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  • Exploring the Beauty of Broken Bow Lake: A Must-See Destination for Outdoor Enthusiasts

    Nestled in the verdant landscapes of southeast Oklahoma, Broken Bow Lake stands as a breathtaking jewel near the town of Broken Bow. This exquisitely picturesque lake, situated in proximity to the Texas and Arkansas borders, beckons travelers with its allure, just a leisurely three-hour drive from bustling Dallas, Texas. Renowned as a cherished weekend sanctuary for lake enthusiasts across the southern region, Broken Bow Lake captivates visitors with its natural splendor. Embraced by the majestic Kiamichi Mountains and enveloped by the lush expanse of the Ouachita National Forest, Broken Bow Lake offers a scenic haven like no other. Spanning approximately 14,000 acres, this sizable lake boasts pristine, azure waters that enthrall outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. With its origins dating back to the late 1960s, Broken Bow Lake was meticulously crafted and officially opened to the public in 1970, transforming Old Hochatown into a submerged memory. Situated alongside the meandering Mountain Fork River, the lake is conveniently nestled just 8 miles north of the charming town of Broken Bow, Oklahoma, with the newly re-established community of Hochatown (Nov., 2022) serving as the gateway to this captivating destination. Blessed with a diverse ecosystem, Broken Bow Lake offers an array of recreational opportunities, from trout fishing to bass angling, providing fishermen and fisherwomen with unique experiences amidst its tranquil waters. The pristine Mountain Fork River not only feeds the lake with its cool, crystalline currents but also provides idyllic settings for kayaking adventures. Surrounded by picturesque state parks, Broken Bow Lake boasts some of the most captivating natural landscapes in the southern United States, offering visitors a sanctuary of serenity and natural beauty. A favored weekend retreat for travelers from Texas, Arkansas, and beyond, Broken Bow Lake remains an enduring testament to the timeless allure of nature's wonders and the best of what Oklahoma has to offer. Stay at Retro Rose Retreat for an extra-special visit. We have a half-circle driveway that will fit a large vehicle and boat trailer, with room to spare. For more information, visit: www.brokenbowlake.org

