Things to Do on Pigeon Forge Vacations
Planning a Pigeon Forge vacation? Did you know this charming town welcomes over 10 million visitors each year? Besides being a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains and offering a wide variety of accommodations, Pigeon Forge is a family favorite for one key reason: the endless list of things to do.
Whether you’re into adrenaline-pumping thrills or rich history, Pigeon Forge has something for everyone. With over 80 major attractions — including amusement parks, museums, dinner shows, and outdoor adventures — the options are vast, making it tough to narrow down what to do, especially if you’re short on time.
But no worries, we’re here to help! This guide breaks down the top attractions by category, making it easier for you to choose the activities that suit your style.
Before we start, here’s a little about us…
At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we offer a variety of cabins with amenities like hot tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, cinema and game rooms, and even pet-friendly options. Check out our website to find the perfect cabin for your stay.
For more tips on what to do during your visit to Gatlinburg and nearby Pigeon Forge, head over to our destination blog. From the best rainy-day activities to the top coffee shops in each town, we’ve got tons of local spots and insider tips just waiting for you!
Ready for a fun-filled vacation in Pigeon Forge, TN? Let’s dive in!
Theme Parks & Large Attractions
Pigeon Forge is packed with thrilling theme parks and big entertainment spots that guarantee fun for visitors of all ages. From exhilarating roller coasters to interactive experiences, there’s no shortage of excitement in this charming mountain town. Let’s dive into some of the top attractions:
The Pigeon Forge Snow Theme Park
Indoor Snow Tubing for All Ages
Pigeon Forge Snow is a one-of-a-kind indoor snow park where you can enjoy tubing, building snowmen, and more no matter the season. With its climate-controlled environment, you’ll get all the excitement of winter without the chill. It’s a perfect destination for family bonding and creating lasting memories.
Dollywood
Thrills, Entertainment, and Southern Charm
Dollywood is the crown jewel of Pigeon Forge, blending the thrill of world-class roller coasters with the warm hospitality of the Smoky Mountains. This 150-acre theme park is packed with adrenaline-pumping rides like the Lightning Rod, the world’s fastest wooden coaster, alongside shows featuring live music, Southern cuisine, and seasonal festivals. With attractions for all ages, from toddlers to thrill-seekers, Dollywood truly has something for everyone. Its combination of amusement rides, water slides (in the adjoining Splash Country), and cultural heritage exhibits makes it a must-visit.
Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show and Adventure Park
Action-packed show with Thrills
Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show and Adventure Park is unique. It combines entertainment with skill. You can watch professional lumberjacks compete in thrilling events like axe-throwing and log-rolling, and after the show, you can test your own strength at the Adventure Park. Whether you’re tackling the ropes courses or riding the zipline, it’s all about adventure and family fun.
Coasters & Adventure Parks
Pigeon Forge is a hotspot for thrill-seekers and outdoor lovers. It boasts an array of coasters and adventure parks, where you can find everything from high-speed alpine coasters to unique outdoor adventures.
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
America’s Longest Downhill Ride
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a top pick for thrill-seekers. It boasts the longest downhill track in the U.S., allowing riders to control their speed as they zip through the Smokies. With twists, turns, and dips, it’s a perfect blend of speed and scenic views, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Outdoor Gravity Park
Zorbing Fun for All
Outdoor Gravity Park is for the adventurous at heart. It offers zorbing, an activity where you roll down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball. You can choose between wet and dry tracks, making it a must-visit for those seeking a unique, adrenaline-filled experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster
Thrills with a Scenic Twist
The Rocky Top Mountain Coaster winds through stunning Smoky Mountain landscapes and features four scenic uplifts, which means more chances to take in the beauty before the ride gets wild. With thrilling twists, drops, and curves, this coaster is a favorite for those looking to combine nature and excitement.
TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena
Fun for Jumping Enthusiasts
TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena is perfect for trampoline fans. It features wall-to-wall trampolines, ninja warrior courses, and rock climbing areas. The arena offers extreme fun for all ages, from kids looking to bounce to adults seeking a high-energy workout. It’s a top spot for outdoor fun and adrenaline-pumping activities.
Goats on the Roof
Quirky Fun for the Whole Family
Goats on the Roof is one of the more unusual attractions in Pigeon Forge. You can feed goats on the rooftop while enjoying a mountain coaster ride. It’s a quirky mix of fun, adventure, and animal interaction, making it a memorable and unique stop for visitors.
Museums & Interactive Experiences
Pigeon Forge is full of museums and interactive spots that offer a mix of education and entertainment. These attractions cover history, pop culture, and crime stories, making them ideal for all ages.
Titanic Museum
Step Into History
The Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge is a stunning tribute to the famous ship. You can walk through recreated rooms, such as the Grand Staircase, and explore over 400 artifacts from the ship and its passengers. It’s a deep dive into the Titanic’s past, offering interactive experiences where visitors can touch an iceberg, sit in lifeboats, and even stand on the ship’s sloping deck.
Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Crime and Punishment Through the Ages
The Alcatraz East Crime Museum takes you through the darker side of American history. Visitors can explore exhibits on famous criminals, forensic science, and law enforcement. There are interactive displays, including a CSI lab where you can solve a mock crime. It’s a fascinating educational experience for those interested in crime and justice.
Beyond The Lens
Where Pop Culture Meets Technology
Beyond The Lens offers a tech-filled adventure with exhibits that blend pop culture, history, and interactive technology. From virtual reality experiences to unique photo ops, it’s a museum designed to engage all the senses. It’s ideal for those looking to combine learning with fun and discover more about the digital world we live in today.
