Pigeon Forge is loved worldwide, with more than ten million tourists praising its quaintness and vibrant life each year. Whether you're looking for an adventure, a peaceful retreat, or an escape from the ordinary, a Pigeon Forge vacation offers something for every traveler.

Since the main attraction is the mesmerizing views of the Great Smoky Mountains, most people struggle to decide between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. So, to make it easier, here's why you should plan your next vacation in Pigeon Forge.

1. Natural Mountain Beauty

Nature lovers rejoice! Pigeon Forge lets you connect with nature and admire its beauty. From towering mountains and cascading waterfalls to sprawling forests and rushing rivers, you can experience nature's raw beauty in all its glory.

Spend your days trekking along trails, paddle boarding in the lake, or simply soaking up the sun and enjoying all that nature offers. The Great Smoky National Park is minutes away so you can indulge in all its outdoor activities.

2. So Much to Do

With theme parks and museums, Pigeon Forge is a perfect place for families. There are many mini golf courses, outdoor activities, go-karts, bumper boats, and arcades to keep the kids entertained.

The Island in Pigeon Forge is splendid. You can ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel that offers spectacular views of the mountains.

Other attractions include Dollywood Theme Park, the ultimate amusement park with adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, thrilling water slides, and shows. Whether you're a thrill seeker or a nature lover, there are many things to do in Pigeon Forge. 

3. Amazing Dinner Shows

Pigeon Forge is known for its variety of fantastic dinner shows. These shows provide a unique experience and will surely add something special to your vacation.

You can also learn about the area's history, enjoy old-time music, and even watch an interactive play. If you're traveling with friends, you and your squad will love a comedy show.

The Dixie Stampede, the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show, and The Comedy Barn Theater are some of the most popular shows in town. We recommend reserving your tickets in advance.

4. Affordable Vacation

Pigeon Forge is an excellent option for budget travelers. Food, entertainment, and lodging costs are relatively low, and you can find good deals on flights.

You can also easily find accommodation that fits your budget. Most people prefer to book a cabin instead of staying in a hotel, as they provide greater privacy and a sense of serenity.

They are also spacious, and you can easily find one with a breathtaking view of the mountains. You can find many high-end cabin rentals and resorts if you're looking for a luxurious stay.

5. Delicious Cuisine

Pigeon Forge has many delicious restaurants, offering classic American cuisine and international flavors. Savor Appalachian delicacies like fried green tomatoes, smoked trout, and succulent smoked BBQ, or try new dishes you won't find anywhere else.

There are also plenty of all-you-can-eat buffets and fast food options for those looking for something quick. Homemade fudge is the must-try food item in Pigeon Forge. It's available at many local shops.

If you're a pancake lover, you'll love the breakfast spots in Pigeon Forge. Fluffy pancakes, maple syrup, and sausage are some of the delicious treats available here.

6. Less Crowded than Other Areas

Pigeon Forge is an excellent spot if you're looking for a quieter place to vacation. Its area is more extensive than Gatlinburg's, so it doesn't get so compacted with tourists.

It makes it easier to explore the area without getting overwhelmed by the crowds. You can take your time taking in all the sights and sounds.

Pigeon Forge is most crowded during the peak seasons, so plan your trip accordingly if you want some peace.

7. Several Options for Getting Around

Getting around Pigeon Forge is easy and convenient. You can either rent a car or use the public transportation system.

There are also trolley services and ride-hailing services that can take you to your destination. The trolley charges $2 per person, while the ride-hailing services are a bit more expensive.

If you don't want to worry about driving, several tour companies offer guided tours of the area. Some tourists also enjoy the luxury of getting around in a golf cart.

8. Take Home a Souvenir

The great thing about visiting Pigeon Forge is the souvenirs you can take home with you. You can purchase many keepsake items, from handmade crafts and jewelry to antiques and vintage items.

You'll also find various specialty stores that offer unique items like pottery, sculptures, and artwork. Since haggling is often allowed, you can get a good bargain on souvenirs. Of course, you mustn't forget to pick up some scrumptious local jams and jellies, too.

Related: Best Places To Backpack with Friends

9. The Moonshine Distilleries

Have you ever wanted to tour a moonshine distillery? Now you can! Pigeon Forge is home to several world-famous moonshine distilleries, and you can tour them.

