Hanrahans' HIP Hideaways

Winter Magic Kickoff and Chili Cookoff

2010-10-25T13:17:00.000-07:00

Are you thinking chili?

Offering mouth-watering recipes of home-style chili ranging from mild and delightful to wild and adventurous, the City of Gatlinburg hosts its 21st annual Winter Magic Kickoff and Chili Cookoff on Wednesday, Nov. 10 from 5 to 8 p.m. on the popular Downtown Parkway. Read more at:

http://www.eventsgatlinburg.com/event_detail.aspx?id=11

Birds of Prey Program by naturalist Doris Mager

2010-10-08T13:11:00.000-07:00

Sugarlands Visitor Center in Gatlinburg will be the location of Birds of Pray, a presentation by natura list Doris Mager, on Saturday, October 16 at 10:30am. Know as the "Eagle Lady", Ms Mager has worked with raptors for over 35 years, and has cared for more than 80 injured eagles and hundreds of other raptors. During the program, she will have four birds with her, including an American Kestrel, a Great Horned Owl and a Screech Owl. Come, get up close and personal with some of natures most magnificent creatures!

Star Gazing In Cades Cove!

2010-09-29T07:48:00.000-07:00

Great Smoky Mountains National Park will offer a 2-hour stargazing program in Cades Cove on October 2, beginning at 7:30 p.m. in cooperation with the Smoky Mountains Astronomical Society. Experienced astronomers and numerous telescopes will be on hand to provide a discovery of the autumn sky's position of stars, galaxies, and constellations, including the Milky Way. In case of rain or cloud cover where night skies are not visible, the program will be cancelled.
According to Park Ranger Mike Maslona, "It's a great opportunity to gaze at the star-studded sky without the obstruction of artificial light as seen in developed areas outside the Park. People will be amazed at the vast depths of this planetary world and all that they can see in the complete darkness. This program mixes astronomy, legends, and the beauty of the stars to create a worthwhile exploration into the wonders of the heavens."
Participants for the program should park near the exhibit shelter at the entrance to the Cades Cove Loop Road where a ranger will be to escort the group about one-third of a mile to a nearby field. Those planning to attend should dress warmly, and bring a flashlight and a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. Also, it is suggested to bring binoculars which can be used for stargazing.
For further information, call 865/448-4104; or if there is any uncertainty about whether the event will occur because of weather conditions, call the day of the event for its status.

Smoky Mountain Storytelling Festival!!!

2010-06-09T18:33:00.000-07:00

Smoky Mt. Storytelling Festival, Thursday, Friday, Saturday at the Grand Majestic, Pigeon Forge. Workshops, Concerts & MORE. $25 three days, $10 one day. Don't miss Late Nights 8:30 at Sprit of Smokies Lodge $5 at door: Thursday, Tall Tales; Friday, Haunts and Haints; Saturday, ...These Ain't Momma's Stories benefit Smoky Mountain Storytellers Association. Hope to see you there!

Ribfest and Wings!!!

2010-04-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

Thursday, April 22 in the streets of downtown Gatlinburg...it's time for Ribfest and Wings! Don't miss this wandering feast from 5 to 9 PM! A $12 armband allows unlimited sampling until they run out! http://www.eventsgatlinburg.com/event_detail.aspx?id=27

Integrity Cleaning Service

2010-04-10T10:47:00.000-07:00

More important to us than location or amenities, is the cleanliness of our properties. We are excited to introduce our new cleaning contractors: Integrity Cleaning Service! We hope you will be as pleased as we are with the quality of their work. With their excellent references, licensed and insured status, and the immediate connection with owner, Jimmy Jones, we are sure this is a business match made in heaven! www.integritycleanerstn.com

Spring Thaw.....Wake up to fun!

2010-03-02T05:38:00.000-08:00

After a record-breaking winter, we're ALL ready for Spring! Come visit Gatlinburg before the crowds arrive! You'll find less traffic, less waiting and great deals on lodging, shopping and meals! There's plenty to do, even before Dollywood reopens on March 27, with the Festival of Nations. Join us for Smoky Mountain Springfest!

