40 BEST Things to Do in Pigeon Forge
Explore the top 40 fun and unique activities in Pigeon Forge, TN! From thrilling theme parks to serene nature parks, find the perfect blend of excitement and relaxation for your trip.
Pigeon Forge is a year-round family-friendly destination with much to explore. For decades, tourists have returned to Pigeon Forge to explore the little mountain town in the hills of the Smoky Mountains. From unique dining attractions, it is easy for tourists to see why Pigeon Forge feels like their home away from home.
With the number of things to do in Pigeon Forge, it's impossible to complete everything all in one day. From the most popular attractions to Pigeon Forge’s hidden gems, you'll want to add these to your list to get the most out of your vacation. You'll discover restaurants, museums, music venues, aquariums, distilleries, parks, zip lining, and more!
No matter what you have planned, Pigeon Forge has much to offer. Let’s dive into the 40 best things to do in Pigeon Forge.
40 Best Things to Do in Pigeon Forge
Visiting Pigeon Forge can seem overwhelming at a glance and you may have some trouble deciding where exactly to start on your trip. Below, we’ve put together an extensive list of things to do in Pigeon Forge to make your trip an unforgettable one.
1. Dollywood
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Map It: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: +1(800)-365-5996
Hours: Open Daily 10 AM-7 PM, Closed on Tuesdays
Entrance: Starting at $74
If you’re looking for a family-friendly attraction, you’ll want to head on over for a day of fun at Dollywood. Dollywood has been voted the number one theme park in the United States. It offers more than fifty world-class rides, upbeat entertainment, delicious dining, and a friendly atmosphere.
Also located in Dollywood is the waterpark called Splash Country. Splash Country is the perfect summer retreat that has towering water slides, clear blue pools, and splash zones. Grab your swimming gear and get ready for some slipping and sliding!
What you’ll need to know: You can book a stay & play ticket package and receive exclusive guest privileges like priority park access, Dollywood timesaver, and transportation.
2. Visit the Titanic Museum
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Map It: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (417)-334-9500
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9 AM-10 PM, Sunday: 9 AM- 7 PM
Entrance: Adults: $35, Child (Ages 5-12) $15, Children 4 & Under: Free
If you find the story of the Titanic intriguing, you may want to add the Titanic Museum to your list of things to do. The museum holds around 400 pre-discovery artifacts in its twenty galleries. It is the largest Titanic Museum in the world.
The structure is built in a pool to create the illusion of the ship being put to sea. The self-guided tour will last you around 2 hours and is designed to make you feel like an original passenger. When you enter, you are given a boarding ticket and an actual passenger name you will learn the story of.
What you’ll need to know: Days sell out quickly so make sure to make your reservations online.
Related Read: Best Time To Visit Tennessee
3. Splash Country
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Map it: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (417)-334-9500
Hours: Monday: Closed, Tuesday: 10 AM-6 PM, Wednesday: Closed, Thursday: 10 AM- 6 PM, Friday: Closed, Saturday: 10 AM-6 PM, Sunday: 10 AM-6 PM
Entrance: Starting at $54.95
At Splash Country you can race and rest or rush and relax. If you’re an adventurer you can race together on the Tailspin Racer, twist and turn on the Raging River Rapids, or get drenched in the massive wave pool.
Some of the most popular water attractions are the bear mountain fire tower, big bear plunge, down bound float trip, fire tower falls, little creek falls, mountain scream, and more! You can combine your park tickets with a stay at Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and spa for an ultimate getaway.
What you’ll need to know: Parking is $25 for all standard length vehicles and $30 for oversize length vehicles such as RVs and trailers.
4. The Island in Pigeon Forge
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Map it: 131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-286-0119
Hours: Open Daily 10 AM-12 AM
Entrance: Starting at $5
The Island in Pigeon Forge is named a top must-see attraction in Tennessee. Visitors who have visited The Island particularly love the view of the Smoky Mountains from the big wheel. They even have an island show that is choreographed for guest viewing.
The Island has dining locations, shopping, and rides the whole family will enjoy. The Island in Pigeon Forge offers families affordable fun no matter what day it is.
What you’ll need to know: Parking at The Island is free in The LeConte Center Parking Lot. The city also provides complimentary tram rides.
