Wineries You Should Visit In Winter

BY  Sibashree Oct 22, 2025

“Let’s go somewhere quiet,” he said! And being so elated that he was finally making a travel plan, I couldn't realize that he meant off-the-grid, solar-powered, rainwater-shower kind of quiet somewhere remote in New Zealand.  It was the Great Barrier Island, and it turned out to be the breather spot for me, where you just relax and connect.  With everything green, solar power, and local people considering themselves guardians of the land, the Great Barrier Island in New Zealand shows why sustainability is more than a buzzword.  Furthermore, the conservation law governs 2/3rd of the Great Barrier Island. So, it is saved from development and commercialization. The result? In 2017, it became one of the 13 remote areas and the first island in the world to be recognized as a Dark Sky Sanctuary.  Known as Te Motu o Aotea in the Maori language, it has also attracted people who move or travel to this part of New Zealand for a slow and meaningful way of living/traveling. And you won’t believe that it’s just a 30 to 40-minute flight from Auckland. You can even take the daily ferry to the island.  So, getting there is easy, and you can move around easily thanks to the e-bikes, cars, taxis, and shuttles available. However, remaining respectful to the traditions and rich Maori heritage in the island is a challenge.  Here, I will discuss sustainable travel tips for Great Barrier Island, provide a brief overview of the island, highlight the best activities, explain how to get there, and more. Where Is The Great Barrier Island, New Zealand?  The Great Barrier Island is located in the Hauraki Gulf, around 100 kilometers northeast of Auckland. You will get flights and ferries from Auckland.  Furthermore, if you are traveling from Wellington or Christchurch, you will first reach Auckland and then take a flight to the Great Barrier Island. An Overview Of Aotea, Great Barrier Island, New Zealand The Great Barrier Island is a pristine part of New Zealand, with Māori tribes as the original inhabitants. The Maori tribes gave it the name of Aotea, meaning “White Clouds.”  Today, a pristine paradise located off the northeastern coast of New Zealand, the Great Barrier Island, is known for its rugged landscapes, rich biodiversity, and deep cultural heritage. It has diverse geological features such as rugged mountains, beaches, and forests.  So, no wonder it is rich in biodiversity. With an area of 285 square kilometers, this island is home to dense native bush, manuka and kanuka trees, and coastal flora that thrive in its subtropical climate. Also, you will spot pāteke (brown teal), kākā (parrot), and the endangered black petrel here.  And how can I forget the thundering flapping of kererū wings over our tents?  Lesser-Known Facts About Great Barrier Island: Off-The-Grid Living  Sustainable living is a choice on the Great Barrier Island. So, from the Aotea Arts & History Village to being run by solar power, there are a lot of things that make the Great Barrier Island stand out.  Rare Facts and Sustainable PracticesDetailsOperated off the national power grid• Reliance on solar power• Rainwater harvesting• Composting toilets Minimalism and community reliance• No banks• No ATMs• No large supermarkets• Barter systems• Small general storesFirst Island in the world to become a Dark Sky Sanctuary• Least light-polluted• Clearest sky ideal for stargazingNo public rubbish bins• Pack in and pack out waste policy.• Banning of single-use cups• Mug libraries in cafes for takeaway drinksAncient Māori settlement sites• Archaeological sites such as pā fortifications, middens, and stone working areas, dating back 700-800 years. • Strong Māori connectionHome to the rare Chevron Skink• The only known habitat of the Chevron SkinkChevron Skink is one of the rarest and largest lizards of New Zealand. • Only found on the Great Barrier and Little Barrier IslandsForgotten Wharf at Blind Bay• A hidden historical site that once served as a key point for shipping kauri logs and suppliesShoal Bay Pottery’s Trust-Based Payment System• Buy handmade potteries and mugs, and just drop the money in a box.• This practice celebrates the community spirit of the island. Dual Coastline Personality• The East Coast has wild surf beaches like Awana and Medlands.• The West Coast is dotted with calm, sheltered coves ideal for diving and kayaking.Aotea Arts & History Village• Colonial cottages transformed into galleries and museums. • Explore historical artefacts, crafts, and more at the museums and galleries.  Great Barrier Island Travel Tips: How To Reach There? There are four ways to travel to the Great Barrier Island. You can take a flight, a ferry, or opt for a flight+boat experience. Also, you can opt for chartered flight services.  1. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island By Flight? From Auckland: You can take a flight from Auckland to the Great Barrier Island. Barrier Air operates three to four flights daily. The flight departs from the Auckland Domestic Terminal and flies to the Claris Airport near the center of the island. For adults, a return ticket costs $396, and for a one-way trip, it is $208. For children aged 2 to 12 years, a return ticket will cost $383, and a one-way ticket is priced at $198.  From Northshore: The ticket price for adults for a Northshore to the Great Barrier Island flight costs $406 (round trip) and $213 (one-way trip). For children, the ticket price of a round trip is $388, and a one-way ticket is $205.  From Whitianga & Tauranga Sunair Aviation operates these flights to the Great Barrier Island. For adults, the one-way ticket is $290, and the ticket price for a round trip is $580.  For children aged 2 to 11 years, it is $210 for a one-way trip and $420 for a return.  2. How To Reach The Great Barrier Island By Ferry? You will get a Sealink ferry from Auckland's Wynyard Wharf to Tryphena, the southernmost part of the Great Barrier Island. The ferries run daily in the summer and three times a week in the winter.  This 4.5-hour journey is stunning, with dolphins, orcas, and whales making their appearances. The ticket prices range between $75.50 and $169 based on the age or category of the traveler and the season.  Also, these ferries carry freight to the island, charging between $459 and $1028. 3. Traveling To The Great Barrier Island By Flight And Ferry It is the best travel combination to travel to and from the Great Barrier Island. Take a flight one way and return from the island by ferry.  How To Move Around The Great Barrier Island?  Car rentals, roof-top tent cars, e-bikes, taxis, and shuttles are the transportation modes to move around the Great Barrier Island. Mode of TransportPrice Details Car Rentals• $60-110 Per DayRoof Top Tent Car Rentals• $185/Night (Minimum booking for 2 Days)E-Bikes• $20/Hours• $75 for a Full Day• Contact: +64 (0) 22 344 0645Taxis and Shuttles • Wagon Taxis• 12 or 20 Seater Vans• Charges: $35 to $145 Moreover, like us, you can also book a shuttle or taxi service to Good Heavens Dark Sky in Medlands Beach. We reached Medlands Beach just before sunset, and we camped near the dunes.  We padded down the beach barefoot, and the Sun going down the hills spread the last rays of the light on the water, vanished like the most treasured secret.  With silence prevailing, it felt like sheer magic, and we waited with bated breath for the stargazing moments.  How To Explore Aotea Great Barrier Island New Zealand Sustainably: Know The Best Activities  From hiking to stargazing, the activities on the Great Barrier Island are diverse. Here is a brief overview.  1. Hiking The Aotea Track View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gus || NZ Hiking (@wanderinggus) It is the most challenging activity on the Great Barrier Island. The trekking route passes through the historic Kauri dam sites, amazing views, and forests.  The route takes you to the highest peak of Mount Hobson, Hirakimata. You will get a panoramic view of the surroundings after reaching the highest point.  2. Exploring Kaitoke Hot Springs View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aotea Great Barrier Island (@greatbarrierislandofficial) Hiking to the Kaitoke Hot Springs was fun. We reach the hot springs after a short walk through the native bush.  The pools beside the Kaitoke Stream are ideal for swimming and relaxing.  3. Stargazing With Good Heavens I have already mentioned that the Great Barrier Island is an international Dark Sky Sanctuary. We loved the guided tour with Good Heavens as they provided us with laser pointers and telescopes.  It was great fun exploring the Southern celestial sphere and listening to the Māori and Greek stellar mythology. 4. Visiting Glenfern Sanctuary View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anna Sephton (@anna_sephton_) This sanctuary in Port FitzRoy is famous as the home for native species in a predator-free environment. I loved spotting rare native birds like the Kākā and Pateke (Brown Teal). 5. Kayaking In Whangaparapara Harbour The untouched coastline looked beautiful as we went kayaking in the Whangaparapara Harbour. Further, we visited the historic old Whaling Station.  And the highlight of the trip? Spotting dolphins.  6. Snorkeling At Medlands Beach Medlands is more ideal for surfing. However, when the water and weather are calm, it becomes a haven for snorkeling enthusiasts.  