Pigeon Forge, though a small town, offers an exciting mix of activities that attract travelers from all around the world. Whether you’re here for a thrilling adventure or to relax and enjoy nature, Pigeon Forge promises something for everyone. While Dollywood is undoubtedly the star attraction, there’s so much more to explore and experience in this beautiful town.
Dollywood – A Fun-Filled Adventure
Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd.
| Type | Amusement Parks, Recreation, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | More than Full Day |
History and Significance: Founded by Dolly Parton, Dollywood is a cultural icon in Pigeon Forge, showcasing Appalachian traditions and family-friendly entertainment.
What to Expect: Thrilling rides, live entertainment, seasonal festivals, and unique cultural experiences that celebrate Appalachian heritage.
Visitor Information: Open seasonally, Dollywood offers ticket packages and operates from spring through winter. Check the website for hours, prices, and seasonal events.
Dollywood, the iconic theme park founded by Dolly Parton, is a major highlight of Pigeon Forge. Offering over 50 thrilling rides, live entertainment, and seasonal festivals, it caters to all ages and interests. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like the Wild Eagle to heartwarming shows featuring gospel, bluegrass, and country music, Dollywood delivers both excitement and charm. It’s not just a theme park; it’s an immersive experience that allows you to create unforgettable family memories.
Splash Country Water Park – Cool Down and Have Fun
Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd.
| Type | Amusement Parks, Recreation, Swimming/Pools |
| Time to Spend | Half Day to Full Day |
History and Significance: Splash Country is a popular water park in Pigeon Forge, part of the Dollywood resort, offering water-based fun for families.
What to Expect: Exciting water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and relaxing areas for all ages. A great way to beat the summer heat.
Visitor Information: Open from late spring to early fall, tickets available online. Look for discounts and family packages, and bring sunscreen for a day of fun.
When the summer heat hits, Splash Country Water Park is the perfect escape. Spanning 35 acres, this water park features everything from thrilling water slides to lazy rivers for ultimate relaxation. Families can enjoy the wave pool or float on the relaxing lazy river, while the more adventurous can brave the high-speed slides. With attractions designed for all ages, Splash Country guarantees a fun-filled day of water-based excitement and is a great way to cool off during your vacation.
Parrot Mountain and Gardens – A Hidden Gem
Address: 1471 McCarter Hollow Road
| Type | Parks and Gardens |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Parrot Mountain and Gardens opened in 1995, showcasing exotic birds and stunning gardens in a peaceful setting.
What to Expect: Over 70 species of exotic birds, breathtaking garden views, and interactive experiences like feeding and photo ops with the birds.
Visitor Information: Located off the beaten path, the park operates year-round. Check for seasonal hours and be prepared for walking in a lush, hilly landscape.
Parrot Mountain and Gardens is one of Pigeon Forge’s most delightful surprises. Situated in a lush, serene environment, it’s home to hundreds of exotic birds, including macaws, cockatoos, and toucans. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with these vibrant creatures and take in the breathtakingly beautiful gardens. The attraction also offers educational shows and allows guests to feed and interact with the birds, making it an unforgettable experience for nature and animal lovers of all ages.
The Comedy Barn Theater – Laughter for the Whole Family
Address: 2775 Parkway
| Type | Entertainment and Nightlife |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Comedy Barn is a renowned family-friendly comedy theater in Pigeon Forge, known for its wholesome humor and interactive performances.
What to Expect: Clean, hilarious comedy, magic acts, live music, and audience participation suitable for all ages.
Visitor Information: Shows are held daily. Advanced tickets are available online, and the theater offers group rates. Expect a lighthearted atmosphere perfect for families.
If you’re looking for a dose of humor and family-friendly entertainment, The Comedy Barn Theater is the place to be. This fun-filled show is packed with stand-up comedy, magic tricks, and musical acts. Known for its wholesome, clean humor, it offers a great time for everyone, from kids to grandparents. The high-energy performances, hilarious skits, and interactive audience participation ensure that the entire family will be laughing from start to finish.
WonderWorks – A Mind-Bending Experience
Address: 100 Music Road
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: WonderWorks began as an educational project to make learning fun, offering hands-on science exhibits in an upside-down building.
What to Expect: Interactive exhibits on science, space exploration, natural disasters, and mental challenges. Fun for both kids and adults.
Visitor Information: WonderWorks operates year-round with flexible hours. Special offers and ticket discounts are available online for families and groups.
