The effervescent Parrot Mountain and Gardens is located just outside Pigeon Forge and is a must for families, friends, locals, and visitors. The four acres harbor hundreds of tropical birds and thousands of trees, plants, and flowers. Guests are given the opportunity to interact directly with the beautifully plumed birds, petting and feeding them in the designated area. There is even a nursery where guests are welcome to hold the baby birds. Overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains is the deck, where lunch from the deli may be enjoyed while the birds serenade. A secret garden is lush with birds flying freely and pathways that display all of the gorgeous flowers.

The historic Walser Museum is located in the fire station on the road to Stubenbach. The collection displays objects from dairy farming, alpine skiing, ecclesiastical folklore, artisanry, animal husbandry, home décor, and textile production. Opening times: From December 28 every Monday and Wednesday from 3 pm to 6 pm. Entry is free / donations welcome. Special guided tours on application. Walsermuseum Lech-Tannberg | chairwoman Veronika Walch Phone.: 0+43 (0) 664 24 23 58 | museumsverein.lech@aon.at

The exhibits on display at this local museum are mostly donations made by local residents, who experienced the turbulent 1960’s and 70’s first-hand. The over 25,000 artifacts tell a subjective, but authentic story of Derry's residents during the civil rights and Free Derry historic eras.

At the top of Mount Vodno in the village of Gorno Nerezi, is located one of the most significant cultural and historical monuments in the region - the charming 12th-century St. Pantelejmon Monastery. Here you have the chance to explore the spectacular series of frescos which present the remarkable Byzantine art.