5. Alcatraz East Crime Museum
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Map it: 2757 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-453-3278
Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 10 AM-9 PM, Friday & Saturday: 10 AM-10 PM
Entrance: Adults (13-60) $28.95, Children (8-12) $14.95, Seniors (61+) $21.95, Law/Military $19.95, Children under 7 are free
At the Alcatraz East Crime Museum, you’ll be exploring American history from a different perspective. This museum has five unique galleries that dive into criminal profiles, crime prevention, forensic science, law enforcement, and the justice system. At over 25,000 square feet, this museum has over 100 interactives.
What you’ll need to know: Visitors usually take about 2 to 3 hours to tour the museum, so if you have small children it’s worth noting.
6. WonderWorks Pigeon Forge
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Map it: 100 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-868-1800
Hours: Open Daily 9 AM-10 PM
Entrance: Adults (13-59) $32.99, Child (4-12) $24.99, Senior (60+) $24.99, Children 3 & under are free
One of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge is to visit the WonderWorks Amusement Park. This is a unique amusement park that is family-friendly and made for the mind. This amusement park combines education and entertainment and has over one hundred hands-on exhibits to trigger your child’s imagination.
After you explored all of the exhibits, you can explore the basement that you will give additional action-packed entertainment. You’ll climb through obstacles that are three stories over the ground using the glow-in-the-dark indoor ropes course. Your kids will emit competing against other opponents.
What you’ll need to know: You should allow around 3-4 hours to complete the amusement park.
7. Crave Golf Club
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Map it: 2925 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-366-3403
Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 9 AM-9 PM, Friday & Saturday: 9 AM-12 AM
Entrance: $9.99 & up
Crave Golf Club is the number one mini golf course in the country. If your family loves mini golf, you’ll want to add this activity to your itinerary. They have an indoor family golf course, outdoor rooftop mini golf, mini bowling, candy store, and more!
What you’ll need to know: After you have a round of golf, you can check out their escape rooms. Their escape rooms include the Zombie Research Lab and MayDay
8. Outdoor Gravity Park
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Map it: 203 Sugar Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-366-2687
Hours: Open Daily: 3 sessions per day (see website for times)
Entrance: Starting at $24
If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity, the Outdoor Gravity park is an adventure in Pigeon Forge. It is the only zorbing park located in the United States. Zorbing is when you roll down a hill in a giant 11-foot inflatable with up to 3 people inside.
The Outdoor Gravity Park has a total of four tracks, with 3 experiences to choose from that include extreme zig-zag, fast tracks, and funnel. Children 5 years and older can ride this ride.
What you’ll need to know: There are a limited number of tickets sold daily and they book up quickly. You’ll want to schedule your reservations in advance.
9. Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park
Map it: 2155 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-365-1883
Hours: Open Daily: 10 AM-8:30 PM
Entrance: Starting at $26.99
The Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park provides hours of entertainment for people of all ages. It’s home to the most exciting rides that include: the tubing hill, outdoor ax throwing, and the first avalanche snow coaster.
The length of tubing hill is over 500 feet long and is one of the fastest tubing hills in the United States. When purchasing tickets you can mix and match your ride options.
What you’ll need to know: If you’re looking for a fun-filled day, you can get all 4 attractions for one price, and a buy 2 get 2 free deal!
Related Read: 27 Best Romantic Getaways In Tennessee
10. Pirates Voyager Dinner & Show
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Map it: 2713 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-505-2469
Website
Hours: Times Vary
Entrance: Adult: $69.99, Child: $34.99
Make dinner plans and prepare yourselves to take the best pirate voyage with pirate Blackbeard. You’ll see the Crimson and Sapphire crews battle on land, on deck, in water, and above the pirate ships in the hideaway lagoon. You’ll see mermaids and tropical birds, all while having a delicious feast.
What you’ll need to know: Due to the layout of the show, the Pirates Voyage and Dinner show cannot accommodate strollers and car seat carriers.
11. TopJump Trampoline Park
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Map it: 3735 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 |
Phone: (865)-366-3400
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 10 AM-9 PM, Friday: 10 AM-12 AM, Saturday: 9 AM-12 AM, Sunday: 9 AM- 9 PM
Entrance: Starts at $9.99
If you’re looking for a place for your kids to burn off some of their energy, you’ll want to get tickets for the Top Jump Trampoline Park. Inside you’ll find an open jump, airbag, a fire and ice ninja course, basketball dodgeball, a climbing center, and a kids zone.
