If springtime is for weddings, does that mean summertime is for proposals? We haven’t done the research, but we bet there are a lot of proposals in the works—that way there is plenty of time to make special plans for the big day!
So what makes the Smoky Mountains your perfect locale for popping the question? Besides the stunning scenery of the mountains themselves, it’s the versatility this area provides. Pigeon Forge and nearby Gatlinburg have a variety of places to best fit your personalities and to help make your big moment stand out from the rest.
For some ideas on what you’ll find in the area, check out our list below. We’ve highlighted some of the more unique places in the Smoky Mountains where you can pop the question—and where the one you love is sure to say yes!
In the Great Outdoors
Probably the first thing you think of when it comes to planning your big moment in the Smokies is to ask amidst the beauty of the mountains. And with more than 800 miles of hiking, you’re guaranteed to find some gorgeous scenery no matter where you end up. But to help narrow your options, here are a couple unique ideas for an outdoor proposal in the Smoky Mountains.
First, you can head to Clingmans Dome. At 6,643 feet, Clingmans Dome is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the highest point in the state of Tennessee. The observation tower on the summit of Clingmans Dome allows for panoramic views of these breathtaking mountains—this is the spot we would recommend for your big moment. Go to the observation tower, wow with the sweeping views, and then sweep them off their feet with a shiny new ring!
Another idea is to plan a proposal in one of the most romantic spots in the national park—behind Grotto Falls. Do you remember the scene in Disney’s Robin Hood when he takes Maid Marian behind the waterfall? If your soon-to-be fiancée is a Disney fan, they’ll love that you recreated this magical moment when you pop the question behind this 25-foot waterfall in the Great Smoky Mountains. And even if Robin Hood isn’t on your mind, it’s still a beautiful place to ask the one you love to marry you.
On the Stairway to Paradise
So tell us a little about your love—do they love flowers? art? tropical gardens and exotic birds? If you said yes to all these questions, then we’re sure they’ll say yes on the “Stairway to Paradise” inside Parrot Mountain & Gardens!
No, we haven’t left the Smokies for this one. Parrot Mountain & Gardens is actually a tropical oasis conveniently located right here in Pigeon Forge. And besides the professionally manicured gardens, uniquely designed parrot cottages, and picturesque waterfall, this stunning outdoor attraction features a replica of Thomas Kinkade’s “Stairway to Paradise.”
Plan for your big moment at the top of the stairs, inside the secret garden, on a deck that overlooks the Smokies, on one of their butterfly benches, or next to their soothing waterfall—you’ll find all these options and more at Parrot Mountian.
On Top of the World
This one’s for the adventure seekers—those couples who go big or go home. One of Pigeon Forge’s newest attractions, known as The Dome, sits high above the city skyline and offers one of the best views in town. But what makes this attraction thrilling is the combination Monster Bus ride to the top of The Dome, 100-foot trek across a swinging bridge, and half-mile adrenaline-pumping ride down the world’s only dome-shaped zipline, the ZipCoaster!
Our recommendation? Pop the question on top of The Dome, and then celebrate with an exciting ride down this one-of-a-kind zipline that circles The Dome twice before landing at the bottom!
For something a little less scary but just as stunning when it comes to views, try the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel instead. Located inside The Island in Pigeon Forge, this 200-foot-tall ferris wheel features all-glass gondolas that are climate-controlled and provide sweeping views of the Smoky Mountain terrain.
Even if you plan for a nighttime proposal, the scenery will be just as stunning with the 24,000-square-foot light show put on by The Island every night until 11:30 p.m. Using state-of-the-art equipment, this light shows features more than 89 vertical fountains, a geyser that can shoot water up to 60 feet in the air, and motion-based nozzles choreographed to 14 pieces of music. Talk about an impressive way to end the evening—and to start your new life together!
Under the Sea
You definitely want your proposal to be memorable, but you also want to have a little fun—sound about right? Then don’t miss our last Smoky Mountain idea: you can pop the question at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies! Located in Gatlinburg, this Smoky Mountain attraction actually helps you plan your big moment.
Here’s how it will go down: after one of their scheduled dive shows, they’ll reveal a proposal sign in the water (make sure they’re paying attention!). After the show, you’ll take home the sign, a picture of your special moment, and a memorable Ripley’s gift!
Whatever you plan, the important thing is that your new life together begins in the best way. So check back with our reservation specialists after your big moment, and we’ll help you set up your Pigeon Forge cabin for your honeymoon, first anniversary, and many more special moments to come!