The new Penguin Exhibit will be launched at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies!

The Santas are returning, so you never know where you'll bump into those twinkling eyes and droll smile. They will all turn out in their Santa finery for the Holly and Shamrock Parade on March 13 in downtown Gatlinburg.

The mountains begin to don their wildflower array this month, so your scenic drives and hikes are awash with their delicate beauty. This all culminates in the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage in April.

The Arts and Crafts Community Show fills the Gatlinburg Convention Center with some of the finest examples of tradition mountain arts: woodcarving, painting, jewelry making, candles, candy, furniture....get a jump start on your 2010 gift-giving with some truly unique ideas. Show begins March 31 through April 3.

http://www.eventsgatlinburg.com/search.aspx?spring=1
http://www.dollywood.com/calendar.aspx

Art-cation in Gatlinburg at the Arrowmont School

2010-01-16T07:19:00.000-08:00

Whether trying your hand at something new, or honing your skills with area experts, a one-week workshop at Arrowmont School of the Arts in Gatlinburg has something for you! From glass to metal, from clay to fiber, from painting to woodworking, its all here. Beginning at the end of May and running through October, Arrowmont offers one-week workshops with some of the best artisans in the country. Make this summer vacation one that gives you a new (or improved) skill to take home with you. Visit http://arrowmont.org/2010workshop-preview.html for details!

HIP-est Follower Contest Winner!!!

2010-01-08T11:45:00.000-08:00

January Winner:

Greetings to all of our followers, and thanks for reading our blog and checking back! Our newest winner of the Hip-est Follower give-away is charity elkins! Congratulations! You are entitled to two free nights in a one or two bedroom condo, good any time except July 4 and December 31. This give-away is valid for one year from today's date!

Thank you again, we appreciate your support.

Silent, Snowy World

2010-01-08T11:21:00.000-08:00

Its amazing how quiet it gets when snow is falling...the world gets cozy in its blanket and curls up for a nap!

Stay safe on the roads as you come to visit us here in the Smoky Mountains. Check road conditions at 865-436-1200, ext 631.

If you are prepared with the right vehicle and clothing, its a great time to visit Gatlinburg! You won't find the summer crowds, or heat. Most places are offering off-season discounts and the shops have sales galore. The Gatlinburg Winter Magic is still glowing all over town, and the Trolley Ride of Lights continues until January 30.

The Santa Clauses are coming to town again this year for their 2010 convention March 13-16. Any children lucky enough to be visiting then will bump into Santa everywhere! The fun spills into the streets for the Holly and Shamrock Parade:

http://www.hollyandshamrock.com/

Holiday Season is Here!

2009-10-30T08:58:00.000-07:00

The cities of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville are putting on the Holiday finery! The great unveiling of the Winter Festival of Lights happens on November 4, along with the Chili Cook-off. With the official start of the season, the theaters in Pigeon Forge are starting their Holiday shows! Tunes and Tales resumes in the streets of Gatlinburg, as well as the Trolley Ride of Lights! Its a great time to visit, enjoy the festive spirit, get some shopping done, and avoid the crowds of the summer. See our website for great specials, including book 3 nights, pay for 2!

www.eventsgatlinburg.com

HIP-est Follower Contest Winner

2009-10-28T07:50:00.000-07:00

Greetings to all of our followers, and thanks for reading our blog and checking back! Our newest winner of the Hip-est Follower give-away is timm241! Congratulations! You are entitled to two free nights in a one or two bedroom condo, good any time except July 4 and December 31. This give-away is valid for one year from today's date!

Thank you again, we appreciate your support.

Family, friends, and life!

2009-10-05T11:01:00.000-07:00

I am just returned from a visit with my mom, brothers and sisters and their families! It was wonderful!! The children are growing fast and becoming more themselves. We are looking more middle-aged everytime we get together....how did that happen? We're still kids ourselves....aren't we?

