https://simplecast.com My Smoky Mountain Guide Hosted by Marc & Ann Bowman Marc and Ann Bowman live near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. Each week they go to one of the areas top attractions in one of the gateway cities, then tell you all about their experience. Find out what to expect the next time you plan a visit to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or one of the areas other vacation hot spots! Marc & Ann also share upcoming current events, answer your questions, and provide helpful information so you can you plan your next visit. Hear all the latest about attractions, important dates, where to buy tickets, and learn about trails, campgrounds, and more! 2020 Marc & Ann Bowman | My Smoky Mountain Guide en Sat, 21 Feb 2026 17:19:57 +0000 Sat, 21 Feb 2026 17:20:07 +0000 https://mysmokymountainguide.com My Smoky Mountain Guide Hosted by Marc & Ann Bowman https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/27811d75-fd6a-49fc-9118-b00392aa1f8f/24c49638-67a4-437b-a364-f5493fbe922a/3000x3000/my-smoky-mountain-guide-podcast-logo.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://mysmokymountainguide.com episodic Marc and Ann Bowman live near Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee. Each week they go to one of the areas top attractions in one of the gateway cities, then tell you all about their experience. Find out what to expect the next time you plan a visit to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or one of the areas other vacation hot spots! Marc & Ann also share upcoming current events, answer your questions, and provide helpful information so you can you plan your next visit. Hear all the latest about attractions, important dates, where to buy tickets, and learn about trails, campgrounds, and more! Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman false https://feeds.simplecast.com/xQFXWAcC ann bowman, marc bowman, bryson city nc, cherokee nc, gatlinburg tn, great smoky mountains national park, gsmnp, maggie valley nc, national parks, pigeon forge tn, sevierville tn, tennessee, townsend tn, travel Marc W. Bowman & Ann G. Bowman podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com b378c577-2225-4ac2-b4ac-408c59bd60ce #13 Appalachian Bear Rescue with Greg Greico We are absolutely thrilled to bring you this very special episode all about one of our favorite organizations in the Smokies, Appalachian Bear Rescue in Townsend, Tennessee!

Celebrating 30 years of volunteer-powered bear rescue, ABR is doing incredible work saving orphan cubs, rehabilitating them with minimal human contact, and releasing healthy bears back into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. They truly are the gold standard.

On a beautiful Saturday we were invited on one of their exclusive behind-the-scenes tours (only four small groups were allowed that day, we felt so honored!). We finally got to see the secluded facility where the magic happens, tucked way back in the county so the bears stay wild and never get used to people.

After the tour we sat down right here at our home with the brand-new Executive Director, Greg Greico. What a genuine, passionate guy, perfect for the job! We talked for over an hour about his wild journey into bear work, the history of ABR, why these bears matter so much, and what the future holds.

You’re in for a treat, this one is full of hope, history, and a few “wow” moments.

Learn more at My Smoky Mountain Guide Podcast

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Sat, 21 Feb 2026 17:19:57 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman, Greg Greico) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-13-appalachian-bear-rescue We are absolutely thrilled to bring you this very special episode all about one of our favorite organizations in the Smokies, Appalachian Bear Rescue in Townsend, Tennessee!

Celebrating 30 years of volunteer-powered bear rescue, ABR is doing incredible work saving orphan cubs, rehabilitating them with minimal human contact, and releasing healthy bears back into Great Smoky Mountains National Park. They truly are the gold standard.

On a beautiful Saturday we were invited on one of their exclusive behind-the-scenes tours (only four small groups were allowed that day, we felt so honored!). We finally got to see the secluded facility where the magic happens, tucked way back in the county so the bears stay wild and never get used to people.

After the tour we sat down right here at our home with the brand-new Executive Director, Greg Greico. What a genuine, passionate guy, perfect for the job! We talked for over an hour about his wild journey into bear work, the history of ABR, why these bears matter so much, and what the future holds.

You’re in for a treat, this one is full of hope, history, and a few “wow” moments.

Learn more at My Smoky Mountain Guide Podcast

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> #13 Appalachian Bear Rescue with Greg Greico Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman, Greg Greico 01:04:35 Marc sat down with Greg Greico, the newly installed Executive Director of the Appalachian Bear Rescue in Townsend, TN to discuss the organization's mission, successes, challenges, and the future of ABR. Marc sat down with Greg Greico, the newly installed Executive Director of the Appalachian Bear Rescue in Townsend, TN to discuss the organization's mission, successes, challenges, and the future of ABR. appalachian bear rescue, townsend, great smoky mountains national park, abr, black bears, black bear rescue, smoky mountains, greg greico false full 13 a6a2d773-770d-46ea-bf85-d1bf6ff39124 #12 Tennessee Bible Museum Marc, Ann, and Jane spent three days in Wears Valley, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg celebrating Ann and Jane's birthday. The twins had a list of places they wanted to visit and high on the list was the Tennessee Bible Museum. What an amazing place! The paid tour highlighted the history of the Bible with an emphasis on how it was translated into English.

