Embark on an adventure to Pigeon Forge, where Appalachian allure meets thrilling excitement. This vibrant destination, nestled at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains, is a family-friendly hub bursting with activities and attractions that promise unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re a nature lover or a thrill-seeker, Pigeon Forge and its neighboring towns will captivate your heart. From roller coasters and moonshine to spectacular views, there’s no shortage of fun. Plan your visit between late spring and early fall for the best experience.
Celebrate Appalachia at Dollywood
Dolly Parton’s famed Dollywood offers a sensational mix of roller coasters, live music, and southern cuisine, all paying homage to Appalachian culture. With over 40 rides, the theme park is a realm of thrills and music lovers. Get there early to beat the crowds and make use of your TimeSaver Pass to skip lines.
Dollywood’s Splash Country, open in summer, is its neighbor offering two days of water-filled fun without the TimeSaver Pass.
Bear Cove Cabins and DreamMore Resort provide cozy accommodation nearby.
Sky-High Fun at Anakeesta Mountain
Hop on the Chondola from bustling Gatlinburg to reach Anakeesta Mountain. Here, the beautiful Smoky Mountains serve as a backdrop for outdoor rafting, zip lines, and mountain coasters. This scenic paradise is dotted with dining spots like the Bar at the Top of the World offering spectacular views.
Seven eateries nestle in two small “villages,” providing delightful cuisine.
Titanic Museum Adventure
Step into the Titanic Museum, an enormous replica of the infamous ship, housing captivating artifacts and personal stories from the 1912 voyage.
Visitors are handed a boarding pass with a real passenger or crew member’s name.
Don’t forget to book your ticket ahead to avoid disappointment on the day, as spontaneous admissions aren’t always available.
Taste Moonshine in Gatlinburg
Moonshine, infamous in Appalachia, is nothing but unaged whiskey. At Ole Smoky Moonshine and Sugarlands Distilling Co, savor a variety of flavors while absorbing Appalachian lore.
The local favorite is the apple pie flavor, though daring souls may try the peanut butter and jelly.
Ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, offering majestic views at 200ft high, is a serene getaway amidst the hustle of The Island in Pigeon Forge. This entertainment hub is filled with shops, restaurants, and live music, defining fun for every visitor.
The glass gondolas provide a quiet spot to relish the breathtaking vistas.
Unyielding Thrills at Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Discover crime history at Alcatraz East Crime Museum with relics like Ted Bundy’s VW Beetle. Featuring exhibits on criminals to crime scenes, it’s both educational and thrilling.
Hot tip: Some exhibits are intense, so discretion is advised when bringing kids.
Majestic Kuwohi Views
The observation tower at Kuwohi ascends 6643ft, offering panoramic views of the Smokies. It resembles a space-age relic with a spiral ramp and saucer-shaped platform.
Explore trails like the Appalachian Trail below, offering a unique perspective.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park beckons with trails like Alum Cave Bluffs. Horseback riding fans can explore with a guide.
Tubing Fun on the Little River
Adventure awaits with warmer months at River Rat Tubing on the Little River. Easy routes cater to young adventurers, while rapids thrill those over 6 years old.
Post-float, savor a sundae at Burger Master Drive-In.
Float through serene spots, letting the river take you on a refreshing journey.
Exploration of Appalachian Crafts
Explore local art along an 8-mile loop in the Great Smoky Mountains Arts and Crafts Community. With galleries showcasing pottery, jewelry, and wood carvings, it’s an art lover’s haven.
The Gatlinburg Trolley has routes to enhance your art journey through the loop.
Dare the Gatlinburg SkyBridge
Daredevils will delight on Gatlinburg SkyBridge, a pedestrian cable bridge connecting mountain peaks.
It stretches nearly two football fields with see-through panels.
Accessed via chairlift, it also leads to the SkyTrail with stunning views.
SkyTrail is dog-friendly, adding to the adventure.