The whole experience reminds me once again that life is precious and fragile and we must savor every moment. The trick is to keep the moments you live for from getting lost amoung the things you live through! Has anybody figured it out???

Have you told the people you love how you feel about them lately?

Fall is Right Around the Corner

2009-08-28T11:43:00.000-07:00

Its hard to believe, but Fall is almost here! At the higher elevations in the Smokies, leaves are already beginning to show some color. Predictions are for a vibrant display this year, due to the plentiful rain all spring and summer! Have you booked your place to stay yet?

Read more about it on the National Park website:

http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/fallcolor.htm

The Craftsmen's Fair also happens at the Gatlinburg Convention Center in October...come get a head start on some Christmas Shopping! For more to do in Gatlinburg in the Fall see the Chamber Events Calendar:

http://www.eventsgatlinburg.com/search.aspx?fall=1

Visit our Brand New Website!

2009-07-30T11:28:00.000-07:00

We've just launched our new website and are very excited about how it looks! We've tried to make it more user-friendly and more informative....hope you agree!

Thanks for visiting us at www.gatlinburgcondosandcabins.com

New feedback from our guests!

2009-07-28T08:22:00.000-07:00

July 2008

Stella wrote: It was a joy to meet you. Thanks again for all of your help with the best vacation ever.

eBay feedback:

Wonderful! - communication, transaction, condo and great vacation. Thank you!
Jul-26-09 07:39

Excellent Item. Will do business with this ebayer again!!! Thank you!!!!!!
Buyer:
Jul-20-09 06:57

A+++++++++. Very honest and great transaction.
Jul-17-09 12:01

Fourth of July Festivities!

2009-06-25T11:18:00.000-07:00

Don't miss it! One of the highlights of the year in Gatlinburg are the 24 hours celebrating the Birth of our Nation! Beginning at 12:01 AM, the Midnight Parade is the first in the country. Lighted floats, marching bands, clowns, the Shriners, military personnel, police and fire vehicles all take part in this parade from City Hall on Highway 321 all the way to traffic light #10. This year, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of Smoky Mountains National Park, the parade will recreate the FDR motorcade with actor David Keith as Grand Marshall in the role of FDR. http://www.gatlinburg-tennessee.com/files/09posterflyer.pdf

At noon on July 4, is the River Regatta in the Little Pigeon River in downtown Gatlinburg. The evening brings a concert in the plaza of Ripley's Aquarium featuring Fiddlers Restrung at 8:30 PM. Following the concert with be the Spectacular Fireworks Extravaganza at 9:30 PM. Celebrate with us!

eBay Testimonials

2009-06-25T07:43:00.000-07:00

June 2009: Condo value worth well more than the price paid. Very nice condo in a nice location!

May 2009: Very nice clean condo! Thank you so much Maryann and Warren. Great Host and Value!

May 2009: Easy easy transaction, and a GREAT price! Take advantage of it if you can.

April 2009: Better than I could have imagined. Wonderful eBay experience. Thanks!

April 2009: Good Location/Convenient/Good Deal 4 the Price.

March 2009: Gread deal super nice folks! A++++

March 2009: Just got back from a great stay here. Already planning the next trip!

The Davis Family says:

2009-06-25T07:23:00.000-07:00

Maryann and Warren,
Thank you for a lovely stay in Gatlinburg. The accommodations were just as you described! May God bless and keep you safe.

Winner of our first HIP-est Follower drawing!

2009-06-01T15:30:00.000-07:00

drumdad4 you're the winner! Call us to book your free 2-night stay in a 1/1 or 2/2 condo! Congratulations and thanks for following our blog!

Battle of Burg Hill

2009-06-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

Presented by the Southern Guards Battalion, this Civil War re-enactment is living history!