At Top Jump, you’ll also find the nation’s first sky-high climbing adventure cliffhanger challenges. The climbing arena has 21 different climbing lines that will test your abilities. If you want a treat afterward, you can head on over to the Sugar Rush Candy Shop.
What you’ll need to know: To participate in jumping all participating persons must sign a waiver.
12. Flyaway Indoor Skydiving
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Map it: 3106 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-453-7777
Hours: Open Daily 10 AM-7 PM, Closed on Wednesdays
Entrance: $37.95
Do you want the experience of skydiving without the fear of jumping out of a plane? In the vertical wind tunnel, you can body fly like that real thing. Flyaway Indoor Skydiving gives you a chance to test out your skills during a single flight session.
When you’re a flyer, you’ll have a 15-minute training class where you’ll learn body control techniques and safety procedures. After that, you’ll have equipment preparation and then enter the tunnel with your instructor.
What you’ll need to know: If you’re traveling around a popular holiday, it’s recommended you make a reservation.
13. Smoky Mountain Brewery
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Map it: 2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-868-1400
Hours: Open Daily: 11 AM-12 AM
Entrance: Prices Vary
If you’re into tasting new beers, you’ll want to stop by the Smoky Mountain Brewery. Smoky Mountain Brewery always has six beers on tap to choose from. They use high-quality ingredients to brew the freshest tasting beer for their guests.
Brewers at Smoky Mountain Brewery are always trying new recipes to create unique flavors. They also have seasonal beers that will rotate with the seasons.
What you’ll need to know: Check the website to see what events are being held on certain nights. SMB holds live team trivia, live music, NFL football, bingo, and karaoke.
14. Old Forge Distillery
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Map it: 170 Old Mill Ave, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-774-4126
Hours: Open Daily: 10 AM-9 PM
Entrance: Prices Vary
If you have an eye for distilleries, you’ll want to add this to your to-do list. Old forge is an award-winning distillery that specializes in recipes made in Pigeon Forge. Travelers around the world come to try their unique flavors.
When you travel here you’ll be able to sample some of the finest Tennessee crafts available. They have a restaurant, distillery, cocktail bar, and gift shop.
What you’ll need to know: Children are welcome at Old Forge Distillery as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
15. Dollywood Express
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Map it: Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-365-5996
Hours: Open Daily: 10 AM-8 PM
Entrance: With theme park ticket
The Dollywood Express Train is like nothing you’ve ever experienced! You’ll board and take a 20-minute mountain excursion over 5 miles through the Great Smoky Mountains. All seating on the Dollywood train comes on a first come first serve basis.
What you’ll need to know: Departure times are limited so make sure you check the Dollywood app for departure times.
16. Adventure Park Ziplines
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Map it: 1628 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-345-3781
Hours: Open Daily: 8 AM-7 PM
Entrance: 7-line Zipline tour: $84.99, Zipline & Horseback Combo: $99.99
If you’re looking for an activity for the whole family to enjoy, you’ll enjoy the Ziplines at the adventure park. You’ll Ziplines above the beautiful 70-acre nature park while taking in breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains. There are up to seven unique Ziplines that are over 2,000 feet long.
The first ticket option you’ll have to choose from is the 7-line zipline tour, where you’ll zip up to 50 mph. The second is the zipline and horseback combo where you’ll get two adventures for the price of one.
What you’ll need to know: This activity is for anyone ages 4 and older. You must weigh between 60-270 lbs and wear snug-fitting shoes with a fully enclosed toe and heel.
17. The Axe House Tavern
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Map it: 2850 Parkway #13, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-366-1476
Hours: Sunday-Wednesday: 11 AM-8 PM, Thursday-Saturday: 11 AM-10 PM
Entrance: Prices vary
If you need a place to blow off some steam, we highly recommend checking out The Axe House Tavern. This is a fun and safe environment that the whole family can attend. You can eat, drink, and play while getting some ax throwing in.
If you’d like the smaller kids to join in, they even have the option to get foam axes so they can feel included. If you get hungry, this location has a full bar and menu with delicious pizza, wings, and fish tacos.
