Top 15 Best Things to Do in Pigeon Forge: Attractions & Activities

Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is a vibrant town offering a variety of activities for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or looking for family-friendly fun, there are plenty of best things to do in Pigeon Forge to make your trip unforgettable. In this blog, we will explore the top attractions, outdoor adventures, and unique experiences that you must check out during your visit.

Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is known for its exciting and diverse attractions. From captivating shows to outdoor escapades, here are the top 10 attractions you should not miss:

1. Dollywood: A world-class theme park owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, offering thrilling rides, shows, and festivals.
2. The Island in Pigeon Forge: A fun entertainment complex with rides, dining, shopping, and the iconic Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
3. Titanic Museum Attraction: Explore the historical marvel that takes you back to the fateful night of the Titanic disaster.
4. Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster: The longest alpine coaster in the U.S. provides a thrilling ride through the Smokies.
5. Pigeon Forge Snow: An indoor snow park where you can experience real snow in every season.
6. The Comedy Barn Theater: Laughter guaranteed with family-friendly comedy, magic shows, and musical performances.
7. Parrot Mountain and Gardens: A tropical paradise where you can interact with exotic birds and walk through beautiful gardens.
8. Old Mill Square: Step back in time to visit the historic mill and enjoy its shops, restaurants, and beautiful views.
9. Hollywood Wax Museum: A fun stop where you can take selfies with life-sized wax figures of celebrities.
10. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: Discover marine life through interactive exhibits, including an underwater tunnel.

Each of these attractions offers something unique, ensuring that your trip is packed with excitement and fun.

Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

No trip to Pigeon Forge is complete without visiting the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This park, located just a short drive from the town, is a must-see destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply enjoying breathtaking scenic views, this park has something for everyone.

Best Trails for Hiking:

• Alum Cave Trail: A 5-mile round trip with beautiful views and a cave to explore.
• Clingmans Dome Trail: A short, paved path that leads to the highest point in the Smokies, offering panoramic views.
• Laurel Falls Trail: A 1.3-mile easy hike to the park’s most famous waterfall.

The park also offers great opportunities for wildlife sightings, with black bears, deer, and wild turkeys commonly spotted along the trails.

Best Family-Friendly Activities in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is a fantastic destination for families, with activities that will entertain visitors of all ages. Here are some family-friendly options:

1. Dollywood: With roller coasters, kiddie rides, and water attractions, it’s the perfect spot for family fun.
2. The Island in Pigeon Forge: Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, enjoy interactive attractions, and grab a bite at one of the many family-friendly restaurants.
3. WonderWorks: An interactive science museum where kids can engage in hands-on exhibits.
4. Pigeon Forge Snow: Children can play in real snow or try snow tubing all year long.
5. LazerPort Fun Center: A great place for laser tag, mini-golf, and arcade games.

These activities provide hours of entertainment for families with children, making Pigeon Forge a top destination for family vacations.

Unforgettable Dinner Shows in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is home to some of the best dinner theaters in the region. These shows combine great food with world-class entertainment. Some of the must-see dinner shows include:

1. Dolly Parton’s Stampede: A fun-filled show with horseback riding, music, and comedy while enjoying a hearty Southern meal.
2. Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud: A hilarious family-friendly show featuring the famous Hatfield and McCoy rivalry with lots of music, dance, and comedy.
3. The Comedy Barn Theater: This show blends comedy, magic, and live music in a fun and relaxed setting.
4. The Smoky Mountain Opry: An incredible variety show featuring talented performers singing, dancing, and playing instruments.
5. The Pirate’s Voyage Dinner & Show: A high-energy, action-packed pirate show with acrobats, animals, and an impressive underwater theme.

These dinner shows offer a fun and unique way to experience Pigeon Forge’s entertainment scene while enjoying a delicious meal.

Pigeon Forge Outdoor Adventures: Ziplining, Rafting, and More

If you’re an adventure seeker, Pigeon Forge has plenty of outdoor activities to get your adrenaline pumping:

1. Ziplining: Experience the Smoky Mountains from above with zipline tours, where you’ll soar through lush forests and enjoy stunning mountain views.
2. Whitewater Rafting: Embark on a thrilling rafting trip down the Pigeon River, suitable for beginners to advanced rafters.
3. Horseback Riding: Explore the Smokies on horseback with guided trail rides.
4. Go-Karting: Test your racing skills at one of the many go-kart tracks around Pigeon Forge.
5. Mountain Biking: Rent a bike and explore the area’s scenic routes, including trails in the national park.