Heartland Cabin Rentals provided an amazing cabin for our stay in Wears Valley. We cannot say enough about the hospitality they showed.

The three restaurants we chose for the main meal of our day was Alamo Steakhouse, JT Hannah's Kitchen, and Sloppy Hog Burger Joint. We recommend all three.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Thu, 22 May 2025 00:12:26 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-12-tennessee-bible-museum/ Marc, Ann, and Jane spent three days in Wears Valley, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg celebrating Ann and Jane's birthday. The twins had a list of places they wanted to visit and high on the list was the Tennessee Bible Museum. What an amazing place! The paid tour highlighted the history of the Bible with an emphasis on how it was translated into English.

Heartland Cabin Rentals provided an amazing cabin for our stay in Wears Valley. We cannot say enough about the hospitality they showed.

The three restaurants we chose for the main meal of our day was Alamo Steakhouse, JT Hannah's Kitchen, and Sloppy Hog Burger Joint. We recommend all three.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> #12 Tennessee Bible Museum Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman 00:31:04 Marc and Ann Bowman visit the Tennessee Bible Museum in Pigeon Forge. They toured the exhibit of nearly $3 million worth of artifacts. Marc and Ann Bowman visit the Tennessee Bible Museum in Pigeon Forge. They toured the exhibit of nearly $3 million worth of artifacts. charles spurgeon, tennessee bible museum, guttenberg press, the bible guy, martin luther, geneva bible translation, king james bible, pigeon forge, bible translations, bible museum, pilgrim's progress false full 12 84cb53d2-675e-4b3d-9a90-6acf6f725b93 #11 Wine, Shine and Cider East Tennessee has a long history of producing moonshine. Until recently, it was distilled in illicit stills (illicit because they refused to pay the tax) in hidden coves of the Appalachian Mountains. In 2009,  the Tennessee state legislature passed a law legalizing moonshine in Tennessee. Soon after, in early 2010, Ole Smoky Moonshine of Gatlinburg became the first legal distiller of moonshine in the state.

While the area is known, correctly, for family fun, the elephant in the room is that a new version of an old industry has burst onto the scene. Marc and Ann visited more than twenty establishments in Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Wears Valley, and Townsend to see what all the hubbub is about. These twenty are just representative of the many distilleries, wineries, and hard cider producers in the Smoky Mountains.

Below is a list of the establishments we visited. Some have more than one location. You must be at least 21 years of age to enter these websites:

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Sat, 21 Sep 2024 16:55:50 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-11-wine-shine-cider/ East Tennessee has a long history of producing moonshine. Until recently, it was distilled in illicit stills (illicit because they refused to pay the tax) in hidden coves of the Appalachian Mountains. In 2009,  the Tennessee state legislature passed a law legalizing moonshine in Tennessee. Soon after, in early 2010, Ole Smoky Moonshine of Gatlinburg became the first legal distiller of moonshine in the state.

While the area is known, correctly, for family fun, the elephant in the room is that a new version of an old industry has burst onto the scene. Marc and Ann visited more than twenty establishments in Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Wears Valley, and Townsend to see what all the hubbub is about. These twenty are just representative of the many distilleries, wineries, and hard cider producers in the Smoky Mountains.

Below is a list of the establishments we visited. Some have more than one location. You must be at least 21 years of age to enter these websites:

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> #11 Wine, Shine and Cider Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman 00:50:08 Marc and Ann visit many of the local distilleries, wineries, and hard cider retailers in the Smoky Mountains. They discuss the history of moonshine in the area and how it became the giant elephant in the room. Marc and Ann visit many of the local distilleries, wineries, and hard cider retailers in the Smoky Mountains. They discuss the history of moonshine in the area and how it became the giant elephant in the room. townsend, moonshine, hard cider, wears valley, gatlinburg, pigeon forge, sevierville, wineries false full 11 2169524d-f44a-4378-b564-08f430bd248e Episode 10: Bluff Mountain Adventures Bluff Mountain Adventures maintains one of the largest offroad adventure experiences in the Pigeon Forge area. By that we mean that they own more than 6,600 acres of mountain terrain overlooking Knoxville, Maryville, Pigeon Forge, and the surrounding area. The miles of offroad trails are ready to be explored via UTV or ATV.

