Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge, TN, is filled with attractions and activities for every type of traveler. From thrilling amusement parks to serene natural escapes, this charming town offers an unforgettable experience for all ages! Need help deciding what to do? Here's your ultimate bucket list of can’t-miss things to do in Pigeon Forge:
1. Dollywood
No visit to Pigeon Forge is complete without experiencing Dollywood! This world-renowned theme park offers a unique blend of things to do in Pigeon Forge, with thrilling rides, captivating live entertainment, delicious cuisine, and skilled craft demonstrations. From heart-pounding roller coasters like Lightning Rod and Big Bear Mountain to charming shows celebrating music and Appalachian culture, Dollywood provides a full day of family fun and cherished memories. Visit during one of their spectacular seasonal festivals for a special treat!
2. Mountain Coasters
For an exhilarating outdoor adventure, hop on one of Pigeon Forge's thrilling mountain coasters! These unique rides combine the excitement of a roller coaster with the scenic beauty of the Smoky Mountains. You control your speed as you wind through the trees, experiencing twists, turns, and drops with breathtaking views! Popular options include Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster, and Rocky Top Mountain Coaster.
3. The Old Mill
Looking for can’t-miss things to do in Pigeon Forge? Step back in time and discover the historic charm of The Old Mill! This iconic landmark features a working grist mill, built in 1830, that still grinds grain daily. You can watch the mill at work, explore a variety of shops, and indulge in delicious Southern comfort food at The Old Mill Restaurant and Pottery House Cafe. The Old Mill is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and souvenir shopping!
4. Ziplining
Get an adrenaline rush and a bird's-eye view of when you embark on a zipline adventure! Pigeon Forge offers several thrilling zipline courses that cater to all experience levels, including Smoky Mountain Ziplines and WildSide. Soar through the canopy to experience the rush of speed and the beauty of the Smoky Mountains from a unique perspective! Some courses also offer treetop bridges and rope challenges for an even more exciting outdoor experience.
5. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at The Island in Pigeon Forge
Every bucket list of things to do in Pigeon Forge needs to include The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at The Island in Pigeon Forge! This giant Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. Step into one of the enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas and ascend to a height of 200 feet for unparalleled photo opportunities and a breathtaking perspective of the Pigeon Forge Parkway and beyond!
6. Scenic Helicopter Tours
For a truly unforgettable experience, take to the skies with Scenic Helicopter Tours! Soar above the majestic peaks and lush valleys of Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountains to witness stunning vistas that aren’t accessible by foot or car. From the beautiful forests to the winding rivers and hidden coves, a helicopter tour provides a unique and awe-inspiring view of nature’s wonders. This is one of the once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Pigeon Forge! Various tour lengths and routes are available, allowing you to customize your aerial adventure.
7. Horseback Riding
Connect with nature and experience the Smoky Mountains from a different vantage point by going horseback riding! Several stables in and around Pigeon Forge offer guided trail rides suitable for all experience levels, from beginners to experienced riders. Travel along scenic trails winding through lush forests and alongside bubbling creek. This is one of the best outdoor things to do in Pigeon Forge if you want to appreciate the tranquility and beauty of the mountains!
8. ATV Rides
For the thrill-seeker looking for an off-road adventure, one of the can’t-miss things to do in Pigeon Forge is exploring ATV trails! Places like WildSide and Gon Ridin’ Off Road offer guided ATV and UTV trail rides where you can navigate challenging terrain, muddy paths, and exciting obstacles. This activity offers an exhilarating way to explore the rugged beauty of the Smoky Mountains, providing a unique blend of adventure and scenic beauty!
9. Goats on the Roof
Prepare for a one-of-a-kind experience at Goats on the Roof! This unique attraction features live goats grazing on the rooftop, and you can hop on the “goat-cycle” to transport a can of goat feed up to the roof! Beyond the adorable goats, you'll find a charming atmosphere with a variety of fun things to do in Pigeon Forge, including mini golf, gem mining, a gift shop, and their very own mountain coaster!
10. Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Escape into a vibrant world of exotic birds and stunning flowers at Parrot Mountain and Gardens! This beautiful attraction is one of the best hidden things to do in Pigeon Forge, featuring hundreds of tropical birds, many of which you can interact with and even feed. Stroll through meticulously maintained gardens, admire the serene waterfall, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. It's a paradise for bird lovers and a tranquil retreat for anyone seeking natural beauty and unique animal encounters!
Bucket List Worthy Places to Eat in Pigeon Forge, TN
You won’t want to miss your chance to experience these awesome things to do in Pigeon Forge, TN! All of these fun activities are sure to work up an appetite, but don’t worry–there are plenty of amazing places to eat in town. To help you decide where to dine, check out these bucket list worthy restaurants in Pigeon Forge!
