Get Ready for Adventure: Things to Do in Pigeon Forge, TN.
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge is a charming and picturesque town in Tennessee that attracts millions of visitors yearly. This vibrant town is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, fun-filled attractions, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Whether looking for outdoor adventures, shopping opportunities, or cultural experiences, Pigeon Forge has something for everyone.
One of the biggest draws to Pigeon Forge is its proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With over 500,000 acres of pristine wilderness, this park offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Visitors can also explore scenic drives, historic sites, and cultural exhibits that showcase the rich history and heritage of the region.
For those seeking indoor entertainment, Pigeon Forge offers a wide variety of attractions that are sure to please. The town has numerous museums, theaters, and amusement parks, including the famous Dollywood theme park.
Visitors can also indulge in delicious Southern cuisine, shop for unique souvenirs, or relax in one of the town’s many spas and wellness centers.
Overall, Pigeon Forge is a destination that truly has it all. With its stunning natural beauty, exciting attractions, and welcoming community, it’s no wonder that this town has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Southeast.
Dollywood
Nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood is a premier theme park that draws families worldwide to the charming town of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. With its eclectic mix of thrilling rides, delectable cuisine, and top-notch entertainment, it is no wonder that Dollywood was named the #1 Theme Park in the U.S. by TripAdvisor in 2022.
From the moment visitors enter the park, they are transported to a world of southern hospitality, where the beauty of the mountains and the warmth of the people blend to create an unforgettable experience.
As guests explore Dollywood, they are met with an array of sights and sounds that capture the essence of the Smoky Mountains. From the world’s fastest wooden roller coaster, Lightning Rod, to the country’s first wing coaster, Wild Eagle, and the nation’s first dual-launch family coaster, FireChaser Express, there is no shortage of thrills to be had at Dollywood.
Families with young children will also enjoy the whimsical Wildwood Grove, voted the Best Kids’ Area for three consecutive years. The park’s artisan demonstrations are a must-see, as master artisans showcase the artistry of glass blowing and blacksmithing.
Beyond the rides and attractions, Dollywood is home to a vibrant music scene that celebrates the rich heritage of the Smokies. Live artists perform country, southern gospel, classic rock ‘n’ roll, and Appalachian music, filling the park with the sounds of the South.
Whether visitors are looking for a day of non-stop thrills or a relaxing escape into the beauty of the mountains, Dollywood has something for everyone.
As the sun sets over the Great Smoky Mountains, the park’s six million dazzling lights twinkle to life, transforming Dollywood into a winter wonderland that has been voted America’s Best Christmas Event for over a decade.
The Island in Pigeon Forge
Nestled at the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, The Island in Pigeon Forge is a bustling hub of excitement and entertainment. With over 80 shops, restaurants, and attractions spread over 23 acres, it’s a vibrant destination perfect for a family day out or a getaway with friends.
As soon as you enter, you’re greeted by the towering 200-foot observation wheel and the breathtaking Island Show Fountains, both of which set the stage for an unforgettable experience.
For thrill-seekers, The Island offers a range of amusement rides that cater to all ages. From the adrenaline-pumping SkyFly: Soar America, which takes you on an immersive flying adventure across the United States, to the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, which provides panoramic views of the Smokies, there’s something for everyone.
And for those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, the Island features many unique shops and casual restaurants serving delicious food and drinks.
One of the standout attractions at The Island is The Escape Game, which has been rated the #1 Escape Room and Fun & Games Attraction on TripAdvisor Pigeon Forge. With Hollywood blockbuster-style adventures that require teamwork, communication, and a sense of adventure, it’s a must-try experience.
And when the sun goes down, the Island comes alive with an electrifying LED show featuring over one million twinkling lights illuminating the Ferris wheel and the fountains.
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a vibrant and playful destination that combines all things fun in a safe environment for families and friends of all ages.
It’s a place where memories are made, experiences are shared, and visitors can escape the everyday and immerse themselves in a world of entertainment and excitement.
