The company, which was founded by its legendary namesake in 1947 as a way to help Country Music fans find their favorite records, has expanded over the years from its two locations in Music City to Pigeon Forge, and also at the famous Stockyards in Fort Worth, Texas.

If you’re looking for anything from Roy Acuff to Faron Young (and all points in between), you need to stop by this legendary store. Their selection is mind-boggling. Be prepared to take it all in, however. There are plenty of times that I have left the store, got about two or three miles down the road, and realized that I didn’t look for this artist or that artist.

Two of the most unique aspects of the Ernest Tubb Record Shops’ selection are the box sets that they carry. Bear Family Records, a company based in Germany, has released many multi-disc packages of artist such as Connie Smith, Buck Owens, and of course, Ernest Tubb. (It would stand to reason, would it not?)

One of the most incredible packages they have at Ernest Tubb is a sixteen-CD, 446-cut box containing nearly everything that Jim Reeves ever recorded. Keep in mind, these sets aren’t for the faint at heart—or price, either. However, they do have hundreds of CD’s priced at $9.98 or lower, offering Country Music fans of all budgets a chance to enjoy the music.

The store also carries an unusual amount of vinyl. Believe it or not, some record companies still release records—although in limited amounts. Recent releases by George Strait, Sugarland, Jamey Johnson, and Lee Ann Womack can all be found in the recorded form that many still believe sounds best today. But…there’s more, one can also find a great deal of vintage vinyl from acts such as Conway Twitty, Loretta Lynn, and Ernest Tubb. There must be a reason his records are here in great abundance!

The store is a jewel for those that consider themselves to be fans of Country Music. Whether your tastes are for today’s hottest acts like Trace Adkins or Rascal Flatts or legends like Eddy Arnold or Patsy Cline, you will find what you are looking for here.

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Quick Sidenote…Recently came across this awesome website: Top-Country-Songs.com. From today’s latest releases to the early days of Country Western, this definitive guide has got to be one of the best country music resources on the web.
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Their employees are all very friendly, and very knowledgeable about the music they sell. Sometimes, you can give them a few lines from a song, and they will know exactly what you are looking for…and what album it is on. That’s called service, my friends, and you’ll find it waiting on you at the Ernest Tubb Record Shop.

Along an eight-mile stretch in Gatlinburg, you will find an area that has been designated as a Tennessee Heritage Arts & Crafts Trail. There are over a hundred establishments along this route that specialize in some of the most beautiful craftwork that you will ever see. Whether it be candles, stained glass, dolls, leather, or oils and watercolors, you will find something that will catch your eye here.

Some of the artisans represented in the area include:

Alewine Pottery

A staple on the trail since 1983, Robert Alewine has been fascinated with his craft since he was nineteen. What started as a one-man operation has steadily grown over the years, with the company now employing three full-time potters—and even a television channel! The oil lamps there are particularly impressive.

Back Porch Gallery

Here you can find a variety of arts and crafts, ranging from stained glass (which they do a fabulous job) to even having a detailed oil painting made of your pet from a photograph. It’s definitely one of the most diverse stops along the way.

Misty Mountain Woodcrafts

Do you want to take home a piece of woodcraft straight from the mountains? If so, this stop might be well worth your time. Rodney and Diane Fincham take extraordinary care with their work, and the result is something that you’ll be proud of for years to come.

Nancie’s Fancies

Specializing in beaded jewelry, Nancie’s Fancies is unlike any stop you will make in the area. She even makes beaded eyeglass chains, which I found to be one of the most unique products that you will find there. What started out as primarily a passionate hobby for the owner has now become one of the most popular businesses in the region. A true example of someone who “loves what they do.”

Ogle’s Broom Shop

It is exactly what it says it is—a shop devoted to brooms. They’ve been doing it for three generations. In addition to brooms, one will also find a large selection of hiking sticks and walking canes, all handmade.