On Fathers' Day Weekend, June19-21, history will come to life before our eyes. Beginning with the 6:00 PM Parade in downtown Gatlinburg "The Siege of Gatlinburg", followed by two days of activities at Mills Park, you'll see what it was really like. Each actor is a living historian, knowledgeable about the daily life of a soldier, equipment, amunition and weapons, cavalry, and artillery of the day. The mornings will be filled with all sorts of demonstrations and skits, including a chance to ask questions. At 2:00 PM, "canons blaze and soldiers charge!" as the Battle of Burg Hill is re-created.

Free parking at Mills Park, with shuttle service to the battle grounds. Its all FREE!

http://www.eventsgatlinburg.com/event_detail.aspx?id=35

75th Anniversary Concert: Music in Cades Cove

2009-05-30T08:13:00.000-07:00

In celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cades Cove will be the site of an afternoon of music with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, featuring Senator Lamar Alexander on the piano! This will be a unique and exciting event!

Access will be by car pass (a maximum of 1500 will be sold) purchased in advance only. Car pass sales are through the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra box office only...865-291-3310. Cades Cove will be closed to all other traffic for that day.

Please read the information in the link below for all of the details, including what you are allowed to bring and what you are not allowed to bring.

http://greatsmokies75th.org/files/pdf/CadesCoveKSO.pdf

Fireflies!

2009-05-23T11:43:00.000-07:00

Its time for the synchronous fireflies display in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!

http://www.nps.gov/grsm/naturescience/fireflies.htm

The firefly beetle responsible for the awesome synchronized show, Photinus Carolinus, is best seen in Elkmont and usually starts around the second week in June. The start and duration of the fireflies mating behavior can vary depending on when they emerged, current temperature and other factors. Its impossible to know the exact dates, but City of Gatlinburg trolleys will be running from June 6th to the 14th. For the cost of $1.00 per person, you can ride a trolley from the Sugarlands visitor center parking lot to Elkmont. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park will close Elmont Road from 5 pm to 12 pm to all vehicles other than those of registered campers in Elkmont Campgrounds. You can't park in any of the pull-offs or along the road during the times the shuttles are running. The trolleys to take you to the Elkmont synchronized firefly display run from 6 pm to 9 pm or will stop sooner if the parking area is full. Though the last trolley is scheduled to leave Elkmont by 11:00 pm it sometimes runs later as needed. Since it is unsafe to walk or bike along roadways at night, you must take the trolley if you want to see the firefly display.
You may bring along a blanket or small folding chair and your own food and drink (NO alcoholic beverages). Coolers are not allowed and what you bring must fit on your lap in the trolley. A small flashlight with a red or blue lense cover so as not to disturb others is recommended.

Gatlinburg Goes Green

2009-05-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

Our little town has mounted a huge effort to "go green" as a gift for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park 75th Anniversary! As relative newcomers to the area, Warren and I are very impressed by the efforts that are being put forth to preserve the gem of nature in our backyard! In addition to Gatlinburg's efforts, Sevier County is also very pro-active in preserving our environment. Just some the changes already in place:

Gatlinburg's trolley system, used by nearly 800,000 riders in 2008, is the fifth largest mass transit system in the state. The 20+ trolley fleet is fueled by ultra low sulphur biodiesel.

The Gatlinburg Convention Center has reduced it kilowatt hours usage by 31% over the past year.

City of Gatlinburg Winterfest light displays have been converted entirely to LED bulbs over the past 3 years, saving more than 75% on power bills for the 5 month period.

Gatlinburg Wastewater treatment plant has increased efficiency, resulting in a 22% reduction in electrical consumption. The facility has also been honored with the Operational Excellence Award for 2008.

The Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce has launched a "Gatlinburg Goes Green" campaign to encourage area businesses to make environmentally-friendly changes in their operations. The goal is 75% participation to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the National Park.

The brand new Sevier County Composting Facility (one of only eight in the WORLD) went into operation. This state-of-the-art facility converts 70% of our solid waste into compost, leaving only 30% going to landfills.