These outdoor adventures offer the perfect way to enjoy the natural beauty of Pigeon Forge while having fun and staying active.

Pigeon Forge Cabin Rentals: The Perfect Stay in the Smokies

For those seeking a cozy and rustic stay in Pigeon Forge, cabin rentals are the perfect option. These cabins provide a private and comfortable base for your adventures. Many offer amazing amenities like:

• Hot tubs with mountain views
• Fully equipped kitchens for family meals
• Game rooms with pool tables or air hockey
• Fireplaces for cozy evenings

Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a large family retreat, there are plenty of cabin rental options in and around Pigeon Forge.

Top-Rated Pigeon Forge Restaurants You Can’t Miss

From Southern comfort food to fine dining, Pigeon Forge is home to a diverse range of restaurants. Here are some of the best:

1. The Old Mill Restaurant: Known for its Southern-style cooking, featuring fried chicken, cornbread, and biscuits.
2. The Peddler Steakhouse: A long-standing favorite offering delicious steaks with a scenic view of the Little Pigeon River.
3. The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant: A great place for classic Southern meals, including apple fritters and country ham.
4. Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen: Enjoy comfort food made famous by the beloved celebrity chef.
5. Mamma’s Farmhouse: Serving up hearty, home-style meals in a cozy farmhouse setting.

These restaurants provide authentic dining experiences that showcase the flavors of the Smoky Mountains.

Exploring Pigeon Forge’s Thrilling Amusement Parks

For thrill-seekers and families alike, Pigeon Forge offers some of the most exciting amusement parks in the region. Whether you’re a fan of high-speed roller coasters or more laid-back rides, there’s something for everyone in this charming town.

1. Dollywood: One of the most popular theme parks in the U.S., Dollywood combines thrilling roller coasters, a variety of live shows, and a unique Southern charm. With rides like the Lightning Rod roller coaster and the Wild Eagle, it’s the perfect place for adrenaline junkies.
2. The Island in Pigeon Forge: Aside from shopping and dining, The Island also has rides such as the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel (a 200-foot observation wheel) and the Island Ropes Course, which challenges visitors to test their climbing skills.
3. FunStop Family Action Park: A lesser-known gem in Pigeon Forge, FunStop offers go-karts, bumper cars, mini-golf, and an arcade, making it a great spot for families with kids of all ages.
4. SpeedZone Fun Park: This park features some of the best go-kart tracks, including one of the longest tracks in the area, perfect for racing fans.
5. Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster: Not a traditional amusement park, but a fun ride that lets you zoom down the Smoky Mountain side on a gravity-powered coaster—an experience you won’t want to miss.

Pigeon Forge’s amusement parks promise a day of excitement, laughter, and unforgettable memories for the whole family.

Seasonal Events and Festivals in Pigeon Forge

One of the best ways to experience the local culture in Pigeon Forge is by attending one of its many seasonal events and festivals. These events highlight the town’s vibrant community spirit, history, and love for celebration. Here are some key festivals and events to consider during your visit:

1. Pigeon Forge Winterfest: From November to February, the town is transformed into a winter wonderland with millions of lights decorating the streets, Christmas parades, and festive performances. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
2. Dollywood’s Harvest Festival: A must-visit for those in town during the fall, this festival celebrates the beauty of autumn with crafts, live music, and an impressive array of pumpkins.
3. Saddle Up!: This annual event celebrates the Smoky Mountains’ cowboy heritage with events like live country music performances, western-themed activities, and a large Western parade.
4. Pigeon Forge Car Show: A favorite for car enthusiasts, this event brings thousands of classic and custom cars to the streets of Pigeon Forge for a weekend of fun and admiration.
5. Bluegrass Festival: Celebrate Appalachian music at this event with performances from top bluegrass artists, workshops, and family-friendly activities.

These festivals not only give you a taste of local culture but also create lasting memories that will make your visit to Pigeon Forge even more special.