The underwaters here are rich in subtropical marine species.  7. Surfing At Awana Bay View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jack Simkin (@jacksimkin_) Surrounded by a long and golden sand beach, Awana on the eastern coast of the Great Barrier Island is a popular surfing spot.  The consistent breaks here make it ideal for surfers of all expertise levels.  8. Birdwatching Native Species Rich in biodiversity, the Great Barrier Island is home to many rare and native birds of New Zealand.  In the forests, wetlands, and coastal areas, you can spot Kākā, Black Petrel, and Pateke (Brown Teal).  9. Camping At Harataonga Bay View this post on Instagram A post shared by MOJA (@mojaonthemove) Harataonga Bay offers one of the most fulfilling camping experiences in the Great Barrier Island. It is on the northeastern coast of the island.  The Harataonga coastal walkway is beautiful, and you can use it as the base for swimming, relaxing, and other water activities.  10. Fishing In Tryphena Harbour View this post on Instagram A post shared by Territory Boys (@territory.boys) It’s a Snapper! The Tryphena Harbour is a popular hub for recreational fishing. The Hauraki Gulf waters, especially, are rich in marine life.  You can catch the fish from a rock or a wharf. Also, you can book a fishing charter boat.  11. Mountain Biking Trails Palmers Track Lookout is a popular biking trail on the Great Barrier Island. We loved the drive to Windy Canyon on the first day, and on the second day, we went for a short walk to the Palmers Track Lookout. However, this route to the Palmers Track Lookout is quite challenging for bikers, as the rock faces are very steep.  12. Visiting Local Art Galleries The Aotea Community Gallery was an eye opener for us, showing the rich heritage and art scene of the island. In fact, the entire Aotea Arts & History Village is a delight for art enthusiasts.  The gallery hosts regular exhibitions and workshops, showcasing and teaching arts and crafts, which are important for the lifestyle of the island. You can even collect the souvenirs from the local gift shops.  This art village is another example of how the people on the Great Barrier Island are sincere about preserving their local heritage. The Aotea Arts and History Village gained its current status and name in 2023. However, the journey began way back in 2001 when it was first registered as the Aotea Community Artz Charitable Trust in October.  So, in October 2026, it will complete its 25th year.  13. Enjoying Local Cuisine View this post on Instagram A post shared by Eat What You Kill (@eatwhatyoukill.co.nz) Mānuka honey was yum, and we also enjoyed the gin and craft beer here. Also, whatever we ordered, we did not give the signature fish and chips a miss during even a single meal.  14. Attending Cultural Events The local festivals and cultural events of the Great Barrier Island are a great way to get to know people here. The Wharf2Wharf sporting challenge and the FitzRoy Mussel Fest are some of the most popular cultural events here.  15. Relaxing At Secluded Beaches View this post on Instagram A post shared by anapau la (@anapau.crw) The Blind Bay beach at Okupu, North of Tryphena, is a beautiful beach on the west coast of the island. The vibe is pretty relaxed here, and I found the locals picnicking.  Furthermore, the ancient pohutukawa trees were the main attractions for me.  Gooseberry is another beach where we enjoyed a relaxing vibe. It is in the heart of the Tryphena Harbour. The purple caves between the Gooseberry Flat and the Pa Beach are a surreal sight to behold.  Great Barrier Island Travel Tips To Choose The Most Eco-Friendly Accommodation Options: Camping And Ecopods View this post on Instagram A post shared by Jacks Sanctuary (@jacks.sanctuary) Lodges, cabins, beach houses, tree houses, cottages, and more! There are diverse accommodation options on the Great Barrier Island. However, as backpackers, we chose camping.  Medlands Beach campsite by the Medlands Stream was our base for the Great Barrier Island trip. It is a well-sheltered campsite. However, booking needs to be done in advance.  Akapoua Bay campsite near the Port Fitzroy waterside, Awana Beach campsite near the Awana Surf Beach, Harataonga campsite, and Whangapoua campsite are the other popular camping grounds in the Great Barrier Island.  Moreover, Whangaparapara has Island Ecopods near the Whangaparapara Wharf and the edge of the Department of Conservation Forest Estate. These ecodpods can accommodate one to four guests, and for each extra guest, you will have to pay $25 extra.  The one sleeping pod for two guests costs $200 per night, and the two sleeping pods for four guests cost $400 per night.  