Pigeon Forge, TN is a dream destination for families looking for a fun-filled vacation. With its wide range of attractions and activities, there’s something for kids of all ages to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, delicious dining options, or family-friendly accommodations, Pigeon Forge has it all. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family getaway!
Fun Family Activities in Pigeon Forge
Dollywood Theme Park
Enjoy a day of thrill rides, live entertainment, and delicious Southern cuisine at Dolly Parton’s renowned theme park. From roller coasters to water rides, there’s something for everyone in the family.
Titanic Museum Attraction
Step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Titanic. This interactive museum features exhibits, artifacts, and recreations of the ship’s interiors, offering an educational and immersive experience for all ages.
Outdoor Gravity Park
Experience the thrill of rolling down a hill inside a giant inflatable ball at Outdoor Gravity Park. This unique attraction provides exhilarating fun for the whole family as you slip and slide down the hillside.
WonderWorks
Explore the interactive exhibits and mind-bending attractions at WonderWorks. From a ropes course to laser tag and a hurricane simulator, this indoor amusement park offers hours of entertainment and learning.
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
Take a scenic ride through the mountains on the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster. This thrilling coaster allows you to control your own speed as you twist and turn through the beautiful scenery.
The Island in Pigeon Forge
Spend a day at The Island, an entertainment complex featuring shops, restaurants, and attractions. Ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for panoramic views or enjoy live music and fountain shows in the plaza.
Pigeon Forge Snow
Experience snow tubing and snow play year-round at Pigeon Forge Snow. This indoor snow park offers a variety of winter activities for the whole family, regardless of the season outside.
Hollywood Wax Museum
Pose for selfies with lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebrities at the Hollywood Wax Museum. This family-friendly attraction provides a fun and interactive experience for movie buffs of all ages.
The Track
Race go-karts, play mini-golf, and enjoy arcade games at The Track. With multiple locations in Pigeon Forge, this entertainment complex offers endless opportunities for family fun and friendly competition.
Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show
Sit down for a hearty meal and a hilarious show at the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show. Watch as two feuding families compete in singing, dancing, and comedy routines that will keep the whole family entertained.
Pigeon Forge Gem Mine
Discover gemstones and fossils while mining for treasure at the Pigeon Forge Gem Mine. This hands-on activity allows kids to learn about geology and take home their own precious finds.
Flyaway Indoor Skydiving
Experience the sensation of skydiving without jumping out of a plane at Flyaway Indoor Skydiving. This indoor wind tunnel simulates freefalling, allowing participants as young as 3 years old to enjoy the thrill of flight.
Smoky Mountain Ziplines
Soar through the treetops on a zipline adventure with Smoky Mountain Ziplines. With multiple zipline courses to choose from, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains while experiencing an adrenaline rush.
Pigeon Forge Parkway
Take a leisurely stroll along the Pigeon Forge Parkway, lined with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Enjoy window shopping, street performers, and the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling thoroughfare.
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster
Ride through the forest on the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster, one of the longest alpine coasters in the United States. Control your own speed as you twist and turn down the mountainside, enjoying scenic views along the way.
MagiQuest
Embark on a magical adventure at MagiQuest, an interactive live-action game where players use wands to cast spells and solve quests. With multiple levels of gameplay, this immersive experience provides hours of entertainment for the whole family.
The Comedy Barn Theater
Laugh until your sides hurt at The Comedy Barn Theater, featuring clean comedy, magic tricks, and animal antics. This family-friendly show is sure to delight audiences of all ages with its mix of humor and entertainment.
Smoky Mountain Deer Farm & Exotic Petting Zoo
Get up close and personal with a variety of animals at the Smoky Mountain Deer Farm & Exotic Petting Zoo. Feed deer, llamas, goats, and more while learning about wildlife conservation and animal care.
Pirate’s Voyage Dinner & Show
Set sail for adventure at Pirate’s Voyage Dinner & Show, where swashbuckling pirates and mermaids entertain guests with acrobatics, aerial stunts, and a delicious dinner. This immersive experience is sure to delight buccaneers of all ages.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Explore underwater worlds and marine life at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. With interactive exhibits, a shark tunnel, and daily dive shows, this aquarium offers a fascinating glimpse into the wonders of the ocean.
These activities provide a wide range of entertainment options for families visiting Pigeon Forge, ensuring that everyone can find something they enjoy.
Dining Options for Kids in Pigeon Forge
Exploring Pigeon Forge with kids is bound to work up appetites, and luckily, there are plenty of dining options that cater to young palates. Start your morning with a hearty breakfast at the Pancake Pantry, known for its fluffy pancakes and delicious syrup options. The Pancake Pantry has been a beloved establishment in Pigeon Forge for over 50 years, serving up a wide variety of pancake flavors, from traditional buttermilk to unique specialties like Caribbean pancakes with tropical fruit toppings.
