things to do in pigeon forge gatlinburg

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are two popular tourist destinations in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. Here are some things to do in the area:

Pigeon Forge:

1. Dollywood: A theme park owned by Dolly Parton, featuring roller coasters, live music, and craft demonstrations.
2. The Island at Pigeon Forge: A entertainment complex with a giant Ferris wheel, haunted house, and other attractions.
3. Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center: A museum showcasing the history and culture of the Smoky Mountains.
4. Whitewater Rafting: Experience the thrill of rafting on the Pigeon River.
5. Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort: A ski resort with year-round activities, including an alpine slide and an arcade.
6. Anakeesta: An outdoor attraction with a treetop canopy walk, ziplining, and stunning views.
7. The Comedy Barn: A variety show featuring comedians, magicians, and musicians.
8. Pigeon Forge Trolley: A convenient way to get around town, with stops at popular attractions.
9. The Hollywood Wax Museum: A museum featuring wax figures of famous celebrities.
10. Mini-golf and Arcades: Pigeon Forge has plenty of mini-golf courses and arcades for family-friendly fun.

Gatlinburg:

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park: A beautiful national park with hiking trails, waterfalls, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
2. Gatlinburg Strip: A lively downtown area with shops, restaurants, and attractions.
3. Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort: Also accessible from Gatlinburg, this ski resort offers year-round activities.
4. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: An aquarium featuring a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
5. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park: A chairlift ride with stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
6. The Village Shops: A charming shopping district with boutiques, restaurants, and a fountain show.
7. Gatlinburg Riverwalk: A scenic walkway along the Little Pigeon River, perfect for a relaxing stroll.
8. Cooter’s Place: A museum dedicated to the TV show "The Dukes of Hazzard," with memorabilia and a mini-golf course.
9. Gatlinburg Space Needle: A 400-foot-tall observation tower with panoramic views of the city.
10. Anakeesta: Also accessible from Gatlinburg, this outdoor attraction offers a treetop canopy walk, ziplining, and stunning views.

Other Activities:

1. Hiking and Camping: The Smoky Mountains offer many hiking trails and campsites for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Fishing: The area has many streams and lakes stocked with trout and other fish species.
3. Horseback Riding: Several stables in the area offer guided horseback rides through the mountains.
4. Wineries and Distilleries: Visit local wineries and distilleries for wine and moonshine tastings.
5. Festivals and Events: Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg host various festivals throughout the year, including the Pigeon Forge Trolley Festival and the Gatlinburg Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade.

Remember to check the attractions’ websites for operating hours, prices, and any specific rules or regulations.