In this episode, Marc and Ann talk about the offroad adventure they enjoyed while celebrating their wedding anniversary. Bluff Mountain Adventures lives up to its name.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Sat, 27 Jul 2024 15:19:52 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-10-bluff-mountain-adventures/ Bluff Mountain Adventures maintains one of the largest offroad adventure experiences in the Pigeon Forge area. By that we mean that they own more than 6,600 acres of mountain terrain overlooking Knoxville, Maryville, Pigeon Forge, and the surrounding area. The miles of offroad trails are ready to be explored via UTV or ATV.

In this episode, Marc and Ann talk about the offroad adventure they enjoyed while celebrating their wedding anniversary. Bluff Mountain Adventures lives up to its name.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Episode 10: Bluff Mountain Adventures Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman 00:29:27 In this episode, Marc and Ann talk about the offroad adventure they enjoyed while celebrating their wedding anniversary. Bluff Mountain Adventures lives up to its name. In this episode, Marc and Ann talk about the offroad adventure they enjoyed while celebrating their wedding anniversary. Bluff Mountain Adventures lives up to its name. bluff mountain, offroad adventure, smoky mountain vacation, offroad utv rides, smoky mountains, pigeon forge false full 10 e503c726-29a3-4261-89c1-6c87e228897d Episode 9: Bryson City, North Carolina NOTE: We recorded this episode in June 2022. Before posting it, two sudden and unexpected serious medical conditions, one after the other, derailed (pun intended) our plans to continue recording and posting new episodes. However, after two years, we are back! We thank God for His continued care for us and allowing us to do this podcast, which we love. Thank you for listening.

Bryson City, North Carolina is “small town America,” packed with big outdoor fun. In this episode, Marc and Ann talk about their day trip to Bryson City to take the historic “1702” steam engine train roundtrip to Nantahala Outdoor Center.

Listen as they describe the sights along the train route, the experience of riding and old-fashioned steam engine powered train, and visiting the train museum.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Sat, 20 Jul 2024 18:09:29 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-9-bryson-city-north-carolina NOTE: We recorded this episode in June 2022. Before posting it, two sudden and unexpected serious medical conditions, one after the other, derailed (pun intended) our plans to continue recording and posting new episodes. However, after two years, we are back! We thank God for His continued care for us and allowing us to do this podcast, which we love. Thank you for listening.

Bryson City, North Carolina is “small town America,” packed with big outdoor fun. In this episode, Marc and Ann talk about their day trip to Bryson City to take the historic “1702” steam engine train roundtrip to Nantahala Outdoor Center.

Listen as they describe the sights along the train route, the experience of riding and old-fashioned steam engine powered train, and visiting the train museum.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Episode 9: Bryson City, North Carolina Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman 00:25:11 Marc and Ann visit Bryson City, North Carolina and take the train to the Nantahala Outdoor Center. They visit Dillsboro, NC and share their experiences in both cities and their train trip. Marc and Ann visit Bryson City, North Carolina and take the train to the Nantahala Outdoor Center. They visit Dillsboro, NC and share their experiences in both cities and their train trip. dillsboro, north carolina, smoky mountains, bryson city, great smoky mountains railroad false full 9 1ee21cb1-bb38-4131-8969-fb8ecf9a124c Episode 8: Cherokee, North Carolina Marc and Ann recently spent four days exploring Cherokee, North Carolina. They visited the Qualla Boundry, the home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation. Cherokee is a historic location and is a gateway city to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Their discussion includes the outdoor play, Unto These Hills, the longest running outdoor drama in America. More than 5,000,000 people have seen this Cherokee interpretation of the Europeans arrival in America and the stormy relationship that ensued.

In addition, they talk about the outdoor village museum, Harrah's Cherokee Casino, eating in Cherokee, outdoor activities, and their hotel experience.

My Smoky Mountain Guide Podcast

Stonebrook Lodge, Cherokee, NC

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Wed, 13 Jul 2022 19:51:55 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-8-cherokee-north-carolina Marc and Ann recently spent four days exploring Cherokee, North Carolina. They visited the Qualla Boundry, the home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation. Cherokee is a historic location and is a gateway city to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Their discussion includes the outdoor play, Unto These Hills, the longest running outdoor drama in America. More than 5,000,000 people have seen this Cherokee interpretation of the Europeans arrival in America and the stormy relationship that ensued.