  • Ultimate Tennessee Smoky Mountain Honeymoon Planning Tips

    You've tied the knot and now it is time to make the perfect getaway with your sweetheart! What better place to start your life together than on a honeymoon in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and the Smoky Mountains? Start planning your honeymoon today with these ideas on where to stay, what to do, and where to eat. Where to Stay When planning your lodging for your Pigeon Forge honeymoon, we have one piece of advice: think cozy. There's nothing better than being able to return to a quiet, warm atmosphere after a long day of exploring and adventuring with your sweetheart. Book a Tennessee Smokies "Honeymoon Cabin" A honeymoon cabin is a 1-bedroom cabin. Bonus points if it has a fireplace, an arcade game, and a private hot tub on a screened-in porch. Cozy up to your love and make magical memories. Smokies Cabins with Fireplaces There has been a trend in the Smokies toward electric fireplaces due to their ease of use. Our larger cabin has one. However, for a Honeymoon Cabin, you was a gas or wood-burning fireplace to provide the warmth and atmosphere you desire. Cabins with Hot Tubs You will also see a lot of variables with hot tubs in the area. Ours are completely private and located on screened-in porches to keep uninvited guests away. Our hot tubs are drained, cleaned, then refilled with filtered water between each guest so you can relax and enjoy your sweetie. What To Do You can't go wrong with a honeymoon in Pigeon Forge. There are endless activities to try out. Whether you're looking to work together as a couple or go head to head in a challenge, you'll find plenty to do in the Smoky Mountains. Exploring the Great Outdoors There's nothing quite like the experience of exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and doing it with the one you love makes the experience unforgettable. On your honeymoon in Gatlinburg, carve out some time to get out in nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Some of the most popular ways to see the national park include hiking, biking and taking scenic drives. Take in One of the Many Smokies Area Shows Laugh until you cry, work through the details of a crime or watch in awe as performers sing and dance to your favorite songs. Pigeon Forge shows offer a wide variety of entertainment perfect for your honeymoon. Choose a show that intrigues both you and your new spouse then sit back and enjoy the performance. There are even several dinner shows where you can enjoy both the show and an incredible southern meal. Experience and Adrenaline Rush Like No Other Fly into life as newlyweds on a Pigeon Forge zip line adventure! Zip lining is an adrenaline rush that is safe and offers incredible views of the mountains. You'll be strapped into a harness and then taken on a birds eye tour of the trees as you glide from one platform to another. Trying out a new activity on your honeymoon will make for lasting memories and a fun-filled trip. There are many zip line experiences in the area to choose from. Another favorite adrenaline rush activity are the many alpine coasters found throughout the area. A Little Friendly Competiton A little healthy competition never hurt anybody and it can make for some fun rivalry between you and your loved one! Head to a Pigeon Forge go kart track and get ready to race. Go karting brings out the competitive side to everyone who tries it. Zip around the track side by side in a test to see who really is the better driver!A little healthy competition never hurt anybody and it can make for some fun rivalry between you and your loved one! Head to a Pigeon Forge go kart track and get ready to race. Go karting brings out the competitive side to everyone who tries it. Zip around the track side by side in a test to see who really is the better driver! A few other competitive activities include bowling at Downtown Flavortown, mini golf, axe throwing, and the many arcades. The Island Pigeon Forge is a Fun Night Out The Island is a hub for shopping, dining, games, rides and more in Pigeon Forge. It's a perfect place for newlyweds to explore during the day but it is even more incredible at night. Head out after dark to watch the fountain water show with an incredible array of lights and music from the comfort of a rocking chair. Then, take a ride on the largest observation wheel in Tennessee and see the area from a new angle. There are many photo ops set up to make sure you record your Honeymoon adventures. Where To Eat You just got married, now it's time to splurge and treat yourself! Meals are a great time to sit down and reflect with your brand new husband or wife and reflect on your wedding day. These restaurants are must-visits for your trip. If you are staying at a Great Escape Shop cabin, you will receive a thorough list of restaurant and activity recommendations in a constantly updated digital guidebook. Here's the "Top 3 Most Romantic Restaurants": Ristorante DellaSantina, Sevierville Tuscan Italian-Unpretentious riverside venue serving Italian fare including meat dishes, pasta, seafood & desserts. Always made fresh and in house, often of organic ingredients. Chesapeake's Seafood and Raw Bar, Gatlinburg Fresh, flown in daily seafood-It's a short drive to Gatlinburg for this area favorite. The Appalachian, Sevierville Contemporary Southern Appalachian Culinary Dining-Located in the Historic District of Sevierville, a beautiful area full of photo ops. Chef David Rule brings his immense culinary experience to the Smokies and literally adds smoky flavors to fresh ingredients. Dolly Parton ate here on a recent visit. No matter what you choose to do, take time during your honeymoon in the Smoky Mountains to step back and appreciate the new life you are beginning together. Make lasting memories that you'll look back on and smile about on every anniversary to come. While you are at it, plan on returning for those milestone anniversaries. We would love to have you back!

