Fun and Unique Things to Do in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Each time I visit the Smoky Mountain Region we always discover fun things to do and many reasons to want to come back.

I’m sharing more about the top fun and unique things to do in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee for your next visit.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by My Pigeon Forge and contains affiliate links. All opinions are my own.

Go Snow Tubing Indoors at Pigeon Forge Snow

2533 Teaster Ln, Pigeon Forge, TN

You don’t have to wait for cold weather to go indoor snow tubing at Pigeon Forge Snow. 

In fact, it’s even better in Pigeon Forge because the temperature inside remains around 60-70 degrees year-round.  And you don’t need to wear snow pants or gloves at America’s First Indoor Snow Park!

It’s real snow made from water with a snow machine without additional chemicals.

Tubing guests are given a special timed wristband. The wristband is scanned by an employee each time they ride up the moving carpet to the top of the indoor tubing hill. This allows for all of the fun and none of the work.

There are multiple snow tubing lanes so you don’t have to wait very long at the top. The staff will assist you and tell you when it’s time for you to safely go down.

This is a perfect activity for the whole family rain or shine, in all seasons.

Snow tubers must be at least 38 inches and 3 years old. If someone in your party doesn’t want to go snow tubing they can observe on the second-floor observation deck. Non-tubers do not have to purchase an admission fee.

There are also snacks and drinks available for purchase.

Tubing sessions are sold in 1 hour-sessions and sessions in Snow Play are 30-minute sessions.

The Snow Play area is open to all ages and doesn’t have height restrictions.

Another way to save money is by purchasing your tickets online.

You don’t need to make reservations before your arrival but they stop selling snow tubing sessions 30 minutes before they close.

For the best value, you can purchase a ticket that includes Snow Tubing and Snow Play if you want to do more than one activity.

Experience Wet Zorbing Down a Hill at Outdoor Gravity Park

203 Sugar Hollow Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN

I’m a sucker for unique adventures and Outdoor Gravity Park is a MUST for thrill seekers during your visit to Pigeon Forge.

Three different zorbing experiences are offered at the only zorbing park in the United States.

• Red Track – The most popular course for up to three people at once
• Purple Track – A faster course for up to 3 people down the 1000+ ft hill
• Orange Track – This zigzag course can only take solo riders because it’s so extreme for riders while going down.

The zorbing experience takes about 90 seconds but feels much longer in a good way. 

On your way down you slosh around inside the O.G.O. ball, unlike any other adventure I’ve tried.

Cool water is put in the ball in the summer and up to 95-degree water in the cooler months.

A swimsuit or dry-fit style activewear is your best option.

I recommend wearing shorts if you’re wearing a swimsuit to feel more comfortable getting in and out of the ball with spectators nearby.

Pack towels and a new set of clothes so you’ll be the most comfortable after your ride and not too cold while waiting for others to go down the hill.

I highly recommend getting the video if you don’t own a GoPro. The footage from inside the ball as it goes down the hill is priceless.

The best time to go is early in the day. Plan ahead and book online for this adventure.

Challenge Yourself on the Island Ropes Course

131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN

A great confidence builder for kids and adults, the Island Rope Course allows you to face your fears and challenge yourself with the safety and security of a harness.

There are two different course options available. The Sky Tykes course is for anyone less than 48″ tall. Parents can walk beside and encourage their harnessed child as they try the nine different elements.

The Sky Trail Explorer Course is for anyone over 42″ but any guests under 48″ will need a taller chaperone with them.

This course has 30 elements, two zip lines, and one simulated free-fall called Quick Jump.

Make sure you try all of the elements first before you do the Quick Jump. There is no time limit when you are on the course, but once you jump, your time on the course is over.

(If you don’t want to do the Quick Jump you can walk back down the stairs when you are finished)

Participants move their individual slings along the track and there’s only one person allowed on each element at a time.

The ziplines are on each level and the elements vary in their difficulty level.

I recommend trying all of them because you will feel braver on the other side. It’s also great to model stepping outside of your comfort zone with your kids.

If you do need any assistance there are certified employees on the course who can help you. They are also a great resource if you need a few tips before tackling an intimidating element.

Enjoy a Scenic View From The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN

The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel gives riders great views of the Island and the Smoky Mountains in the distance.

The all-glass gondolas can seat up to 8 guests and the views from the 200-foot tall Ferris Wheel are gorgeous day or night.

Relax and Enjoy the Island Show Fountains

131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN

Picture the Bellagio Fountains, only a mini version. The Island Show Fountain is fun to watch during the day and at night.

Every 30 minutes, Monday- Sunday you can catch a light and water show choreographed to 14 different pieces of music starting at the top of the hour from 10 AM-11:30 PM.

The fountains incorporate dancing water that can shoot as high as 60 feet in the air! The show is choreographed to music, with additional colored lights at night.