In addition, they talk about the outdoor village museum, Harrah's Cherokee Casino, eating in Cherokee, outdoor activities, and their hotel experience.

My Smoky Mountain Guide Podcast

Stonebrook Lodge, Cherokee, NC

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Episode 8: Cherokee, North Carolina Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman 00:26:31 Marc and Ann visit Cherokee, North Carolina. They talk about the Mountain Farm Museum at Oconaluftee Visitors Center, Unto These Hills outdoor drama, and what it was like to visit. Marc and Ann visit Cherokee, North Carolina. They talk about the Mountain Farm Museum at Oconaluftee Visitors Center, Unto These Hills outdoor drama, and what it was like to visit. mountain farm museum, great smoky mountains national park, cherokee, north carolina, oconaluftee, unto these hills false full 8 50c3e17d-db7c-4770-9edc-0c1ad0c481ac Episode 7: Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Show and Adventure Park Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Show and Adventure Park is on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The show is a live competition between real lumberjacks competing for bragging rights. Audience participation is enthusiastic and a real fun part of watching the show.

The jokes are somewhat corny, but that is part of the family fun in this 1.5 hour show. Authentic lumberjacks perform agile stunts throughout the competition. Some stunts include chainsaws while others involve buck saws or 30 feet tall poles.

Another competition involves the lumberjacks walking on spinning logs while trying to knock their competition into the water. 

The theater is part of Paula Deen's Adventure Park where guests can try their skills at log rolling, ax throwing, speed climbing, or navigating a ropes course high above the ground. In our opinion, the Flying Ox, a combo zip-line/roller coaster type ride, is the best.

We describe all this and more in the podcast as well as let you know how to get discount tickets.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Sat, 5 Sep 2020 15:39:17 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-7-paula-deens-lumberjack-feud-show-and-adventure-park Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Show and Adventure Park is on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The show is a live competition between real lumberjacks competing for bragging rights. Audience participation is enthusiastic and a real fun part of watching the show.

The jokes are somewhat corny, but that is part of the family fun in this 1.5 hour show. Authentic lumberjacks perform agile stunts throughout the competition. Some stunts include chainsaws while others involve buck saws or 30 feet tall poles.

Another competition involves the lumberjacks walking on spinning logs while trying to knock their competition into the water. 

The theater is part of Paula Deen's Adventure Park where guests can try their skills at log rolling, ax throwing, speed climbing, or navigating a ropes course high above the ground. In our opinion, the Flying Ox, a combo zip-line/roller coaster type ride, is the best.

We describe all this and more in the podcast as well as let you know how to get discount tickets.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Episode 7: Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Show and Adventure Park Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman 00:23:45 Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Show and Adventure Park is a family vacation destination in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This live competition show will have you hootin' and hollerin'! Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Show and Adventure Park is a family vacation destination in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This live competition show will have you hootin' and hollerin'! chainsaw competition, five guys, paula deen, calhoun's restaurant, lumberjack feud, butter cream soda, adventure park, flying ox, lumberjack feud show, pigeon forge, ropes course false full 7 9ac3dda8-1264-408c-ab98-d80ee33b5cc2 Episode 6: Titanic Museum Attraction & Gatlinburg Skylift Park When the Titanic sank in the Atlantic back in 1912, more than 1,200 people died in an icy cold sea. The "unsinkable" ship sailed only 5 days on its maiden voyage to New York before slamming into an iceberg.

The Titanic Museum Attraction houses the largest collection of Titanic artifacts in the world. John Joslyn, the museum's owner, was the explorer who led the expedition to recover the artifacts from the ship's resting place.

The original artifacts, worth more than $4,000,000.00, are beautifully displayed. The interactive museum gives guests an opportunity to see how the ship was built, ascend the grand staircase, dip your fingers into 20+ degree water, and imagine traveling as a passenger.

The most famous artifact on display is the Hartley Violin. Hartley and his small ensemble played hymns while the ship sank in an effort to give peace to passengers.

The 56,000 piece Lego replica of the Titanic is also on display.

Marc and Ann talk about their visit to the museum, lunch at Hard Rock Café, and how you can get discount tickets.

A bonus ending includes a conversation with Ann's sisters about their recent trip to the Gatlinburg Skylift Park.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Thu, 27 Aug 2020 01:26:52 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Ann G. Bowman, Julie McClanahan, Jane Gardner, Marc W. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-6-titanic-museum-attraction-gatlinburg-skylift-park/ When the Titanic sank in the Atlantic back in 1912, more than 1,200 people died in an icy cold sea. The "unsinkable" ship sailed only 5 days on its maiden voyage to New York before slamming into an iceberg.

