Top 25 Things to Do in Pigeon Forge in 2025
Pigeon Forge is a family-friendly destination packed with unique attractions, thrilling adventures, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning a family vacation or an outdoor adventure, don't miss out on these must-visit spots:
1. Visit Dollywood
Dollywood remains the heart of Pigeon Forge, featuring world-class roller coasters, live musical performances, craft demonstrations, and delicious Southern cuisine. Don’t miss the seasonal festivals like the Flower & Food Festival in the spring or Smoky Mountain Christmas in winter, and keep an eye out for any new attractions debuting in 2025.
2. Explore The Island
The Island is a vibrant entertainment complex offering boutique shopping, diverse dining options, and attractions like the 200-foot-tall Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. Relax in the rocking chairs surrounding the Island Show Fountain, which features mesmerizing water and light displays.
3. Drive the Cades Cove Loop
Just a short drive from Pigeon Forge, this picturesque 11-mile loop offers unparalleled views of wildlife and historic buildings from early Appalachian settlers. Be sure to pack a picnic or stop at the Visitor Center to learn more about the area’s history.
4. Take a Guided Tour
Explore the Smokies with a professional guide who knows the area’s history and hidden gems. Pink Jeep Tours take you on rugged off-road adventures and scenic mountain trails, while Smoky Mountain Tours offer a mix of historical insights and nature excursions for a more relaxed pace.
5. Experience Titanic Museum Attraction
Step aboard the Titanic Museum, a half-scale replica of the iconic ship. Explore interactive exhibits, touch a real iceberg, and walk through recreated rooms. Each visitor receives a boarding pass of an actual Titanic passenger or crew member, adding a personal connection to the experience.
6. Enjoy a Dinner Show
Combine delicious dining with dazzling entertainment at one of Pigeon Forge’s renowned dinner shows. Dolly Parton’s Stampede features trick riding and friendly competition, while Pirates Voyage brings acrobatics and swashbuckling adventures to the stage.
7. Visit SkyLand Ranch
SkyLand Ranch offers a unique mountain experience, blending scenic views, animal encounters, and exciting attractions like a thrilling mountain coaster and a canopy walk. Enjoy dining, shopping, and family-friendly fun all in one location.
8. Go Hiking in the Smoky Mountains
With over 800 miles of trails, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a hiker’s paradise. Whether you’re tackling the popular Laurel Falls Trail or the challenging Chimney Tops, you’ll encounter stunning waterfalls, wildlife, and breathtaking views.
9. Play Mini Golf
Challenge your family to a round of mini-golf at one of the many themed courses in Pigeon Forge. From the candy-themed Crave Golf Club to the pirate-inspired Treasure Quest Golf, there’s a course for everyone.
10. Shop at Tanger Outlets
Tanger Outlets is a shopper’s dream. Discover deals on top brands like Nike, Coach, and Kate Spade while enjoying a leisurely outdoor shopping experience.
11. Ride a Mountain Coaster
Feel the rush of adrenaline on one of Pigeon Forge’s thrilling mountain coasters. Rocky Top Mountain Coaster is known for its scenic views and long track, while Goats on the Roof adds a playful touch, letting visitors feed goats before taking a ride.
12. Cool Off at a Water Park
Make a splash at Dollywood’s Splash Country, where water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers promise summer fun. For an equally thrilling experience visit Soaky Mountain Water Park featuring innovative rides like the Avalaunch.
13. Check Out WonderWorks
Known as the “upside-down house,” WonderWorks is an interactive science museum with over 100 hands-on exhibits. From a bed of nails to hurricane simulators, it’s fun for curious minds of all ages.
14. Go Kart Racing
Test your driving skills at one of Pigeon Forge’s many go-kart tracks. SpeedZone Fun Park and The Track offer exciting courses, from multi-level go-karts to bumper boats for younger adventurers.
15. Visit Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Nestled in a tranquil setting, Parrot Mountain is a peaceful sanctuary filled with vibrant tropical birds. Feed, hold, and interact with these beautiful creatures while surrounded by lush gardens.
16. Relax by the Little Pigeon River
Find your inner peace along the Little Pigeon River. Whether you’re fishing, picnicking, or simply listening to the flowing water, it’s the perfect spot to unwind.
17. Attend a Seasonal Festival
Pigeon Forge is home to a variety of festivals throughout the year. Winterfest transforms the town with millions of twinkling lights, while the Spring Rod Run attracts car enthusiasts from all over the country.
18. Go Whitewater Rafting or Tubing
For adrenaline junkies, Big Creek Expeditions offers thrilling whitewater rafting adventures on the Pigeon River, where you'll navigate rapids surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, River Rat Tubing provides laid-back tubing trips perfect for families and those wanting to float peacefully along the river.
19. Take a Scenic Drive on Foothills Parkway
Dubbed the “prettiest drive in America,” the Foothills Parkway offers breathtaking mountain vistas and is perfect for a leisurely road trip.
20. Try an Escape Room
Put your problem-solving skills to the test at one of Pigeon Forge’s escape rooms. Themes range from bank heists to haunted adventures, offering a fun challenge for families and friends.
21. Savor Local Cuisine
Pigeon Forge is a foodie’s paradise, with hearty Southern breakfasts at The Old Mill and mouthwatering BBQ at Bennett’s Pit Bar-B-Que. For dessert, visit Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant for their signature apple fritters or sample local fudge from one of the many candy shops in town.
22. Zipline Through the Smokies
Soar through the treetops on one of Pigeon Forge’s top-rated zipline courses. Legacy Mountain Ziplines offer breathtaking mountain views, while Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park includes canopy walks and thrilling ziplines.
23. Explore a Museum
Dive into history, art, or pop culture at one of Pigeon Forge’s fascinating museums. Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum to pose with lifelike celebrity figures, the Alcatraz East Crime Museum to uncover the stories behind infamous crimes, or the Beyond the Lens Museum for an interactive look at pop culture, technology, and conspiracy theories. Each museum offers a unique experience, making it easy to find one that suits your interests.
24. Enjoy Snow at Pigeon Forge Snow
Play in real snow all year long at this indoor snow park. From snow tubing to building snowmen, it’s an exciting way to beat the heat or extend your winter fun.
25. Go Horseback Riding
Explore the Smoky Mountains on horseback for a relaxing and scenic adventure. Jayell Ranch offers beautiful trails and mountain views, while Five Oaks Riding Stables is known for its friendly guides and well-maintained trails.
Pigeon Forge in 2025 promises unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. Which of these adventures will you try first? Let us know in the comments!