife & kids did), but it's fun for the natural scenery too.

 

[tinatark]

She's giving her assessment as a tourist. I gave my assessment as a tourist. No one is trying to say what it is like to move there and live amongst the locals.

Besides the inside of my cabin, sitting outside on the deck, we heard constant gun shots all day long. I think there was a fire range in the area. At night after we went to bed, the locals would drive up and down the pitch dark mountains, whooping and hollering and throwing beer cans and bottle all over the roads. These are severely steep switch back mountain roads with little to no guardrails. Our cabin was about 4 feet from the main road that wasn't even wide enough for two cars in many spots. I was terrified that the crazy drunks were going to smash into our cabin. There is a for sale sign on every second cabin in the area and I think I know why.

We did enjoy our short time in Knoxville. Very different vibe. Didn't make it to Nashville although I would have loved to visit.

Wow - I hope you called the police - surely there are noise/ nuisance/reckless driving/drinking while driving ordinances?

 

[L&Lfan]

Even though people complain about WDW's high prices, they do keep out many of the Wal-Mart "types" those of you seem to disparage in this thread. I assume that's a euphemism for low class/unsophisticated/deplorable as I really have no idea what a Wal-Mart "type" is. I shop there and enjoy Disney vacations.

 

[mousefan73]

to clarify a "Walmart" type is a person who does not have the body to wear cheetah print tight leggings, with open stomach and a hot pink tank top and you are over 50.. But I do not wear this and also shop at Walmart.. Didnt mean to pick on Walmart I was referring the famous People of Walmart threads... which of course do not represent most Walmart shoppers. . We justn noticed that day a lot of interestng ( bad taste) dressed people ALONG with "normal" folks like us. Granted I think such as outfit one does not see at the Grand Floridian.. though may of happened...


What made me sad about Gatlinburg and maybe because I am more the natural, outdoorsy type, but Does Gatlinburg need all the glitch and tack to get people to come? I woudl think the hiking and mountains would be enough draw.. but the lights, arcades, 3 D shows etc..... just for me felt like Vegas... a shame for the scenery.

 

[cabanafrau]

to clarify a "Walmart" type is a person who does not have the body to wear cheetah print tight leggings, with open stomach and a hot pink tank top and you are over 50.. But I do not wear this and also shop at Walmart.. Didnt mean to pick on Walmart I was referring the famous People of Walmart threads... which of course do not represent most Walmart shoppers. . We justn noticed that day a lot of interestng ( bad taste) dressed people ALONG with "normal" folks like us. Granted I think such as outfit one does not see at the Grand Floridian.. though may of happened...


What made me sad about Gatlinburg and maybe because I am more the natural, outdoorsy type, but Does Gatlinburg need all the glitch and tack to get people to come? I woudl think the hiking and mountains would be enough draw.. but the lights, arcades, 3 D shows etc..... just for me felt like Vegas... a shame for the scenery.

Wait, it almost sounds like you don't think my outfit looks fab at work today?

 

[Mimifree]

I in no am trying to disparage Wal-Mary shoppers. I have been there many times as a shopper myself. I would try to explain what I meant but mousefan73 explained it very well. In addition, I also go to Gatlinburg so invisibly I have no real problem with the types of people who go there as well. It was just an observation.

 

[cabanafrau]

I live in TN just a few hours from Pigeon Forge. I have been there many times but never to Dollywood. I don't like shows and most of our family doesn't ride big coasters. I have been several times for work conferences but enjoyed the personal trips where we rented a cabin. Many of them are very nice. Gatlinburg is definitely the dated tourist area. The only thing I love there is this one awesome pancake place. I know what the PP is saying about the tourists in Gatlinburg. Many do have the people of Wal-Mart feel. I think they go to Gatlinburg because it can be an affordable vacation spot. Also Paula Deen's restaurant is very good. Love the butter cake. Also, the place another PP mentioned is actually called Rock City. It's in my hometown of Chattanooga. It's another cool but kitschy tourist spot. But neither of these places beat Disney for the best vacation spot!

My hips felt the mere mention of Pancake Pantry. Delicious but oh so dangerous.

 

[mousefan73]

My hips felt the mere mention of Pancake Pantry. Delicious but oh so dangerous.

Is that on the strip.. We sooooo wanted a pancake diner type place to eat in the early evening when we got back down from the Natl. Park. They were all closed!! I guess they really are morning to brunch type places??? Hench us making the mistake of entering that mexican place....

 

[cabanafrau]

Is that on the strip.. We sooooo wanted a pancake diner type place to eat in the early evening when we got back down from the Natl. Park. They were all closed!! I guess they really are morning to brunch type places??? Hench us making the mistake of entering that mexican place....

Yes, right on the strip downtown. Their pancakes are delicious, servings are large & you are tempted to eat every bite.

 

[elaine amj]

Is that on the strip.. We sooooo wanted a pancake diner type place to eat in the early evening when we got back down from the Natl. Park. They were all closed!! I guess they really are morning to brunch type places??? Hench us making the mistake of entering that mexican place....

I was so frustrated that all those pancake places are only open until lunchtime. Someone would make a killing with a 24 hr pancake joint right on the strip! We ended up at a diner with all day breakfasts off the strip in Pigeon Forge.