Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains in eastern Tennessee, both Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are a wonderland for a vacation all year round. Known for stunning natural beauty, myriad family-friendly entertainment options, and quintessential Southern charm, the region offers it all: from delicious local cuisine to historic sites and quirky attractions, you can find it all in these two cities.
There’s so much to do, and we know sometimes it can be hard to know where to start, especially if this is your first visit. But worry not! This blog will bring you a list of the top 10 things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, so you know just what you shouldn’t miss.
Let’s kick off our mountain town adventure!
1. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a vast national park spanning the borders of Tennessee and North Carolina and is famous worldwide for its incredible biodiversity, stunning mountain vistas, and rich cultural heritage.
And guess what? Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are considered the best tourist hubs to reach it. From either town, you’re just a stone’s throw away from 800 miles of trails, cascading waterfalls, and opportunities to spot wildlife like black bears and elk. You can learn about the region’s rich history at historical sites within the park, too.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, a casual sightseer, or a nature enthusiast, the park has something for everyone — no wonder it’s the most visited national park in the United States!
With its breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an absolute must-visit when you’re in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg.
2. The Old Mill District
A popular destination in Pigeon Forge, The Old Mill District is a charming enclave that seamlessly blends history, shopping, dining, and scenic beauty.
The centerpiece, the Old Mill itself, is a historic working grist mill dating back to 1830. It’s one of the oldest operating mills in the country and stands as a testament to the area’s heritage. Taking a tour of the structure is like stepping back in time, and witnessing the fascinating process of grinding grains into flour and meal. You can even see demonstrations of pottery and candy making — traditional crafts from the region.
Afterward, leisurely strolling along the Little Pigeon River and soaking in the scenic beauty is a priceless experience. And don’t forget to treat yourself to a meal at the Old Mill Restaurant, renowned for its Southern comfort food.
If you want to learn about the region’s heritage, this is the place to visit.
3. Gatlinburg’s Downtown Area
In Gatlinburg, the Downtown area serves as the central hub for visitors, where the lively energy of the town comes alive. If shopping till you drop is your thing, Downtown Gatlinburg boasts a diverse shopping scene, with plenty of stores selling unique and memorable souvenirs. The area is a Foodie Paradise as well: from casual cafes and family-friendly restaurants to fine dining experiences, you will find something to satisfy your cravings.
This is the one-stop destination for entertainment, shopping, and dining, and is the perfect area to take a stroll and soak up the atmosphere filled with mountain town Southern charm.
4. Dollywood
Speaking of entertainment, Dollywood is a must-visit theme park in Pigeon Forge. Owned in part by Dolly Parton — hence the name — the park pays homage to her Smoky Mountain roots and Appalachia’s rich traditions. From a heart-pounding collection of coasters to gentler experiences such as classic family-friendly rides and a dedicated area for younger children, this place has it all.
And you can immerse yourself in the spirit of the Smokies with captivating live shows. Food-wise? Dollywood offers a wide variety of options, from classic Southern fare to international flavors. Be sure to try some of Dolly Parton’s signature dishes!
With its unmatched combination of thrilling rides, captivating shows, delicious food, and, of course, a celebration of Smoky Mountain heritage, this one should definitely be on your bucket list.
5. Ziplining Adventure in the Smokies
Looking for an exhilarating ride and a unique perspective on the natural beauty all around? Ziplining adventures are one of the top activities to do while in the Smoky Mountains, especially in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg. Numerous zipline courses are operating in the area, each offering a variety of courses with varying lengths, difficulty levels, and heights.
So, what exactly is a zipline course? It’s a series of platforms interconnected by cables where you’re securely harnessed in and glide from platform to platform, enjoying breathtaking views of the Smokies along the way.
It’s a perfect activity for families, groups of friends, or anyone seeking a thrilling outdoor experience.
6. Mountain Coaster Ride
Ziplines aren’t the only thrilling and scenic adventure around. Have you ever heard of a mountain coaster ride, also known as an alpine coaster?
Picture this: you’re not on a speeding train, but controlling a single or double-person sled that zooms down the rails, twisting, turning, dipping, and dropping—all while soaking in those stunning mountain views. It’s an exhilarating experience suitable for most ages and definitely adds a fun twist to your mountain getaway!
7. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a captivating underwater wonderland in Gatlinburg. This sprawling aquatic kingdom boasts the title of America’s number-one Aquarium.
You’ll be amazed by the sheer variety of aquatic life as you stroll through North America’s longest underwater tunnel. You’ll see sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and a kaleidoscope of other fascinating creatures.
Want to get closer? You can meet and even touch a friendly stingray. There are designated touch pools where you can feel their smooth texture. You can also come face-to-face with sharks or waddle alongside playful penguins.
Ripley’s Aquarium isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s an educational hub, fostering appreciation for the underwater world and its delicate ecosystems. In other words, this place is proof that learning doesn’t have to be dry!
8. Titanic Museum
As you can probably guess, this is not your ordinary museum. The Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge will take you on a captivating journey back to 1912, allowing you to experience the grandeur and ultimate tragedy of the RMS Titanic.
Through interactive exhibits and over 400 authentic artifacts, the museum meticulously recreates the ship’s interior and tells the stories of its passengers and crew. It serves as a poignant reminder of the disaster and a tribute to those who lost their lives. As an interesting touch that makes everything more real, you’ll receive a boarding pass with the name of a real passenger or crew member.
Overall, this place offers a unique and powerful perspective on a historical event that continues to capture our imagination.
9. Dinner Shows
Here’s an idea: combine a delicious meal with a live entertainment experience. And you can do so by attending a dinner show. Dinner shows are a major draw for tourists visiting Pigeon Forge, and these theaters put on elaborate productions with music, dance, comedy, and sometimes even special effects, all while you enjoy a hearty dinner.
Some of the most popular dinner shows in Pigeon Forge are Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, and Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show. With a variety of themes and styles to choose from, there’s sure to be a show that’s perfect for you and your group.
10. Anakeesta
To top off our list, here’s another family-friendly destination not to be missed: Anakeesta. It’s a unique outdoor adventure park perched atop a mountain in Gatlinburg, with a focus on appreciating the natural beauty of the Smokies. It provides a fun and engaging alternative to traditional amusement parks.
Besides thrilling adventures for adrenaline seekers such as mountainside rides and ziplines, the crown jewel of Anakeesta is the panoramic vista. From that vantage point, take in the breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park from various observation points, including the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg, AnaVista Tower.
But that’s not all. After exploring the park, you can shop for souvenirs, local crafts, and mountain apparel, or unwind and enjoy delicious meals at the on-site restaurants with scenic views. Anakeesta really offers the full package!
Best Activities in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg & Beyond
With endless options for excitement in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, it’s like a playground for adventure seekers. While it might be tough to narrow down your choices, selecting a few (or even trying them all!) from the list above guarantees a blast with your friends and family.
For more tips on what to do during your visit to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, head to our destination blog. We cover a wide range of topics, including the best places to eat in town, what to do if it rains, and even an optimized vacation reading list for when you visit the Smokies. It’s all there, and we’re constantly updating with even more content!
Where to stay in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg? Look no further!
Our 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.