Nestled in the beautiful Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, Pigeon Forge is a family-friendly destination full of exciting attractions and picturesque nature trails. When it comes to finding things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids, there’s no shortage of options that will create lasting memories and entertaining experiences for the whole family. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to interactive museums, this charming mountain town offers a variety of activities suitable for children of all ages.
Some of the most popular and unforgettable attractions include the famous Dollywood theme park, the intriguing WonderWorks indoor amusement park, and educational experiences like the Titanic Museum. Families can also enjoy a taste of the great outdoors with scenic hikes, exhilarating ziplines, and wildlife sightings at various nature reserves around the area. Additionally, some numerous seasonal events and shows can keep the entire family entertained year-round.
In Pigeon Forge, it’s easy to design a customized itinerary to make the most of your family trip, ensuring an enjoyable and educational experience for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure-seeking family or looking for a more relaxed vacation without compromising excitement and fun, Pigeon Forge has it all. So pack your bags and buckle up for an unforgettable journey in the heart of the Smoky Mountains.
Reader's Roadmap
Theme Parks and Attractions
Dollywood
Dollywood is a family-friendly theme park in Pigeon Forge, offering thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and unique attractions for all ages. Younger kids will enjoy the Country Fair area, which features gentle rides such as the Lemon Twist and Lucky Ducky. Older kids and thrill-seekers can experience heart-pounding excitement on roller coasters like Wild Eagle and Thunderhead. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the famous Dollywood Express, a steam train that takes visitors on a scenic journey.
The Island in Pigeon Forge
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a vibrant entertainment complex offering a mix of shopping, dining, and fun activities for all ages. Must-visit attractions include:
- The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel: A 200-foot tall observation wheel with breathtaking views.
- The Island Ropes Course: A challenging, multi-level, outdoor ropes course suitable for kids and adults.
- The Island Mirror Maze: A fun, immersive experience that will test your sense of direction.
Pigeon Forge Snow
Pigeon Forge Snow is an indoor snow park that allows visitors to experience the fun of snow year-round. Families can enjoy:
- Snow Tubing: An exciting downhill tubing experience on a 60-foot tall, 400-foot long hill with various lanes.
- Snow Play: A designated area for building snowmen, making snow angels, or having a friendly snowball fight.
Snow play is suitable for kids aged 3 and up, while tubing is recommended for those 4 feet and taller.
WonderWorks
WonderWorks is an interactive attraction that combines science, education, and fun. Explore over 100 hands-on exhibits, including:
| Exhibit | Description |
|---|---|
| Wonder Zones | Six themed areas, featuring natural disasters and space travel. |
| Indoor Ropes Challenge & 4D Motion Ride | Test your agility and balance on ropes and take a thrilling ride. |
Beyond the Lens
Beyond the Lens is an interactive museum that offers a behind-the-scenes look into the world of pop culture and entertainment. Kids will love exploring the different exhibits, such as:
- Human Kaleidoscope: A virtual reality experience that creates a vivid, immersive world.
- Crime Lab: Analyze evidence and help solve a true crime mystery.
Titanic Museum
The Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge provides an enriching, immersive experience that transports visitors back in time. Young explorers can:
- Learn about the ship’s construction, crew, and passengers.
- Touch a real iceberg and feel 28°F water, simulating the night of the disaster.
- Become a Titanic junior crew member by participating in an interactive scavenger hunt.
This engaging museum is perfect for kids to experience history in an enjoyable and fascinating way.
Outdoor Adventures
Smoky Mountains Exploration
The Smoky Mountains are a must-visit destination when in Pigeon Forge with kids. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers numerous hiking trails, picnic spots, and breathtaking mountain views. Families can choose easy, moderate, or challenging trails based on their preferences and skill level. Some popular family-friendly trails include the Metcalf Bottoms Trail for an easy hike, Laurel Falls Trail for a moderate challenge, and the Grotto Falls Trail for a more adventurous experience.