The Titanic Museum Attraction houses the largest collection of Titanic artifacts in the world. John Joslyn, the museum's owner, was the explorer who led the expedition to recover the artifacts from the ship's resting place.

The original artifacts, worth more than $4,000,000.00, are beautifully displayed. The interactive museum gives guests an opportunity to see how the ship was built, ascend the grand staircase, dip your fingers into 20+ degree water, and imagine traveling as a passenger.

The most famous artifact on display is the Hartley Violin. Hartley and his small ensemble played hymns while the ship sank in an effort to give peace to passengers.

The 56,000 piece Lego replica of the Titanic is also on display.

Marc and Ann talk about their visit to the museum, lunch at Hard Rock Café, and how you can get discount tickets.

A bonus ending includes a conversation with Ann's sisters about their recent trip to the Gatlinburg Skylift Park.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Episode 6: Titanic Museum Attraction & Gatlinburg Skylift Park Ann G. Bowman, Julie McClanahan, Jane Gardner, Marc W. Bowman 00:41:43 Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is the largest of its kind. Gatlinburg Skylift Park is home to the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in America. Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is the largest of its kind. Gatlinburg Skylift Park is home to the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in America. gatlinburg skylift park, amy grant, titanic violin, hartley violin, titanic, buddy holly, titanic museum attraction, gatlinburg, roy orbison, pigeon forge, pigeon forge attractions, hard rock cafe, titanic museum, gatlinburg skybridge, titanic artifacts false full 6 c74976b1-9899-454d-9e17-d82576ad01e3 Episode 5: Anakeesta Anakeesta is one of the newest attractions in the Smokies. Located in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee, this 70+ acre, mountain village is not going to disappoint. The Chondola takes you to the top of Anakeesta Mountain where you will experience Firefly Village with its gifts shops, the Cliff Top Grill & Bar, Aunt Pearl’s Pie in the Sky (ice cream and fried pies), and several other shops.

For those of you with an aversion to heights, like Marc, you can take the Ridge Rambler to Firefly Village. The Ridge Rambler is a 42 passenger monster truck that takes you through the forest on the ground, rather than high above on a cable!

But the real draw to Anakeesta is that it is an outdoor adventure park with zip-lines, a mountain coaster ride (the Rail Runner), and the world’s longest tree canopy walk, with more than 16 bridges hanging 40 to 60 feet above the ground below.

Recently, Anakeesta opened AnaVista Tower, a 60 feet tall tower with amazing views of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains. Vista Gardens, where the tower is located, is a beautifully landscaped area with manicured gardens and pathway. The views are perfect for selfies overlooking the mountains.

Seth Mulder & Midnight Run entertained the crowds on the Saturday we were there and they did a great job of playing bluegrass music on the Plaza stage. FYI, they are misidentified as The Tennessee Travelers in the podcast.

Coming in the Fall of 2020 is a new restaurant, more fire pits, a family water play area, and updates to many of the adventure features.

 Mentioned in this Episode

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Sat, 8 Aug 2020 23:01:37 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-5-anakeesta Anakeesta is one of the newest attractions in the Smokies. Located in downtown Gatlinburg, Tennessee, this 70+ acre, mountain village is not going to disappoint. The Chondola takes you to the top of Anakeesta Mountain where you will experience Firefly Village with its gifts shops, the Cliff Top Grill & Bar, Aunt Pearl’s Pie in the Sky (ice cream and fried pies), and several other shops.

For those of you with an aversion to heights, like Marc, you can take the Ridge Rambler to Firefly Village. The Ridge Rambler is a 42 passenger monster truck that takes you through the forest on the ground, rather than high above on a cable!

But the real draw to Anakeesta is that it is an outdoor adventure park with zip-lines, a mountain coaster ride (the Rail Runner), and the world’s longest tree canopy walk, with more than 16 bridges hanging 40 to 60 feet above the ground below.

Recently, Anakeesta opened AnaVista Tower, a 60 feet tall tower with amazing views of Gatlinburg and the surrounding mountains. Vista Gardens, where the tower is located, is a beautifully landscaped area with manicured gardens and pathway. The views are perfect for selfies overlooking the mountains.

Seth Mulder & Midnight Run entertained the crowds on the Saturday we were there and they did a great job of playing bluegrass music on the Plaza stage. FYI, they are misidentified as The Tennessee Travelers in the podcast.

Coming in the Fall of 2020 is a new restaurant, more fire pits, a family water play area, and updates to many of the adventure features.