You'll learn all about the history of moonshine in Tennessee, sample some fantastic moonshine, and even try to create your personalized one.

The distilleries are a great place to take photos and make memories that will last a lifetime. Ole Smoky Distillery and Sugarlands Distilling Company are two of the most famous distilleries in town.

10. Spot Wildlife in Their Real Habitat

Many of us are intrigued by wildlife, so why not take a chance to spot them in their natural habitat? The Great Smoky National Park has an abundance of wildlife.

You can stroll through the woods and spot deer, bears, wild boars, coyotes, and spotted salamanders. You might even see a bobcat or a cougar if you're lucky.

However, keep your distance and don't feed the animals. Read the park's rules and regulations before you enter.

Final Thoughts

Pigeon Forge is beautiful and full of fun activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful and relaxing vacation or something more adventurous, you won't be disappointed that you chose to visit Pigeon Forge.

Always prepare your arsenal of knowledge with the background information of your destination before you go. That way, you'll be prepared for whatever this wonderful mountain town has to offer. Pick up a travel brochure to get the most out of your trip.

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This story is brought to you in partnership with Visit My Smokies.

Reptile lovers who travel always look for new and exciting places to view these scaly creatures. Most people may think that you can only view these reptiles in specific areas of the world. However, that isn't true!

Reptiles can be viewed anywhere on the planet, whether at a zoo, national preserve, wildlife park, or simply in your backyard! The United States, in particular, is full of exciting spots to view and find reptiles, whether in the wild or captivity.

So, if you're a reptile lover currently in the U.S. or hoping to visit and want to know about a few spots to view your slithering or crawling scaly obsession, keep reading to find out!

Destinations for Reptile Lovers

1. Zion National Park - Utah

The United States' first-ever National Park, Zion, is in Southwest Utah.

In the rocks and canyons of this 229 square miles of red rock landscape, a reptile lover can quickly run across a plethora of different lizards, snakes, and tortoises, such as:

• The western banded gecko, the Great Basin collared lizard, the desert spiny lizard, the Gila monster, and the western skink.
• Whipsnakes, gartersnakes, rattlesnakes, kingsnakes, and patch-nosed snakes.
• The desert tortoise.

You can also take the park's canyon shuttle to soak in some stunning views. While you're there, don't forget to learn about the area's rich pioneer and Native American history.

2. Franklin Mountain State Park - Texas

Franklin Mountain State Park, located in El Paso, Texas, is one of the largest state parks in the U.S. It covers 26,000 acres of rocky canyons, desert mountains, and grasslands full of different reptile species.

If you're traveling to El Paso, you'll be happy to know that the state park sits within the city limits, so a car, bus, or taxi should get you there just fine.

A couple of reptiles you'll be able to find in the area include:

• The eastern collared lizard, the ornate tree lizard, and the greater earless lizard.
• Texas banded gecko, common checkered whiptail, and Chihuahuan spotted whiptail.
• The ring-necked snake, Chihuahuan nightsnake, southwestern blackhead snake, and eastern patch-nosed snake.
• Big Bend patchnose snake and a few venomous rattlesnake species, like the eastern black-tailed rattlesnake (so be careful).

Related: Things To Do in Big Bend National Park

3. Everglades National Park - Florida

If there's one thing Florida is known for, it's its animals. After all, it's one of the few places in the U.S. with many different species that you can only find there. In short, it's a reptile lover's dream!

The Everglades National Park, a 1.5 million-acre plot of nothing but wetlands and animals, is one of the best places to look at reptiles. It's even ranked as one of the top four national parks in the U.S.

A couple of reptiles you should be able to find in this vast national park include:

• Alligators, crocodiles, and caiman.
• Anoles, geckos, iguanas, skinks, and lizards galore.
• Kingsnakes, boa constrictors, rat snakes, water snakes, and corn snakes, to name a few.
• Turtles and tortoises.

Everglades National Park offers many different tours, including bus tours, regular boat tours, and airboat tours.