The Rose Pedaler

Want to keep that rose in a permanent manner? If so, you need to check this out. They will take that rose that has a special place in your heart, and will include it in a special piece of jewelry that is sure to be just as special for years’ to come!

Friends, this is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s a lot more to see when it comes to the Arts and Crafts district in Gatlinburg. For more information, log on to www.gatlinburgcrafts.com and find out a whole lot more!

Most of you know about “The Parkway.”  It is the main road in the body of the Smokies.  It starts in Sevierville and goes through Pigeon Forge, through the mountains, and into Gatlinburg (and beyond if you want too).

But many tourists aren’t aware that there is another parkway called, “Dolly Parton Parkway” off to the left as you enter Sevierville from the popular 407 exit.  Dolly Parton Parkway holds it’s own with businesses, restaurants, and shops, and the majority of the business that is done on this parkway is local stuff.  Some experienced tourists have learned back roads that use Dolly Parton Parkway to skip the traffic from the main parkway.

The point of my story is this—located on Dolly Parton Parkway is a unique furniture store called Ogle Furniture Outlet.  While shopping for new living room furniture, we headed up the hill to this shop to see what they had and if we could afford it.  When we opened the doors of the building we were shocked.  It was huge…really huge!  I had never seen so much furniture in my life.

We weren’t jumped on by sales people.  A lady greeted us with friendly comments and told us if we needed her to just yell.  We spent forever in the store.  In and out of the rooms filled with the neatest furniture I have ever seen in one location.  They had the top names, like many other stores, but the selection and the uniqueness of the shop was memorable.

Displayed along the back wall are museum quality signs and fixtures from various places of the past that were once located in the surrounding area.  Gas station signs, advertisements, and rare pieces were displayed from the floor to the ceiling.  That stuff alone was worth coming in to see (I like old stuff and I am a junk man, so I was in heaven!).

Something that stuck out in my mind was all the pieces that were “mountain” pieces.  There were log bed frames, rockers, tables, chairs, plant stands, and much more.  I thought to myself, if someone was looking for the type of furniture that was in their rental cabin, this is the place.  It made me want to redecorate our house like a cabin!

My wife had other ideas, so we proceeded to shop for our furniture.  We were pleased to find just what we were looking for (under our budget, I might add).  The furniture was delivered within a few days and we have been enjoying it ever since…actually, I am sitting on the couch as I write!

I know going to a furniture store may not be on your list to do when you are vacationing here in the Smoky Mountains, but if by chance you were looking for a unique piece that captures the area, this is the place.  Drive along Dolly Parton Parkway until you see some flags flying on the hill.  The big red and white sign with “Ogle Furniture Outlet” is the place.

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When you walk into this store you will see thousands upon thousands of books.  All the books are family friendly (and many are Christian).  The selection is unlike any place I have ever seen.

The great thing about this place is that it is so cheap…really cheap.  Several of the titles I saw were 90% off the retail price.  These books aren’t seconds or old titles either!  There are books for $5 that are the same on the shelves of other book stores for $24.99!

Family Book Outlet has a large variety of Christmas music, books, and gift items if you are starting to shop!  The kids section is unbelievable; I know I keep saying that, but is practically too good to be true.

My sister came to visit from West Virginia and she went crazy in the store.  She is a public school teacher and a Sunday school teacher and she couldn’t believe the prices on the literature and books she could use in her lessons.  She ended up filling two shopping carts!  I got tired after an hour waiting on her so I sat on the rocking chairs provided on the front porch.

While chatting with the staff there, they were very knowledgeable of the inventory and were most helpful searching for titles for customers.  They told me that if they don’t have the book in stock, they can probably special order for me and have it shipped directly to my home!  If you are in the ministry, you even get a discount.  A preacher was in line behind me and he showed them his “preacher’s card” (or something) and they gave him a ten percent discount.

