A staple at the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you're planning a family vacation, seeking mountainous thrills, or delving into the area's rich history, this town has something for everyone! Here are Staylah’s top recommended “Things to Do” in Pigeon Forge:
Family-Friendly Activities
Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
A trip to Pigeon Forge isn't complete without visiting Dollywood. This world-renowned theme park, owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, boasts over 50 rides and attractions, live entertainment, and delicious Southern cuisine. From roller coasters to musical shows, Dollywood offers endless fun for the whole family!
Address: 131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a vibrant entertainment complex featuring shops, restaurants, and attractions! Families can enjoy a ride on The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. Don’t miss the Island Show Fountains, a mesmerizing water and light show synchronized to music.
Address: 100 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
WonderWorks is an interactive museum with over 100 hands-on exhibits that cater to curious minds of all ages. From a bubble lab to a simulated earthquake, the activities here are both educational and entertaining. The museum's unique upside-down exterior is a fun photo opportunity, making it a must-visit for families.
Address: 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Enjoy an unforgettable dinner experience, and head to Dolly Parton's Stampede! This dinner show combines a hearty four-course meal with dazzling performances featuring horses, pyrotechnics, and stunning special effects. It's a lively and engaging spectacle that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Address: 2775 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
For an evening filled with laughter and entertainment, head to the Comedy Barn Theater. This family-friendly venue is known for its hilarious variety shows that include everything from side-splitting comedy acts and magicians to jugglers and live music! The Comedy Barn Theater has been delighting audiences for over 25 years with its clean, down-home humor that's suitable for all ages. With talented performers and engaging audience participation segments, it’s a great way to end your day in Pigeon Forge on a high note. The theater also features animal acts and ventriloquists, ensuring a fun and memorable experience for everyone in the family.
Recreational Adventures
Address: 867 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Thrill-seekers will love the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, the longest downhill ride in the United States! The coaster winds through beautiful mountain scenery, and riders can control their speed for a customized adventure. It's a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the Smokies while getting an adrenaline rush.
Address: 2533 Teaster Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Experience the thrill of snow tubing year-round at Pigeon Forge Snow, America's first indoor snow park. With real snow and a variety of tubing lanes, this attraction offers a unique and exhilarating way to cool off in the summer or enjoy winter fun any time of the year!
Address: 203 Sugar Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Outdoor Gravity Park is home to zorbing, an exciting activity where participants roll down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball! Choose from a variety of tracks, including ones with water for a splashy adventure. It's an unusual and fun way to enjoy the great outdoors in Pigeon Forge.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Address: 1420 Fighting Creek Gap Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
For those who prefer traditional outdoor activities, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing! With over 800 miles of trails, there's something for every level of hiker. The park's diverse ecosystems and breathtaking vistas make it a perfect spot for nature lovers. The Sugarlands entrance is the most popular.
Address: 3299 Hartford Rd, Hartford, TN 37753
For a thrilling water adventure, head to one of the local white water rafting companies! Options like Smoky Mountain Outdoors and Rafting in the Smokies offer guided rafting trips on the Pigeon River. Suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters, these trips provide a mix of excitement and stunning river scenery. The Upper Pigeon River section is ideal for adrenaline junkies, featuring Class III and IV rapids, while the Lower Pigeon River offers a gentler ride perfect for families with younger children.
Historical Hot-Spots
Address: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Step back in time at the Titanic Museum Attraction, a half-scale replica of the original ship. Visitors receive a boarding pass with the name of an actual Titanic passenger, allowing them to follow that person's journey through the museum. With over 400 artifacts, interactive exhibits, and recreated rooms, this museum offers a poignant look at the famous ship's history!
Address: Old Mill St, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Old Mill Square is centered around one of the oldest continually operating gristmills in the country, built in 1830. Visitors can tour the historic mill, dine at the Old Mill Restaurant, and shop for unique gifts and homemade goods. The area provides a charming glimpse into the region's past and its milling heritage!
The Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Address: 2757 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
The Alcatraz East Crime Museum offers a fascinating exploration of American crime history. With exhibits covering everything from famous criminals to forensic science, the museum provides an educational and intriguing experience! Highlights include the O.J. Simpson Bronco, Al Capone’s rosary, and a CSI lab where visitors can test their detective skills.
Address: 186 Old Mill Ave, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Patriot Park is a peaceful spot dedicated to the memory of local veterans. Located along the Little Pigeon River, the park features a walking trail lined with flags from all 50 states, memorials, and picnic areas. It's a serene place to reflect and learn about the sacrifices made by the nation's military personnel!
Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill
Address: Cherokee, NC 28719
Take a trip back to the 19th century at the Mountain Farm Museum and Mingus Mill! Located just a short drive from Pigeon Forge, this living history museum showcases a collection of historic log buildings, including a farmhouse, barn, apple house, and smokehouse. The centerpiece is Mingus Mill, an 1886 grist mill that still grinds corn using a water-powered turbine. Costumed interpreters provide demonstrations and insights into the daily life and agricultural practices of the era, making it an educational and engaging experience for history enthusiasts.
Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the many delights of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
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