WonderWorks, located in an iconic upside-down building, is an interactive museum that offers a fun and educational experience. With more than 100 hands-on exhibits, it covers science, space exploration, natural disasters, and physical challenges. You can simulate a hurricane’s force, land a space shuttle, or even challenge your balance in zero gravity. The museum’s focus is on combining learning with fun, making it a perfect stop for families looking to engage in some mind-bending activities while learning along the way.
Titanic Museum – Step Back in Time
Address: 2134 Parkway
| Type | Museums, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: The Titanic Museum brings the story of the infamous 1912 disaster to life, with real artifacts and an immersive experience.
What to Expect: Artifacts from the Titanic, interactive exhibits, life-size replicas, and personal stories of passengers and crew.
Visitor Information: Open daily year-round, with special guided tours available. Tickets are available online, and the museum offers discounts for children and seniors.
The Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge is a historical gem for anyone interested in the tragic story of the famous ship. This interactive museum features a replica of the Titanic’s grand staircase, along with real artifacts, models, and personal stories of passengers and crew. Visitors can also feel what it was like to touch an iceberg, or see how cold the water was on the night of the disaster. It’s a deeply emotional and immersive experience that brings history to life.
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster – A Thrill Ride Through Nature
Address: 867 Wears Valley Road
| Type | Amusement Parks |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster opened as the longest alpine coaster in the U.S., offering a thrilling ride through the Smoky Mountains.
What to Expect: A fast-paced coaster ride through scenic mountains with adjustable speeds for a personalized experience.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, the ride is weather dependent. Tickets are available on-site, and groups can receive discounts. Bring sunglasses for the ride!
For an unforgettable adventure, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is the place to go. This thrilling ride, the longest alpine coaster in the United States, takes you on a fast-paced journey through the breathtaking Smoky Mountain scenery. Riders can control their speed, making it a fun and personalized experience for both adrenaline junkies and those who prefer a slower, more scenic ride. The coaster is a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the mountains while experiencing a heart-racing adventure.
The Island in Pigeon Forge – A Fun-Filled Escape
Address: 131 The Island Dr,
| Type | Amusement Parks, Entertainment and Nightlife, Free, Neighborhood/Area, Recreation, Shopping, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: The Island in Pigeon Forge is an entertainment complex offering a mix of shopping, dining, and attractions in a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
What to Expect: Fun rides, unique shops, great dining options, and the iconic Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
Visitor Information: The Island is open year-round, with free parking and extended hours during peak seasons. Explore the website for showtimes and special events.
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a vibrant entertainment complex that offers something for everyone. It’s home to unique shops, delicious restaurants, and a variety of attractions, including the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the area. Whether you’re enjoying the fountain shows, browsing through boutique stores, or riding the Island’s amusement rides, it’s a perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening with friends and family while enjoying a lively atmosphere.
Alcatraz East Crime Museum – Dive into Crime History
Address: 2757 Parkway
| Type | Museums |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Alcatraz East Crime Museum is dedicated to crime and punishment, showcasing historical criminal cases and criminal justice system developments.
What to Expect: Exhibits about notorious criminals, the history of law enforcement, and interactive displays on forensic science and criminal psychology.
Visitor Information: Open daily with special rates for children and groups. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. The museum is wheelchair accessible.
If you’re intrigued by crime stories and history, the Alcatraz East Crime Museum is an exciting stop. Located in Pigeon Forge, the museum is packed with fascinating exhibits about criminal profiles, notorious criminals, and the justice system. From Ted Bundy’s infamous Volkswagen to O.J. Simpson’s white Bronco, you’ll find artifacts and interactive exhibits that delve into the world of crime and punishment. This museum combines education with intrigue, making it a must-see for those fascinated by criminal history.
Smoky Mountain National Park – Explore Nature’s Beauty
Address: National park in the United States
| Type | Parks and Gardens, Hiking |
| Time to Spend | More than Full Day |
History and Significance: The Smoky Mountain National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving the region’s unique biodiversity and historical sites.
What to Expect: Hiking trails, scenic views, waterfalls, and rich wildlife. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Visitor Information: Open year-round with no entrance fee. Trails, campgrounds, and visitor centers have varying hours. Check weather conditions before visiting for optimal experiences.
A visit to the Smoky Mountain National Park is essential for anyone visiting Pigeon Forge. Known for its stunning landscapes, the park offers an abundance of hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls, and incredible scenic drives. You can hike to the top of Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park, or take a leisurely stroll along one of the many trails that wind through the forest. Whether you’re exploring by foot, bike, or car, the park offers stunning views and a peaceful retreat from city life.
Jungle Jim’s Escape Room – Solve Puzzles and Escape
Address: 131 Island Dr Suite 9139,
| Type | unlock mysteries, exciting experience |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Jungle Jim’s Escape Room is one of Pigeon Forge’s most exciting interactive attractions, offering thrilling puzzle-solving experiences.