We are proud to be part of a community taking seriously the responsibility to care for our earth!

Smoky Mountain Tunes & Tales

2009-05-12T13:10:00.000-07:00

One of the really cool things about Gatlinburg in the summer is you never know who you'll meet while strolling downtown. This is true partly because people are visiting from all over, and partly because of Tunes & Tales.

Beginning June 12 on Friday and Saturday evenings and beginning June 26 every evening until August 8, the Parkway downtown is a stage! Twenty acts on a rotating schedule stroll the heart of downtown from 5-10 pm and provide interactive entertainment. Musicians, singers, a quilter, a bear, an 1800's schoolmarm, storytellers, and cloggers are all among the performers who will keep you so engrossed you'll forget you're learning something about Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains!

Great Smoky Mountains Arts and Crafts Community of Gatlinburg

2009-05-08T16:12:00.000-07:00

http://www.gatlinburgcrafts.com/

One of the most unique treasures you will find in Galtinburg is "the Glades" aka The Arts & Crafts Community. For over 70 years, this area has drawn crafts men and women to live and create among other artists. It is now the largest enclave of independent artisans in North America!

This eight-mile loop, located just three miles from downtown Gatlingurg, is home to over 100 studios, galleries, shops and eateries. You will find candlemakers, basketweavers, woodcarvers, photographers, dulcimer makers, jewelers, painters, sculptors, potters, broom makers, quilters, candy makers, weavers, spinners....all the traditional mountain arts, and some less traditional. The beauty of the place is that this is where the artists live and work, so many are on site as you visit. You can watch them work, talk with them, purchase a piece and have it signed. Some artists even offer classes, demonstrations and private instruction.

This is a rich tradition in East Tennessee, deeply ingrained in the local culture. Many of these artists are from families that have lived and worked here for many generations, so they know and love this beautiful place!

The yellow trolley runs from Gatlinburg to the Glades for only a one dollar fare. You may also like to drive, and there is plenty of free parking. The website link at the top of the article shows a map listing all the shops and galleries, as well as an alphabetical listing of all of the members shops, with phone numbers and websites.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

2009-05-03T11:22:00.000-07:00

http://www.nps.gov/grsm

http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/trip-planner.htm

One of the most wonderful treasures of this area of the country is the Smokies! With over 800 square miles of land at the Tennessee/North Carolina border, the Smokies are home to over 10,000 identified species (scientists believe only 12% of resident species have been identified) and elevations from over 6600 feet to 875 feet, making it a world-renowned center of bio-diversity! Some of the largest stands of old-growth forest in the eastern US are located here. We even qualify as a temperate rain forest in the highest elevations, with over 85 inches of rain a year!

The Appalachian Trail runs along the ridgeline in the park, only one of 150 official trails throughout the park. Whether you want secluded forest paths, waterfalls, or strenuous hikes to endless vistas, its all here. Get detailed information, descriptions and maps at the links above.

FREE is a wonderful word, especially when it is paired with FUN, family adventures! You don't have to spend a lot of money to vacation in the Smokies. The park is full of free or almost-free things to do from hiking, biking and horseback riding, to fishing, tubing, rafting, or just drinking in the beauty! There are also ranger-led programs available, many of them free as well.

If you are interested in learning more about this natural splendor, check out the Smoky Mountain Field School (through University of Tennessee) at http://www.ce.utk.edu/Smoky/ There are many classes offered throughout the spring, summer and fall.

More information to come about things to do in Gatlinburg and the surrounding area, but don't come to visit without planning to spend some time in this national treasure! This year is the park's 75th Anniversary, so many special events are planned the you won't want to miss. Get more details at http://www.nps.gov/grsm/parknews/75th-anniversary.htm

"The HIP-est Follower Society"

2009-05-01T14:00:00.000-07:00

You heard it here, first! Join as a follower of our blog (its free!) and you are automatically a member of "The HIP-est Follower Society" Along with that boost to your status, your name will be entered into a drawing for a wonderful prize, a winner every 3 months! Two free nights of lodging in your choice of our available 1/1 or 2/2 condos.