4. Mojave National Preserve - California

If you plan on traveling to the West Coast, the Mojave National Preserve in Essex, California, is the place to go for reptile lovers. This national preserve stretches through California's beautiful Mojave Desert, teeming with reptilian life.

A couple of reptiles to look out for would include:

• The chuckwalla, western banded gecko, Gila monster, great basin collared lizard, and desert iguana.
• Kingsnakes, gopher snakes, rattlesnakes, and glossy snakes.
• Desert tortoise.

Dirt and paved roads have been established throughout this park, allowing visitors to drive through the entire desert. However, extra care must be taken to ensure you don't harm any of the natural wildlife in the area.

5. The Grand Canyon National Park - Arizona

One of the most well-known national parks on this list is the Grand Canyon in Arizona; this park encompasses more than 200 miles of rivers and canyons. Shuttle buses make navigating this vast national park easy and give you the time to soak in all the beauty.

The park is home to 22 snake species, 18 lizard species, and one tortoise species, including:

• The greater short-horned lizard, Gila monster, and yellow-backed spiny lizard.
• Gopher snakes and rattlesnakes.
• The Desert Tortoise.

A few snake species in this park, including the Gila monster, are venomous. Therefore, visitors should only look at reptiles from a safe distance.

6. Reptile Gardens - South Dakota

Reptile Gardens, located in southern Rapid City, South Dakota, has grown into one of the largest reptile zoos in the world.

During your visit, you should easily be able to see reptile species, including:

• Crocodiles and alligators.
• Turtles and tortoises.
• An abundance of different lizards, including Gila monsters and Komodo dragons.
• A bunch of different snake species, including the venomous cottonmouth and copperhead snakes.

The grounds are also home to a beautiful botanical garden, many other non-reptile animal species to learn about, and a cafe to relax in during downtime. Reptile lovers should no doubt be able to have a blast on their trip here.

Related: The Truth About Deadly Animals in Australia

7. Nashville Zoo - Tennessee

Last but certainly not least, we have the Nashville Zoo. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, the Nashville Zoo has an impressive array of reptiles in its Unseen New World, Critter Encounters, and Alligator Cove exhibits.

A couple of these reptiles include:

• The caiman lizard, Haitian giant galliwasp, green crested basilisk, and Mexican beaded lizard.
• The eastern diamondback rattlesnake, eyelash palm pit viper, green anaconda, and northern copperhead.
• The American alligator and dwarf caiman.
• The alligator snapping turtle, the Aldabra tortoise, the mata mata, and the Galapagos tortoise

If you want to see other animals, the zoo has many different exhibits that are full of fun and interesting information.

Staring up the steep and narrow red rocks on Cathedral Rock Trail in Sedona, Arizona, I was at the edge of my comfort zone. Losing your balance on this section could easily result in a painful, potentially fatal fall, as nothing can slow your momentum.

We'd already climbed higher than Kel had the first time a year earlier when she wore running sneakers that lacked grip on the smooth rock. Despite her recommendation that I buy hiking shoes, as she'd since done, I figured I could get by as I had during our hikes in Big Bend National Park.

I was wrong, and it was more than evident. I hadn't considered the slick rock we'd be traversing, let alone a vertical scramble with few obvious handholds and lots of loose rock.

The Cathedral Rock Trail was among the most popular hikes in Sedona. How challenging could it be, I thought? Unlike the Devil's Bridge hike, I didn't even read about it. And now I was wondering if I'd make it to the top.

Getting to Cathedral Rock Trail

After our sunrise hike to Devil's Bridge, we had a terrific brunch with pizza and cocktails at Hideaway House. Then, we visited V Bar V Ranch to see petroglyphs before driving toward the Cathedral Rock Trailhead.

The best times to visit Cathedral Rock in the Coconino National Forest are sunrise and sunset when the sun is low in the sky and (hopefully) the temperatures are cooler. But we didn't have the luxury of time, as we only had one full day in Sedona and wanted to make the most of it.

Parking and Shuttle

The day before, we'd used a credit card to pay $15 for a weekly Red Rock Pass, which allows you to use the small parking lots at trailheads. Purchasing a pass is required; the day pass is $5.

Unfortunately, but predictably, there were no parking spaces available in the two Cathedral Rock Trailhead parking lots, so we again had to rely on the free Sedona Shuttle to get us there.

