Gatlinburg ranked No. 1 Trending Destination in U.S.

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Gatlinburg is the top travel destination in the U.S., according to TripAdvisor.

TripAdvisor announced Gatlinburg is the number one trending travel destination in the United States on its U.S. Trending Destinations list.

According to the list, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park makes Gatlinburg“an ideal base for a family looking to explore the park’s numerous offerings.”

Gatlinburg was highlighted as good for “hiking Great Smoky Mountains National Park, fishing, and rafting.”

“This recognition is such a tremendous honor, especially considering the amazing company we share with destination communities across the country,” said Marci Claude, Public Relations Manager for the Gatlinburg Conventions and Visitors Bureau. “Gatlinburg truly is the perfect destination for families and people of all ages, especially this past year when people have longed to get out of their homes and into nature. From hiking and fishing, to splashing through a mountain stream, to many outdoor attractions including Ober Gatlinburg, Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, and Anakeesta, visitors never run out of outdoor activities in Gatlinburg.”

Pigeon Forge was ranked number four on the list, making East Tennessee a top-ranked tourist area.

TripAdvisor said Pigeon Forge was a trending destination because of its “excellent location,” nearby wildlife and Dollywood.

Gatlinburg was ranked fifth on the Trending Destinations of the World list, among places like Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.

Governor Bill Lee congratulated Gatlinburg for the honor Tuesday morning on Twitter.

“This is a significant accomplishment following a difficult year. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, our tourism and hospitality industry partners have shown tremendous resilience and a commitment to keep our visitors and communities safe,” Lee said.

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