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Mention the Great Smoky Mountain National Park and visions of majestic mountains come to mind. These mountains are filled with incredible color, crystal clear waterfalls, and mountain peaks that seem to reach the sky. Simply put, there's more beauty than you can possibly imagine. So how does a bird's eye view of those magnificent mountains sound? Believe it or not it's possible, and you don't even have to strap on a jet pack! Just grab your camera and head to Gatlinburg's Space Needle for a view you'll never forget.
Up, Up and Away
The Space Needle in Gatlinburg is a family owned and operated business that's been entertaining visitors since 1970. When you travel in its glass elevator you'll make your way 407 feet above the city of Gatlinburg to the observation deck. The deck is large enough for 250 people to get a 360-degree, breathtaking view of Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains . This is an awesome sight you won't want to forget, so bring your camera. You may even want to make two trips one to see everything by daylight, and one to enjoy the spectacular lights by night.
Loads of Fun
The fun doesn't stop after your trip to the top. When you come back down to earth make your way to Arcadia , the mega arcade and redemption center. This fun-filled area is the largest in downtown Gatlinburg with two levels and 25,000 square feet of the latest in video games. If video games aren't your style then try your skills at skeeball, basketball, and foozball. Punching bags, pool tables, air hockey, and the age-old pinball machines are available as well. Remember to save your tickets in order to trade them in for one of the great prizes available at the redemption center.
Old Favorites Take a Modern Turn
The arcade offers several other forms of entertainment, including laser tag. Colorful laser beams transform the classic game of tag into a space-age battle between good and evil. Whether you're young or young at heart, you're sure to enjoy this new twist on an old favorite.
Space Travel
By way of virtual reality you can find yourself on a space asteroid riding the MaxFlight Roller Coaster. On this awesome ride you'll soar through the air experiencing thrilling twists and turns, as well as incredible G-forces. When it's all over you'll find it hard to believe you never left the ground.
Go West, Young Man
While you can't actually visit the old west, with Old Tyme Photos you can at least look the part. Choose from a cowboy, saloon girl, bank robber, hillbilly or one of several other characters. Then dress up, smile for the camera and you'll walk away with a unique souvenir.
Before you leave, check out A Slice of Heaven, the Italian kitchen located at the Space Needle. Whether you want a light snack or you've worked up a hardy appetite, you'll find plenty to satisfy your stomach.
The Space Needle in Gatlinburg offers a day of fun and adventure the whole family can enjoy. Make sure to include it in your plans the next time you visit the Smokies.
Darryl Payne is owner of Smokies Travel Guide, which offers extensive information on Smoky Mountain cabins, activities and more. Visit them online today at http://www.smokiestravelguide.com for a complete list of Smoky Mountain cabins.
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