What to Expect: Fun, challenging escape room experiences where teams solve clues, unlock puzzles, and race against time to “escape” a themed room.
Visitor Information: Open year-round with different themed rooms. Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups. Expect a 60-minute adventure for each session.
For a fun and mentally stimulating experience, try Jungle Jim’s Escape Room. This interactive puzzle challenge requires you to work together with friends or family to solve clues, unlock mysteries, and escape from the themed rooms before time runs out. It’s a thrilling way to test your problem-solving skills and teamwork. With different themed rooms to choose from, every visit offers a fresh and exciting experience, making it a great way to spend time with loved ones in an engaging and fun environment.
Mountain Valley Winery – Taste Local Wines
Address: 2174 Parkway, Pigeon Forge
| Type | scenic views, winemaking process |
| Time to Spend | More than Full Day |
History and Significance: Mountain Valley Winery, located just outside Pigeon Forge, offers award-winning wines from local vineyards and a relaxing setting.
What to Expect: Wine tastings, guided tours, and a chance to purchase some of the region’s finest wines.
Visitor Information: Open daily with tastings available. Check for special wine events and discounts. Located just a short drive from Pigeon Forge.
Mountain Valley Winery offers a perfect retreat for wine lovers looking to explore local flavors. Located just outside Pigeon Forge, the winery offers a wide variety of wines, from sweet fruit wines to dry reds and whites. Guests can enjoy tastings, learn about the winemaking process, and purchase bottles to take home. The beautiful vineyard setting, complete with scenic views, makes it a peaceful spot to relax and savor some of the finest wines from the Smoky Mountains.
Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster – A Family Thrill Ride
Address: 2155 Parkway, Pigeon Forge
| Type | Stunning views |
| Time to Spend | Half Day to Full Day |
History and Significance: Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster combines the thrill of a coaster with mountain views, offering a unique experience in the Smoky Mountains.
What to Expect: High-speed thrills as you zip through the mountain landscape, with views of the beautiful Smoky Mountains.
Visitor Information: The coaster operates year-round, weather permitting. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and discounts are available for groups or multiple rides.
For another exciting adventure, try the Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster. This thrilling ride takes you through the scenic mountain landscape at high speeds, providing a fun and exhilarating experience. It’s a perfect attraction for families, as it’s suitable for all ages. Whether you’re racing through the curves or enjoying the stunning views, this coaster delivers an unforgettable thrill. It’s a great way to add some excitement to your trip and experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains from a unique perspective.
Old Mill Square – A Taste of History
Address: Old Mill St, Pigeon Forge
| Type | Free, Parks and Gardens, Neighborhood/Area |
| Time to Spend | Less than 1 hour |
History and Significance: The Old Mill Square is a historic district in Pigeon Forge, where the Old Mill, operational since the 1800s, still grinds corn and flour.
What to Expect: Historic landmarks, charming shops, and delicious Southern food in a quaint, scenic setting.
Visitor Information: Open daily, with free entry to the district. The Old Mill restaurant offers hearty Southern meals, and the mill is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Old Mill Square is a charming historical district in Pigeon Forge that offers visitors a chance to experience the past. The Old Mill, a gristmill dating back to the early 1800s, is still in operation and grinds cornmeal and flour. The area also boasts quaint shops and restaurants, such as The Old Mill Restaurant, which serves up delicious Southern comfort food. Visitors can stroll around the square, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this beautifully preserved historic site.
Great Smoky Mountains Wheel – A Bird’s Eye View
Address: 131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge
| Type | Amusement Parks, Entertainment and Nightlife, Free, Neighborhood/Area, Recreation, Shopping, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 hours to Half Day |
History and Significance: The Great Smoky Mountains Wheel offers panoramic views of Pigeon Forge, helping visitors get a bird’s eye view of the beautiful Smoky Mountains region.
What to Expect: Stunning views of the Smokies from 200 feet in the air, especially scenic at sunset or during the evening when lights are on.
Visitor Information: Open year-round with evening hours for a stunning nighttime experience. Tickets can be purchased online or at The Island, with discounts for children and groups.
The Great Smoky Mountains Wheel offers spectacular views of Pigeon Forge and the surrounding Smoky Mountains from 200 feet in the air. As one of the tallest attractions in the area, it provides a bird’s eye view of the region, especially beautiful at sunset or when the city lights up at night. This towering Ferris wheel is located at The Island in Pigeon Forge, where visitors can enjoy a relaxing ride while taking in the stunning scenery from above.