Speed Enthusiasts on Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
Hold on tight! As the longest downhill coaster in the U.S., the Alpine Coaster ensures heart-pounding speeds through beautiful hills at 27 mph.
Rain or shine, it’s a guaranteed thrill all year long.
For the best visuals, visit from September to November for vivid fall hues.
Mini Golf Galore
With 16 mini golf courses, East Tennessee is a player’s paradise. Unique offerings include Crave’s candy-theme rooftop course and Professor Hacker’s Lost Treasure Mini-Golf.
Play under mesmerizing black lights, adding an eerie twist to your game with glowing courses.
Go-Kart Racing Exhilaration
The Track Family Fun Park in Pigeon Forge offers go-kart racing, mini-golf, and bumper cars, delivering nostalgia-laden excitement.
For more racing thrills, NASCAR SpeedPark Smoky Mountains provides road-like racing experiences.
Race along Wild Woody and a figure-eight track, offering fun for varied age groups.
Entertain at Big Top Arcade
Colorful and lively, Big Top Arcade guarantees fun rain or shine. With games spanning classics to modern hits, it’s an indoor haven for family fun.
Load up play cards for a chance to win big.
Visitors praise the clean space and friendly staff, making this a must-visit.
Dinner Shows with a Twist
Pigeon Forge is famous for dinner shows with fun themes. Engage with feuding families or swashbuckling pirates while enjoying hearty southern meals.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede showcases horse stunts, musical numbers, and a touch of friendly rivalry.
Enjoy audience participation and laugh-out-loud moments in each show.
Theatrical Performances Worth Watching
Catch musical and comedy acts at Pigeon Forge’s notable venues. Country Tonite showcases country hits with dance, while the Comedy Barn provides family-friendly laughs.
For mesmerizing shows, Illusionation offers mind-bending magic.
Array brings variety—singing, dancing, and aerial feats await on stage.
Feast on Southern Delights at The Old Mill
Step into history at The Old Mill, where southern gastronomy waits. With dishes like fried chicken and meatloaf, lunches are a delight.
Explore the rustic dining room overlooking the Little Pigeon River.
Grab local products from Old Mill General Store and savor sweet concoctions at Old Mill Creamery.
Snow Tubing Anytime
Defy seasons at Pigeon Forge Snow and tube down snowy tracks indoors where temperatures stay at 65°F.
Build a festive snowman all year round without the need for cold attire.
Ober Gatlinburg Adventures
Ober Gatlinburg, a snowy haven in winter, shines with summer rides like an alpine slide.
The tram offers breathtaking views during its journey to the park.
Indoor ice-skating ensures year-round enjoyment.
Aquatic Wonder at Ripley’s Aquarium
Ripley’s Aquarium takes guests through the vibrant world of the sea, featuring sharks, stingrays, and turtles.
Watch as marine life swims overhead.
Explore one of eight Ripley’s attractions in the Gatlinburg area.
Scenic Escape on Gatlinburg Trail
Escape the crowds on the Gatlinburg Trail, a serene path winding through the woods along a river.
Ideal for biking and walking, it’s a peaceful journey.
It connects downtown Gatlinburg with the Sugarlands Visitor Center, offering relief from bustling town life.
Dive into Appalachian History
Step back in time at Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, showcasing genuine Appalachian heritage.
From log cabins to historic barns, it immerses visitors in the past.
The museum offers a few rooms of intriguing history adventures.
Sevierville Sightseeing Excursion
Visit Sevierville, Dolly Parton’s hometown, complete with her bronze statue for inspiration.
Explore riverside greenways or shop at the Tanger Outlets.
It’s loaded with hotels, making it a convenient base for exploration.
Now’s the time to immerse yourself in the delights of Pigeon Forge and its surroundings. Each attraction and experience offers a unique blend of joy and excitement, promising memories that last a lifetime. Plan your adventure today!