The store goes beyond books, you can find family-friendly toys and a large variety of music.  My Grandma fell in love with their cookbooks.  She collects them and found several titles she had been looking for.  Some have even been out of print.

And I almost forgot, they have a used book section with some really great deals also.  Customers can bring in their personal books (family-friendly and approved by the store manager) and exchange them for gift cards to be used in the store.  I took in a box of books that we were going to sell at our yard sale and we received a $42 gift card—believe me, $42 goes a long way there!

Their selection of bibles is enormous.  The prices on these are slashed too.  Many of the Bibles are at least 40% off the suggested retail price.  This location is added to my “must take and see” list when my family and friends are in from out of town.

We buy a lot of our gifts there too. You receive quality items for a fraction of the cost at other stores.  It is unlike any bookstore I have ever visited.

So, as you plan your vacation to the Smoky Mountains and your Christmas shopping, make sure you add Family Book Outlet to the list.  You can stop in on your way into town to grab some books to read in your hotel room or on the porch of your cabin, or as you leave for the ride home.  It’s a perfect location!  Make the trip to Family Book Outlet—you will agree with me that it is unlike any bookstore you have ever visited.

Drive in from Interstate 40, and you will see almost as many shopping outlets and restaurants as you would see anywhere around, but the town also offers a unique charm that sets it apart from the other two towns.  What was originally known as a town named Forks of the Little Pigeon in the late 1790s has blossomed to a town that has both six-lane highways and a downtown district that resembles that of years ago.

Shopping In Sevierville, TN

There’s plenty to see and do in Sevierville.  If you come to the area in search of bargains, you’ll find them in plenty of places.  From outlet malls such as Tanger Five Oaks (featuring one of my faves, Tommy Hilfiger) and the Vanity Fair Outlet, where you are sure to bring home bargains for the entire family, there’s a little something for everyone.

If traditional stand-alone shops are more you’re style, you can experience the thrill of retail at such places as Belk or Wal-Mart, which is open 24 hours a day.  If you like specialty shops, you need go no further than Smoky Mountain Knife Works, which in spite of its name, sells a lot more than just knives. You will also find some nice antique shopping in the area.

Sevierville Restaurants

OK, shopping is not your thing.  You would rather sample some of the delicious offerings that the mountain area has to offer.  No problem!  There are plenty of restaurants that specialize in…just about everything.  From national chains like Cracker Barrel and Red Lobster to local hot spots like Applewood or Tony Gore’s Mountain BBQ and Grill, you will find something to satisfy those taste buds in Sevierville, TN as well.

Attractions In Sevierville

That sounds good, but what about something for the entire family?  You’re in luck, as Sevierville offers plenty to see and do.  For car enthusiasts, you will be amazed at Floyd Garrett’s Muscle Car Museum.  If you want to get into the fast lane yourself, there’s the NASCAR SpeedPark.  You can even take in a round of golf at Ripley’s Old-McDonald’s Farm Mini-Golf, which is one of the more interesting mini-golf spots along the world famous Parkway.  It’s a place well worth checking out!

Hotels In Sevierville

As far as where to stay, there are too many options to mention.  Sevierville offers thousands of rooms in the city, but I will tell you that in my trips to the town, I have always enjoyed my stays at Quality Inn River Suites, which have always satisfied whatever my overnight needs.

At the end of the day, I think you will be satisfied with your stay in the town where Dolly Parton grew up.  You just might see the Country Music Hall Of Fame member—if not in person, the statue of her on Sevierville’s courthouse lawn is worth getting a picture of.  It’s proof that dreams do come true in Sevierville.  Maybe yours will too!

If you are looking for any Christmas decorations for the house, office, or anywhere…the chances are pretty good that you’ll find it at The Christmas Place.  There, you will find over 50 themed Christmas Trees, ranging from the Old West, to Gingerbread, to trees of many different colors.  Have you ever seen an upside down Christmas tree?  Well, venture on over to the Christmas Place and you’ll see just that.