Go Great Barrier Island Tourism Package With How Other Tour And Travel Companies Offering Sustainable Experiences View this post on Instagram A post shared by Aotea Great Barrier Island (@greatbarrierislandofficial) The Great Barrier Island Tourism offers many packages for every kind of travel experience. You can choose a dedicated sun and surfing package, a hiker’s package, or something suitable for adventure lovers.  There are even packages for romantic getaways, such as Alice’s Seaside Cottages, Heaven’s Above, and Medland Magic.  Furthermore, they have curated their top 10 travel packages in their Top 10 section so that you can quickly find their all-inclusive packages.  The travel packages are well within $1000 per person, and you can build your own package by selecting the number of people in your group, your accommodation, transport options, and any other special experiences like Dark Sky experience, fishing charter, etc.  Moreover, reputable tour companies such as Good Heavens, Motu Trails, and Aotea Eco Tours offer curated experiences on the island.  These companies provide guided tours, accommodation packages, and sustainable travel options. They are highly rated for their knowledgeable guides, eco-friendly practices, and personalized itineraries.  Booking through these companies ensures a hassle-free and enriching travel experience. Great Barrier Island Travel Tips For Your Next Trip The Great Barrier Island is a lot of fun. However, you have to keep this checklist and things to avoid in your mind for the most seamless experience. Things to Keep in MindThings to Avoid • Book flights or a ferry in advance• Reserve accommodations early• Arrange local transportation• Pack eco-friendly travel gear.• Confirm tour bookings• Carry health essentials• Download offline maps• Inform emergency contacts• Check weather forecasts• Respect local customs and environment.• Carry insect repellent, sunscreen, and sufficient drinking water• Not booking transportation early• Ignoring weather conditions• Overpacking non-essential items• Disregarding local regulations• Not preparing for limited connectivity.• Forgetting to carry cash• Underestimating travel time• Not researching activities• Skipping travel insurance• Neglecting sustainable travel practices Is The Great Barrier Island Travel Worth It?  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Charlotte Spratt (@charlotte.spratt) Yes, a trip to the Great Barrier Island is absolutely worth it. Sustainability, romance, heritage, and scenic appeal go hand in hand in this beautiful, remote location of New Zealand.  Furthermore, the dark sky experience here is matchless, and authorities such as Discovery Travel talk about its Dark Sky Sanctuary status and stargazing potential. Nat Geo, on the other hand, is all praises for the conservation efforts on the island and how it practices sustainability.  So, whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a sustainability advocate, the island promises unforgettable experiences. 5-Day In Great Barrier Island: This Is How Our Itinerary Was… View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paul Michael | Travel photography (@paulmichael) Our five days on the Great Barrier Island were about digital detox. The limited network connectivity was a blessing. Also, we watched the stars every night, and we got enough time for journaling.  Nevertheless, this is how we spent our five days on the Great Barrier Island.  DaysActivities Day 1• Reaching Great Barrier Island• Lunch at My Fat Puku Café• Drive to Medlands Beach and sunset walk.• Stargazing• Tipi & Bob's Waterfront Lodge RestaurantDay 2• Breakfast• Bush walk to Kaitoke Hot Springs• Visit to Awana Beach• Lunch at Wild Rose Café• A short walk to Palmers Track LookoutRomantic private dinnerDay 3• Kayaking or paddleboarding in Tryphena• Lunch at Currach Irish Pub• Relaxing at Gooseberry Flat Beach• Drive to Windy Canyon• Sunset viewing and stargazingDay 4• Couple spa treatment• Light brunch• A visit to the Aotea Community Gallery• Exploring Port FitzRoyDay 5• Watching sunrise at Medlands or Awana Beach• Having breakfast and taking a stroll• Dip at Kaitoke Hot Springs• Swimming at Okupu Beach• Flight to Auckland Great Barrier Island Travel Tips: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Here are the frequently asked questions and answers about the Great Barrier Island travel tips.  1. Why Is It Called The Great Barrier Island? Captain James Cook started an expedition from 1768 to 1771 to see how Venus transits across the Sun. On his way, he reached the New Zealand Coast and mapped the Great Barrier Island. In 1769, he mapped and named this part of the New Zealand Coast as the Great Barrier Island, as it offered protection and shelter to the Hauraki Gulf.  2. What To Pack For The Great Barrier Island? The Great Barrier Island is an off-the-grid space. So, you will not find streetlights here. So, you will have to pack a torch. Furthermore, warm clothes, a car charger for your phone, and towels are the things you need to pack for a trip to the Great Barrier Island.  