TITANIC Museum Attraction
As you approach the TITANIC Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, you are struck by the sheer size and grandeur of the building. The two-story museum is shaped like the RMS Titanic herself, complete with intricate detailing and a prominent bow jutting out from the front of the building.
As you enter, a costumed cast member greets you and hands you a boarding pass with the name of an actual passenger or crew member aboard the Titanic. This slight touch immediately immerses you in the experience and sets the tone for the rest of your visit.
Once inside, you are transported back in time to the early 1900s. You walk through twenty galleries filled with over 400 artifacts, many of which are on display for the first time in the world. These artifacts, valued at more than four million dollars, give you a glimpse into the lives of the passengers and crew who sailed on the Titanic.
You can view photos of the ship and her passengers, play a 1900s grand piano, and see replicas of first-class staterooms and third-class cabins. You can even touch a real iceberg and feel 28-degree water, giving you a sense of the freezing conditions the passengers faced that fateful night.
One of the museum’s highlights is the Grand Staircase, a replica of the original staircase on the Titanic. This stunning feature is constructed from the original Harland & Wolff plans and features oak carvings, a cherub statue, and a magnificent glass dome.
As you walk up the broad, sweeping steps, you can imagine yourself as one of the Titanic’s original guests, making a grand entrance into the ship’s luxurious public areas. The attention to detail is astounding, and you can’t help but feel a sense of awe as you take in this beautiful feature.
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
Nestled in the majestic Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, the Smoky Mountains Alpine Coaster offers visitors a thrilling and unique roller coaster experience.
Unlike traditional roller coasters, this coaster is designed to allow riders to control their speed, making each ride a personalized adventure. With a track spanning over a mile long, riders are taken on a breathtaking journey through the beautiful mountainous landscape of Pigeon Forge.
As riders ascend to the top of the mountain, they are pulled by cable to the coaster’s starting point. Once released, the carts go down the winding track, twisting and turning at exhilarating speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.
As the riders descend, they are treated to stunning views of the surrounding forests and valleys. Whether taking a thrilling ride during the day or embarking on an illuminated adventure at night, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a must-see attraction for visitors of all ages.
Safety is of the utmost importance at the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, and the coaster’s magnetic braking system ensures that the carts never go too fast. The ride can also operate during rainy or snowy weather, providing year-round excitement for visitors.
With its unique design, stunning views, and personalized experience, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a fantastic roller coaster that should not be missed.
Hollywood Wax Museum
The Hollywood Wax Museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a unique attraction that offers visitors an opportunity to get up close and personal with their favorite celebrities. The museum features incredibly lifelike wax figures of famous film, television, and music stars.
As you walk through the museum, you’ll be amazed by the incredible attention to detail that has gone into each figure, with features like realistic skin texture, individual hairs, and intricate costumes that recreate the iconic looks of each celebrity.
Beyond the wax figures themselves, the Hollywood Wax Museum offers an immersive experience that allows visitors to learn more about the stars they admire.
Throughout the museum, you’ll find informative displays that provide insights into each celebrity’s life, interests, and achievements.
These displays include information about each celebrity’s charities, side businesses, pets, and more, providing a deeper understanding of their personalities and passions.
In addition to the wax figures and informational displays, the Hollywood Wax Museum also offers a range of other attractions and entertainment options. For example, visitors can explore a 4-D theater that shows SpongeBob SquarePants 4-D, try their hand at the laser maze, or browse the gift shop for unique celebrity souvenirs and memorabilia.
With its incredible wax figures, informative displays, and range of other attractions, the Hollywood Wax Museum is undoubtedly one of the highlights of any trip to this charming Tennessee town.
Alcatraz East Crime Museum
Nestled in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, Alcatraz East Crime Museum is a must-see destination for those fascinated by the dark side of American history. Stepping inside this 25,000-square-foot museum is like journeying through time, delving deep into the evolution of crime and punishment throughout the ages.