 Mentioned in this Episode

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Episode 5: Anakeesta Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman 00:31:36 Anakeesta is one of the newest attractions in the Smokies. This 70+ acre outdoor adventure doesn't disappoint. The Chondola takes you to the top of Anakeesta Mountain in Gatlinburg to experience Firefly Village. Anakeesta is one of the newest attractions in the Smokies. This 70+ acre outdoor adventure doesn't disappoint. The Chondola takes you to the top of Anakeesta Mountain in Gatlinburg to experience Firefly Village. cliff top grill & bar, seth mulder & midnight run, anavista tower, anakeesta mountain, seth mulder, blue bell ice cream, ridge rambler, gem mine, gatlinburg, anakeesta, vista gardens, smoky mountain attractions, anavista, ripley's aquarium of the smokies, chondola, treetop canopy walk, aunt pearl's pie in the sky, firefly village false full 5 7051e225-2641-43d6-b210-8d06ab24c85b Episode 4: Muscle Cars & War Birds Floyd Garrett's Muscle Car Museum in Sevierville, TN is home to more than 90 of the hottest muscle cars in history. Marc and Ann visited recently and talk about their favorites in the collection. Hear about the numerous Camaros, Mustangs, 442s, GTOs, Corvettes, Trans Ams, and a number of other cars on display.

The Tennessee Museum of Aviation is a 50,000 square foot building with a 35,000 square foot hanger, housing a number of American war planes from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, etc.. See these war birds up close and personal. Also you can see the Evil Knievel rocket used to jump the Snake River Canyon.

This museum is the only place you can see certain Hollywood plane props used in films and TV shows over the years. The smaller museum area displays artifacts from the USS Arizona bombed at Pearl Harbor, and hundreds of war related historical pieces.

The Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge Airport is where you will find Sky High Air Tours. Marc Hightower is the owner/pilot of a vintage 1927 Waco Model 10 Straightwing biplane. Lean about the air tours available in this historical plane.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Tue, 21 Jul 2020 23:42:56 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-4-muscle-cars-war-birds/ Floyd Garrett's Muscle Car Museum in Sevierville, TN is home to more than 90 of the hottest muscle cars in history. Marc and Ann visited recently and talk about their favorites in the collection. Hear about the numerous Camaros, Mustangs, 442s, GTOs, Corvettes, Trans Ams, and a number of other cars on display.

The Tennessee Museum of Aviation is a 50,000 square foot building with a 35,000 square foot hanger, housing a number of American war planes from World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, etc.. See these war birds up close and personal. Also you can see the Evil Knievel rocket used to jump the Snake River Canyon.

This museum is the only place you can see certain Hollywood plane props used in films and TV shows over the years. The smaller museum area displays artifacts from the USS Arizona bombed at Pearl Harbor, and hundreds of war related historical pieces.

The Gatlinburg Pigeon Forge Airport is where you will find Sky High Air Tours. Marc Hightower is the owner/pilot of a vintage 1927 Waco Model 10 Straightwing biplane. Lean about the air tours available in this historical plane.

Mentioned in this Episode:

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Episode 4: Muscle Cars & War Birds Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman 00:32:45 Marc & Ann talk about Floyd Garrett's Muscle Car Museum, the Tennessee Museum of Aviation, and Sky High Air Tours in Sevierville, Tennessee. Marc & Ann talk about Floyd Garrett's Muscle Car Museum, the Tennessee Museum of Aviation, and Sky High Air Tours in Sevierville, Tennessee. marc hightower, wwii, 63 corvette, tk harris, dodge viper, war planes, evil knievel, 1927 waco model 10 biplane, snake river, war helicopters, sevierville, tennessee museum of aviation, 55 chevy belair, john wayne, 69 camaro, muscle car museum, holston's kitchen, floyd garrett, trans am, sky high air tours false full 4 8508c2ce-a81b-4c2a-8729-9ca61272b9b5 Episode 3: Tuckaleechee Caverns Tuckaleechee Caverns is known as “The Greatest Site Under the Smokies.” And why not? It is the home of the tallest subterranean waterfall in America, at 210 feet. Ruby Falls, in nearby Chattanooga, claims to be the tallest, however, it is a mere 145 feet (wink, wink). On the plus side, visitors to Ruby Falls can actually see more of the waterfall there than you can at Tuckaleechee Caverns. Even so, Tuckaleechee Caverns is a wonderful attraction and well worth your time.