What you’ll need to know: Make sure you wear closed-toe shoes as sandals and flip-flops are not permitted.
18. Gatlinburg Skylift Park
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Map it: 765 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-436-4307
Hours: Open Daily: 9 AM-10 PM
Entrance: Starting at $20.95
Experience the Smoky Mountains as you’ve never seen before by taking a ride on the Gatlinburg skylift. This is Gatlinburg’s longest-running attraction that has a scenic skylift, record-breaking sky bridge, hiking path, observation area, and mountain shop.
If you buy your ticket in advance, you can save money on this trip. If you buy a SkyPass at least one day in advance you can save, skip the line, and get unlimited access until closing.
What you’ll need to know: If you plan on bringing small children, you should know that strollers are not permitted at the Gatlinburg Skylift Park.
19. Scenic Helicopter Tours
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Map it: 1965 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-453-6342
Website
Hours: Open Daily: 9 AM-8:30 PM
Entrance: Starting at $29
If you want an unforgettable experience of the Smokey Mountains, you’ll want to book a scenic helicopter tour in Pigeon Forge. They have mountain and valley tours that have spectacular mountain views from start to finish.
Another tour you can take is the Great Smoky Mountain helicopter tour. On the tour, you’ll have views of Elkmont, Blanket Mountain, Meigs Mountain, Tremont, and Thunderhead. You can choose from the National Park Tour, Scenic Special, and the Grand Tour.
What you’ll need to know: If you book a tour, you should arrive 20 to 30 minutes before going over the safety briefing.
20. Smoky Mountain Escape Games
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Map it: 131 The Island Dr, Suite 9139, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-868-3400
Hours: Open Daily: 8 AM-12 AM
Entrance: Starting at $37.99
The Escape Game is nothing you’ve ever experienced and is a great family outing. You’ll have multiple rooms to explore and can choose from several themes and difficulties. One of the good things about the game is that you can ask your fame guide for hints with no penalties.
Each game can play up to 8 players and is ranked out of 10 for difficulty level. Some of the rooms include prison break, heist, gold rush, classified, and mission: Mars. The escape room game is a unique activity that brings adventures to life.
What you’ll need to know: The Escape Rooms are meant for anyone 13 years or older.
21. Smoky Mountain Jeep Rentals
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Map it: 1725 Walden’s Creek Rd STE, 102, Pigeon Forge, TN 37862
Phone: (865)-366-7063
Hours: Open Daily: 9 AM-6 PM
Entrance: $289/per day
Jeep Rentals are the Smokies number 1 attraction! You can come to the Smokies and rent a Jeep Wrangler so you can cruise in style. If you’re traveling in the fall, Jeep rides are the perfect opportunity to view all of the fall colors in the Smoky Mountains.
When you rent your jeep you will pick it up at 11 AM and keep it overnight until you return it the next morning at 9:30 AM. Keep in mind that you cannot take the jeeps off-road or mudding. Don’t worry about the weather, if there is a chance of rain that is 50% or greater, they will give you a full refund.
What you’ll need to know: If you need your jeep for multiple days, they offer discounts for multiple-day rentals.
22. Rafting in the Smokies
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Map it: 813 East Pkwy, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865)-777-7238
Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9 AM-8 PM, Sunday: 9 AM-5 PM
Entrance: Starting at $39
If you want to brave the elements and ride the water, you’ll want to come rafting in the Smokies. In 1978, rafting was a pioneer outfitter on the Big Pigeon River. This activity is family-friendly, safety-focused, and one of the best for vacation.
All of the rafting trips include certified and tried guides to help you feel safe and comfortable. The guides love being outdoors and are very eager to share their knowledge with you on the trip. Bring your water clothes and let’s get rafting!
What you’ll need to know: Since you will get wet, it’s recommended to bring synthetic material shorts, a t-shirt or bathing suit, and tennis shoes or river sandals. No flip-flops or bare feet are allowed.
23. Ole Smoky Mountain Tennessee Moonshine Distillery
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Map it: 903 Parkway #128, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865)-436-6995
Hours: Open Daily: 10 AM-11 PM
Entrance: Prices vary
If you have a taste for moonshine, you’ll want to pay a visit to the Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery. This distillery has moonshine flavors such as lemon drop, peach, and apple pie. They offer moonshine, whiskey, canned cocktails, and James Ownby Reserve.