You will find plenty of seating surrounding the fountain circle. The rocking chairs are popular and try to claim your chair several minutes before the show starts.

Walk, Bike, or Fish on the Riverwalk Greenway

If you want to slow down after a few extreme adventures, I recommend spending some time along the Riverwalk Greenway with over 4 miles of paved trails.

This could also be the perfect fishing spot when your spouse wants more time to explore the shops at The Island of Pigeon Forge.

We used the Riverwalk Greenway to connect us to the Island in Pigeon Forge after we went go-karting.

Fulfill Your Need for Speed at The Track Family Fun Park

2575 Parkway, Pigeon Forge,

You can race your friends and family at The Track Family Fun Park. 

My favorite track is the multilevel course because it adds an extra dimension and challenge during your race.

There are several different race tracks to choose from at The Track and even a kiddie track for younger guests.

If you are looking for another adrenaline rush, check out the Skyflyer.

This thrill attraction lifts and pulls you and up to 2 other people, 75 ft in the air, and then releases you to swing and soar.

The Track also has mini golf, an arcade, and a few other rides and attractions that are a little less extreme.

Unique Museums in Pigeon Forge

There are a few interactive museums to check out while visiting Pigeon Forge, TN.

Science Made FUN at WonderWorks

100 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge

The WonderWorks building has always piqued my curiosity because it looks like it’s been flipped on its head and I discovered that the inside was WAY better than I anticipated.

Guests of all ages will enjoy exploring all 35,000 sq. feet of the education-entertainment fusion with more than 100 hands-on exhibits.

You can easily spend HOURS inside this attraction.

I appreciated that the activities inside (exhibits, 4D Simulator Ride, 1 game of Laser Tag, and the Glow in the Dark Ropes Course) were included in the general admission price instead of adding additional fees.

* Wear close-toed shoes if you plan on doing the ropes course.

It’s recommended to allow 3-4 hours for a visit.

As an additional value, your admission is good all day so you can leave and return the same day.

Tour the Titanic Museum Attraction

2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge

When the movie Titanitic came out I watched it twice in the theaters, which was a big deal when I was a college student on a budget.

A self-guided tour of the Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge exceeded my expectations!

As you enter the Titanic Museum, you are given a boarding pass and information about a passenger on the Titanic.

As you go through the museum you’ll learn more about their story and what happened to your designated passenger on that historic day.

I was AMAZED at the number of personal and private artifacts displayed at the museum (400+). I learned so many interesting stories about the passengers that each deserves their own movies.

A few of my favorite moments inside the museum were touching the iceberg and then putting my hands into 28-degree water to visualize what the passengers experienced as they waited in the cold dark water in hopes of being rescued, trying to stand on the sloping deck, and walking on the Grand Staircase.

I also found it fascinating to view the display of the passenger list.

The list was broken down into details identifying if the passenger was a survivor or deceased, passenger class, gender, age, and crew.

The World’s Largest Titanic Model with LEGO^® BRICKS

The Titanic museum does not allow photography inside except for the incredible Lego display of the Titanic (26ft X 5ft) designed by a 10-year-old boy from Iceland that took 56,000 Lego Bricks and 11 months to build.

Learn More About the History of Crime in America at The Alcatraz East Crime Museum

2757 Parkway, Pigeon Forge

The Alcatraz East Crime Museum will pique the interest of true crime fans with 25,000 sq ft of hands-on exhibits containing lots of information on American crime history.

The museum takes on 5 perspectives on crime with the criminal profiles, victim’s stories, crime prevention, the justice system, and law enforcement.

And they even have the vehicle that O.J. Simpson was driving when he was being chased by the police!

If you are a certain ..ahem..age… you can probably remember where you were when you watched the live footage of OJ Simpson fleeing from the police on the expressway in a white Ford Bronco.

For a little entertainment, watch a friend or family member as they try to walk the line while wearing the “beer goggles.”

I personally liked that the museum didn’t only focus on the criminals and presented a well-rounded approach.

Take a Picture with One of Your Favorite Celebrities at The Hollywood Wax Museum

106 Showplace Blvd A, Pigeon Forge

The Hollywood Wax Museum allows you to get close to the likeness of some of your favorite celebrities.

Photos are highly encouraged and props are located throughout the museum so you can get into character with your favorite famous television stars, movie stars, and singers.

The John Cena and Taylor Swift wax were two of my favorite wax sculptures at the museum.

They made me take an up-close double take to look into their eyes.

Don’t forget to take the elevator up to a stairway on the roof. This allows you to view King Kong and the strip from an awesome vantage point.

Watch a Lumberjack Show at Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show.

2530 Parkway, Pigeon Forge

If you are looking for a show that’s more out of the box, you should check out Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Show.

This show is interactive with lots of audience participation as you are assigned to be on team “Dawson” or McGraw” determined by your seating section.

Kids can even volunteer to help with different parts of the 90-minute show featuring 13 lumberjack skill challenges.