The departure point for Cathedral Rock Trailhead is the North SR-179 Park and Ride on Google Maps. The shuttle departs every 15 minutes between 7 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Thursday through Sunday. It's a 10-minute drive.

To return, the Sedona Shuttle departs the Cathedral Rock Trailhead every 10 minutes from 7:10 a.m. until 5:12 p.m.

Keep these times in mind if you're aiming to watch the sunset from atop Cathedral Rock, as you'll need to rely on your own transportation or plan for a longer hike if you can't park nearby.

The Hike

The Cathedral Rock Trail is only a 1.2-mile round-trip hike. The challenge is in the 741 elevation gain, including one steep climb that requires both hands to be free.

It feels like a walk in the park when you're starting at the base of Cathedral Rock. Watch for the trail signs and rock-filled basket cairns in this first section.

Given the hike's popularity, you'll likely see other people on their way up or down, though, so it'd be hard to get lost during daylight hours.

Bring a headlamp to ensure a safe descent if you're heading up in the late afternoon for sunset. The sun sets on the opposite side of Cathedral Rock Trail, so you begin to lose sunlight mid-afternoon.

After only 10 minutes on the hiking trail, we walked up the gentle slopes of red rock and reached a plateau with spectacular views toward the east and south.

If you know where to look toward the east, you can spot the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a church constructed amid the red rocks in the 1950s, which is beautiful to some and controversial to others.

Looking toward the south, we could see Courthouse Butte and the tippy-top of Bell Rock, which we'd hiked around the day before. I'd have been satisfied with the views if this were as far as we went. If you're afraid of heights and what you read next, I'd suggest you not write off Cathedral Rock altogether.

The Steep Part

Lacking a technical climbing term to describe it, let's say this next section of Sedona's Cathedral Rock Trail was challenging. The intrusive thought of slipping, falling, and bouncing off the rocks on my way down quickly entered my mind as I stared upwards.

We were there long enough to watch some hikers descend, most using both their hands to steady themselves on the rocks. One guy was wearing gloves, which I realized makes a lot of sense when you have to use your hands on rocks that've been soaking up the sun all morning.

An older woman (perhaps in her 50s) encouraged us, saying this short climb was the most challenging part and that "if I can do it, so can you!"

Kel went first to her credit and scrambled up the red rocks like a champ. I followed soon after, heart pounding. At one point, I took a break so she could snap a photo of me smiling nervously.

I was frustrated by the lack of grip on my new Brooks running sneakers. Also, while I'd brought plenty of water in a 20-ounce metal bottle, it was cumbersome.

I hadn't realized I'd need both hands to be free for the Cathedral Rock hike, so I was forced to awkwardly carry my metal bottle in the pocket of my Prana shorts; thankfully, it fit.

Encouraged by my girlfriend's ascent, I slowly made my way up the vertical section until I reached its top. The views were similar to what we'd experienced at the plateau below.

Resting

My heart continued to pound, and I wondered whether the descent would be more complicated than the ascent. I was tired from a long day and worried about a potential slip on the way down.

Despite knowing that the hard part was over and the rest of the hike up Cathedral Rock was more manageable, I felt I'd gone as far as possible.

Memories of exhaustion on day three of my Annapurna Sanctuary trek in Nepal 14 years ago still affect me.

So did the time a Swiss man with whom I was doing the Indrahar Pass trek in Northern India tripped and almost fell off a precipice above 13,000 feet (4,000 meters).

Not that hiking in Sedona is as extreme as multi-day treks in the Himalayas. But those experiences still tend to trigger my anxiety.

Kel continued to hike higher toward the towering rock formations but decided not to go to the top because of the time it might have taken (about 30 minutes round-trip).

In retrospect, continuing with her would've taken my mind off the steep slopes. Instead, I sat down and enjoyed the view where I was until she returned. Since we didn't reach the trail's end, I've included a few images from others below.

Going Down

When we reunited, Kel began climbing down the steep section of Cathedral Rock Trail. The best way down it is to use both hands to steady yourself.

To my great surprise, it felt easier to move down this section than to climb up it. I didn't have the same pounding heart and wasn't as dependent on finding suitable handholds as before. And, worst case, I knew I could always slide down on my butt.