Ziplining and Canopy Tours
For the adrenaline junkies, ziplining is an exciting way to explore the beauty of the Smoky Mountains from above. Various companies offer ziplining tours with different levels of difficulty, making it suitable for kids and adults alike. Canopy tours also provide a unique perspective of the lush forests, as you navigate through treetop platforms, sky bridges, and rappelling.
| Recommended Ziplining & Canopy Tour Operators |
|---|
| Adventure Park Ziplines |
| Smoky Mountain Ziplines |
| Wahoo Ziplines |
Horseback Riding and Rafting
Horseback riding is a delightful activity that combines adventure with the chance to explore the scenic beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Several stables in Pigeon Forge offer guided trail rides for beginners and experienced riders, ensuring a safe and fun experience for the whole family.
If you’re looking for a thrilling water adventure, rafting in the Smokies is a top choice. Most tour operators offer family-friendly rafting trips on the Pigeon River, featuring calmer Class I and II rapids suitable for kids. For the more daring, there are also Class III and IV rapids available.
- Horseback Riding Stables:
- Big Rock Dude Ranch at Ponderosa
- The Wood Stables
- Five Oaks Riding Stables
- Rafting Operators:
- Smoky Mountain Outdoors
- River Rat Whitewater Rafting
- Nantahala Outdoor Center
Each of these outdoor adventures offers unforgettable experiences for families visiting Pigeon Forge, ensuring your trip is filled with excitement and lasting memories.
Interactive Fun for Families
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel offers families an exciting and memorable experience. This large Ferris wheel towers at 200 feet, providing spectacular views of Pigeon Forge and the neighboring Smoky Mountains. With comfortable, climate-controlled gondolas, riders of all ages can enjoy the breathtaking scenery in any weather.
Crave Golf Club
Crave Golf Club is a one-of-a-kind destination for family fun. This facility features two unique courses: Rooftop Mini-Golf and Indoor Candyland Mini-Golf. Both courses offer interactive elements and whimsical, candy-themed designs to captivate young imaginations. In addition to mini-golf, Crave Golf Club also has:
- Crave Candy Store
- Crave Arcade
- Crave Escape Rooms
These additional features make the Crave Golf Club a comprehensive stop for interactive family entertainment.
TopJump Trampoline Park
With wall-to-wall trampolines, TopJump Trampoline Park is a great option for high-energy kids to burn off some steam. This trampoline park is designed for all ages and offers:
| Activities | Description |
|---|---|
| Open Jump | Jump freely across interconnected trampolines |
| Dodgeball | Engage in a fast-paced, competitive game of trampoline dodgeball |
| Basketball | Show off your slam-dunk skills on trampoline basketball courts |
| Ninja Course | Test agility and strength on a challenging obstacle course |
TopJump Trampoline Park ensures a safe environment by dividing jumpers into specific age groups and providing vigilant staff supervision.
MagiQuest
MagiQuest immerses families in a magical world full of interactive exhibits and fantasy-themed activities. Players use their wand to solve puzzles and participate in challenges, navigating enchanted rooms and collecting virtual artifacts. MagiQuest encourages teamwork, problem-solving skills, and imaginative play in a fun and engaging setting.
Live Entertainment and Shows
When visiting Pigeon Forge with kids, there are numerous live entertainment and show options that cater to the whole family. These diverse spectacles offer an opportunity for interactive family fun, delicious food, and incredible stunts.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede
Dolly Parton’s Stampede combines musical productions, talented performers, and a four-course feast to create a memorable experience. The energetic show features skilled equestrian stunts, dazzling costumes, and impressive musical performances. This thrilling dinner show is sure to entertain both kids and adults alike.
Show Highlights:
- Musical productions
- Equestrian stunts
- Delicious four-course feast
Lumberjack Feud Show
The Lumberjack Feud Show offers an interactive and action-packed experience that showcases the strength and skills of competing lumberjack teams. The show is filled with incredible feats such as chopping, sawing, and climbing, ensuring a fun-packed event for all ages.
Show Highlights:
- Competitive lumberjack events
- High-energy acts
- Family-friendly, interactive entertainment
Comedy Barn Theater
For a mix of comedy, live music, and impressive physical stunts, head to the Comedy Barn Theater. This family-friendly extravaganza offers plenty of laughs as talented performers engage in hilarious and unique acts. Kids and adults will be left grinning from ear to ear while enjoying this delightful show.
