16 Best Things to Do in Pigeon Forge

Curious about the best things to do in Pigeon Forge? Here are the top attractions, outdoor adventures, family activities, and dining spots you shouldn’t miss.

Pigeon Forge offers a diverse range of outdoor adventures, including hiking and ziplining in the Great Smoky Mountains. The town itself has unique dining experiences and shopping opportunities, blending fun and food with local flavors and vibrant retail options.

When it comes to accommodation, you’ll find cozy and luxurious vacation rentals aplenty in Pigeon Forge, the Smoky Mountains, and the surrounding areas.

If you need a helping hand planning your visit to Pigeon Forge, keep reading for our list of the 16 best things to do in the area.

1. Explore The Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Pigeon Forge is a prime spot for adventure enthusiasts, offering a plethora of outdoor activities that promise excitement and fun. Whether you’re into ziplining, white water rafting, or riding a mountain coaster, the great outdoors of Pigeon Forge has something for everyone.

No visit to Pigeon Forge is complete without exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This national park is just one hour’s drive from Pigeon Forge and is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife. From camping and hiking to spotting wildlife like deer, wild turkeys, and even bears, there’s no shortage of activities to immerse yourself in nature.

2. Take A Scenic Helicopter Tour

For a truly unique perspective of the Smoky Mountains, consider taking a scenic helicopter tour. These tours provide an aerial view of the stunning landscapes, offering a bird’s-eye view of the majestic mountains and lush forests below.

It’s an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of the Smoky Mountains and capture some incredible photos.

3. Have Some Family Fun At Pigeon Forge’s Dollywood Theme Parks

Photo Credit: Dennis MacDonald

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is home to a variety of exhilarating theme parks that cater to fun-seekers of all ages. From thrilling rides to interactive attractions, there are countless ways to enjoy some family fun in Pigeon Forge’s vibrant atmosphere.

Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country are two of Pigeon Forge’s most iconic attractions, offering a perfect blend of thrill rides, entertainment, and water fun. Together, these parks offer an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of adventure and hospitality in Pigeon Forge.

• Dollywood – a 150-acre theme park that truly offers something for everyone. With over 40 rides and attractions, from adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to family-friendly rides, plus 15 to 20 live entertainment shows each day, it’s no wonder Dollywood is a favorite destination in Pigeon Forge.
• Dollywood Splash Country – when the weather heats up, there’s no better place to cool off than Dollywood’s Splash Country water park.

4. Go on a Space Race Adventure

For a truly out-of-this-world experience, head to Space Race Adventures. This attraction combines space-themed activities with mini-games like laser tag and virtual reality racing, creating a cosmic environment that’s both fun and engaging. Space Race Adventures offers an exciting and memorable experience for all ages.

5. Play in the Snow at Pigeon Forge

You can enjoy snow year-round at Pigeon Forge Snow, where you can go snow tubing and play in the snow anytime. Experience the magic of snow year-round at Pigeon Forge Snow, the first indoor snow facility in the United States. Visitors can enjoy snow tubing and a snow play area, making it a perfect destination for some winter fun, no matter the season.

6. Discover the Best Southern Dining Experiences in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is not just about attractions; it’s also a haven for food lovers. The town offers a range of unique dining experiences that highlight local cuisine.

Pigeon Forge caters to every palate, offering hearty Southern meals and entertaining dining shows, including the following options:

• Dolly Parton’s Stampede – Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a must-visit for anyone looking to combine dining with entertainment. This dinner show features incredible performances, including music, dance, and stunning horseback riding, all while guests enjoy a delicious meal.
• Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen – For a true taste of Southern hospitality, head to Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen. Meals are served family-style, encouraging communal dining and a sense of togetherness. Its warm and inviting ambiance makes it ideal for the whole family.
• The Old Mill Restaurant – a dining experience steeped in history. Housed in a historic building that’s been in operation since the mid-1800s, the restaurant features rustic decor and views of the mill’s working waterwheel.

7. Have a Laugh at the Comedy Barn Theater

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The Comedy Barn Theater is a fun place to enjoy family-friendly comedy that’s been delighting audiences for over two decades. Known for its unique blend of comedy magic and variety performances, the Comedy Barn Theater is a favorite destination for families looking to have a good laugh.