  • Sippin' Secrets: The Covert Ties Between Mountain Dew and Moonshine Culture

    Mountain Dew wasn’t my soda of choice growing up. My brother and guy friends were drinking it like water after the great re-branding of the early 90s when they stopped with the cartoon hillbillies, became EXTREME for Gen X, and debuted its Code Red flavor. I did start “Doing the Dew” when I was well into adulthood, after not drinking a single cola in 20 years. I’m cutting back on sodas today, even the citrusy ones, for health reasons but I'll admit Diet Mountain Dew is probably my favorite carbonated beverage. The Beginnings Originally, Mountain Dew had a transparent appearance coupled with a refreshing lemon-lime flavor akin to beverages like 7Up or Sprite. The original formula, quite distinct from the modern rendition, emerged in the early 1940s through the inventive minds of two soda pop enthusiasts. The journey of Mountain Dew, as we recognize it today, traces back to the relocation of two Georgia natives, Barney and Ally Hartman, to Knoxville, where their desire for a distinctive beverage took root. Formerly engaged in the soda pop business in Augusta, Georgia, the Hartman brothers faced challenges when Orange Crush, the soda pop company they worked for, went bankrupt during the early years of the Depression. The brothers, now in Knoxville, ventured into the beer industry in 1933 right after the end of Prohibition. By 1934, they expanded their offerings by introducing Pepsi-Cola and discontinuing Orange Crush. Following long days of bottling soda, the brothers sought relaxation with bourbon whiskey mixed with a carbonated lemon-lime drink called Natural Setup. As Natural Setup was scarce in that region, they took matters into their own hands and recreated it using their bottling plant. Assisted by a skilled flavor mixer, they not only crafted it for personal enjoyment but also shared it with friends. How is Mountain Dew connected to moonshine? Fast forward to the early 1940s, and the brothers found themselves with a lemon-lime soda mixer that perfectly complemented whiskey, making it an ideal pairing for high-quality moonshine, known colloquially as Mountain Dew. The concoction became a sensation among their friends and family, prompting them to consider commercializing it. The drink officially debuted at a bottling convention in Gatlinburg in 1964. Concurrently, the early 1960s saw a significant interest in Appalachian themes, particularly the culture of mountain folk and the allure of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Seizing this trend, brothers Barney and Ally embraced a hillbilly marketing strategy, featuring barefoot, overall-clad mountaineers holding a jug of Dew in one hand and a rifle in the other. The catchy tagline "It'll tickle yore innards!" quickly gained popularity. The hillbilly-themed branding of Mountain Dew On larger bottles, the hillbilly character was depicted dashing out of an outhouse, taking shots at revenuers. Despite the clever marketing, the beverage failed to gain widespread popularity. That changed when a Johnson City bottler stepped in. Tri-City Beverage admired the thematic elements and the distinctive green bottles, prompting them to acquire a franchise to produce Mountain Dew. However, the initial product struggled to sell. Collaborating with the same mix master who had assisted the Hartman brothers in creating the original Dew, Tri-City Beverage introduced Tri-City Lemonade. This variant, rich in caffeine and sugar, proved far more successful than the original Dew. Recognizing its potential, the corporation purchased the formula, filled Mountain Dew bottles with the lemonade, and suddenly found themselves with a hit that attracted the attention of major players. This led to Pepsi-Cola purchasing the Mountain Dew brand in 1964. Initially, Pepsico embraced the hillbilly theme. Pepsi-Cola Company was working to establish Mountain Dew as a global brand by employing mountain stereotypes in its marketing. In 1964, at the Pepsi bottling convention, the company constructed a hillbilly cabin in the Waldorf-Astoria ballroom in New York, featuring "Daisy Mae" offering samples of the mountain elixir. However, as the 1970s approached, Pepsi began to shift away from hillbilly-themed marketing, signaling a transformative chapter in the history of Mountain Dew. Retaining some elements, such as bare feet, the company started targeting the urban free spirit of the post-hippie generation. The precursor to the extreme marketing campaigns of the 90s emerged with the slogan: "Get that barefoot feeling," laying the groundwork for the eventual theme of the 90s – "Get wild, get free. Drink our extremely caffeinated soda!" Mountain Dew today Mountain Dew's branding stayed robust, leading the decision-makers to opt for introducing new "editions" under the same brand umbrella rather than launching them as entirely new brands. The introduction of Code Red proved highly successful, paving the way for additional variations. This included noteworthy collaborations, such as the one with Taco Bell that birthed the iconic Baja Blast, alongside less conventional flavors like Frost Bite, Voltage, Sweet Lightning, and White Out. Overall, it has come a long way in 80 years, a long way from a pair of Georgia native brothers who just wanted to have their favorite mixer with their favorite whiskey. Are you a fan of Mountain Dew? What is your favorite flavor?

