Pigeon Forge is a charming mountain town nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee, offering a plethora of exciting activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. With its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Pigeon Forge has become a popular vacation destination for families, couples, and solo travelers.
From exploring the Great Smoky Mountains to indulging in local cuisine, experiencing thrilling rides at amusement parks, or shopping at unique boutiques and outlets, there is no shortage of things to do and see in Pigeon Forge. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or indoor entertainment, Pigeon Forge promises to be an unforgettable destination for your next vacation.
Today, we’ll explore some of the top things to do on a vacation in Pigeon Forge to help you plan an unforgettable trip.
Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge
Choosing the perfect accommodation is an essential aspect of planning any vacation, and Pigeon Forge offers travelers a wide range of options. Whether looking for a luxurious resort, cabin, condo, or budget-friendly hotel, Pigeon Forge has something to suit every traveler’s needs.
One of the top things to consider when selecting accommodation in Pigeon Forge is pool availability. The town is known for its hot and humid summers, and a pool is an excellent way to cool off after a long day of exploring. Fortunately, there are many hotels in Pigeon Forge with a pool, making it easy to find a place to stay that offers this facility.
No matter where you stay in Pigeon Forge, consider the location carefully before making your reservation.
1) Dollywood Theme Park
Dollywood Theme Park is one of the top attractions in Pigeon Forge, drawing millions of visitors every year. Named after its co-owner, country music legend Dolly Parton, the theme park celebrates the rich culture and history of the Great Smoky Mountains while offering modern amenities and world-class entertainment.
Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides including the exhilarating roller coaster ride, watch live shows featuring talented musicians and performers, sample Southern cuisine and snacks, or shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs. With its fun-filled atmosphere and over 50 diverse attractions, Dollywood Theme Park is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a vacation in Pigeon Forge.
2) Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
The thrilling ride of the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster takes you on a scenic journey through the mountains, offering breathtaking views and adrenaline-pumping thrills. The coaster features individual carts that allow you to control your speed, so you can take a leisurely ride or go full-throttle for an exhilarating experience.
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is open year-round, making it a must-visit attraction no matter when you visit Pigeon Forge. Whether you’re traveling with friends or family, this unique coaster promises to be a memorable highlight of your vacation.
3) The Island, Pigeon Forge
This entertainment complex boasts an array of activities, shops, and restaurants, making it a perfect destination for families and groups. Visitors can enjoy thrilling rides, including the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, which offers breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains.
The Island also offers live music, seasonal events, and a variety of dining options, from fast food to upscale cuisine. The Island in Pigeon Forge has a variety of shops ranging from boutiques to specialty stores, making it an exciting and memorable experience for visitors.
4) The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
As the most visited national park in the United States, it offers breathtaking natural beauty and abundant outdoor activities. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic trails, go hiking, camping, fishing, or enjoy a picnic in one of the many picturesque spots. The park is also home to diverse wildlife and offers a variety of ranger-led educational programs and workshops for all ages.
Whether you want to admire the stunning fall foliage, witness the blooming wildflowers in spring, or enjoy winter sports, a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-do in Pigeon Forge.
5) Titanic Museum
The Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge is an immersive and interactive experience that takes visitors on a journey through the history of the legendary ship. As soon as you enter the museum, you will feel like you are stepping back to the early 20th century, where you’ll encounter authentic artifacts and exhibits that recreate the grandeur and tragedy of the Titanic’s ill-fated voyage.
From exploring replicas of the ship’s lavish first-class cabins to touching a real iceberg and experiencing the chilling cold of the Atlantic, the museum offers a unique and engaging way to learn about this iconic ship and its passengers.
6) WonderWorks
WonderWorks is an interactive museum that combines education and entertainment. The unique upside-down building houses over 100 hands-on exhibits that allow visitors to experience science, technology, and art in a fun and engaging way. From a hurricane simulator to a virtual roller coaster ride, a glow-in-the-dark ropes course, and an immersive 4D XD motion theater, WonderWorks offers various activities for all ages.
7) Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud
Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud is a two-hour live show that tells the story of the infamous Hatfield and McCoy families and their legendary feud, all while guests enjoy a delicious, all-you-can-eat Southern-style dinner. The show features hilarious comedy, impressive stunts, and even some audience participation, making it a fun and engaging experience for the whole family.
8) Hollywood Wax Museum
The museum features life-like wax figures of some of the biggest names in Hollywood, including Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Johnny Depp, and more. Visitors can snap photos with their favorite celebrities, learn about their achievements, and even participate in interactive exhibits such as a laser maze and a 4D theater experience.
9) Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Alcatraz East Crime Museum is a must-visit attraction for true crime enthusiasts and history buffs. With over 25,000 square feet of exhibits, guests can explore the history of American crime from colonial times to the present day. The museum features interactive exhibits and displays on notorious criminals, law enforcement, forensic science, and more. Highlights include artifacts from famous cases such as O.J. Simpson, Ted Bundy, and the 9/11 terrorist attacks.
Conclusion
Pigeon Forge is a charming vacation destination with plenty of activities for everyone. From hiking and outdoor adventures in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to shopping, dining, and entertainment in downtown Pigeon Forge, there is no shortage of things to do. Visitors can also explore the rich history and culture of the region at attractions like Dollywood, the Titanic Museum, and WonderWorks.
Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, Pigeon Forge offers a unique blend of natural beauty, excitement, and relaxation that is sure to create lasting memories. So, pack your bags and get ready to experience all that Pigeon Forge offers.