3. What Is The Great Barrier Island Population? The population of the Great Barrier Island in 2023 is the latest information I have. The Census Report of 2023 says that the island had 1251 permanent residents in 2023. In 2018, the population of the island was 936. So, the journey from 936 to 1251 was a sharp 34% increase.  4. Is Driving In The Great Barrier Island Safe? Driving on the roads of the Great Barrier Island needs skill and patience. The winding roadways are often unsealed and without any central line. Furthermore, there will be horses, bikes, and pedestrians on the road. So, you will have to keep to the left while driving.  5. What Are The Emergency And Safety Contact For The Great Barrier Island? Keep these phone numbers handy if you are traveling to the Great Barrier Island. • Department of Conservation: 0800 ASK DOC (0800 275 362)• Claris Medical Centre: 09 429 0356• Auckland City Service Centre: 09 429 0258• Police, Fire or Emergencies: 111 or 429 0343However, cellphone coverage remains a concern here, especially on the eastern coast of the island.  Read Also: Interesting Facts about Australia that will surprise you! 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BY  Ankita Dec 15, 2021

Do you love to spend your entire day in nature and walk through a heavenly road, far from the crowd and pollution? Do not wait to visit the national parks in Georgia. Georgia is a fine meeting point between Asia and Europe. A green patch in the Caucasus or Caucasia mountain. It is situated between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. As a natural tourist destination, the Georgia state parks have all the beauty from the sea and mountain ranges. Georgia’s mixed culture of the place and the panoramic view from the mountains makes the place a unique travel destination. These national parks in Georgia are the specialty of Georgia. Each of the parks has a unique ambiance. The natural cave, natural lakes, mountains, and waterfalls create a very special experience for travelers. 6 Marvelous National Parks In Georgia All the Georgia state parks are budget-friendly. And when you want to feel Georgia’s incredible natural beauty. You must enter the name of these national parks in your travel list of Georgia. For the short ten-day tour, these six Georgia national parks are quite pocket-friendly destinations. Here are the six lists of national parks in Georgia. 1. Machakhela National Park Are you searching for a good natural hiking park in Georgia? Machakhela national parks in Georgia camping are very popular among the locals and the tourists. This park is only 25 km away from Batumi.  This park is especially facilitated by the camping and hiking facility. The place is a unique campaign park for teenagers and children: the Angelo Mountain spectacular views and the River Machakhela gorgeous delta are the best-suited for an education campaign. This virgin forest of oaks, beech, chestnut are great places for campaign and hiking. Pick any walking trails to explore the area. And get a unique experience. 2. Tusheti National Park Caucasus ranges are all gorgeous and have stunning beauty. When you are in Georgia, the scenic beauty of pristine alpine lakes and Caucasus ranges has different kinds of travel experiences. You can feel the explore the place with vehicles and hiking trails stretching over the area.  You can feel the Caucasus mountain’s range of unique scenic beauty when you are walking through the hiking trails. All the national parks in Georgia are popular because of their amazing beauty. The virgin ranges are pretty popular among the tourists because of their calm and quiet ambiance. Most of the tourists are exploring the place by horseback or on driving trails by car. But walking or horseback is the correct way to enjoy the solitude of nature. These ranges have some popular heritage destinations. The village of the ranges is carrying the glorious impression of the past. 3. Mtirala National Park Batumi is a trendy starting point. When you are in Batumi, all the national parks are not far away from this place. If you are going to ask my opinion, I would rather say if I did not visit this place, I would miss the most beautiful one in Georgia. This is the best national park in Georgia, only 30 km Away from Batumi. The heaven on earth. Small piece of dense forest with uniquely diverse flora and fauna. You only have to take a short walk to reach the middle part of the park. Where a very pretty lake is present with a small high cascading waterfall.  