Of course, what’s a tree without lights?  The Christmas Place contains one of the largest selections of lights anywhere.  From the usual red, blue, and green blinking lights, all the way to snowmen to peppermint candy, you’ll find what you’re looking for…and beyond.  One of the most unique sets of lights, at least to my eyes, is the ones with the theme of Hamburgers and French fries.  To say they are different would be an understatement.

There are all kinds of home decorations that you will find at The Christmas Place.  One of my favorites is a television that when turned on, has a Christmas village inside it, with holiday music coming out of the speaker.

And, there is so much more.  If you know a sports fan, you can find decorations to please fans of almost every major SEC and professional team in just about any sport.  I have picked up many a Dallas Cowboys decoration over the years.  You can also pick up many of the essentials at The Christmas Place, from Christmas cards to stockings to many of the classic musical sounds of the season—ranging from Bing Crosby to Dolly Parton.

Look across the street from The Christmas Place, and you will find one of the newer hotels on the Parkway—The Inn At Christmas Place.  Open for just a little over two years, the Inn offers a complete Yuletide experience, whether it’s in the heat of July or during the holiday season.  Each suite is decorated in Victorian holiday style, and many of the rooms come equipped with fireplaces.  What better way to spend the holiday season?

Santa Claus appears at the Inn for breakfast and milk and cookies quite frequently from May through December, and the hotel even serves a delicious breakfast each morning—with omelets (one of my weaknesses!) made fresh, and to order.

Basically, if you consider yourself to be a person that loves the holiday season, you need to schedule a visit to The Christmas Place, as well as The Inn At Christmas Place.  If you’re not in the spirit when you arrive, chances are you will be by the time you leave the parking lot!

More Info & Directions:

The Christmas Place
2470 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN
(800) 445-3396

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The Inn At Christmas Place
119 Christmas Tree Lane, Pigeon Forge, TN
(888) HOLY-NIGHT

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The General Store is, without a doubt, one of the most-visited shops in the Smokies. There’s a reason for this—you can find one of the best selections of gifts for the entire family right here.

What’s interesting is how the store and the complex came to be.  The barn was originally built in 1910 by the Mullendore family.  After being sold in the mid 1970s, there was more of an emphasis placed on the apples that grew on the land around the barn.  Close to thirty years, the barn opened to the public, and the apples began selling…and selling…and selling.

In fact, the venture proved to be so successful that more items were added, and now, you can get a wide variety of country-themed products…and yes, you can still get apples at the Apple Barn.  The barn now has three floors, and chances are that when you visit, you will see plenty of customers looking for that unique present from the Smoky Mountains.  You can even see the apples turned into cider in the popular cider room.

OK, I’ve got to mention that’s one of my favorite subjects to do with the Apple Barn—the cider.  You can take it home by the gallon, or simply delight in a refreshing cup of Fall Harvest at the Barn’s Cider Bar.

But wait…there’s more!

You will find some of the most delicious Fried Apple Pies this side of the Pearly Gates at the Apple Barn, as well as their delicious Apple Dumplings.  If you get something to eat at the Cider Bar, make sure that you top it off with a scoop (or two!) of their delicious ice cream.  There has been many a box of pies and gallons of cider that has made it from the Apple Barn all the way back home, and I have a feeling that trend will continue for many years to come!

If you are a connoisseur of wine, be sure to stop by The Apple Barn Winery.  They call it “Award-Winning” for a reason!  Flavors such as Apple-Raspberry, Apple-Peach, and Apple-Strawberry continue to bring back customers year after year.

What if your tastes go beyond Apple?  Well, you’re still in luck, with classic blends like Merlot and Muscadine.

And I didn’t even mention the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant, which is one of the anchors of the complex.  To be honest, I can tell you I have never tried their lunch or dinners—I can’t get past their breakfasts!  Go for their Apple Fritters (words can’t begin to tell you!) and stay for their Country Ham—the best I’ve ever had!

