Amid the Great Smoky Mountains lies Pigeon Forge, a picturesque destination for families looking for fun and relaxation. Its thrilling theme parks, interactive museums, outdoor activities and live shows offer endless all-ages entertainment. As you plan your visit, discover the many delightful kid-friendly things to do in Pigeon Forge!
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Kid-Friendly Attractions in Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is a haven for kids to cultivate their imaginations. Interactive museums, amusement parks, and water parks provide family fun across each season. Learn more about Pigeon Forge, where young adventurers can create unforgettable memories.
Dollywood Theme Park
Dollywood Theme Park is a must-visit destination. This world-renowned amusement park has over 40 rides and attractions to get your heart racing. Dollywood also features live entertainment, with various shows catering to younger audiences, and seasonal festivals and events. Between adrenaline-pumping rides and entertaining shows, Dollywood Theme Park is a bucket list item for families visiting Pigeon Forge.
WonderWorks, Pigeon Forge
WonderWorks is an interactive and educational attraction that provides an immersive experience for the entire family. Often called an “amusement park for the mind,” WonderWorks features over 100 hands-on exhibits. Explore six different “wonder zones,” each with a unique science-related theme. One of the park’s highlights is the Space Discovery Zone, where kids explore a life-sized replica of an astronaut’s space suit. They can also experience the sensation of g-force and explore a replica Mercury capsule!
The Island
The Island in Pigeon Forge is an entertainment and shopping complex with a wide variety of attractions, shops, and restaurants. One of the best parts about The Island is the 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel. In a climate-controlled gondola, riders can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains. It’s especially stunning at sunset. The Island in Pigeon Forge should be your one-stop shop for food and family fun at the same time.
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Outdoor Activities for the Whole Family
The natural beauty of Pigeon Forge and the surrounding Smokies provide a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. Adventurers can choose between hiking in the national park, ziplining through the trees, or enjoying a picnic outdoors. Here are a few more options for your family members to enjoy.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a destination for anyone seeking adventure in nature. With over 800 miles of well-maintained trails, hiking is one of the most popular activities. Some family-friendly hikes include the Laurel Falls Trail, which leads to a stunning waterfall. If you prefer the open road, try the Cades Cove Loop Road, an 11-mile scenic drive where you can see historic structures and lots of wildlife.
The park also offers plenty of picnic spots, such as the Chimneys Picnic Area or Metcalf Bottoms Picnic Area. Enjoy a meal surrounded by lush forests and the sound of flowing streams. As a bonus, the park hosts junior ranger programs in the spring, summer, and fall. Both educational and entertaining, these programs give children a chance to learn about nature in a fun and interactive way.
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is a great way to experience the Smokies. Beginners and seasoned riders are equally welcome to choose from a range of trails varying in difficulty. Several stables in the Pigeon Forge area provide guided trail rides that weave through the foothills of the Smoky Mountains.
Jayell Ranch comes highly recommended, with about 4,000 acres of horse-friendly trails and tours that last around 1 hour. Their stables provide well-trained horses that are gentle and suitable for riders of all ages. Horseback riding is not only an exciting way to explore the beautiful landscape of Pigeon Forge, but it also allows you to bond with these majestic creatures.
Ziplining Adventures
For families with older kids, ziplining adventures in Gatlinburg offer a thrilling experience. Several companies in the area offer zipline tours that take you high above the forest canopy and provide a bird’s-eye view of the Smoky Mountains. CLIMB Works Zipline offers 14 unique ziplining adventures ranging from beginner to advanced levels, and is an excellent activity for all comfort levels. [1] Guides ensure everyone’s safety, provide detailed instructions, and secure all safety gear. Feel the rush and freedom of gliding through the air as you soar through the treetops.
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Accommodation and Dining Options
Relax in a cozy cabin in the mountains, or treat your taste buds to mouthwatering Southern comfort food. No matter your preferences, Pigeon Forge’s variety of comfortable accommodations and dining options will meet your requirements.
Family-Friendly Hotels and Cabins
Many hotels in the Pigeon Forge area offer spacious rooms, swimming pools, and complimentary breakfasts. However, if you want a more secluded option, consider renting a cabin in the Smoky Mountains. Many of Auntie Belham’s Cabin Rentals have full kitchens, hot tubs, and stunning mountain views. For families who prefer a resort-style experience, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa includes an exciting on-site water park and a convenient shuttle service to Dollywood.
Kid-Friendly Restaurants
Are you craving some delicious food in a fun and relaxed atmosphere? Visit The Old Mill Restaurant, which serves some of the best Southern comfort food in the area. Located in a historic gristmill, the restaurant provides a unique dining experience that transports you back to the 1800s. Craving pizza? Mellow Mushroom’s creative menu gives you the option to customize your pizza. Another popular choice is Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, another excellent opportunity for a hearty family-style Southern meal. For dessert, stop by Mad Dog’s Creamery & Donuts to satisfy your sweet tooth with hand-dipped ice cream and funnel cakes.
In Conclusion
Scenic natural beauty combined with endless options for all-ages fun make Pigeon Forge the perfect destination for families. Visit the Dollywood Theme Park for thrilling rides, or spend hours at the interactive exhibits at WonderWorks. Shop and dine your heart out at The Island in Pigeon Forge. Outdoor enthusiasts can take a family hike to a scenic picnic spot in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Plus, horseback riding and ziplining adventures are ways to create extraordinary memories. So, pack your bags and head to Pigeon Forge for an unforgettable family vacation. After all, there’s nothing more precious than time spent with loved ones!
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