8. Unleash Your Inner Child At TopJump

TopJump Trampoline Park is a super fun destination for visitors of all ages. Beyond trampolining, the park offers mini-bowling, an arcade, and a giant obstacle course designed for dodgeball. Dedicated areas for younger children ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

9. Embark on a Quest at MagiQuest

Photo Credit: JennLShoots

MagiQuest is an interactive adventure game that lets you embark on mystical quests using a magic wand. Players can engage with mystical creatures and solve puzzles, making it an engaging and fun activity for both kids and adults. MagiQuest’s multiple quests of varying difficulty levels provide an exciting experience for all participants.

10. Discover Shopping & Entertainment

Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Pigeon Forge. With over 300 shopping locations, including unique boutiques and outlet stores, there’s something for every taste.

Whether you’re looking for memorable souvenirs or the latest fashion trends, Pigeon Forge’s diverse shopping options have you covered:

• Tanger Outlets – You’ll find fantastic shopping deals at the Tanger Outlets in Sevierville, which is just a short drive from Pigeon Forge. It’s the perfect spot for snagging brand-name items at great prices!
• The Island – a lively destination that offers shopping, dining, and entertainment options for visitors of all ages. With over 60 retail shops, you can find unique souvenirs and local products that make perfect keepsakes to remind you of your visit. It’s a vibrant spot that promises a fun-filled day out.
• Bush’s Visitor Center – a unique stop offering an educational and enjoyable experience for visitors. Here, you can learn about the history of Bush’s Beans and purchase exclusive food items and memorabilia.

11. Ride The Rocky Top Mountain Coaster

For an exhilarating ride, head to the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster. This mountain coaster offers a thrilling ride through the scenic landscapes of Pigeon Forge. Offering both single-ride tickets and all-day passes, this is an adventure not to be missed. Each ride lasts around 9 minutes, providing a satisfying adrenaline rush.

12. Dine with Pirates

Photo Credit: Joseph Hendrickson

Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show combines thrilling pirate-themed acrobatics and stunts with a delicious multi-course meal. This unique dining experience offers spectacular live shows that are sure to entertain. Enjoy a hearty meal while watching talented performers bring the pirate adventure to life.

13. Put Your Go-Karting Skills to the Test

For those who love speed and competition, the Xtreme Racing Center is a must-visit. This venue features high-performance go-kart tracks tailored for racing enthusiasts.

With three distinct tracks catering to both novice and experienced racers, it promises an exhilarating experience that will test your go-karting skills to the limit. Get ready to rev your engines and race to the finish line!

14. Go on a High-Flying Ziplining Adventure

Take your adventure to new heights at Wahoo Ziplines. This thrilling zipline adventure allows visitors to glide through the canopy and enjoy stunning views over the Smoky Mountains.

With courses reaching heights of up to 250 feet, Wahoo Ziplines provides an adrenaline rush and breathtaking scenery that make it a must-try activity.

15. Unleash Your Competitive Side At Mini Golf

Pigeon Forge offers fantastic mini golf courses that are perfect for family fun. Crave Golf Club is not just any mini golf course; it’s a top-ranked mini golf course in the USA. With 38 holes featuring vibrant themes and stunning landscaping, Crave Golf Club offers the whole family a creative and challenging experience.

16. Discover the Wacky World of WonderWorks

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WonderWorks is an indoor amusement park that’s as educational as it is entertaining. Spanning over 42,000 square feet, it features more than 100 interactive exhibits that challenge the mind and spark creativity. The park is designed to resemble an upside-down house, adding a unique visual element to the experience.

With a glow-in-the-dark ropes course, laser tag arena, and 4D simulator ride, WonderWorks offers diverse indoor entertainment for visitors of all ages. It’s a fun experience that makes learning feel like an adventure!

Discover the Best Things to Do in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is a destination that truly has something for everyone. From the stunning natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains to the thrilling rides at Dollywood and the unique dining experiences, there’s no shortage of fun things to do. Whether you’re seeking adventure, family fun, or simply a relaxing getaway, Pigeon Forge promises an unforgettable experience.

Pack your bags, book your luxury vacation rental, and get ready to create cherished memories in this wonderful town.