We paused for a photo when we reached the bottom of the steepest section. I was feeling grateful to have made it back down without incident. Here, we ran into a pair of hikers with a small dog who said they'd need to go back and drop their dog off before returning to do the climb.

As we hiked back to the parking area to catch the Sedona Shuttle, we passed more hikers getting started. Some asked about what lay ahead, and we did our best to encourage them as others had done for us.

Related: Hot Springs Canyon Trail in Big Bend

Final Thoughts on Cathedral Rock

I learn something new from every hike, especially the ones that don't go as planned, whether because of the weather, my anxieties, or some other factor.

My key takeaway for Cathedral Rock in Sedona is to bring proper hiking boots. They don't have to provide full ankle support, but they should have a grippy tread.

Since this moderate hike requires some scrambling, it's better to bring a small backpack for water, snacks, a camera, etc. I had one but left it in our rental car, thinking I could carry the water bottle as it was a short trail.

Wear gloves to protect yourself from the rock faces that heat up in the sun. Gloves also provide extra grip when moving up/down steep sections.

Lastly, if you're bold enough to take in the beautiful views of Cathedral Rock at sunset, bring an LED headlamp. You don't want to scramble down the trail in the dark.

We pulled into Coconino National Forest around 3 p.m. after driving from Prescott, Arizona, following Highway 179 into Sedona. With a few hours to kill before hotel check-in, we decided to hike Bell Rock, one of the area's most iconic formations.

Hiking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will find Sedona's rugged trails and dramatic landscapes endlessly rewarding.

The drive from Prescott took a little more than one hour, while the drive from Phoenix takes about two hours. After stopping by the Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock in the Village of Oak Creek and learning our room wasn't ready, we drove a few minutes further north.

Bell Rock Trailheads and Parking

There are two trailheads for hiking Bell Rock:

• Bell Rock Trailhead North is closer to Sedona.
• Bell Rock Trailhead South is closer to the Village of Oak Creek.

Each has a small parking area and is accessible from Highway 179. The northern trailhead and parking lot can be located by searching for "Courthouse Vista" on Google Maps.

Pull into the Courthouse Vista parking lot for the shortest walk to Bell Rock, which has direct access; the Bell Rock Access Trail will take you there.

Unless you arrive early in the morning, you're taking your chances on getting a parking spot. The spaces are often full; however, some visitors only stop for a quick photo (not a hike), resulting in higher turnover rates here than at other lots.

Buying a Parking Pass

Since Bell Rock was our first hike of my birthday weekend in Sedona, I used a credit card to purchase the $15 weekly Red Rock Pass, which I displayed on the dashboard of our rental car.

Purchasing a pass is required; otherwise, you risk receiving a ticket. A daily pass is $5. Kel used the bathroom facilities to change into hiking shoes while I began applying sunscreen.

Even though it was now 3:30 p.m. and partly cloudy, there was no shade on the Bell Rock Trail, and I didn't know how long we'd be gone.

Before we began hiking, we got our bearings from a park map. A lot is happening amid the red rocks here, so allow me to break it down.

If you approach Bell Rock from the south trailhead and parking lot, you'll start on the Bell Rock Pathway, a 3.6-mile trail that runs north-south parallel to Highway 179. It will take you past the base of Bell Rock.

The climb is accessible from the one-mile Bell Rock Loop Trail on the Bell Rock Pathway. It has an elevation gain of about 700 feet. However, only experienced climbers should attempt to reach the top of Bell Rock. The lower levels of Bell Rock are more accessible to kids (and pets).

A third popular option is the Courthouse Butte Loop Trail, which encircles Bell Rock and the larger Courthouse Butte adjacent to it. The Chapel of the Holy Cross is also visible. This 4.5-mile hike is moderately challenging. While we didn't have time for it then, it's one of the best ways to enjoy the gorgeous views.

Hiking Bell Rock Pathway

We began walking on the Bell Rock Pathway a few minutes before 4 p.m. I couldn't get enough of the views. Courthouse Butte was impressive, making Bell Rock appear small by comparison.

