How To Plan The Best Family Trip To Pigeon Forge That Everyone Will Love

Pigeon Forge is a charming city located in eastern Tennessee that offers a plethora of family-friendly activities and attractions. This vibrant destination is nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, making it the perfect place for families to enjoy outdoor adventures, indoor entertainment, and much more. In this article, we will explore why Pigeon Forge is an ideal family vacation destination and provide tips on the best times to visit, where to stay, dining options, and shopping opportunities.

Why is Pigeon Forge a Family-Friendly Destination?

Pigeon Forge is a family-friendly destination for many reasons, including the variety of attractions and activities catering to kids and adults. Here are some of the reasons why Pigeon Forge is a great place for families to visit:

Attractions for Kids

1. Dollywood

Dollywood is an amusement park owned by country music superstar Dolly Parton. This park is a must-visit for families visiting Pigeon Forge as it offers a range of rides and attractions for all ages. From thrill-seekers to young children, there is something for everyone at Dollywood (my review on Dollywood here). One of the most popular attractions at Dollywood is the Wild Eagle, a rollercoaster that takes riders on a 21-story drop.

2. WonderWorks

WonderWorks is an indoor amusement park that combines education and entertainment. This attraction features over 100 interactive exhibits that teach kids about science, technology, engineering, and math in a fun and engaging way. There is also a laser tag arena, a ropes course, and a 4D motion theater. Even though I didn’t attend WonderWorks in Pigeon Forge, I enjoyed experiencing the location in Orlando, Florida. You can read my review here.

3. The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge is an entertainment complex offering various activities for kids and adults. Some of the most popular attractions on The Island include the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot-tall observation wheel that provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area, and the Island Show Fountain, a choreographed water and light show that takes place every hour.

Activities for All Ages

1. Outdoor Adventures

Pigeon Forge is surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains, providing ample opportunities for outdoor adventures. Families can hike to waterfalls, go fishing in the many streams and rivers, or take a scenic drive through the national park. There are also zip lines, ropes courses, alpine coasters, and white-water rafting opportunities for families looking for more adrenaline-fueled activities.

2. Indoor Entertainment

Pigeon Forge has a range of indoor entertainment options for families to enjoy. The Titanic Museum is a must-visit attraction that tells the story of the ill-fated ship through interactive exhibits and artifacts. Families can also enjoy mini-golf, laser tag, and escape rooms.

What are the Best Times to Visit Pigeon Forge?

Pigeon Forge is a great destination to visit all year round, but there are certain times of the year when the weather is more favorable and the crowds are smaller. Here are the best times to visit Pigeon Forge:

green grass field near green mountains under white clouds and blue sky during daytime

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Pigeon Forge as the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller than in the summer months. Families can enjoy hiking, fishing, and other outdoor activities without the intense heat of the summer.

Summer

Summer is the peak season in Pigeon Forge and for good reason. The weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to enjoy water parks, amusement parks, and other outdoor attractions. Families should expect larger crowds during this time.

Fall

Fall is a beautiful time to visit Pigeon Forge as the leaves on the trees change colors, providing a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. Families can enjoy hiking, apple picking, and other fall-themed events and attractions.

Winter

Winter in Pigeon Forge is a magical time as the city is transformed into a winter wonderland with festive lights and decorations. Families can enjoy ice skating, skiing, and other winter activities in the surrounding mountains.

Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge?

brown wooden house near trees during daytime

Pigeon Forge offers a range of accommodation options for families, including cabin rentals, hotels and resorts, and campgrounds. Here are some options to consider:

Cabin Rentals

Cabin rentals are a popular choice for families visiting Pigeon Forge as they provide a cozy and comfortable home away from home. Cabins come in a range of sizes and amenities, from rustic to luxurious.

Hotels and Resorts

Pigeon Forge has a range of hotels and resorts that cater to families. Many of these properties offer amenities such as pools, game rooms, and on-site dining options. Norma Dan is a hotel that is within walking distance of many attractions, I stayed here in 2019! You can read my review of the Norma Dan Motel here.

Campgrounds

For families who enjoy camping, Pigeon Forge has a range of campgrounds that offer both RV and tent camping options. Many of these campgrounds are located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Dining in Pigeon Forge

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Pigeon Forge has a range of dining options for families, from local favorites to family-friendly chains. Here are some options to consider:

Local Favorites

Some of the local favorite restaurants in Pigeon Forge include The Old Mill Restaurant, The Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant, and The Peddler Steakhouse.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

Pigeon Forge has a range of family-friendly chain restaurants, including Denny’s, Cracker Barrel, and Texas Roadhouse.

Shopping in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge offers a range of shopping options for families, from outlet malls to unique souvenir shops. Here are some options to consider:

Outlet Malls

Pigeon Forge has several outlet malls, including Tanger Outlets and Pigeon Forge Factory Outlet Mall, which offer discounts on popular brands.

Unique Souvenirs

Families can also find unique souvenirs in Pigeon Forge, such as handmade pottery, homemade fudge, and local crafts at shops such as The Old Mill Square and The Island in Pigeon Forge.

Is Pigeon Forge a Family-Friendly Destination?

Pigeon Forge is a family-friendly destination for all seasons, offering a range of attractions and activities that cater to both kids and adults. From amusement parks to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone in Pigeon Forge. Visitors can choose from a range of accommodation options, dining options, and shopping opportunities. Whether you visit in the spring, summer, fall, or winter, Pigeon Forge has something to offer. So, gather the family and start planning your next trip to this charming destination in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains with my comprehensive Southern Tennessee Travel Guide.

FAQs

What are some of the most popular outdoor activities in Pigeon Forge?

Some of the most popular outdoor activities in Pigeon Forge include hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, fishing in the Little Pigeon River, and zip-lining.

What are some of the best family-friendly attractions in Pigeon Forge?

Some of the best family-friendly attractions in Pigeon Forge include Dollywood, the Titanic Museum, WonderWorks, and the Island in Pigeon Forge.

When is the best time to visit Pigeon Forge?

The best time to visit Pigeon Forge depends on what you’re looking for. Spring and fall are great times to visit if you want to avoid large crowds, while summer is the peak season for outdoor attractions. Winter is a magical time in Pigeon Forge with festive lights and decorations.

What are some of the best places to stay in Pigeon Forge for families?

Some of the best places to stay in Pigeon Forge for families include cabin rentals, hotels and resorts with family-friendly amenities, and campgrounds.

What are some unique shopping experiences in Pigeon Forge?

Pigeon Forge offers unique shopping experiences such as the handmade pottery and local crafts found at The Old Mill Square and The Island in Pigeon Forge, as well as the homemade fudge from various shops throughout the city.