For lunch, grab a bite at the Old Mill Restaurant, where kids can enjoy classics like mac and cheese and chicken fingers. The Old Mill Restaurant is not only known for its kid-friendly menu but also for its picturesque setting by the Little Pigeon River, providing a charming dining experience for the whole family.
In the mood for pizza? Head over to Big Daddy’s Pizzeria, where you can create your own pizza masterpiece. Big Daddy’s offers a fun and interactive dining experience for kids, allowing them to choose their favorite toppings and watch as their pizza is baked in a traditional stone oven.
And for a sweet treat, don’t miss out on a visit to The Island Creamery, where you can indulge in hand-dipped ice cream and decadent milkshakes. The Island Creamery sources its dairy locally, ensuring that every scoop of ice cream is fresh and flavorful.
For even more options check out:
The Old Mill Restaurant
Known for its Southern comfort food and charming atmosphere, The Old Mill Restaurant is a popular choice for families. They offer a kid’s menu and a variety of hearty dishes for adults.
Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen
Paula Deen’s restaurant offers a family-style dining experience with classic Southern dishes. The communal dining setup and kid-friendly menu options make it a great choice for families.
Mellow Mushroom
This pizza chain is known for its relaxed atmosphere and creative pizzas. Kids will love the quirky decor and the option to create their own pizza combinations.
Mel’s Diner
Styled after a 1950s diner, Mel’s Diner offers a fun atmosphere for families. They serve classic diner fare like burgers, fries, and milkshakes, all in a retro setting.
Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant
Located in a historic farmhouse, this restaurant offers Southern comfort food in a family-friendly setting. They have a large menu with options for both kids and adults.
The Island at Pigeon Forge
While not a single restaurant, The Island at Pigeon Forge offers a variety of dining options in a lively outdoor complex. From casual eateries to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone in the family.
Dick’s Last Resort
This restaurant is known for its humorous and slightly irreverent atmosphere. While it may not be everyone’s cup of tea, older kids may enjoy the novelty of the experience.
Corky’s Ribs & BBQ
If your family enjoys barbecue, Corky’s is a great choice. They offer a kid’s menu and a variety of barbecue options that are sure to satisfy.
These are just a few options, but Pigeon Forge has many more restaurants that cater to families and offer kid-friendly dining experiences. It’s always a good idea to check reviews and menus to find the best fit for your family’s tastes and preferences.
Family-Friendly Accommodation Options
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Pigeon Forge has got you covered. From cozy cabins nestled in the Smoky Mountains to family-oriented hotels with plenty of amenities, there’s an accommodation option for every family’s needs.
If you’re looking for a home-away-from-home experience, consider renting a cabin. These rustic retreats provide the perfect opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with your loved ones. Many cabins come equipped with amenities like hot tubs, game rooms, and even private theaters.
For those who prefer the convenience of a hotel, Pigeon Forge boasts several family-friendly options. Look for hotels with indoor pools, on-site restaurants, and spacious rooms that can comfortably accommodate your entire brood. Some even offer special perks for kids, such as complimentary breakfast or organized activities.
Outdoor Adventures for Young Explorers
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
If your family enjoys spending time in nature, Pigeon Forge has plenty of outdoor adventures to offer. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the trails of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can admire breathtaking views and discover hidden waterfalls.
Zipline & Ferris Wheel
If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-pumping experience, consider going ziplining. Several zipline courses in the area offer thrilling rides surrounded by stunning natural scenery. And for those who love heights, a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel at The Island offers panoramic views of the city and beyond.
The Track
For a unique outdoor experience, head over to The Track, a family fun center with go-karts, bumper boats, and mini-golf. Kids will love the opportunity to race each other and see who can conquer the tracks.
White Water Rafting
Another exciting outdoor activity to consider is white-water rafting on the Pigeon River. Experienced guides will take you on a thrilling journey through Class III and IV rapids, providing an unforgettable experience for the whole family. The rush of the water and the stunning scenery along the riverbanks make this a must-do adventure for thrill-seekers.
Cades Cove
If you prefer a more leisurely outdoor experience, pack a picnic and spend the day at Cades Cove, a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. This historic site offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and exploring old homesteads, providing a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage. Don’t forget your camera, as you may encounter deer, black bears, and other native wildlife during your visit.
Tips for Planning a Kid-Friendly Itinerary
When planning your itinerary for a family trip to Pigeon Forge, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Firstly, be sure to make a list of the attractions and activities that are most important to your family and prioritize them. This way, you won’t miss out on any must-see sights.
It’s also a good idea to check for any special events or shows happening during your visit. Pigeon Forge often hosts festivals, concerts, and themed events that can add an extra layer of excitement to your vacation.
Lastly, don’t forget to take breaks and pace yourselves. With so many things to see and do, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. Remember to rest, hydrate, and take time to simply enjoy being together as a family.
Pigeon Forge, TN is a destination that truly caters to families with kids. Whether you’re exploring the great outdoors, indulging in delicious meals, or creating memories at one of the theme parks, you’re sure to have an unforgettable vacation. So, start planning your trip to Pigeon Forge today and get ready for a family adventure like no other!
