Heading to Gatlinburg, Tennessee in the name of fun promises to be an exciting opportunity. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or an annual reveler, Gatlinburg always seems to have surprises in store. The following are just a few fun facts about Gatlinburg that will only work to make it even more of an intriguing vacation destination!
It Wasn’t Always Called Gatlinburg
Gatlinburg’s settlement dates back to the early 19th century and heavily revolves around the Ogle family. It may come as a surprise to some to learn that the city was originally named White Oak Flats! It’s thought that this name was derived from the vast collection of White Oak trees that dotted the landscape in the city’s earliest years.
The City Was Named for a Man That Was Run Out of Town
In 1854, a man by the name of Radford Gatlin came to town. He went to work setting up shop with a general store and post office. While his businesses were successful and helped the town thrive, his controversial support of the Confederacy made him less than popular among most residents. While Gatlin was eventually run out of town, it didn’t stop the town from being renamed Gatlinburg!
When You’re Here, Consider Yourself Squarely in Bear Country
Gatlinburg is loved for the access it provides to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. While many visitors head this way to explore this very place, fewer may be aware that this national park is home to over 1,500 bears! They live and thrive at just about every elevation the park hosts with Cades Cove being a highly popular place to get your eyes on a few. Adult male bears in this area can weight up to 250 pounds while females tend to average 100 pounds. If you bring your binoculars or camera, chances are good you’ll get to observe them thanks to the people to bear ratio.
The Local Aquarium Hosts More Than 10,000 Sea Creatures
If encounters with marine life are more your style, heading to Gatlinburg’s aquarium known as Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a good place to start. This stop features more than 10,000 marine species on site. It’s an extra impressive number when you consider the fact that Gatlinburg itself is home to just over 4,000 year-round residents.
Book Your Gatlinburg Stay Today
There’s never been a better time to pack your bag and enjoy a getaway to Gatlinburg. Let the team at Great Smoky Mountains Cabin Rentals handle your accommodations while you’re here. Reach out today to learn more and to start planning your next trip!