With five unique galleries, over 100 interactive exhibits, and a treasure trove of artifacts, visitors are taken on a gripping and educational exploration of the criminal mind, the penal system, and the fight against crime.
As you wander through the museum, you’ll be struck by the sheer variety of exhibits on display. From infamous getaway cars like O.J. Simpson’s white Bronco and John Dillinger’s Essex Terraplane to the faces of the most notorious serial killers in history, the Alcatraz East Crime Museum exhibits leave no stone unturned.
You’ll learn about the tools and techniques used in forensic science, glimpse the harsh realities of life behind bars, and see the weapons and gear used by some of the most famous law enforcement officers in American history.
One of the most impressive things about Alcatraz East Crime Museum is how it brings history to life. Through interactive exhibits, visitors can experience what it’s like to be a detective at a crime scene, see how polygraph tests work, and even try their hand at cracking a safe.
Alcatraz East Crime Museum is a fascinating and unforgettable destination that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for America’s complex and ever-evolving world of crime and punishment.
Pigeon Forge Snow
Pigeon Forge Snow is an unforgettable year-round indoor snow park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This amusement park offers visitors an immersive winter wonderland experience with real snow and 12 lanes of snow tubing action.
No matter what the weather is like outside, guests can enjoy the thrill of the slopes in the comfort of an indoor climate-controlled environment, which remains between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit all year round.
The snow at Pigeon Forge Snow is 100% pure water, with no additives. The attraction uses state-of-the-art snow-making technology to create the same snow as nature. Visitors can race down the snow tubing hills or build snowmen and forts in the vast Snow Play area.
There is something for everyone, from little ones to teens to parents. And if you’re not up for snow tubing, parents can watch their children tube for free from the second level while enjoying a snack or beverage.
Pigeon Forge Snow is the perfect destination for families and kids of all ages. Unlike outdoor snow tubing, you don’t need to plan your day around the weather or make reservations. Instead, show up when you’re ready to begin your adventure and hit the slopes.
Visitors can expect a friendly and helpful staff that will make their visit an unforgettable experience. So, whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the family or an exciting date, Pigeon Forge Snow is the place to be. So, add it to your itinerary next time you’re in Pigeon Forge!
WonderWorks Pigeon Forge
WonderWorks Pigeon Forge is an extraordinary indoor amusement park that is a must-visit attraction in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Spanning over 42,000 square feet, WonderWorks is a creative entertainment space that blends education and fun with more than 100 interactive exhibits.
This top-secret laboratory, previously located in the Bermuda Triangle, is a unique place that challenges the mind and ignites the imagination. Visitors to WonderWorks Pigeon Forge can explore six different Wonder Zones, each offering a variety of hands-on experiences that cater to all ages.
As you enter WonderWorks Pigeon Forge, you’ll first notice the inversion tunnel. This tunnel is a unique experience that turns your world upside down as you enter the exhibits. You’ll feel like you’re walking on the ceiling, with the ground above your head!
Once you’ve righted yourself, you’ll find yourself in a fascinating world of exhibits, including the Extreme Weather Zone, the Physical Challenge Zone, and the Light & Sound Zone. In addition, there’s a Space Discovery Zone, an Imagination Lab, and a Wonder Art Gallery to explore.
If you’re looking for even more thrills, head up to the basement of WonderWorks Pigeon Forge, where you’ll find various exciting activities for all ages.
Take on the Xtreme 360, a pedal-powered carnival ride that turns you upside down, or experience the rush of the Hurricane Simulator, which replicates the feel of 65-mile-per-hour winds.
If you’re feeling brave, try the Bed of Nails, where you can lay on a bed of over 3,000 nails without getting hurt. Then, for the ultimate challenge, climb the most comprehensive indoor ropes course in the world, where you’ll navigate over 50 obstacles that will test your strength and agility.
With so much to see and do, you’ll want to plan to spend several hours at this incredible amusement park. Whatever your age or interests, WonderWorks Pigeon Forge has something for everyone.