The canned moonshine cocktails are mixed up, ready to go, and convenient for when you want to add them to the cooler. If you’re wondering how moonshine is made, you can book a tour and have a tour specialist show you how it’s done.
What you’ll need to know: You can bring children along to all distillery locations, however, if you want to participate in the guided tour, all guests must be 13 years or older.
24. Parrot Mountain & Gardens
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Map it: 1471 McCarter Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37862
Phone: (865)-774-1749
Hours: Open Daily: 10 AM-6 PM
Entrance: Adult: $27.95, Child: $14.95, Seniors: $21.95, Souvenir Photo with Parrots: $51.99, Children under 2 are free
If you’re looking for an activity that the kids will enjoy, you’ll want to come to Parrot Mountain and Gardens. Here you’ll be able to see, touch, and feed the most beautiful parrots. The Parrots are housed in English-styled cottages.
During your visit, you will see dancing birds, hear talking birds, and see singing birds. You’ll also see newly hatched baby parrots and see them being hand fed. If you fall in love, you can purchase a bird and take them home.
What you’ll need to know: If you come with more than 35 people in a group, you’ll need to make a reservation.
25. Pigeon Forge Snow
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Map it: 2533 Teaster Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-366-1334
Hours: Monday-Thursday: 10 AM-9 PM, Friday: 10 AM-10 PM, Saturday: 9 AM-10 PM Sunday: 9 AM-9 PM
Entrance: $9.99 & up
Grab the kids and stop by this amazing indoor snow park! Pigeon Forge Snow stays open all year long and has REAL snow that never melts. When you visit you’ll be able to race down the slopes and build real snowmen and snow forts, even in the middle of July.
One of the positives about this place is that you don’t even need to make reservations. This snowy adventure is a great fun-filled activity that is perfect for people of all ages.
What you’ll need to know: Even though it’s real snow, it’s always between 60-70 degrees on the inside, so there’s no need to wear your coat.
26. Country Tonite Theater
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Map it: 129 Showplace Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-453-2003
Hours: Showtimes subject to change
Entrance: Adult: $36.50, Teen: $31.50, Children 12 & under are free
Have you been looking for a true source of entertainment in Pigeon Forge? Look no further than the Country Tonite Theater. Country Tonite combines country classics with new country hits and country comedy.
These shows are always a great activity for all ages! As you plan your next trip to the Smoky Mountains, make sure you plan your trip around one of their amazing shows! Once you decide what show you’d like to see, you can purchase tickets right on their website.
What you’ll need to know: If you book your reservation online, you can get a discount on ticket prices.
27. Ripken Baseball Experience
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Map it: 405 Jake Thomas Blvd Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-366-3101
Hours: Monday-Friday: 9 AM-4 PM
Entrance: Free
The Ripken Baseball experience is one of the top baseball tournament destinations in the area and offers young people the opportunity to play baseball the way the professionals do. This is also a great place for you to come to visit and watch as a spectator.
Whether you’re looking to watch spring training or to catch a tournament, the Ripken baseball experiences will give you an unforgettable day. The main goal behind the experience is to make sure everyone has fun, that’s why you’ll never pay to park or for admission when you visit.
What you’ll need to know: You can visit their website to search for available events.
28. Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show
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Map it: 2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-366-3330
Hours: Open Daily: 10 AM-9 PM
Entrance: From $34.99 for Adults and $14.99 for children
Are you looking for some family excitement and to channel your flannel? You’ll want to check out Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show. You’ll enjoy an hour and a half of competitive lumberjack events that feature the Dawson and McGraw family lumberjacks.
This Pigeon Forge show operates daily, rain or shine, snow or sleet. The lumberjacks can handle any weather but you will be up in their climate-controlled grandstands keeping comfortable. Afterward, you can head over to the Adventure Park.
What you’ll need to know: If you book the show and Adventure Park together, you can save $10-$15 per person.
29. Visit Goats on the Roof
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Map it: 1341 wears valley rd, pigeon forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-366-7139
Hours: Open Daily: 9 AM-11 PM
Entrance: Prices vary
If you’re looking for a hidden gem in Pigeon Forge, look no further than Goats on a Roof. Here you can mine for gems like rubies, sapphires, or emeralds at the gem mine. Take a ride on the Goat Coaster that speeds just under 30 mph.