The only thing about visiting the Apple Barn is that you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy all they have to offer, and by the way, did I mention those fritters?

Need More Info?

The Apple Barn Cider Mill & General Store
230 Apple Valley Road, Sevierville, TN
800-421-4606 / http://www.applebarncidermill.com/

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During warm months, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, bicycling, white-water rafting, horseback riding, hiking and camping. Outdoorsmen can choose to explore the natural beauty for a few hours or pitch a tent and spend a few days in one of Gatlinburg’s three campgrounds . There are guided tours in hiking, water-water rafting and horseback riding to make sure you get the most out of your experience. Not sure what to wear? There are full service outfitters that will provide you with everything you need.

Winter months bring exciting sports at Ober Gatlinburg such as skiing, snowboarding and winter tubing for beginners and experts. The scenic chair lift and tramway offer breathtaking views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Or stay indoors, slip on a pair of ice skates and enjoy the huge indoor ice rink. Rentals for ice skates, ski and snowboard equipment is available for both adults and children.

Gatlinburg offers a large variety of popular tourist attractions, most within walking distance of each other.  Popular attractions such as Ripley’s Believe It or Not, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, Motion Ride Movie Theatre, Guinness World of Records museum , and Ripley’s Haunted Adventure thrill and entertain thousands of visitors each year.

For the more adventurous enjoy Tennessee’s first treetop zipline at Zipline Family Adventure, exploring back road trails at Off-Road Adventures, playing miniature golf in 3-D or perched in the hills above Gatlinburg.

If you enjoy museums, Gatlinburg is home to The Hollywood Wax Museum, which allows you to step into your favorite movies and TV shows, Cooter’s Place has original cars and souvenirs from  the popular 1970′s TV show “The Dukes of Hazzard” as well as the Hollywood Car Museum for the car enthusiast.  Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum is home to thousands of unique and unusual items collected by Robert Ripley, and the Guinness Book of World Records features pop culture memorabilia and exhibits featuring world record holders.

Gatlinburg is an ideal place for shopping for gifts and souvenirs. There are over 400 shops and five shopping malls in downtown Gatlinburg. Some offer store not found anywhere else and many feature arts and crafts from local artists.  Whether you are looking for hand crafted furniture or homemade fudge and candies made right in front of you, there is a multitude of unique  gifts and souvenirs to meet everyone’s taste.

Gatlinburg’s shopping villages and malls are also home to several art galleries featuring  original artwork, photography, and paintings from many local  and regional artists. The Thomas Kinkade Signature Gallery features beautiful paintings from Thomas Kinkade and other national artists for sell.  Its a perfect way to take home a piece of the smokey mountains.

Gatlinburg is a popular destination for romantic getaways, honeymoon or the perfect romantic wedding. Couples can opt for a romantic outdoor wedding at the location of their choice or choose between the many quaint chapels and churches in Gatlinburg. Bridal couples can use the many wedding services to create their dream wedding in the setting of their choice. That is why Gatlinburg is known as the wedding capital of the South.

Whatever your reason is for visiting Gatlinburg, finding lodging to meet your needs.  Inns and lodges are perfect for family and group getaways that offer a comfortable homey atmosphere. Couples can visit the many quaint bed and breakfasts, chalets and cabins that offer the perfect romantic atmosphere along with amenities such as jacuzzis, fireplaces, and  balconies overlooking scenic views and the river.

Gatlinburg is the ideal destination for couples and families. There are a variety of packages available for lodging, attractions and dining to make it more affordable to visit Gatlinburg and get the most out of your vacation.

While my taste in what brings me to the area might not be the same as yours, I’ll share with you some of my favorite things about the area—things that just might bring you back for more each year.

Shopping

I will tell you that there are shops galore in the Sevierville-Pigeon Forge-Gatlinburg area that have treasures untold.  Generally, you can find some great deals at these establishments—even for high end retailers like Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger.