The best part of exploring is you can go camping beside the lake. But you have to take a conscious step to keep the place clean to preserve the beauty of nature. Read Also: Best National Parks In Hawaii 4. Kolkheti National Park Among all Georgia state parks, Kolkheti national park is famous for bird watching. The Kalakshetra pheasant bird is the natural habitat of this place. The Tikori and Suspa river is the best place to see the different types of bird activity.  Many wetlands are present on these two river banks. And this place is becoming the perfect hangout spot for migratory birds. In this single park, you can spot almost 194 different types of species of migratory birds.  Pilastomi and Pichori river is the best tourist spot for tourists. This park has all facilities for bird watching like the bird watching towers. You can spend your entire day fishing and just pass your leisure time on a boat. 5. Kazbegi National Park Kazbegi national park is another excellent choice for hikers who love to see the mountain view from the high. This park is situated in the Caucasus ranges. This range is remote and a little bit dry. But from the Kazbegi national park, you can view different types of rare birds collection. From the Kazbegi national park, the nearer mountain village trails are the biggest attraction of the place. This park lies under the northeastern part of Georgia.  The Sameba temple and Sioni basilica are the most prominent tourist attractions of the park. The local villages welcome the tourists with friendly gestures offering them food and wine. Read Also: 7 Best National Parks In Ohio 6. Borjomi-Kharagauli National Park Borjomi national park is also a great attraction of the Caucasus mountain range. This park is entirely professionally developed for hiking and adventure walking. The best part of the park is this park has well-organized multiple hiking trails.  When you just want to enjoy your day by walking through these magical roots, pick any trails among the available 12 hiking trails. And go towards the peek. You will find many Borjomi & Kharagauli National Park photos on socials and they will make you more interested in the national park. This is why most national and international tourists prefer this park among all the Caucasus national parks in Georgia.  You will get multiple options for the camping sites, and all the places are quite comfortable for the tourists and hikers. The scenic beauty of the place is so pleasant you can take the tour and enjoy the views of Georgia’s finest hiking national park. What Is The Most Visited State Park In Georgia? Stone Mountain Park is considered to be the most visited among the Georgia State National Parks. The state park is located just 15 miles away from Atlanta.  In its appeal, this park is no less than the national parks in Georgia state. Further, for the young at heart tourists, this is an elevated form of a theme park. Overall, it is a melting pot of local history, natural beauty, and theme park thrills.  Exploring Nature At Its Best At Stone Mountain Park, Georgia The 3200-acre area of Stone Mountain Park will allow you to get lost in the wilderness. Hiking is the best way to explore the area and be familiar with the unique geology and ecology.  Further, the park houses a museum, where interactive exhibits make you familiar with the natural history of the area.  Camping At Stone Mountain Park, Georgia If you want to know the Stone Mountain Park, you must choose camping as an accommodation option. The Stone Mountain Family Campground will allow you to be in contact with nature in the metro Atlanta area.  The campground has 441 wooded campsites with amenities like electricity and water. Along with tents, you can also go for popups and motorhomes.  Moreover, amenities at these campsites include: Wireless Internet Connections (Selected Sites) Volleyball Swimming Pool Supply Store Playground Comfort Stations Full Showers Laundry Facilities The location of Stone Mountain Park is 4003 Stonewall Jackson Dr. Stone Mountain GA 30083. You can get in touch with the park at (770) 498-5710.  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Q1: What is the most visited state park in Georgia? A: Stone Mountain Park is considered to be the most visited state park in Georgia. The state park is located just 15 miles away from Atlanta.  