  • Experience the Magic: Top 8 Things to Do in Hochatown this Winter

    Winter in Broken Bow, Oklahoma is a magical time of year. Known as the "Little Smokies", Broken Bow is the perfect destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. And what better way to relax than in a luxury cabin nestled in the heart of the Ouachita National Forest near Broken Bow Lake and Beavers Bend State Park. With its picturesque landscapes and year-round recreational activities, it's the perfect place for those looking for a winter getaway. From cozy firesides, to scenic winter hikes, to savoring the local libations, there's no shortage of things to do in Broken Bow during the winter months. COZY UP BY THE FIRE One of the most popular activities in Broken Bow during winter is spending time with family and friends while cozying up by the fire. Relax and unwind after a day of adventure with a warm fire at the Retro Rose Retreat. From the cozy fire pit outside, to the hot tub cabana, to the beautiful gas fireplaces inside the cabin, you'll feel right at home making lasting memories. We provide firewood for all of our guests. TAKE A WINTER HIKE Take a break from the indoors and bundle up to explore the great outdoors on a scenic winter hike. With its breathtaking views, crisp air, and peaceful surroundings, it's the perfect way to get some exercise and enjoy the natural beauty of the Broken Bow area.  Hit the Friends Trail or Forest Heritage Trail for breathtaking views of towering pines, crisp air, and peaceful surroundings as you walk along side the Lower Mountain Fork River. LOCAL LIBATIONS If you're looking to savor some local libations during your stay, spend some time visiting one of Broken Bow's excellent wineries, breweries, or distilleries. Find a seasonal brew that strikes your fancy at Beavers Bend Brewery or Mountain Fork Brewery. Plan a girl's trip to Girls Gone Wine and let loose indulging in locally produced wines and good girly fun. Or, better yet, savor the rich flavor of Hochatown Distilling Co.'s small batch Bourbon to keep you warm & toasty. ENJOY THE HOT TUB Another great way to relax and unwind in Broken Bow is by enjoying the hot tub. Whether you're in the mood to relax quietly under the patio lights or in the daylight, you'll find that the hot tub is the perfect way to soothe sore muscles and warm up on a cold winter's day.  We designed our outdoor space to maximize privacy under the covering of a cabana, while still being able to enjoy the natural beauty of the forested surroundings. FUN FOR THE KIDS For families with kids, a stay at our cabin is guaranteed to be a hit. Kids will love roasting marshmallows by the outdoor fire pit, playing one of the many family board games included at the cabin, the toy campfire and tee-pee or even playing any of the thousands of games available on the arcade. We also have a piano for your little Mozart, a small basketball net that makes it okay to play inside, and a real working phone booth to teach the kiddos about the good ole days! And what could be better than streaming your kids' favorite movie complete with hot chocolate by the indoor fireplace? Here are some creative recipes for delicious s’mores and homemade hot chocolate! FISHING THE LOWER MOUNTAIN FORK RIVER Fishing is a year-round activity in Broken Bow, and winter is no exception. When you visit, pack your rod and waders and enjoy some trout fishing. Check out the assigned trout area on the Lower Mountain Fork River, and you'll find that it's a hopping spot for trout, even in the winter. With less crowds, it's the perfect time for fly fishing on the Lower Mountain Fork River. Beavers Bend Fly Fishing has excellent fishing guides that will take you out for a fun day on the river, no matter your skill level. TALIMENA NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY Finally, be sure to drive the Talimena National Scenic Byway for breathtaking views of the Ouachita Mountains. This picturesque drive is a must-do during the winter months and is sure to be a highlight of your trip to Broken Bow.

  • Exploring the Most Popular Spots in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

    The most visited national park in the United States is home to gorgeous mountain scenery, hiking trails, wildlife, plants, historic buildings and so much more. Every place in the park has something incredible to offer visitors. It’s impossible to see everything the park has to offer in just one visit, but there are some can’t-miss destinations you have to see while you’re in town. Whether you’re hoping to spot wildlife like black bears and elk, or historic buildings and mountain views, these special places in the Smoky Mountains have a lot to offer: Cades Cove – This is the most visited area in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Visitors love driving along the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop Road and seeing historic structures, wildlife and more. Clingmans Dome – This is the highest point in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and offers incredible, panoramic views. It’s one of the best places in the park to watch a sunrise or sunset. Elkmont – Elkmont was once a logging community, then a popular vacation town, and now it’s considered a “ghost town” in the Smokies. The Elkmont area is home to Elkmont Campground, the most popular campground in the park, and abandoned buildings that have been restored. Newfound Gap – Newfound Gap is the lowest drivable pass that runs through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and travels 33 miles from Gatlinburg, TN to Cherokee, NC. It offers both mountain and forest views. Cataloochee – Cataloochee Valley is on the North Carolina side of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is home to a number of historic structures, like the Palmer Chapel. It’s the best place to spot elk in the Smoky Mountains.