The cavern is not about the waterfall, it is about the whole cave experience. Some of the interesting things you will see are massive stalactites, stalagmites, a “bear” rock formation, a wishing pool, and a fresh water stream flowing through the caverns with water clean enough to drink. At one end of the cave is a room large enough to hold a football field at 400′ x 300′ and 150′ deep. You can enjoy exploring Tuckaleechee Caverns with your entire family.

A gift shop at the entrance is full of fun stuff you will want to take home. The t-shirts and ball caps are some of our favorites.

Marc and Ann also visited The Chocolate B’ar, a great little shop selling homemade chocolates, coffee, and soft drinks in Townsend. It is a great spot to relax, eat some chocolate, have a drink, and sit by a warm fire. Tell Kevin we said, “Hi!”

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Wed, 8 Jul 2020 15:51:44 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-3-tuckaleechee-caverns/ Tuckaleechee Caverns is known as “The Greatest Site Under the Smokies.” And why not? It is the home of the tallest subterranean waterfall in America, at 210 feet. Ruby Falls, in nearby Chattanooga, claims to be the tallest, however, it is a mere 145 feet (wink, wink). On the plus side, visitors to Ruby Falls can actually see more of the waterfall there than you can at Tuckaleechee Caverns. Even so, Tuckaleechee Caverns is a wonderful attraction and well worth your time.

The cavern is not about the waterfall, it is about the whole cave experience. Some of the interesting things you will see are massive stalactites, stalagmites, a “bear” rock formation, a wishing pool, and a fresh water stream flowing through the caverns with water clean enough to drink. At one end of the cave is a room large enough to hold a football field at 400′ x 300′ and 150′ deep. You can enjoy exploring Tuckaleechee Caverns with your entire family.

A gift shop at the entrance is full of fun stuff you will want to take home. The t-shirts and ball caps are some of our favorites.

Marc and Ann also visited The Chocolate B’ar, a great little shop selling homemade chocolates, coffee, and soft drinks in Townsend. It is a great spot to relax, eat some chocolate, have a drink, and sit by a warm fire. Tell Kevin we said, “Hi!”

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Episode 3: Tuckaleechee Caverns Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman 00:30:42 Marc and Ann recently made the 1.5 mile trek through Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend, Tennessee and share their experience with you. This cavern, near Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a treasure! Marc and Ann recently made the 1.5 mile trek through Tuckaleechee Caverns in Townsend, Tennessee and share their experience with you. This cavern, near Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a treasure! underground waterfall, townsend, waterfalls in tennessee, chocolate b'ar, tennessee caves, tallest subterranean waterfall, tuckaleechee, tuckaleechee caverns, great smoky mountain national park, townsend tennessee false full 3 4713533b-506c-4e55-8e42-61f519a2755a Episode 2: The Island in Pigeon Forge The Island in Pigeon Forge is one of the top destinations in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.  Marc and Ann spent the day there and talk about all the wonderful things you can do.

Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville Hotel, Paula Deen's Family Kitchen, The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, and Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, are just a few of the great places to visit.

The dancing fountain, surrounded by rocking chairs, is one of the attractions where guests love relax.

Marc and Ann share details about how to get discount tickets to some of the attractions.

 

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Sun, 28 Jun 2020 01:49:16 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-2-the-island-in-pigeon-forge The Island in Pigeon Forge is one of the top destinations in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.  Marc and Ann spent the day there and talk about all the wonderful things you can do.

Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville Hotel, Paula Deen's Family Kitchen, The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, and Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, are just a few of the great places to visit.

The dancing fountain, surrounded by rocking chairs, is one of the attractions where guests love relax.

Marc and Ann share details about how to get discount tickets to some of the attractions.

 

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Episode 2: The Island in Pigeon Forge Ann G. Bowman, Marc W. Bowman 00:29:28 Marc & Ann discuss their recent visit to The Island in Pigeon Forge. The Island is a destination for shopping, outdoor fun, games, and attractions. Marc & Ann discuss their recent visit to The Island in Pigeon Forge. The Island is a destination for shopping, outdoor fun, games, and attractions. mirror maze, patriot peddler, jimmy buffett, ole smoky moonshine, the alcatraz east crime museum, puzzled, paula deen's family kitchen, the cosmic pen, the escape game, pepper palace, the island in pigeon forge, margaritaville false full 2 dd61ae3f-177f-4c17-b850-589676332775 Episode 1: Ripley's Attractions Ripley Entertainment has been around for 90+ years, creating more than 100 attractions in 11 countries around the world. Gatlinburg, Tennessee is home to eight Ripley's attractions, including the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium, 

Marc and Ann recently visited both attractions in Gatlinburg then headed to Ripley's Old MacDonald Farm Mini Golf and Fun Zone Arcade in Sevierville, Tennessee.