Q2: What is the oldest state park in Georgia? A: The park system of the US state of Georgia was discovered in 1931 with India sPOring Stae Park, therefore it is the oldest state park in Georgia as it was being looked after by the public park since 1825.  Q3: Can we still hike in Georgia? A: If you really like the outdoors then the indoors, are good for you as Georgia offers 600 miles of hiking trails. Every bend holds a surprise for you.  4: What is the tallest waterfall in Georgia? A: Amicalola Falls state park has the tallest waterfall, in Georgia. It is 729 feet tall and is located in the Northeast Georgia Mountains. The park is considered to be the best spot for an adventure with family and friends.  Wrapping It Up: Among all national parks in Georgia, these are the top picks of parks from travelers. The magical, heavenly mountain trails, cascade waterfall, and little dense forest are the biggest attractions of the place. The mixed culture of the nearest villages and the unique history of the place is the area’s biggest attraction. Do not forget to share your traveling experiences with us. You May Also Like:  Things To Do In Maryland Best National Parks In Missouri That You Must Know Top 7 Nantucket Beaches For Tourists In Massachusetts

BY  Sibashree Aug 10, 2023

Sevierville, Tennessee, is a charming city. It lies nestled in the breathtaking beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.  Guess what? Over 10 million people come to Sevierville each year to enjoy a plethora of fun-filled activities. So, you can safely say that Sevierville is the ideal location for anyone seeking a unique and memorable vacation experience.  Every traveler can find something to enjoy in the city of Sevierville, whether you want to engage in thrilling experiences or immerse yourself in the culture and music.  What Are Some Vacation-Worthy Things To Do In Sevierville?  Discover Sevierville’s top features as we guide you through a number of thrilling attractions that will make your trip genuinely unforgettable.  1. Go On The Zipline At Foxfire Mountain Adventures  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Foxfire Mountain Adventures (@foxfiremtn) If you are an adrenaline junkies seeking a thrill, you should really visit Foxfire Mountain Adventures.  Additionally, it is home to the Goliath Zipline. This offers an exhilarating ride at speeds of up to 55 miles per hour! As you soar 475 feet off the forest floor, you are sure to make some amazing memories gliding through the lush green views from this one-of-a-kind vantage point. This two-hour zipline tour promises an unforgettable adventure for those seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the Smoky Mountains.  2. The Perfect Retreat After A Long Day  After a long day full of adventure and excitement, you will need a place where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy some quality time with your friends and family. With over 1,459 hotels and places to stay, choosing the right hotel in Sevierville TN, can be taxing.  However, looking at user reviews can streamline the decision-making process and help you to highlight the better choices for your stay. The Lodge at Five Oaks, for example, is voted number 1 on trip advisor and is an excellent choice for those looking for a stunning location with exceptional services. 3. Exciting Water Adventures At The Smokies’ Wilderness If you enjoy water parks, then Wilderness at the Smokies is a must-visit destination. This expansive resort boasts three distinct waterparks. So, it offers a plethora of thrilling experiences for all ages. Also, you can see the “Wild Vortex,” a near-vertical, looping body waterslide. It will leave you breathless with excitement as you soar down at exhilarating speeds.  The Timber Rattler is considered the longest tube slide in the entire state. It is further followed by the “Smokies Surf Rider,” which gives you an ultimate surfing experience. It will guarantee hours of laughter, joy, and endless fun. Families with little adventurers can also head to “Cubs Climbing Den,” an interactive playhouse designed to engage a younger demographic with the excitement of adventure.  4. Take A Selfie Around The Statue Of Dolly Parton View this post on Instagram A post shared by Den Martell (@denim1019) A trip to Sevierville isn’t complete without paying homage to the Queen of Country Music herself, Dolly Parton. Head to the Courthouse lawn at Sevier County, where a magnificent bronze statue of Dolly stands tall. Crafted by local artist Jim Gray over 30 years ago, this six-and-a-half-foot-tall sculpture is a tribute dedicated to the legendary performer’s roots.  5. Discover Underground Beauty Across Forbidden Caverns  Delve into the fascinating world beneath the Earth’s surface around Forbidden Caverns, boasting the longest rare cave onyx wall. A guided tour will take you through a mesmerizing underground journey, passing unique formations with towering chimneys and grottos.  