  • Fuel Up for Adventure: Delicious Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Options in the Smokies

    One of the best things about going on vacation is getting to sample some of the area’s local cuisine. While you are in the Smokies, you can enjoy all sorts of amazing food, including BBQ, country cooking, and even seafood! As you explore the numerous restaurants in the area, you will notice that there is plenty of family-owned places that have been serving the community for decades! Here is your guide to a few of the best local restaurants in the Smoky Mountains: Breakfast Pancake Pantry For over 60 years, Pancake Pantry has been serving locals and visitors one of the best breakfasts you will find in the Smokies. The story of this local restaurant began way back in 1960 when the owners, who had no previous restaurant experience, decided to take a leap of faith to open their own restaurant. The dream paid off, as the Pancake Pantry became the first specialty pancake house in Tennessee. Since that time, millions of customers have walked through the doors to enjoy the 24 different varieties of pancakes on the menu, to go along with a variety of other breakfast classics. Log Cabin Pancake House The Log Cabin Pancake House is another locally owned and operated breakfast restaurant in Gatlinburg. They first opened in 1976 and have been thriving ever since serving all sorts of delicious entrees. One of the most unique things about this restaurant is that they serve breakfast every day from 7 AM until 2 PM! Therefore, both the early risers and those who like to sleep in while on vacation can enjoy the deliciousness that awaits at Log Cabin Pancake House! Lunch Local Goat While Local Goat is still relatively new to the area, it has taken off since its opening in 2016. This is one of the few scratch kitchen restaurants in the Smoky Mountains, which means they thrive in serving in-house products made with locally sourced ingredients. You will also be pleased with the menu selection at Local Goat, which features everything from sandwiches and soups to steak and seafood. The restaurant is located right on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, making it an easy place to stop in for a delicious lunch! Pottery House Cafe If you are looking for a local restaurant with a true Smoky Mountain feel, the Pottery House Cafe is the place for you! It is located in the Old Mill Square where you will also find all sorts of unique shops. The lunch features at the restaurant are served each day from 11 AM until 4 PM. A few of the things you will find on the menu include fried catfish, shrimp & grits, pork chops, and much more. Of course, one of the highlights of your meal will be the complimentary bread that is baked in-house! Dinner Blue Moose Burgers & Wings For one of the most lively atmospheres in the Smokies, head to Blue Moose Burgers & Wings in Pigeon Forge. This restaurant serves all your favorite bar classics, including over 20 flavors of jumbo chicken wings and gigantic burgers. This is also one of the best places to catch your favorite sports team in action, as they have flat-screen televisions plastered all throughout the restaurant. Blue Moose is also proud to be the only family-friendly sports bar in Pigeon Forge, so feel free to bring the kids along for the fun as well! The Peddler Steakhouse When it comes to the best local restaurants in the Smoky Mountains, it would be hard to leave The Peddler Steakhouse off the list. This amazing steakhouse in Gatlinburg has it all, including hand-cut steaks, an unbelievable salad bar, and a view of the Smokies that you won’t believe. The dining room has a multitude of tables by the window, where you can look out over the Little Pigeon River while you enjoy your meal with your loved ones. The Peddler Steakhouse is great for any occasion, but it is also one of the most popular date night restaurants in the Smokies. While our cabins come with full kitchens, sometimes it's fun to explore local restaurants. It's okay, too, if you want to have someone else cook for you while you enjoy the company of family and friends. We look forward to welcoming you to the Smokies and sharing our local favorites!

