Tourists drive to see the backed in BMW in downtown Gatlinburg

A BMW parked backwards in a downtown Gatlinburg driveway has become an unexpected tourist attraction, drawing visitors who make special trips to see the oddly positioned vehicle.

The car, which sits backed into a residential driveway in the downtown area, has gained enough notoriety that tourists plan their visits around spotting it. One visitor drove 10 hours specifically hoping to see both the BMW and a bear during their Gatlinburg trip. The vehicle has even appeared on Google Maps, cementing its status as a local landmark.

The BMW's fame stems from its consistent backwards parking position, which creates an unusual sight that catches the attention of passersby. Visitors report that the car isn't always present, making sightings feel like a special discovery. According to observers, the owner doesn't appear to drive frequently, making it rare to see the vehicle absent from its distinctive parking spot.

A quirky Gatlinburg tradition

The backwards BMW has become part of Gatlinburg's collection of unexpected sights that visitors seek out alongside traditional attractions like bear watching downtown and scenic drives. Some tourists have stumbled upon the car accidentally while exploring the area, only later learning about its local fame.

The phenomenon demonstrates how even the most mundane aspects of a tourist destination can capture visitors' imagination and become part of the local culture. For many Gatlinburg visitors, spotting the backed-in BMW has joined the list of must-see oddities that make their mountain vacation memorable.

If you're planning your own Gatlinburg adventure to hunt for quirky sights like this, securing travel insurance can protect your trip investment from unexpected disruptions..

Photo originally posted on r/gatlinburg.