The trail was mostly flat and easy to follow. We saw several mountain bikers ride by us as we headed north to Bell Rock. As we got closer, details of the iconic red rock formation came into focus. A few people were climbing up Bell Rock, looking tiny from below.

The first basket cairns had a Big Park Loop Trails map and signs pointing north-south for Bell Rock Pathway and two pointing east for the Big Park Loop and Courthouse Butte. I hadn't researched Bell Rock or these hiking trails, so I wasn't keen on attempting the climb.

The running sneakers I had were fine for flat trails. But, as I'd learn the following day at Devil's Bridge and the more difficult Cathedral Rock, they're unsuitable for hiking up and down the smooth, hard surfaces of Sedona's red rock formations.

Returning to the Car

So, instead of hanging a right and climbing Bell Rock, I was content to take some pictures and enjoy the view from below. Around 4:30 p.m., rain showers became visible to the north. I didn't want to get caught in the rain, especially if there was lightning, so we returned to the parking lot.

Related: Hiking Santa Elena Canyon

The walk to the south trailhead parking lot took another 30 minutes, making the round-trip hike to the base of Bell Rock in Sedona one hour. It was an easy hike with plenty of trail markers and a worthwhile way to spend time before checking into our hotel.

When we unpacked in our room, the skies opened up, and it was raining hard. It didn't last long, though, as an hour later, on our way to dinner, I could see a lovely double rainbow.

Like other states in America, you need insurance coverage to drive a car on Texas roads. Texas has a fault approach to car insurance, meaning you'll be responsible for damages resulting from an accident you cause. 

Under Texas law, the minimum insurance coverage is $30,000 per injured person, with a minimum coverage for two persons. In other words, every driver must carry $60,000 in injury liability coverage and at least $25,000 for property damage coverage.

On average, you can expect to pay $666 yearly for minimum coverage and $1,872 for full coverage.

More About Texas Car Insurance

Insurance is a pretty broad subject. Not many Texans have enough information before purchasing a policy, resulting in most people paying more than they should. 

If you're keen on getting fair deals for your car insurance needs, cheap insurance's in-depth guide can help you better understand how insurance works in Texas.

By understanding how auto insurance works, you will be best placed to ensure you do not pay more than you should. 

What Determines the Cost of Insurance in Texas

1. Insurance Provider

Different providers have different approaches to business, which means they will offer rates that align with their policies. Strong brand names often offer higher rates because they are assured of a significant market share based on consumer confidence in their brand. 

2. Age of the Policyholder

The cost of premiums is significantly influenced by a policyholder's age, with drivers under 25 being the most affected. According to statistics, drivers under 25 are more likely to cause an accident, making them a risky group and thus attracting higher premiums.

3. Driving History

Insurance companies examine a driver's driving history to assign them a risk rating and, consequently, their insurance rates.

If a driver has a past successful at-fault claim against them, insurance companies will deem them risky, giving grounds for higher insurance rates. If you have had a DUI conviction, your premiums can increase significantly.

Best Insurers in Texas

A good insurer for one person may not be good enough for another, depending on each driver's circumstances. 

For example, if you have been convicted of DUI, your insurance cost can be significantly higher, but some insurance companies may not be as harsh on you as others.

Given such possibilities, you should choose a company that offers the best rates after a DUI conviction. Below is a list of the best insurers in Texas and the occasions that make each provider a suitable candidate. 

GEICO

GEICO ranks among the top auto insurance providers in Texas in terms of user claims rating and satisfaction. It also offers some of the lowest rates in the state, allowing customers to access low rates for exceptional service. 

GEICO offers attractive discounts for safe drivers, safe cars, military personnel, and loyalty. While not the cheapest option in Texas, the insurer is the best overall based on Texas consumer ratings. 

Farmers Insurance

Farmers Insurance is the best option if you are looking for a budget-friendly option without compromising quality. Their premiums for minimum coverage can be as low as $420 a year. 

The insurer also offers car bundling discounts, which are suitable for people with more than one car in their household.

You may also earn discounts if you install anti-theft devices or if your car has advanced safety features. While the insurer offers discounts for safe driving, it does not offer discounts for drivers with defensive driving training.