  • Date Night in Hochatown

    Retro Rose Retreat comes with a fully-equipped kitchen. However, one of the best parts of vacation is ignoring everyday tasks, like cooking. If you’re enjoying a getaway with the one you love most on a trip for two, spend quality time together on a date night at one of the fantastic restaurants in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. The 5 Best Restaurants for Date Night Going out for a date night is one of the best things to do in Broken Bow for couples. However, date night isn’t limited to fancy restaurants. All you need to have the best night possible is good food and conversation. You can find all this and more at the restaurants in the Broken Bow area. Enjoy a taste of Southern cuisine at Abendigo’s Grill & Patio. Several unique spaces make up this spot, including a restaurant serving up hand-prepared dishes and an outdoor cocktail bar that’ll have you relaxing under the Oklahoma sky. Blue Rooster, found only eight miles north of Broken Bow, is known for its Southern cooking. You’ll find everything from fried chicken to fried catfish and more. Be sure to stick around and enjoy the live music. If you’re a couple that loves trying new brews, head to Mountain Fork Brewery. This Broken Bow brewery turns out incredible seasonal beers. No matter which one you pick, it’ll pair perfectly with a pizza, wings, or one of the other menu items. Don’t forget to save room for dessert! Keep your date night going late by dining at Hochatown Saloon. After enjoying a delicious three-course meal of your own creation, enjoy a phenomenal performance from both local and nationally touring artists. You can purchase your ticket ahead of time or at the front door on show night. Shuck Me Hochatown (my personal favorite) is the go-to spot for seafood lovers. Found on Lukfata in the Hochatown area, the menu is filled with a range of tasty seafood options, both fried and grilled. After your meal, go to the covered backyard patio for a nightcap. Plan a Trip for Two to Broken Bow As the #1 2-bedroom in Hochatown, Retro Rose Retreat is the ideal romantic getaway. While at the cabin, enjoy your time in the private hot tub, next to the cozy gas fireplace, or play a fun round of arcade games together in your secluded location, surrounded by the pine trees of the Ouachita National Forest!

  • The Thrilling Adventures: 4 Must-Try Alpine Coasters in the Smokies

    There's nothing like having an incredible time in the Smoky Mountains with those who matter most. With dozens of attractions, activities, shopping, and more available, it can be challenging to narrow your options down. However, if you're looking for something that offers a little thrill and gorgeous views, you can't go wrong with trying our picks for the best alpine coasters in Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. How to Pick Your Alpine Coaster The area offers many options when looking for fun things to do in the Smokies, but it doesn't get any better when you're speeding down a mountain. To help you figure out which alpine coaster is best for you, we've narrowed things down to the top three, in our opinion, in no particular order. Coaster at Goats on the Roof Since the 70s, "Goats on the Roof" has offered an incredible experience that literally featured goats on the roof to customers' delight. To add to the fun, the people behind this place added an alpine coaster named "Goat Coaster." For seven minutes, you and the rest of your group can enjoy speeds of up to 30 miles per hour on a coaster that measures out just under a mile. No matter what, everyone in your group will have a blast. After riding, you have the rest of Pigeon Forge available to explore, ensuring fun memories while enjoying family-friendly activities in the Smoky Mountains. Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster In the middle of Pigeon Forge and Wears Valley, you'll find gorgeous landscapes and mountain twists. To make it more fun, there's an incredible alpine coaster that's in contention for the longest in the country. Over a mile long, it'll take eight minutes to go from top to bottom and is considered one of the best coasters by riders in the Smoky Mountains by far. The only thing you'll be wondering after the ride is if you can go again. Rocky Top Mountain Coaster There's riding an alpine coaster, and then there's the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster. With four lift hills and drops, you and the others will enjoy nine minutes of pure fun and excitement. Even better, you'll enjoy over 20 acres of Smoky Mountain land. As a pro tip, we recommend checking out this alpine coaster at dusk or later. At night, you'll see colorful lights as you go through tunnels, curves, and hairpin turns. One thing is clear; you'll enjoy plenty of thrills just in time to experience the rest of the Smoky Mountains for an unforgettable vacation. The Wild Stallion at Skyland Ranch The newest and longest, at 1.25 mi, alpine coaster in the Smokies! This 8+ minute ride will be one of the highlights of your visit. The best part? You can control the speed, making the ride longer or shorter. Enjoy in the daytime to take in the views or at night to take in the sparkling city lights! Stay in One of Our Pigeon Forge-Area Cabins! Whether you want incredible, unobstructed panoramic views, a secluded Honeymoon cabin, or a cabin central to all the action of Pigeon Forge, we have you covered! Book your Smoky Mountain vacation cabin today!