There are many outlet malls along Highway 441, with the better ones being in Sevierville and Pigeon Forge. The Belz Factory Outlet, in Pigeon Forge, is my personal favorite.  You can find everything from Burlington to Old Time Pottery here, and the deals are plenty.

Also, don’t forget to check out some of the specialty shops in the area.  If you’re a big Christmas person, like I am, then there are several stores that offer the best in decorations of the season.  Check them out—if you’re not in the holiday spirit after coming here, your name just might be Scrooge!

Entertainment

Whether you are a fan of miniature golf, theme parks, or museums, you will find something that interests you here.  Mini Golf parks of various themes adorn the area, and then of course, there are all kinds of amusement parks around—from the small to Dollywood.

If you like to revisit history, you’re in luck as well.  From some of the Ripley’s Museums in Gatlinburg  to a celebration of the music and life of “The King” at the Elvis Presley Museum and Gift Shop, there is no doubt that you will find something to captivate your attention here.

Plus, there’s music, and plenty of music.  With many live entertainment venues around, you can enjoy everything from Country to Gospel to old-time rock and roll.  There’s no doubt about it, come to the Smoky Mountains, and you will be entertained!

Food

OK, that might be my favorite subject of any trip I go on…and trust me, there’s some incredible eating options in the area.  From the scrumptious breakfasts at Applewood (part of the Apple Barn complex) ambience of the 50s inspired Mel’s Diner in Pigeon Forge, you will find something for tastes of all kind.  Chinese, Mexican, Italian…it’s all there.  There also many national chains represented in the area, such as Cracker Barrel, Duff’s Smorgasbord, and Denny’s.

And there’s a lot more!  I didn’t mention anything about the many offerings in the area for people who enjoy being out in nature—or the incredible arts and crafts community—you’ll have to see it for yourself!

Photo: jsome1

There’s a little something for everyone’s taste, as well as budget.  One of the most visited shops in the area is Smoky Mountain Outfitters.  Of course, being located close to the Smokies makes this place a great place to shop for hiking some of those gorgeous mountain sides in East Tennessee and nearby North Carolina. The guides at the store are very knowledgeable about the area and can answer any questions that you might have.

On a personal level, some of my favorite shops along the Parkway are some of the more traditional favorites that have been there for years.  One such place is Aunt Mahalia’s Candies, which is celebrating 70 years of business this year.  In addition to the staples like fudge and chocolate, they also offer such delectable goodies as Fluffy Divinity and Pecan Puffs.  They ship throughout the continental United States, but unless you’ve been in the store to smell the aroma yourself, you are truly missing out.

One of the most unique shops around is The Lollipop Guild.  Here, your children can have a personalized CD, book, or cartoon featuring the ever-popular Dora The Explorer.  You can definitely find a gift for young tot that will leave quite the lasting impact here.

Probably the biggest attraction for local shoppers is the Mountain Mall.  With every detail of the mall having a mountain theme, there’s quite a bit for the shopper to explore. Owned and operated by the Ogle family, long one of Sevier County’s most well known, the Mountain Mall offers many shopping bargains, ranging from Rhythm Section, which is the local CD / Record store, as well as the East Tennessee staple Book Warehouse, where you will find a wide variety of volumes ranging from Tennessee football to country stars such as local legend Dolly Parton.

Feel like you want to go back in time?  Then, you might want to take a stroll into OldTyme Portraits, which offers customers a chance to get dressed in vintage outfits from a bygone era.  They even have the family pets covered, as the Paws and Claws Pet Fashion outlet is one of the more popular shops in the mall.

Frankly folks, that’s just the tip of the iceberg.  There are stores along the Parkway that offer just about anything you could ever expect to find—for just about anyone!

Throughout the year, thousands and thousands of people do their shopping within the borders of Gatlinburg. The reason why?  You’ll find anything for anybody…try it yourself, you’ll see what I mean!