With its many visit-worthy attractions and perfect location at the foothills of the Smoky Mountains Range, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a popular travel destination for both domestic and foreign tourists. The city has a native population of only 6000 but receives over 10 million tourists yearly, of which 2 million prefer to lengthen their stay to more than one day.
The city is renowned for its beautiful scenery, family-friendly tourist spots, and rich ethnic and cultural heritage. People from different parts of the world travel to experience its many attractions, which range from incredible theme parks to fascinating historical landmarks and awe-inspiring natural wonders.
The local economy here stands to profit from tourism, which supports thousands of employment opportunities and brings in $1.5 billion annually. The city provides over 14,500 lodging units for visitors, including hotels, motels, rental cabins, and condos.
Pigeon Forge should be first on your list of places to visit this year, regardless of whether you are seeking an adventure, a bit of relaxation, or just need to take a break after a tough few months at work.
Things to Do at Pigeon Forge
Here is a breakdown of things to do in Pigeon Forge to have a memorable experience.
1. Visiting The Old Mill
If you love history and cultural heritage, the Old Mill in Pigeon Forge, constructed in 1830, is a must-visit location as it receives over one hundred thousand tourists annually.
It provides a rare opportunity to experience the traditions and workmanship of a bygone era. The Old Mill is one of the nation’s oldest working gristmills and a national historic landmark. Here, you will get to see water-powered machinery in operation, observe grains being crushed into flour, and you can even purchase the finished products. This picturesque destination is renowned for its classic Appalachian architecture and breathtaking lawns, which make it the ideal place to visit and appreciate the tranquility of the Smoky Mountains.
At the end of your visit, it is customary to dine at the Old Mill Restaurant, which provides exquisite Southern-style cuisine cooked with freshly milled ingredients.
2. Having The Time of Your Life at Dollywood
Dollywood is a popular theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The park was opened in 1986 and is co-owned by country music legend Dolly Parton and Herschend Family Entertainment. It is known for its beautiful setting in the Smoky Mountains and features a variety of exciting rides and attractions, including roller coasters, water rides, and family-friendly activities. In addition, the park keeps introducing new rides and hosting award-winning shows every year. So, each time you visit Dollywood, the experience is unique.
Dollywood is also famous for celebrating the region’s culture and heritage, showcasing traditional music and arts. The year 2023 is up for a grand celebration to commemorate 50 years of one of Dolly Parton’s biggest hits, “I Will Always Love You,” which broke multiple records and stayed on the US Billboard Hot 100 charts for 14 weeks at no.1. This season will also feature performances by famous artists, marking and honoring the art of songwriting and singing.
3. Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
For anyone visiting Pigeon Forge, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is not to be missed. It proudly boasts its status as the country’s most-visited national park, with over 12.5 million tourists in 2019 alone. This is a testament to the park’s beauty and rich historical and cultural heritage.
Hill elevations are between 875 and 6,643 feet and provide a panoramic view of the breathtaking landscapes. The park also has incredible biodiversity. Almost 19,000 documented species inhabit the 500,000 acres of the land area.
The park is also home to the famous Appalachian Trail, which stretches over 70 miles and is quite popular among hikers. With its stunning vistas, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is truly a national treasure.
4. Visiting the Vibrant Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Pigeon Forge’s Parrot Mountain and Gardens is a unique and popular attraction, providing visitors with an immersive and colorful experience. The attraction features a collection of over 200 exotic and domestic birds, including 70 species of parrots, macaws, and cockatiels from around the world, which visitors can interact with and feed. The attraction is also known for its lush gardens, featuring over 50,000 species of flowers, plants, and trees.
It also hosts a variety of educational programs, bird shows, and exhibits that showcase the history and behavior of the birds that are sure to be of interest to adults and children alike. With its vibrant colors, serene gardens, and an opportunity to learn something new, Parrot Mountain and Gardens is a must-see destination in Pigeon Forge.
5. Spending the Afternoon at Mountain Valley Winery
The Mountain Valley Winery is a well-known winery and vineyard in Pigeon Forge. The winery was founded in 1991 and has been producing award-winning wines for over three decades. The winery offers daily tastings of its various wines, including red, white, and fruit. Visitors can also enjoy a tour of the winery and learn about the wine-making process.
The Mountain Valley Winery sources its grapes from vineyards across the United States. It produces over 20,000 cases each year and has won numerous awards for its wines. According to the Mountain Valley Winery website, it has won over 1,000 awards in national and international competitions. With its high-quality wines, beautiful vineyard setting, and knowledgeable staff, the Mountain Valley Winery is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.
6. Enjoying a Musical Evening at the Country Tonite Theatre
The Country Tonite Theatre is a renowned music and entertainment venue. The theater has been showcasing traditional and contemporary country music for over two decades, with live performances by talented musicians, singers, and dancers. The theater also features a variety of other musical genres, such as bluegrass, gospel, and pop music.
The Country Tonite Theatre has won numerous awards and has been named the “Best Show in the Smokies” by Southern Living Magazine. The theater offers two shows daily, as well as special events and holiday shows throughout the year. With its talented performers, engaging shows, and state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, the Country Tonite Theatre is a must-visit destination in the town.
Conclusion
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a fantastic vacation destination that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, music, entertainment, or educational experiences, it has something to offer to everyone. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history buff, a food enthusiast, or a nature lover, Pigeon Forge promises to satisfy your interests. It is a destination that you will always remember with its welcoming hospitality, scenic beauty, and outstanding cultural heritage.