  • Discover the Ultimate Checklist of Must-Visit Attractions in Broken Bow

    From the minute you arrive at Retro Rose Retreat, the stress of life just seems to melt away. Our cabin is the ideal destination for those looking to enjoy a relaxing yet memorable experience. One of the best things to do on your getaway is to visit some of the most popular and unique attractions in Broken Bow. Whether visiting with friends or family, there are sure to be plenty of things to do and see that fit everyone’s interests. A Guide of Things to Do and See in Broken Bow From outdoor attractions to unique shops and everything in between, there’s no shortage of spots to discover when visiting Broken Bow. One of the best ways to stumble upon fun adventures is by simply driving around. However, to help give you a starting point, we’ve compiled a list of five incredible options. Visit the animals that call Hochatown Rescue Center and Petting Zoo home. About 95 percent of the animals here are rescues that were either abandoned, surrendered, or orphaned. There are also classic barnyard animals. Find the perfect keepsake or unique gift at Janet’s Treasure Chest. Found only minutes from Beavers Bend State Park, this local gift shop features everything from cabin decor to souvenir items and more. Found inside Beavers Bend State Park is the Beavers Bend Wildlife Museum. This attraction aims to teach visitors about native animals and their natural range and feeding habits through 11 wildlife dioramas. Go for a ride on a replica C.P. Huntington S.P. train through the state park game reserve with Beavers Bend Depot & Trail Rides. The ride only takes about 20 minutes and is a great way to discover native wildlife. You can also go for a guided trail ride that starts at the top of every hour. Sample Muscadine wine at Fish Tales Winery & Bistro, located across from the south entrance of the state park. Stop by the bistro to sample the wine made with grapes native to the area while enjoying a delicious meal. See It All on an Oklahoma Getaway From exploring attractions in Broken Bow to checking things off your bucket list, the adventures are endless. Some of the best things to do in the area are only a short drive away from Retro Rose Retreat, located within the tranquil Ouachita Forest but close to all the Hochatown fun!

  • Exploring the Fun of a Day at the Arcade in the Smokies

    Remember running around your childhood arcade, pitting yourself against the Skee-Ball machines, and attempting to accumulate enough tickets for that one prize you really wanted? Those experiences of family fun were sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face—not only did they provide exciting entertainment, but also serve as an opportunity for parents and their children to bond. When the rain pours, or it's just too hot to be outside, the best arcade games in the Smokies are the perfect solution for everyone in your group. Whether you want to play the latest games or enjoy fantastic food and drink while playing, there's an arcade that meets your needs. Rockin' Raceway Without a doubt, this is one destination you can't afford to miss while visiting Pigeon Forge. With a jukebox appearance, this arcade offers over 150 of today's most popular arcade games, plus an excellent go-kart racing track for hours of fun and friendly competition. Rockin' Raceway stays open until 11 pm (Midnight on weekends), ensuring everyone can play to their heart's content. Arcade City With a location at The Island, Arcade City is the perfect destination for the whole family. During your visit, you'll enjoy access to racing games, classic arcade games, take selfies, and lots more! In addition, you can win some seriously sweet prizes like Air Pods, Nintendo Switches, and other incredible items, making it worth the time investment. When not playing, you'll already be in a prime position to enjoy everything else The Island offers, making it arguably the best option for fun things to do in the Smoky Mountains. Big Top Arcade Hailed as one of the best arcades available, Big Top Arcade is a circus-themed arcade that is bursting at the seams with fun games, from claw machines and pop-a-shot games to racing games and shooting games, and more. After playing, head to the redemption center to swap those virtual tickets for awesome prizes to take home with you. Dave & Buster's If you love food and drink but want to play the latest games, then Dave & Buster's is the perfect destination for your plans. Indulge in classic games like Skee-Ball or try out virtual reality games during your visit. When not playing, you'll love downing the drinks or grabbing some dessert after a yummy meal. Downtown FlavorTown More than a restaurant. More than a mere arcade. Guy Fieri's Downtown FlavorTown is the newest player on the scene, and they do a fantastic job of providing incredible food and family fun in one flawless combination. After eating, check out the 14-lane Duck Pin bowling alley or explore 10,000 square feet of state-of-the-art arcade games for nothing less than pure awesome. There's a full-service tiki bar for the adults, ensuring everyone in your group has an incredible time in FlavorTown. Your Own Vacation Cabin Rental All of our amazing cabin vacation rentals have their own arcade games. Continue the fun in private without coins for many more hours of fun! Do you have kids with endless energy? Let them continue to play in the cabin while you relax in the hot tub or on the porch watching the sunset behind the mountains. Or if you are still up for games, show your kids your mad arcade skills! Either way, there is something for everyone each day of your Smoky Mountain vacation!

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