The concept of having goats on a roof goes back 40 years ago. The Johnson family started letting goats go on their roof to attract crowds and it turned out well for them. This Pigeon Forge attraction can share its uniqueness with visitors of the Great Smoky Mountains.
What you’ll need to know: Ticket purchasing online is unavailable so you’ll need to purchase at the site.
30. Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo
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Map it: 109 NASCAR Dr, Sevierville, TN 37862
Phone: (865)-428-4091
Hours: Open Daily: 9 AM-5 PM
Entrance: Adults: $16.99, Seniors $14.99, Children: $9.99
If you have a love for animals, you’ll want to check out the Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo. It’s located near the beautiful Smoky Mountains and Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. It is themed by one of the nation's finest zoological contractors.
This zoo features 600 animals, has over 130 species, and is home to unique creatures from rainforests around the world. The majority of the animals here have been born in or hatched in captivity.
What you’ll need to know: Instead of purchasing at the gate, you can purchase your tickets online.
31. Murder Mystery Dinner Show
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Map it: 2682 Teaster Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-908-1050
Hours: Showtimes vary
Entrance: Adults: (13+) $53.84, Child: (4-12) $30.53, Children 3 & under with a seat: $17.92, Children 3 & under on lap: free
Another hidden gem in Pigeon Forge is The Great Murder Mystery Show. You’ll sit for a comedy murder mystery show and be delivered a three-course meal. They offer 3 different shows that rotate throughout the week.
Whether you’re coming for a family outing, or on a date with that special someone, this is a night everyone will enjoy. You may choose to participate in the show if you’d like to.
What you’ll need to know: Walk-ups are available but do the nature of the theater and
32. Dine at the Hard Rock Cafe
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Map it: 2050 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-430-7625
Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11:30 AM-9 PM, Friday & Saturday: 11:30 AM-10 PM
Entrance: Prices vary
If you’re looking for a family-friendly restaurant to have dinner at, you’ll want to dine at the Hard Rock Cafe. The Hard Rock Cafe is a casual dining experience with over 12,000 square footage of stylish space. It holds up to 400 guests and has a live music stage and a gift shop.
The Hard Rock Cafe gives a unique look at music and has three dining areas that have memorabilia from Dolly Parton, Jimi Hendrix, and Madonna. You’ll see hundreds of collectible items on display with highlights on Taylor Swift.
What you’ll need to know: If you’re dining with a large group, you can make reservations online.
33. Visit the Forbidden Caverns
Map it: 455 Blowing Cave Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876
Phone: (865)-453-5972
Hours: Open Daily: 10 AM-5 PM, Closed on Thursdays and Sundays
Entrance: $20 or less
Are you ready to visit the greatest attraction in the Smokies? Come visit the Forbidden Caverns with over 8,350 caves to date. When you visit, you will be provided with an entertaining and educational tour.
You’ll see special lighting effects and have well-trained tour guides to make this an enjoyable experience for you. The trails are lighted along the inside with handrails for those who need them. So bring the family and come check out the Forbidden Caverns!
What you’ll need to know: Due to the variance in group sizing and tour duration, they do not currently offer an advance or online ticket sales.
34. Visit Mountain Valley Winery
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Map it: 2174 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-453-6334
Hours: Open Daily: 9 AM-8 PM
Entrance: Prices vary
If you’re feeling like a taste for wine, you’ll want to head on over to Mountain Valley Winery. They have some of the most unique wines in the county and some of the oldest wineries in the state of Tennessee. They specialize in sweet wines, fruity wines, and flavors like watermelon, Rhubarb, and Red Velvet.
You can stop by the winery between the hours of noon and 5 PM to experience a tour. This tour will show you the winemaking on site and you can pick out your favorite wine.
What you’ll need to know: Tastings are FREE to all those over 21 years of age with a valid photo ID.
35. Visit MagiQuest
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Map it: 2491 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-686-5586
Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 9 AM-9 PM, Friday & Saturday: 9 AM-10 PM
Entrance: Starting at $12.99
If you’re looking for a fun attraction that the kids will enjoy, you’ll love MagiQuest. MagiQuest is an interactive treasure hunt game that kids love. You’ll have a magic wand and a clue book and look for clues and treasures through a themed fairy forest. You will need a pass in order to advance through the quests and adventures.