Show Highlights:
| Comedy Acts | Music Performances | Physical Stunts |
|---|---|---|
| Hilarious skits | Live musical talent | Acrobatics |
These three shows provide a range of entertainment options that cater to the diverse interests of families visiting Pigeon Forge. Whether drawn to equestrian feats, lumberjack games, or comedy, these live performances offer something for everyone in a fun and interactive setting.
Museums and Educational Spots
Hollywood Wax Museum
The Hollywood Wax Museum in Pigeon Forge is a great destination for children, as it offers a fun and interactive way to learn about the history of Hollywood and its stars. Featuring life-like wax figures of celebrities, your kids are sure to be entertained while learning about their favorite stars and the film industry.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a must-visit attraction for families seeking an educational experience. This engaging aquarium showcases multiple areas for kids to explore and learn about different marine life, preserving the underwater world in a fun and interactive way.
- Ocean Realm: The Ocean Realm exhibit features a wide variety of sea creatures, from vibrant tropical fish to mesmerizing jellyfish. Here, children will discover various marine species and appreciate the beauty of the underwater world.
- Penguin Playhouse: The Penguin Playhouse allows children to observe playful penguins up-close and personal. They can watch the penguins swim, slide, and frolic in their habitat, learning about their behavior and conservation efforts.
- Coral Reef: In the Coral Reef exhibit, kids will be mesmerized by colorful corals and exotic fish. They will learn about the crucial role coral reefs play in the ocean’s ecosystem and the importance of preserving these fragile environments.
- Shark Lagoon: The Shark Lagoon provides an exciting opportunity for kids to learn about magnificent predators of the deep. As they venture through a glass tunnel, they come face-to-face with various species of sharks, rays, and other marine life while gaining a better understanding of these often-misunderstood creatures.
Pigeon Forge’s museums and educational spots provide a rich and diverse array of experiences for children. With both the Hollywood Wax Museum and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, your kids will gain knowledge and create unforgettable memories during your trip to Pigeon Forge.
Unique Activities and Experiences
Anakeesta and Rowdy Bear Mountain
Anakeesta, located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, offers a variety of exciting activities for kids and adults alike. The park features a dueling zipline adventure, an aerial glider ride, an observation tower for stunning views of the surrounding landscape and an interactive treehouse playground. Be sure to also check out the Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park on the Pigeon Forge Parkway for thrill rides like the Alpine Coaster and the Mountain Glider.
Pink Jeep Tours
For a memorable and unique family adventure, consider booking a Pink Jeep Tour. These guided tours offer a comfortable and safe way to explore the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains while enjoying fascinating information about the local flora, fauna, and history. Several tour options are available, catering to different interests and ensuring an entertaining experience for children and adults alike.
Alpine Coasters and Mountain Slides
| Alpine Coaster | Location | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Alpine Coaster | Pigeon Forge Parkway | Exciting ride through the woods, suitable for all ages |
| Rocky Top Mountain Coaster | Pigeon Forge | 9-minute ride with panoramic views, headlights at night |
The Alpine Coaster and Rocky Top Mountain Coaster are two thrilling attractions that your kids will love. Both coasters offer a unique experience of zipping through the Smoky Mountains while securely seated in individual sleds. The rides can be enjoyed by people of all ages, making them an excellent choice for family-time fun.
Family-Centered Recreation
Arcades and Mini Golf
Pigeon Forge provides numerous options for families who are searching for entertainment during their family vacation. There is a wide variety of arcade games that cater to all ages and interests, including classics such as Pac-Man and newer digital attractions.
Many of these establishments also offer mini golf, ideal for some friendly family competition. Mini golf courses in Pigeon Forge boast creative theming and landscapes, ensuring an enjoyable experience for all participants. Some popular mini golf courses include:
- Course 1: Mountain-themed, featuring waterfalls and bears
- Course 2: Pirate-themed, complete with a shipwreck and treasure hunt
- Course 3: Glow-in-the-dark course, providing a unique visual treat for players
Gem Mining and River Rat Tubing
For those seeking a more relaxed and educational experience, Pigeon Forge offers gem mining adventures. Children of all ages can have a blast learning to mine for gems and fossils. Consider visiting the Pigeon Forge Gem Mine for a rewarding and unforgettable family outing.
