A Story of the Evolution of Sevierville Tourism
This is only one of the areas that has evolved with time in Sevier County. I did not think to take a picture of one of two cinemas we now have in the county.
When I took these pics, Governor’s Crossing Stadium 14 was behind me where I had just dropped my daughter off to see “Inside Out 2” with friends.
The first picture shows the Governor’s Crossing main sign. The cinema is on Hurley Dr. The road that you take to get to Hurley Dr., Governor’s Crossing, and everything else out there is Collier Dr.
When you are at the this particular red light on the Parkway in Sevierville, you have three decisions to make bc the fourth so just annoy fellow drivers and might get you pulled over by Sevierville’s finest. You can turn right into THE county’s SUPER Walmart, keep going straight to Tanger Mall, Pigeon Forge, or on up to Gatlinburg. Option 3 is to turn left and take Collier Dr to Governor’s Crossing, the theater, and some other places I might share later. The fourth option is to make a U turn at the light & potentially get in trouble.
As you turn onto Collier Dr. once you decide to go to Governor’s Crossing, the first thing you will come to on the right is no longer TGIFridays, but its replacement Roma Table. In case the name doesn’t tip you off, it’s an Italian restaurant. I haven’t been there.
Have you seen or ever been to one of the Golden Corrals in Sevier County? They have the same owners along with at least one pancake house. That road you turn onto off the Parkway? Yeah, it’s named after their family.
Anyway, back to the pics & stores in Governor’s Crossing.
I decided to snap the 2nd picture on my way to the awesome Dollar Tree that I posted about before. I was not going for a shot of GNC, but the store beside it with the name in Spanish. La Juarense means the lady from Juarez. As in the dangerous border city where women have gone missing or been found dead for over 20 years now. La Juarense is an ice cream shop. You can get a cone with a scoop or how many ever you want, but that’s not why I go. I go for the Mexican “paletas,” or popsicles. They used to sell tamales on Fridays & Saturdays, but it’s been a while since I went for tamales so idk if they still do them.
The 3rd picture is of the two restaurants that have withstood the time- Fuddruckers and Texas Roadhouse. Both are very popular. There is a wing place on the left just posted past Roma Table, but I do not remember the name of it.
The final picture is THE pic I wanted to show you! Pigeon Forge has or at least used to have Book Warehouses. But if you want a real bookstore in Sevier County, it’ll have to be Books a Million. The one in Knoxville on Kingston Pike closed a year or so ago. Now it is Ollie’s. 🙄
The reason I point out Books a Million is because THIS is where the story is for me. (No pun intended!!!) I started frequenting BAM at 16 when I began working at the Nautica outlet store in Five Oaks, what Tanger used to be called. I would go there after I got paid & buy books. Lots & lots of books. So many books that the company soon mailed me a FREE BAM membership card when I was in high school!!!
Have you ever gotten a free membership card to a somewhere bc you go so much?
Have you ever been to Governor’s Crossing?
Do you remember its glory days when Governors Palace or something similar was there with a musical show, or do you remember NASCAR Cafe? Both have been torn down for many years now.
What Sevier County secret or background should I share next???
#seviercounty #sevierville #seviercountytnevolution #change #restraunts #bookstores #cinemas
Sevierville has witnessed significant transformations in its tourism landscape over the years. From the early days of quaint attractions to the bustling entertainment hubs we see today, the city's tourism story is rich and engaging. The emergence of places like Governor’s Crossing has become a centerpiece for visitors, featuring entertainment options such as cinemas and dining establishments. For instance, restaurants like Fuddruckers and Texas Roadhouse have stood the test of time, offering nostalgic dining experiences that many locals and tourists continue to cherish. The city is also a gateway to natural attractions, positioned close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, allowing it to draw in nature enthusiasts. In addition, shopping venues like Tanger Outlets provide a shopping experience for those looking to explore various stores, making Sevierville a diverse destination. As tourism evolves, there is a growing focus on supporting local businesses, which enhances the community’s character and offers unique experiences. Importantly, the narrative of Sevierville's tourism is not only about the physical places but also the personal stories of its visitors and residents. Each restaurant, shop, and scenic spot contributes to a larger understanding of what makes this area special. The transition from the nostalgic attractions of the past to the vibrant offerings today creates a compelling backdrop for both newcomers and long-time residents to enjoy and share their experiences.