Your kids will jump with excitement as they defeat the Goblin King, interact with fairies, and mystical creatures, battle the dragon and hunt for treasures and clues. Their magic wand will bring the characters to life and will store their progress as they complete levels.
What you’ll need to know: If you want to do all activities in one day you can play to be here from 3-3.5 hours.
36. Horse Riding
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Map it: 1630 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862
Phone: (865)-538-0569
Hours: Open Daily: 8 AM-7 PM
Entrance: Starting at $24.99
Your kids will love this outdoor activity riding on the most beautiful horses. This is the premier horseback riding destination of the Smokies. You’ll enjoy an hour-long ride for about 3.5 miles of trail that have beautiful trees, streams, and mountain views.
This is a great experience for the whole family to come together. When booking, ages 3-5 must ride with an adult. Anyone ages 6+ may ride on their own. Riders must weigh under 270lbs.
What you’ll need to know: You should wear closed-toe shoes if you plan on riding.
37. Walk Along Anakeesta
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Map it: 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865)-325-2400
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 9 AM-8 PM, Friday & Saturday 9 AM-9 PM
Entrance: Starting at $22.99
Head on over with the family to Anakeesta for a day of adventure! At Anakeesta, you’ll have a unique outdoor experience that will deliver a memorable experience in the Smokies. You’ll stroll along the 14-bridge Treetop Skywalk with over 880 inches of connected bridges hanging 50 to 60 feet in the air.
You can also climb, crawl, and slide your way through the challenge course. You’ll encounter trails, waterfalls, and Vista Gardens which is a beautiful oasis in the heart of downtown Gatlinburg.
What you’ll need to know: The Anakeesta admission includes all-day unlimited access.
38. Go Glamping
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Map it: 3404 Whaley Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-453-8117
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 9 AM-5 PM, Friday & Saturday 9 AM-8 PM
Entrance: Prices vary
If you want to go camping in style, you’ll want to try out Glamping at Jellystone Park. You and the family can pack up and rent out a Glamping tent. You’ll have two options: 2-person tents and 5-person tents to choose from.
With your reservation, a golf cart will be included. All of the Glamping tents sleep up to four people and have electric heat and air, beds with linens, a coffee pot, water, and toilets.
What you’ll need to know: The Price includes one free parking spot. Additional parking spots will be $10
39. Go Skiing at Ober Gatlinburg
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Map it: 1339 Ski Mountain Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738
Phone: (865)-436-5423
Hours: Open Daily: 9:30 AM-5:30 PM
Entrance: Prices Vary
Ober is Tennessee’s number 1 skiing destination for families. They have many snow activities outdoors, as well as snow activities indoors for those who wish to stay warm. The ski season begins in mid-December and lasts through mid-March.
What you’ll need to know: Many activities at over high activities that involve inherent risk.
40. Watch a Show at the Listening Room Cafe
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Map it: 2703 Teaster Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (865)-265-2225
Hours: Open Daily: 11 AM-11 PM, Closed on Sundays
Entrance: Prices Vary
There’s nothing like hearing music live. At the listening room cafe, you’ll get to enjoy your retreat in the Smoky Mountains and listen to some of the top region’s songwriters. During the week, you can expect an acoustic setting.
What you’ll need to know: All ticket sales are final.
41. Visit the #1 Rated Escape Room: The Great Escape Room (TGER)
Credit: TGER Facebook
Map it: 3784 Parkway #102, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, United States
Phone: +18657619241
Hours: F-S from 12-10PM / M-T from 12-8PM
Entrance: Prices Vary
Whether you're looking to celebrate a birthday, build teamwork, or simply have an unforgettable outing with friends and family, they've got the perfect setting for you. You have just 60 minutes to unravel the mysteries and make your escape... Are you up for the challenge?
Tobi Miles is a University of Florida graduate turned globe-trotting culinary explorer and digital nomad expert. As the founder of "Bytes & Bites," he combines his passion for international cuisine with practical advice on remote work, inspiring others to experience the world through food and cultural immersion. With 32 countries under his belt and a knack for uncovering hidden culinary gems, Tobi is redefining the intersection of work, travel, and gastronomy for a new generation of adventurers.