For a different type of adventure, try River Rat Tubing on a sunny day. This popular activity gives you the chance to float down the river, providing a peaceful way to appreciate the natural beauty of the area while making lasting memories with your family. The Smoky Mountain River Rat offers two distinct locations:
- Upper River Location: Ideal for thrill-seekers and older children, this location features stronger rapids and intense tubing.
- Lower River Location: Perfect for younger children and those seeking a more leisurely experience, this section offers calmer waters with occasional small rapids.
When considering a family trip to Pigeon Forge, rest assured that the wide variety of recreational activities available, from arcades to mini golf and gem mining to tubing, will create an unforgettable experience for all family members.
Sweet Treats and Novelty Shops
Candy and Ice Cream Parlors
Pigeon Forge has a delightful assortment of candy and ice cream parlors to satisfy your sweet tooth. A popular spot is the Three Bears General Store, which offers a wide variety of delicious treats like homemade fudge, hand-dipped chocolates, and artisan ice cream. Some other notable places to indulge in mouthwatering desserts include:
- Old Mill Candy Kitchen: Classic candies and taffy in a charming, rustic setting
- Sweet!: A fun candy shop with bulk candies, ice cream, and a soda fountain bar
Unique Toy and Photo Stores
Kids will love exploring the numerous unique toy and photo stores in Pigeon Forge. One such destination is The Track, a family-fun center with a diverse range of interactive activities like races, arcade games, and miniature golf. They also have a well-stocked toy store on-site, filled with the latest gadgets and games.
Another exciting novelty shop is the Toy Box Mini Golf course, where visitors can enjoy a game of mini golf surrounded by giant toys and characters. While here, be sure to check out their gift shop, which features unique souvenirs and toys for all ages.
Don’t forget to capture memories at the Three Monkeys Photo Emporium, a one-of-a-kind photography studio. Here, families can don cute costumes and interact with the resident capuchin monkeys to create a picture-perfect souvenir.
In summary, Pigeon Forge offers a plethora of sweet treats and novelty shops that cater to children’s tastes and interests. Don’t miss out on these exciting destinations when planning a family trip to this charming Tennessee town.
Planning Your Visit
Weather and Best Times to Visit
Pigeon Forge has a temperate climate, making it a comfortable destination to visit for families with young children. Spring and fall are typically the best times for a Pigeon Forge vacation, as temperatures are mild and there are fewer crowds. You can expect temperatures to be in the 60s to 70s°F during these seasons.
Here’s a quick overview of average temperatures in Pigeon Forge:
| Season | Average Temperature Range |
|---|---|
| Spring | 50s to 70s°F |
| Summer | 70s to 80s°F |
| Fall | 60s to 70s°F |
| Winter | 30s to 50s°F |
Summer can be quite crowded in Pigeon Forge, but if you’re planning a family vacation specifically for outdoor activities and water parks, it might be the best time for you. Just keep in mind that you will have to contend with larger crowds and potentially higher prices.
Accommodations and Dining Options
Pigeon Forge offers a variety of accommodations to suit every family’s needs and budget. Some popular options include:
- Hotels and Resorts: Pigeon Forge has numerous hotels and resorts catering to families, with amenities such as swimming pools, game rooms, and children’s programs.
- Cabins and Chalets: For a more secluded and spacious option, consider renting a cabin or chalet. These often come with fully equipped kitchens, allowing for flexibility in dining options.
- Campgrounds: For the outdoor-loving family, there are several campgrounds in and around Pigeon Forge that provide a budget-friendly and engaging experience.
When it comes to dining, Pigeon Forge has something for every palate. The plethora of restaurants in the area offer a wide range of options, from fast food to fine dining. Many of these establishments cater to families and offer children’s menus. Additionally, the fully equipped kitchens in cabins and chalets provide the opportunity for parents to prepare their own meals, making the dining experience more cost-effective and tailored to their family’s needs.
Planning a family vacation to Pigeon Forge with kids can be a fun experience by choosing the right time to visit and finding suitable accommodations and dining options. With this information at hand, parents can confidently organize a memorable vacation filled with enjoyable activities for the whole family.