State Farm

A claim against your insurance will often mean your premiums increase significantly. With $1,113 per year, you can have minimum coverage with State Farm insurance, even if you have a past at-fault claim, which is the best rate in Texas given the circumstances.

Besides standard insurance, State Farm provides roadside assistance and reimbursement for transportation costs, such as the cost of renting a car if your car is unusable 24 hours after an accident. 

USAA

If you have served in the US military, USAA is a perfect fit. USAA offers minimum coverage at $424 per year and full coverage at $885 per year, which is pretty low compared to other auto insurance companies in Texas. 

USAA offers discounts for safe drivers and accident forgiveness for drivers who have been accident-free for at least five years. Unfortunately, USAA only offers special benefits and discounts to service members, veterans, and members of their families.

Final Words

There are many other insurance providers in Texas, some of which may be more expensive or cheaper than the ones featured in this post. You may also want to consider them.

However, this list saves you the trouble of sifting through the options to provide you with a shortlist of insurance providers in Texas that offer the best services for a reasonable price.

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This story is brought to you in partnership with CheapInsurance.com.

When you're planning a trip to Los Angeles, one of the things you'll need to consider is transportation. Renting a car in Los Angeles is an excellent option if you want the freedom to explore the city at your own pace. Here are a few things to consider as you begin your research.

Car Rental Tips

1. Price is a significant factor

Most travelers look for the best deals when they need a car. This means price comparison websites like AutoWeb and BestRates will be essential tools.

You can compare prices to find the cheapest rental cars. These sites also make it easier to compare services, add-ons, and companies that can offer car rentals for young people, if that's you.

For example, if you're under 25 years of age and seeking a car rental at Los Angeles International Airport, you can search for "car rental LAX under 25." 

These sites allow you to compare all available rental cars in Los Angeles.

2. Decide what type of car you want

Los Angeles is a massive city with many different districts and neighborhoods, each with its distinct feel.

If you'll be driving a lot, a spacious SUV or minivan rented at a local service, such as one at LAX, may be best. A small sedan or hybrid might be better if you spend a lot of time hiking outdoors.

No matter what, research the different types of cars available before renting. This ensures that you get a vehicle that fits your needs and isn't just one that looks nice.

3. Where you want to go is also important

If you're under 25 and planning on going to Hollywood or Universal Studios, renting a car in Burbank or Van Nuys may be more sensible than in downtown LA.

You'll spend less time in traffic and have more parking options. The same can be said for going to the Getty Museum or Santa Monica Beach - renting a car in Burbank or Van Nuys will make your trip easier.

4. Parking can be an issue

If you live in Los Angeles, chances are you already know that all the good parking spots are free for those drivers who use car rental services. So, if you need to get around the city, renting a car just for parking may be worth it.

Many great spots throughout Los Angeles have free parking for anyone with a rental car. These include Santa Monica Beach, Hollywood Boulevard, Universal Studios, and more.

5. Driving in LA can be difficult

If you plan to drive, practice before leaving home to prepare for the roads. Driving in LA can be a challenge even for those who live there; it's essential to know how to merge into traffic, navigate on/off highways, and more.

If you don't have much experience driving or are under 25, paying extra for a driver when renting a car may be worthwhile.

6. Traffic can make or break your trip 

Avoid renting a car altogether if you must drive a lot during rush hour on your trip. For example, the traffic from LAX to Los Angeles is some of the worst in the country and can take hours out of your day if you're not careful.

If you decide to rent a car, plan your trip around times when there are fewer traffic jams, such as early morning or late at night.

7. Consider safety as an essential factor when renting a car in LA

Some neighborhoods have much higher crime rates than others, so knowing which ones are safe for driving around is vital. If you're going to Hollywood, it's best to avoid the area around Highland Avenue, where there are many gangs and drug dealers.

Renting a car is a great way to explore Los Angeles and its surrounding areas. With just a little bit of planning, you'll be able to find the right car at the right price!

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This story is brought to you in partnership with CARNGO.

Pigeon Forge is a beautiful mountain town in Tennessee that always has something new to offer. The variety of things to do in the area makes it perfect for families with kids, couples on their honeymoon, and those looking to take a relaxing staycation.

