Do you want to take your loved ones to a place with a little bit of something for everyone? Look no further than Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge. Both towns offer a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty that will leave a lasting impression on all who visit. Whether you are looking for thrilling theme parks, picturesque hiking trails, or simply a chance to reconnect with nature, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have you covered. Do not know where to get started? Explore the following places to make the most of your time with family:
The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an enchanting natural landscape. The park features various plants and animals, including black bears, elk, and the famous fireflies that light up the night sky in the summer.
One of the most popular activities in the park is hiking the many trails that lead to scenic overlooks with panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains. Hiking trails abound here. You may stroll along the gentle River Trail or challenge yourself on the strenuous Alum Cave Trail.
Fishing enthusiasts will also love the park’s streams and rivers teeming with trout and other fish. Cast your line and relax as you wait for a bite while taking in the scenic surroundings.
If you want to explore the park to the fullest, consider extending your stay to at least a few days. You will enjoy top-notch accommodation, thanks to timber tops cabin rentals. Regardless of your family size, you can easily find a suitable cabin with all the luxury amenities.
The Old Mill
Step back in time and experience a piece of living history at the Old Mill in Pigeon Forge. The old gristmill has been around for over two centuries. It provides visitors with a glimpse into the past and an opportunity to see how their ancestors used to grind grains.
The Old Mill is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a tranquil stream, making it the perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. You can sample regional specialties prepared with the mill’s freshly ground flour and other locally sourced ingredients at the Old Mill restaurant.
Moreover, you may also find various handcrafted items, such as pottery and candles, made by local artisans. This destination is a perfect blend of history, education, and fun for the entire family.
The Hollywood Wax Museum
Get ready to rub elbows with the stars at the Hollywood Wax Museum in Pigeon Forge. This is the perfect destination for movie buffs and pop culture enthusiasts of all ages. From old-school icons like Audrey Hepburn and Elvis Presley to new-school darlings like Angelina Jolie and Robert Downey Jr., the Wax Museum has over 200 lifelike wax figures of some of Hollywood’s biggest names.
You can take a selfie with your favorite stars, strike a pose on the red carpet, or even put your acting skills to the test in one of the interactive exhibits. You will have a blast as you immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood and discover your inner star.
Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
When in Gatlinburg, do not miss out on Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. To begin with, experience a chairlift ride that will take you to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains that you cannot find anywhere else. Once you reach the summit, the SkyDeck is the perfect spot to snap unforgettable photos. Relax and soak in the natural beauty of the Smokies as you look out over the mountain range. For a more tranquil experience, take a leisurely hike along the Gatlinburg SkyTrail.
Dollywood
Dollywood is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day out with the family. Visitors can go for a thrill on one of the many roller coasters, cool off on a water ride, or enjoy a leisurely ride on the Dollywood Express steam train.
Dollywood also boasts a wide selection of restaurants and snack bars serving delicious southern fare. And do not miss the chance to catch one of the live shows featuring musicians, dancers, magicians, and other performers. If you are looking for a unique shopping experience, Dollywood features stores selling everything from handcrafted crafts, jewelry, and clothing to unique souvenirs and gifts. With so much to see and do, you are sure to have a blast at Dollywood.
Ripley’s Aquarium Of The Smokies
Ever wanted to be surrounded by massive exhibits filled with big and small sea creatures? If yes, you could not have come to a better place. Sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and thousands of colorful fish are just some of the sea species on display at the aquarium. Take a ride on the Ripley’s Glass Bottom Boat Adventure to see sea life from a unique perspective and explore the interactive exhibits that offer endless learning opportunities.
You can see fish swimming around you as you go through the “Ocean Realm” tunnel. For more unusual and potentially dangerous sea creatures, check out the “Dangerous Reef.” There are also many hands-on exhibits where visitors can interact with the animals by petting and feeding them.
Gatlinburg Pinball Museum
For pinball fans and those seeking an out-of-the-ordinary adventure, the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum is a veritable paradise. Visiting this place is like stepping into a world where the clinking of silver balls and the buzz of electronic sounds fill the air. The museum is home to a vast collection of pinball machines from different eras, including classic games from the 1960s and 1970s and modern games from the 1990s and 2000s. So you can relive fond memories of your childhood or discover new favorites from the past.
The museum has displays explaining the history of pinball, how the machines work, and the different types of games created over the years. This is a great way for visitors to learn about pinball’s history and its impact on pop culture.
Conclusion
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are among the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S. whether you are a thrill seeker, history nerd, or hiker, these Southern cities have you covered. To save you time and energy, we have compiled a list of favorite places to visit in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.