Things to Do in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee: A Complete Guide to Fun in the Smokies

Explore the Magic of Dollywood

A trip to Pigeon Forge wouldn’t be complete without spending a day at Dollywood, one of the most popular theme parks in the country. Founded by Tennessee’s very own Dolly Parton, this park beautifully combines Smoky Mountain heritage, music, and modern thrills.

Dollywood features over 50 rides and attractions, including world-class roller coasters like Lightning Rod, one of the fastest wooden coasters in the world, and Wild Eagle, a breathtaking wing coaster with panoramic mountain views.

But Dollywood isn’t just about thrill rides — it’s also home to:

• Live entertainment featuring bluegrass, gospel, and country music.

• Craftsman’s Valley, where you can watch artisans make glassware, pottery, and metal art.

• Delicious Southern food, like cinnamon bread from the Grist Mill or barbecue from Hickory House.

• Seasonal festivals, such as the Smoky Mountain Christmas and Harvest Festival, which fill the park with lights, music, and fun.

Dollywood captures everything that makes the Smokies special — warmth, creativity, and joy — making it one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge.

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Enjoy a Day of Family Fun at The Island in Pigeon Forge

If you want a place where everyone can have fun — shopping, dining, relaxing, or playing — The Island in Pigeon Forge is the perfect destination. This vibrant entertainment complex is one of the most popular spots in town and offers something for every age.

At the heart of The Island stands the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot-tall observation wheel that gives you incredible views of the mountains and city below.

Other attractions at The Island include:

• The Island Show Fountain, with synchronized lights, music, and water displays.

• Arcade City, a hit with kids and adults alike.

• Escape Game Pigeon Forge, for an interactive, puzzle-solving experience.

• Ole Smoky Moonshine Distillery, where adults can sample authentic Tennessee moonshine.

Don’t forget to grab a bite at Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, Margaritaville, or Timberwood Grill before browsing the unique shops that line the walkways. With live music, fire pits, and family-friendly vibes, The Island is truly a must-visit attraction.

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Step Back in Time at The Old Mill Square

If you love history and Southern charm, a visit to The Old Mill Square is one of the best things to do in Pigeon Forge. Centered around a historic grist mill built in the 1830s, this area is a beautiful blend of tradition and craftsmanship.

Visitors can tour the old mill and learn how grains are still stone-ground today. Then, enjoy a hearty meal at The Old Mill Restaurant, where you can savor fried chicken, country ham, and homemade biscuits — all made using ingredients milled on-site.

The Old Mill area is more than a shopping spot — it’s a living piece of Smoky Mountain history where you can relax, eat, and experience true Tennessee hospitality.

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Experience the Thrills at Outdoor Gravity Park

If you’re looking for something truly unique, Outdoor Gravity Park is an adventure unlike anything else in the country. This one-of-a-kind attraction lets you roll downhill inside a giant inflatable ball, an activity known as “zorbing.”

You can choose from several tracks — straight, zigzag, or extreme — depending on how wild you want your ride to be. It’s a thrilling, laughter-filled experience perfect for friends, families, and anyone who loves trying something new.

Outdoor Gravity Park is one of those unforgettable Pigeon Forge attractions you’ll be talking about long after your vacation ends.

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Visit WonderWorks – Where Education Meets Entertainment

WonderWorks, located right on the Parkway, is an interactive museum that turns learning into an adventure. The building itself looks like it’s upside down, immediately catching everyone’s attention. Inside, you’ll find 100+ hands-on exhibits designed to entertain and educate.

Visitors can experience hurricane-force winds, lie on a bed of nails, or play with giant bubbles. There’s also a ropes course, laser tag arena, and 4D motion theater.

It’s the perfect stop for families, especially on rainy days. Kids love the fun experiments, and adults can’t help but get caught up in the excitement too.

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Take in a Show at One of Pigeon Forge’s Famous Theaters

Pigeon Forge is often called the “Entertainment Capital of the Smokies”, and for good reason. The town is packed with theaters offering live shows that combine music, comedy, and Southern storytelling.

Some of the best shows to check out include:

• Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud – A hilarious dinner show full of stunts, music, and family fun.

• Country Tonite Theatre – Award-winning performances featuring country music hits and incredible vocals.

• Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show – A high-energy performance complete with acrobatics, sword fights, and ship battles, all while guests enjoy a four-course feast.

• The Comedy Barn – Family-friendly laughs with comedians, jugglers, and ventriloquists.

Whether you’re into country, gospel, or just good old-fashioned fun, these live performances capture the spirit of Pigeon Forge entertainment.

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Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Just a short drive from downtown, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the biggest reasons people visit Pigeon Forge. This natural wonder offers over 800 miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and scenic drives that showcase the beauty of East Tennessee.

Popular activities include:

• Hiking to waterfalls like Laurel Falls and Abrams Falls.

• Picnicking by mountain streams.

• Wildlife viewing, especially elk and black bears.

• Scenic drives like Cades Cove and Newfound Gap Road.

Whether you prefer a peaceful walk in the woods or a challenging mountain hike, the Smokies offer countless opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

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Feel the Rush at Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster

If you’re a fan of adrenaline, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is one of the most exciting attractions in Pigeon Forge. This mountain coaster stretches over a mile long, making it the longest downhill ride in the U.S.

You control the speed as you race through the trees, making it fun for both thrill-seekers and those who prefer a leisurely ride. The coaster is open year-round and especially magical at night when the track lights up with colorful LEDs.

This ride offers a unique way to experience the mountain scenery — fast, fun, and unforgettable.