There are three main routes to Gatlinburg -- U.S. Highway 441 (Parkway) enters town from the north and south, and U.S. 321 brings you in from the northeast. No matter which route you choose, however, you may just want to park the car and leave it once you arrive. Much of what you would want to see in town is within the territory of the city's trolley system, or simply within walking distance.

The Parkway, which runs through downtown Gatlinburg, is where you'll find the pulse of the city. Within an area of just a few blocks is a cozily gathered collection of accommodations, shops, restaurants and attractions. Hotels and motels of all sizes offer handy access to the Parkway. Seemingly countless art galleries and gift shops line the streets, as do restaurants that cater to all tastes. In winter, the city's Smoky Mountain Lights make the area sparkle with festive holiday light displays.

You'll also find a lot to see and do while you're downtown. A brand-new Ripley's Aquarium opened this year, and there's even an amusement park in the heart of the city. Elsewhere along the Parkway are unique museum attractions, go-cart tracks and miniature golf courses. Gatlinburg is also home to the oldest music theater in the Smokies, presenting hilarious new musical comedies each season.

However, downtown will only give you a sampling of what's in store in Gatlinburg. The entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies at the south end of town, serving as a doorway to one of the most beautiful and wondrous settings in the country. Hiking, camping, fishing, historic sites and more all await visitors to this massive natural playground, the most visited national park in the country.

A short journey by tramway to the top of Mount Harrison will take you to another popular Gatlinburg destination -- Ober Gatlinburg. This multi-faceted attraction offers snow skiing in winter and ice skating year-round. Although the views alone are worth the trip, Ober Gatlinburg also has summertime amusements such as a water slide, a bungee tower and a black-bear habitat.

On Gatlinburg's north end you'll find the famous Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community. More than 70 shops, galleries and studios are located along the community's eight-mile loop, located just off U.S. 321. You can stop in to buy, browse or visit with Smoky Mountain artisans as they work on their crafts.