What Is A Snowbird?
Migratory birds (in other words birds with common sense!) flee the cold, harsh winters
of the north for the warm weather of the south. Like these smart birds, "snowbirds"
refer to the huge population of people that spend their winters in the south, and
summers in the north. And who can blame them? They avoid the dreary gray days, biting
winds, filthy slush, and back breaking shoveling and opt instead for green gardens,
sandy beaches, and balmy winds. Of course, there is also a reverse migration in
the hot, summer months, when people flee the south to the more temperate climates
to the north. Many of these so-called snowbirds eventually tire of the annual migration,
and become "half-backs," settling permanently in the middle in states like Tennessee,
with its year-round temperate conditions.
Migration Considerations
There are obviously many states and cities to which snowbirds may migrate. If you
are contemplating this lifestyle, here are some factors to consider.
Of course, average temperature is THE number one reason anyone decides to migrate
during the seasons. But aside from the temperature, you should consider whether
you'd like to be on the beaches or the in the desert. Do you prefer dry or rainy?
Are you concerned about hurricanes, tornados, or earthquakes? Do you like the feel
of being out in the woods, or up in the mountains? Remember, every area has its
positive attributes and its drawbacks.
What do you like to do? Would you like to spend your free time fishing, boating
or golfing? Maybe you are an outdoor lover, and like hiking, biking, or taking long
walks? Perhaps you prefer shopping and antiquing. Do you want to become involved
in the community by volunteering or attending social functions? Is your goal to
find a peaceful place to relax, or be near a city with lots of things to do? This
issue is critical in the migration location process.
What will you want to do while during your migration? See movies, go to restaurants?
Explore historical landmarks, visit national parks? Enjoy theme parks, or find treasures
at flea markets? Again, before you choose a migration destination, you'll want to
consider these issues to ensure a happy stay.
Finally, for many people, especially those at retirement age, the proximity of health
care facilities can be an important factor. Make sure that you learn about an area's
services before you commit to migrating there. Other services of importance to you
may be churches and financial services. Snowbirds need to take time to figure out
what is truly important to them-what will truly make them happy-before they pick
a place to land.
Why Gatlinburg, Tennessee?
Gatlinburg, TN Weather
Our weather is delightfully temperate year-round, whether you are escaping the summer
heat or fleeing the winter cold. Here are the monthly average highs and lows you
can expect in Gatlinburg, TN. Come experience mild winters, real springs with wildflowers,
bearable summers, and beautiful fall colors. You can't go wrong in any season.
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January: 45º, 34º
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May: 77º, 64º
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September: 80º, 68º
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February: 50º, 38º
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June: 84º, 71º
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October: 69º, 56º
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March: 60º, 47º
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July: 86º, 75º
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November: 59º, 46º
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April: 69º, 55º
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August: 86º, 74º
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December: 49º, 38º
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Easiness to Get To the Cities
Gatlinburg is full of things to do year-round, and is surrounded
by the nation's most popular national park. Many of its visitors come annually.
While staying in Gatlinburg, you'll be nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains, where
great views abound. Nearby is the family-oriented city of
Pigeon Forge.
This city of filled with amusement parks like Dollywood - the Great Smoky Mountain's
family fun vacation adventure with great shows, thrilling roller coasters, festivals,
and kiddie rides, shopping and restaurants.
Sevierville is another
neighboring city, featuring shopping, and live shows. You'll never be bored with
a visit or move to Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg is within a day's drive of half the country's
population. So, it's easy to get to! We're on the way to and from everywhere!
Gatlinburg Attractions
There is so much to see in Gatlinburg, it would take too much space to list them!
Here are a few of our favorites that you'll be sure to enjoy. The Great Smoky Arts
& Crafts Community features over 60 artisans in an 8 mile loop away from the hustle
and bustle of downtown. Arrowmont is a world-renowned art facility which offers
classes year-round. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park borders the city of
Gatlinburg, and there are endless hikes, and classes which you may take advantage
of Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, Ober Gatlinburg, Christus Gardens, and Smoky
Mountain Winery are all fun places to explore. Finally, you'll enjoy shopping in
Gatlinburg, whether you're looking for unique handmade crafts or specialty shops.
Outdoor Activities
Gatlinburg plans many Special Events throughout the year for the enjoyment of both
its residents and visitors. A few of the larger events include the Wildflower Pilgrimage,
Scottish Festival & Games, 4th of July Parade, Christmas Parade, Chili Cook-off,
Rib Fest, Arts & Crafts Shows, Festival of Trees, plus the New Year's Eve Ball Drop
& Fireworks Show. In addition to these special events, you can enjoy golfing and
fishing nearly every day, if you're motivated, in Gatlinburg Tennessee.
Local Services
Worried about medical care if you visit or move here? We have a regional hospital
in the city of Sevierville called
Fort Sanders Sevier Medical Center. This facility can handle most medical
situations. For extreme emergencies, the county also can airlift via helicopter
to one of the numerous hospitals in
Knoxville. If you are a church-goer,
have no fear! Gatlinburg offers churches galore! What else can you expect to find?
Banks, real estate agents, insurance professionals, and pharmacies are located throughout
the city. And, Gatlinburg is home to many
restaurants, from fine dining
to casual, offering a variety of meal options for all taste buds.