Our first episode is all about Ripley's. Marc and Ann have a good time talking about these attractions while giving you great information about where to get discount tickets, where to park, and what to expect when you visit.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Thu, 11 Jun 2020 23:16:24 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/episode-1-ripleys-attractions/ Ripley Entertainment has been around for 90+ years, creating more than 100 attractions in 11 countries around the world. Gatlinburg, Tennessee is home to eight Ripley's attractions, including the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium, 

Marc and Ann recently visited both attractions in Gatlinburg then headed to Ripley's Old MacDonald Farm Mini Golf and Fun Zone Arcade in Sevierville, Tennessee.

Our first episode is all about Ripley's. Marc and Ann have a good time talking about these attractions while giving you great information about where to get discount tickets, where to park, and what to expect when you visit.

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Episode 1: Ripley's Attractions Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman 00:36:21 Marc & Ann talk about Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium in Gatlinburg. They also talk about Ripley's Old MacDonald's Farm Mini Golf and Ripley's Fun Zone Arcade in Sevierville. Marc & Ann talk about Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies and Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium in Gatlinburg. They also talk about Ripley's Old MacDonald's Farm Mini Golf and Ripley's Fun Zone Arcade in Sevierville. mini golf, ripley's, gatlinburg attractions, aunt mahalia's candies, gatlinburg, ripley's aquarium of the smokies, odditorium, ripley's believe it or not false full 1 8a133419-57f4-45ab-91cf-f3e262825f8d Introducing: My Smoky Mountain Guide with Marc & Ann Bowman Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina is the most visited national park in all of America, drawing more than 12.5 million people in 2019. Each of the seven gateway cities surrounding the park are unique and are beckoning you to come.

We're talking about Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Townsend, Tennessee and Cherokee, Maggie Valley, and Bryson City, North Carolina.

My Smoky Mountain Guide Podcast brings you all the latest news about upcoming events, including festivals, concerts,  live shows, and a host of other fun stuff.

Hosts Marc & Ann Bowman answer your questions and provide insight so you can plan the best vacation of your life. Where do I go for a great whitewater rafting adventure? Where can I go horseback riding in the park? Did you know you can take a helicopter tour of the Smokies? 

Our weekly podcast will answer these questions and so much more! Subscribe today!

Website MySmokyMountainGuide.com

Facebook @MySmokyMountainGuide

Instagram @MySmokyMountainGuide

Twitter @MySmokyMtnGuide

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Sat, 9 May 2020 17:45:05 +0000 podcast@mysmokymountainguide.com (Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman) https://mysmokymountainguide.com/blog/introducing-my-smoky-mountain-guide-podcast-with-marc-ann-bowman Great Smoky Mountains National Park in Tennessee and North Carolina is the most visited national park in all of America, drawing more than 12.5 million people in 2019. Each of the seven gateway cities surrounding the park are unique and are beckoning you to come.

We're talking about Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Sevierville, and Townsend, Tennessee and Cherokee, Maggie Valley, and Bryson City, North Carolina.

My Smoky Mountain Guide Podcast brings you all the latest news about upcoming events, including festivals, concerts,  live shows, and a host of other fun stuff.

Hosts Marc & Ann Bowman answer your questions and provide insight so you can plan the best vacation of your life. Where do I go for a great whitewater rafting adventure? Where can I go horseback riding in the park? Did you know you can take a helicopter tour of the Smokies? 

Our weekly podcast will answer these questions and so much more! Subscribe today!

Website MySmokyMountainGuide.com

Facebook @MySmokyMountainGuide

Instagram @MySmokyMountainGuide

Twitter @MySmokyMtnGuide

Produced by Marc & Ann Bowman

My Smoky Mountain Guide, Helping you make the most of your time in the Smokies
© 2020-2026 | Marc & Ann Bowman | Maryville, Tennessee

Artwork by Ann Bowman

Recording and editing by Marc Bowman

]]> Introducing: My Smoky Mountain Guide with Marc & Ann Bowman Marc W. Bowman, Ann G. Bowman 00:03:00 Marc & Ann Bowman talk about the latest news and upcoming events in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the seven gateway cities. Marc & Ann Bowman talk about the latest news and upcoming events in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the seven gateway cities. great smoky mountains national park, pigeon forge tn, gatlinburg tn, dollywood, townsend tn, bryson city nc, cherokee nc, maggie valley nc, sevierville tn false trailer