This gorgeous location has attracted visitors from around the world since the 1960s, and there's no question why so many people keep coming back year after year. So, if you're planning a trip to this incredible town, consider these ten tips for a fantastic vacation.

Pigeon Forge Travel Tips

1. Plan Your Trip

Whether it is your first visit or you're a regular during good weather, it's best to know what you'd like to do on your trip before arriving. You can find plenty of tourist information online, which would be enough to get you started.

It's best to plan your days and check out everything you've wanted to see during your visit. There's no better way to ensure you don't miss any major attractions in town.

2. Research Accommodation Options 

When it comes to traveling, one thing is sure - where you stay can enhance or ruin your vacation experience. So, you'd need to sort this out first. Pigeon Forge cabins and hotels tend to fill up quickly, especially near Christmas when locals and tourists come to enjoy the festivities.

It's wise to book your lodging as soon as possible, which means checking the local listings to see if anything good pops up. Always read reviews before making any reservations to avoid unpleasant surprises once you arrive at your destination.

3. Plan Where To Eat

If you aren't careful, you might eat at the same restaurants daily while visiting Pigeon Forge. While this isn't necessarily bad, branching out and trying something different while you're there is good.

Many places are extremely popular due to their delicious food, so you won't want to skip them. However, it would help if you also looked into other options that might be more unique and memorable. That way, you'll have plenty of great choices available each night of your trip.

4. Make Time For Shopping

While there are plenty of outdoor activities in Pigeon Forge, you shouldn't forget about shopping. Many of the most popular stores and boutiques in town are right off the Parkway, the main road running through the city's center. These shops are filled with high-quality goods made locally, and you can find everything from clothing to souvenirs to accessories throughout the area.

Be sure to stop by the famous shops while you're here, and even consider exploring some smaller shops you wouldn't otherwise consider visiting. You never know what you'll find until you give it a shot.

5. Learn About The Local Attractions And Events

Once you've settled in, you should research the local attractions and events. Most towns have their fair share of festivals, parades, concerts, and other special occasions that attract locals and travelers alike.

Learning about these things will allow you to plan your schedule and ensure that you don't miss anything while you're here.

Related: Reasons to Visit Pigeon Forge

6. Visit The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the largest protected area in the United States, and it's home to an incredible number of rare plants and animals. If you've never visited the park, include it in your itinerary. Not only will it allow you to enjoy some beautiful scenery, but it will also give you a chance at some hiking and camping adventures.

7. Take a Food Tour

A food tour is one of the best ways to enjoy food in Pigeon Forge. Plenty of companies in the city offer these sorts of experiences, so take some time to do some research. This is a fun way to experience the flavors and culture of Pigeon Forge while also allowing you to enjoy more food than you'd generally eat on vacation. 

8. Shop at the Downtown Market

There's no better place to do it for those who love to shop than in downtown Pigeon Forge. The market offers an array of handmade items by artisans and craftsmen from across the country.

It has become one of the most popular spots in the area because of its convenient location, which allows visitors to walk or drive into town from almost any point. The downtown market sells everything from clothing and jewelry to souvenirs. So, set aside some extra cash if you plan to visit during your trip.

9. Check Out Dollywood Theme Park

Dollywood is another major attraction in Pigeon Forge, located just outside town. The theme park is known for its exciting rides and live shows, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to see the country's best entertainment. 

10. Attend The Smoky Mountain Opry

If you want to see some of the best entertainers in the country, you can't go wrong by visiting the Smoky Mountain Opry. The venue has been around since 1974, and it has hosted a variety of stars and celebrities over the years.

Even if you aren't an avid music fan, you'll still be able to appreciate the talented performers and musicians who grace the stage. No matter how much you love your favorite artists, you'll never be disappointed when you attend the Smoky Mountain Opry.

Final Words

Pigeon Forge is a charming city that deserves to be explored in full. It's a perfect place to visit for families, friends, and couples alike because it offers so much entertainment.

You'll never run out of things to do, and you'll also be able to take advantage of several different attractions and activities. Make sure you give yourself enough time to truly soak in all the sights and sounds of Pigeon Forge, and you'll find yourself wishing you could stay longer.

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This story was brought to you in partnership with Auntie Belham's Cabin Rentals.