6. Animal Encounters At “Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo”  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo (@rainforest.zoo) Embark on a unique animal adventure offered by the classic Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo, home to more than 600 animals and representing over 130 species. Among the highlights are the adorable golden-headed lion tamarins, one of the smallest and rarest species of monkeys.  Visitors can also meet other exotic creatures, such as African crested porcupines, poison dart frogs, and rose hair tarantulas. This fascinating zoo offers a rare opportunity to encounter and learn about diverse and rare creatures from around the world.  7. Breathtaking Panoramas From Clingmans Dome  If you're a nature lover or someone who enjoys hiking, Clingmans Dome should definitely be on your bucket list. It's an incredible spot, reaching 6,643 feet, making it the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and even along the entire Appalachian Trail.  The hike to the observation tower is short but challenging, with a steep paved trail that leads you up to some breathtaking views. Once you reach the top, you'll be greeted with a stunning 360-degree panorama of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding landscape. On clear days, you can see for over 100 miles in every direction! Standing at this remarkable peak, you can really soak in the peace of the wilderness and appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty of nature. It's truly a moment to cherish.  8. Exciting Baseball Action At Smokies Stadium  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Live Wide (@live_wide) If you're a sports fan, you’ll feel right at home in Sevierville when you visit Smokies Stadium. It’s a great spot to catch a game featuring the Tennessee Smokies, the Double-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs. What really makes this ballpark special is the nod to the charm of Wrigley Field, creating a cozy atmosphere where you can really connect with the game and the players. And the fun doesn’t stop between innings! You can join in on outdoor games and activities that keep the excitement alive. Spending an afternoon at Smokies Stadium is more than just a game; it’s a chance to create some wonderful memories while celebrating America’s favorite pastime.  9. Explore Ancient Treasures At Smoky Mountain Relic Room  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Relic Room (@smokymountainrelicroom) History buffs and collectors will find their haven at the “Smoky Mountain Relic Room.” Step into a treasure trove of artifacts spanning over 3.5 billion years, representing various geological eras and human history. Browse through tons of relics as well as fossils, each with its own unique story to tell.  From prehistoric fossils to ancient artifacts, this collection is guaranteed to ignite your curiosity and appreciation for the past. The epic Relic Room, nestled within “Smoky Mountain Knife Works,” also offers an impressive array of knives and blades, from historical pieces to modern marvels, making it a haven for collectors and outdoor enthusiasts alike.  10. Tennessee Museum Of Aviation’s Sky-High Adventure  View this post on Instagram A post shared by TN Museum of Aviation (@tnairmuseum) Sevierville is home to one of America’s most prominent aviation locations; the Tennessee Museum of Aviation! This marvelous location is home to hundreds of historical artifacts and exhibits that bring the fascinating history of flight to life. You can even climb into an A-4 Skyhawk Cockpit and look at the world through the eye of an experienced pilot.  The aircraft collection at this museum is stunning in its own right! Featuring airworthy warbirds and vintage planes, this museum is the only one in the U.S. housing two airworthy P-47 Thunderbolts.  10 Vacation-Worthy Things To Do In Sevierville Explained  Tennessee’s Sevierville offers visitors an unbeatable combination of: Breathtaking natural scenery  Fascinating history  Exhilarating experiences  Everything about being here is exciting, from paying homage to the legendary Dolly Parton to flying through the treetops. ‘  Whether you are traveling with family or seeking solo adventures, Sevierville offers an abundance of unique experiences that will leave you with cherished memories for years to come. Read Also: Pigeon Forge Indoor Adventures: From Go-Karts To Laser Tag Eight Outdoor Attractions In Pigeon Forge For Thrill-Seekers Your Guide To The Perfect Pigeon Forge Vacation