Drawing will be held once each quarter, beginning June 1, 2009, and the winner will be announced on the blog. This contest IS open to friends and family, but you can't win more than one time per year, and you can't combine a free stay with any other discounts or promotions. Prize must be used within one year of the date you win. Only two black out dates: July 4 and December 31.

Our goal is to help you get the most bang for your vacation dollar!!!

We are Smokin' in the Smokies and you will be too! There is so much to do here, no matter what your interests are. We'll help you plan for a trip filled with FUN!!

Tickets for Aquarium and Dollywood/Splash Country

2009-04-29T10:08:00.000-07:00

As we learn more and more about available programs in the area, we are adding value for our guests!

Last month we added tickets for Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies to our offerings. Tickets are available for purchase at our office at regular pricing: $22.29 adult, $12.25 children 6-11 and $5.56 children 2-5. As a special Guest Appreciation offering, with an online or undiscounted reservation, guests may purchase one ticket at half-price for each paid night of their stay. This may be used with free-night packages: Book 4 nights, pay for 3, the guests may purchase 3 tickets at half-price!

Our newest offering is for 2 programs offered through Dollywood/Splash Country:

"Play Another Day" is available exclusively through lodging affiliates. This ticket is priced as a regular 1-day admission to Dollywood, but entitles you to a second day FREE! You have 3 days to use the 2 admissions AND if you arrive after 3pm on your second day, you can come back the next day FREE. If you plan it right, you can get 2 1/2 days for the price of 1. The pricing is: $53.50 adult, $50.20 senior (60+), $42.35 children 4-11.

"Splash & Play" is available at the gate as well as through lodging affiliates, but the gate price is higher. This is a 3-day ticket for any combination of Dollywood and Splash Country, that may be used over a 7-day period. The pricing for these tickets is: $85.85 adults, $69.15 children 4-11, so you get 3 days for less than the price of 2.

We are so excited to offer these extra values to our guests! We want to help make your visit to Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains to be totally fun-filled and affordable.

It is SO beautiful here!

2009-04-27T11:23:00.000-07:00

We just love living in Gatlinburg!

April has been a variable month, with snowfall on April 3 and 90 degrees on April 26! With that said, its a beautiful month to be here. Everything is blooming, the birds are nesting, and the bears are roaming! This Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage just ended, and Ribfest and Wings was a smash hit on April 23.

Quattro de Mayo, the Audi and VW auto show is going on now. See http://www.cherokeeaudiclub.com/ for more information.

On May 15-17 will be the Gatlinburg Scottish Festival and Games at Mills Park. More info at http://www.gsfg.org/

Get all the details about the Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival at http://www.gfaf.net. This event is held at Ripley's Aquarium Plaza and admission is FREE

Of course the end of the month brings Memorial Day and the official start of the summer season! For the BEST deals and to avoid the crowds Summer brings, come visit us soon!

A new leap into cyberspace!

2009-04-26T13:06:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are...not sure exactly how this works, but wanting to learn!

We've made a mid-life change in our lives and are very excited! Leaving the security of full-time paychecks and benefits to be self-employed is scary any time. To make that leap of faith as you approach the age of 50...well some might call it crazy! It has been an adventure, indeed, but we don't have any regrets!

We (Warren and Maryann) are going on four years of marriage and going on two years as business owners in Gatlinburg, TN. We purchased a vacation lodging business and rent privately-owned condos, cabins and chalets for your vacation enjoyment. Our heart is to serve all those the Lord brings our way and we hope to show YOU the HIP difference in vacation rentals!

Our goal is to provide a clean, comfortable, cozy personal paradise while you enjoy the outrageous beauty and FUN of the natural paradise around you! There is so much to see and do here and we'll be talking it up in the weeks ahead.

Blessings to you and your Dear Ones!