The lumberjack skills you witness by both the men and the women will definitely blow your mind!

My favorite moment was when the lumberjacks raced up and down the pole.

The log rolling challenge was also fun to watch because it kept getting harder for the contestants to stay on the log the wetter the log got.

Seating is first-come, first-serve. It’s recommended for guests to arrive 30 minutes before the show to get their preferred seating.

There’s an intermission so that kids can get a special photo op.

Additional Live Shows in Pigeon Forge, TN

• Country Tonite Theatre – 129 Showplace Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN
• Comedy Barn Theater – 2775 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 
• Grand Majestic Theater – 2330 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN
• Mountain of Entertainment Array – 2135 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN

Dinner Theaters in Pigeon Forge

• Dolly Parton’s Stampede – 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN
• Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud – 119 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN
• Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show – 2713 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN

An Adventure at Dollywood Theme Park

Dollywood is a theme park that has something for everyone, no matter what age you are.

If you are already a fan of Dolly Parton, you will love the park even more.

Dolly Parton fans will love the museum that shares more of her story with exhibits containing memorabilia through the years.

Thrill-seekers will want to get in line to ride Lightning Rod as soon as they arrive. This wooden coaster is unlike any roller coaster I’ve ever been on!

Lighting Rod launches from zero to 45 mph and has almost 20 seconds of airtime that you experience throughout the ride.

There are several roller coasters and thrill rides to get your heart racing.

Make sure that you check the Dollywood app so that you can be strategic with your wait times.

If you have younger kids, Dollywood has plenty of rides geared more toward families.

If you need a break from walking around, I highly recommend attending one of the live performances or shows throughout the park.

You MUST also try the cinnamon bread when you visit the park. I didn’t think it needed a side of icing or apple butter but we tried it anyway.

Control Your Speed at Rocky Top Mountain Coaster

 2940 Veterans Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN

A Mountain Coaster is basically a mini roller coaster where you control the speed of your individual car as you travel down the mountain.

The Escape Game – The Island in Pigeon Forge

131 The Island Dr. Suite 9139, Pigeon Forge, TN

Try to beat the clock, solve the puzzles, and escape before time runs out in one of the themed rooms at The Escape Game.

The cinnamon bread is baked fresh right in front of you. Judging by the line out the door, you know it’s worth it!

This is a great park to visit surrounded by the beauty of the mountains.

Unique Places to Eat in Pigeon Forge, TN

There are several unique dining options in Pigeon Forge, TN.

Enjoy a Great Locally Sourced Meal at The Local Goat

2167 Parkway, Pigeon Forge

You know that a restaurant is pretty amazing when it’s PACKED at random times of the day. I’m glad that we didn’t let a crowded parking lot deter us from our first visit to The Local Goat.

The Goat is a scratch kitchen with locally sourced and sustainable foods. It also serves craft beer and cocktails.

Once you take a bite of the food, you will understand why it is such a popular place.

I highly recommend the Steak Nachos at the Goat. They are made with marinated steak, melted cheeses, pickled red onion, cilantro, jalapenos, balsamic glaze, guacamole, and sour cream.

The chicken wings are another great option.

You can’t go wrong with one of their sandwiches or burgers.

We were too full for dessert but I want to try one of theirs the next time I visit.

Breakfast That Will Put a Smile on Your Face at The Frizzle Chicken Farmhouse Cafe

2785 Parkway, Pigeon Forge

Animatronics and fantastic food, The Frizzle Chicken Farmhouse Cafe is a bit of a gimmick in the best ways possible.

The animatronics will take you back to memories of Chuck E. Cheese as a kid and the clever chicken names and music will delight the kids and the adults.

What’s even better is the food is REALLY GOOD, and it’s a great value!

A few of our table favorites were the biscuits and gravy, omelet, chicken biscuit with gravy on top and a BLT.

I’m still craving the incredible cinnamon roll pancakes.

Frizzle Chicken is only open for breakfast and lunch so plan accordingly. We learned that the hard way!

Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge, TN

During our visit, we stayed at the “Eagle’s on High” cabin, part of the cabin properties available for rent at Eagle’s Ridge Resort.

The cabin was absolutely gorgeous with mountain views.

The best part was that it was a short drive to the attractions at Pigeon Forge.

The cabin slept all of us comfortably.

There were 3 bedrooms with King Beds, 3 full baths, and a game room with a queen-sized sleeper.

There was plenty of room for everyone in our group to spread out.

The open floor plan is perfect for families or getaways with friends or couples.

The kids really enjoyed playing in the game room. Kids and adults enjoyed relaxing in the hot tub and sitting on both decks with mountain views.

A cabin rental is a great way to save on meals and lodging costs during your stay. Cabins provide you with the amenities and comforts of home.

Save on Lodging in Pigeon Forge, TN

You can compare and save on hotels and vacation rentals in Pigeon Forge, TN by clicking on the interactive map below.

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