Shows & Entertainment
Discover the vibrant world of Pigeon Forge live entertainment. You’ll find dazzling shows and performances for all tastes, from musical tributes to dinner spectacles.
A Salute to Elvis Ticket
Celebrate the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll
Elvis fans, rejoice! The “A Salute to Elvis” show in Pigeon Forge is a high-energy tribute to the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, complete with his iconic hits. With a “skip the line” ticket, you can maximize your time enjoying the show instead of waiting in line. It’s a must-see for any Elvis aficionado.
Country Tonite Theatre
Award-Winning Family Entertainment
Country Tonite Theatre is one of the most popular spots for live entertainment in Pigeon Forge. It offers a family-friendly show filled with country music, comedy, and spectacular dancing. The mix of country classics and modern hits ensures that people of all ages will be tapping their feet and singing along.
The Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show
Solve a Crime Over Dinner
For a thrilling evening, visit The Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show. It’s an interactive dinner experience where guests get to solve a crime while enjoying a delicious meal. With hilarious characters, unpredictable twists, and engaging storylines, this show guarantees both a great dinner and a night of intrigue.
Soul of Motown Show
A Tribute to Motown’s Golden Era
Experience the Soul of Motown Show at the Grand Majestic Theater. This tribute show brings the golden hits of Motown to life with music from legends like The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, and The Supremes. The upbeat performances, incredible vocals, and nostalgic atmosphere make this show a standout in Pigeon Forge’s entertainment scene.
Historical & Cultural Experiences
Exploring Pigeon Forge’s rich history and vibrant culture is an enlightening experience. The area offers plenty of ways to learn about its past while enjoying its present beauty.
Patriot Park
A Tribute to Veterans
Patriot Park is a peaceful spot located by the Old Mill, dedicated to honoring the brave men and women who served in the armed forces. As you walk through the park, you’ll see dedications and memorials that pay tribute to American veterans. The park also hosts seasonal events and festivals, blending history with community spirit.
Small-Group Jeep Tour of Smoky Mountains Foothills Parkway
A Scenic Journey Through History
For a unique adventure, join a small-group jeep tour of the Smoky Mountains Foothills Parkway. These tours offer breathtaking views of the mountains along with interesting historical tidbits about the area. The guides share local stories and history, making the experience educational and fun for nature lovers.
Distilleries & Wineries
Start a fun journey through Pigeon Forge’s top distilleries and wineries, where you can sample the region’s famous moonshine and local wines.
Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine
A Taste of Appalachian Tradition
Ole Smoky Tennessee Moonshine is a must-visit for those interested in trying local spirits. The distillery offers tastings of its various moonshine flavors, each representing a different piece of Appalachian tradition. From the classic Original Moonshine to unique flavors like Apple Pie, you’ll get a true taste of Tennessee.
Old Forge Distillery
Handcrafted Spirits in a Historic Setting
Located in a historic building in Pigeon Forge, the Old Forge Distillery is known for its handcrafted spirits, made using traditional methods. Visitors can take a tour of the distillery, learn about the history of moonshine in the region, and, of course, enjoy a tasting of their signature spirits.
Mountain Valley Winery
Local Wines with Rich History
Mountain Valley Winery is a top destination for wine enthusiasts visiting Pigeon Forge. The winery specializes in local wines made from Tennessee grapes, offering tastings that showcase the area’s rich agricultural history. Whether you prefer sweet or dry wines, you’ll find something to suit your taste.
Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour
A Tasting Tour You Won’t Forget
The Famous Moonshine & Wine Tour is the best of both worlds. It takes you to some of the area’s top moonshine distilleries and wineries, offering tastings of local spirits and wines. It’s a unique way to experience Pigeon Forge’s rich history of moonshine making and winemaking, all in one fun-filled tour.
Escape Rooms, Adventure Games & More
Pigeon Forge has a wide range of fun activities for groups, families, or friends. Whether you love challenging escape rooms or arcade games, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant town.
Arcade City
Games for All Ages
Arcade City is a lively spot for families and friends. It’s filled with classic and modern games, providing fun for all ages. From skee-ball to cutting-edge video games, there’s something for everyone, and the bright lights and bustling energy make it a great stop for an afternoon or evening of fun.
The Escape Game: Epic 60-Minute Adventure
Test Your Problem-Solving Skills
The Escape Game in Pigeon Forge is known for its thrilling 60-minute escape adventures. You and your group will need to work together to solve puzzles and uncover clues in themed rooms. Whether you’re trying to escape from a locked room or solving a complex mystery, it’s a great activity for team-building and testing your critical thinking skills.
Crave Golf Club
A Sweet Mini-Golf Adventure
Crave Golf Club is a colorful and whimsical mini-golf destination that offers two candy-themed courses. With bright, oversized candy decorations and fun obstacles, the courses are designed for all ages. It’s the perfect place for a lighthearted family outing or a fun competition among friends.
Where Should You Stay in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg?
Our short-term rental cabins provide the ideal blend of privacy, stunning mountain views, and a cozy atmosphere, ensuring a truly relaxing escape in the Smokies.
At Smoky Mountain Holiday, we offer cabins of various sizes and amenities, including hot tubs, full kitchens, fireplaces, cinema and game rooms, and even pet-friendly options. Explore our website to discover our fantastic range of cabin choices.
We’re dedicated to ensuring you and your family have the best possible experience in the Smokies. With Smoky Mountain Holiday, your vacation memories are guaranteed to be unforgettable.