Best Hiking Trails in Pigeon Forge: Scenic Routes for Nature Lovers

If you love hiking, Pigeon Forge is surrounded by some of the best trails in the Smoky Mountains, offering everything from easy walks to more challenging hikes. Here are some of the best trails to explore:

1. Laurel Falls Trail: A short, 1.3-mile trail that leads to the park’s most famous waterfall. It’s an easy, family-friendly hike with plenty of beautiful scenery along the way.
2. Alum Cave Trail: A moderately strenuous hike, this 5-mile trail offers amazing views of the surrounding mountains and a cool cave to explore at the top.
3. Chimney Tops Trail: For experienced hikers, this 4-mile trail offers breathtaking views of the Smokies. The summit provides an unbeatable view of the surrounding landscape.
4. Grotto Falls Trail: This 1.4-mile hike is perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of a waterfall up close. The trail takes you directly behind the waterfall for a unique view.
5. Rainbow Falls Trail: A 5.4-mile trail that leads to a stunning 80-foot waterfall, with the chance to see wildlife along the way.

Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Pigeon Forge offers hiking trails that suit every level, with many showcasing the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains.

Fun Things to Do for Couples in Pigeon Forge

If you’re visiting Pigeon Forge with your significant other, the town offers a variety of romantic activities perfect for couples. From cozy cabins to scenic spots, here are some great ideas for a romantic getaway:

1. Romantic Cabin Stay: Rent a cozy cabin in the Smoky Mountains to enjoy a quiet, secluded retreat. Many cabins come with hot tubs, fireplaces, and stunning views—perfect for a peaceful escape.
2. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park: Take a ride on the SkyLift and enjoy the spectacular views of the mountains with your partner. The newly renovated SkyBridge is the longest pedestrian bridge in North America.
3. Sunset at Clingmans Dome: For a breathtaking view, drive to Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and enjoy a sunset like no other.
4. Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries such as Apple Barn Winery for a romantic wine tasting experience. You can savor a variety of wines while taking in the beautiful vineyard scenery.
5. Horseback Riding: Take a romantic horseback ride through the Smokies, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature along the way.

With these options, you and your partner are sure to have a memorable, romantic experience in Pigeon Forge.

Pigeon Forge Water Parks: Cool Off and Have Fun This Summer

Summer in Pigeon Forge can get hot, but luckily there are plenty of water parks and activities to help you cool off:

1. Dollywood’s Splash Country: This is Pigeon Forge’s top water park, featuring water slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. It’s the perfect way to cool down after a day at Dollywood.
2. The Waterfall Cove: This private water park in Pigeon Forge offers a more laid-back environment with a lazy river, water slides, and a great place for families to relax and play.
3. Outdoor Pools and Lazy Rivers: Many of the hotels and resorts in Pigeon Forge offer their own private pools and lazy rivers, giving you the option to cool off without leaving your accommodation.
4. Smoky Mountain Water Adventure: A smaller, more intimate water park featuring splash pads, water slides, and other fun water activities for younger children.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or just looking to relax in the sun, Pigeon Forge offers plenty of opportunities to cool off during the summer months.

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Conclusion

Pigeon Forge is truly a destination for everyone. Whether you enjoy thrilling rides, scenic hikes, family-friendly attractions, or peaceful cabin getaways, there’s always something exciting to do in this vibrant town. By exploring the best things to do in Pigeon Forge, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience surrounded by stunning nature, fun attractions, and rich Southern hospitality.

FAQs

1. What are the best things to do in Pigeon Forge for families?
   • Dollywood, The Island in Pigeon Forge, and WonderWorks are fantastic family-friendly options.
2. What is the best time to visit Pigeon Forge?
   • The best time to visit depends on your preferences, but the fall offers beautiful foliage, while the winter is perfect for Winterfest lights.
3. What outdoor activities are available in Pigeon Forge?
   • Hiking, ziplining, rafting, and horseback riding are popular outdoor adventures in the area.
4. Are there any dinner shows in Pigeon Forge?
   • Yes! Don’t miss Dolly Parton’s Stampede and the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud for family-friendly entertainment.
5. Where can I go shopping in Pigeon Forge?
   • The Old Mill Square, The Island, and Tanger Outlets are great places for shopping.
6. What are the best hiking trails in Pigeon Forge?
   • Laurel Falls, Alum Cave, and Chimney Tops offer scenic hikes for various skill levels.
7. Is Dollywood worth visiting?
   • Yes! Dollywood is a must-see for families and thrill-seekers with its exciting rides and live performances.
8. Are there water parks in Pigeon Forge?
   • Yes, Dollywood’s Splash Country and other local water parks offer plenty of opportunities for summer fun.