These are the best things to do in Pigeon Forge, according to a local
As someone who has lived in and around the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge for the better part of 35 years, you can say I’ve “seen and done” it all. And that’s quite the feat because there are hundreds of restaurants and attractions packed into the otherwise small tourist town of Pigeon Forge (population roughly 6,000). And in this article, I am going to break down some of my all-time favorites. After all, vacation time and vacation dollars are a finite resource. And I want to make sure you’re making the best of both.
Some of my favorite things to do in Pigeon Forge include the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, Goats on the Roof, Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Old Mill Square, The Titanic Museum, Pirates Voyage, the ironically named Gatlinburg Golf Course, Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud, The Comedy Barn and Dollywood.
Best Things To Do in Pigeon Forge
| Rank | Attraction | Best for … |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dollywood | Lovers of theme parks. |
| 2 | Old Mill Square | People who enjoy southern-themed shops and restaurants. |
| 3 | The Comedy Barn | Connoisseurs of cheesy slap-stick comedy. |
| 4 | The Titanic Museum | History buffs and Titaniacs. This is also a great rainy-day activity. |
| 5 | Great Smoky Mountain Wheel | People looking for a unique, romantic view of the city. |
| 6 | Goats on the Roof | People who love mountain coasters, mini golf and ya know, goats. |
| 7 | Dolly Parton’s Stampede | People who love an Americana-themed dinner show with southern food. |
| 8 | Pirates Voyage | Pirates and lovers of pirate-inspired dad jokes. (This is the sister diner show to the Dolly Parton Stampede). |
| 9 | Gatlinburg Golf Course | Serious golfers. |
| 10 | Lumberjack Feud | Visitors looking for an open-air theater and interactive show. |
1. Dollywood
Of course, Dollywood is perhaps the best attraction in Pigeon Forge. Dolly Parton reigns supreme. With roller coasters for thrill seekers, cinnamon bread for foodies, and live entertainment for all, not only is it one of the top attractions in Pigeon Forge. It’s one of the best in the state. Tickets average $92 per person. Pro-tip: Bundle your Dollywood tickets with other area attractions to save a little extra dough.
2. Old Mill Square
The old mill was built in 1830 and still functions today. The area surrounding this original structure is known as the Old Mill District and offers restaurants and shops, and it’s free to explore. The Old Mill Restaurant often has lengthy wait times and does not take reservations, but it’s worth it. Limited free parking is available around the Old Mill District but spaces are limited.
3. The Comedy Barn
The Comedy Barn isn’t for everyone. But for those who tend to enjoy shows that bill themselves as “side-splitting comedy”, The Comedy Barn tends to deliver just that. Fans of the slapstick comedy genre report that it’s one of the best shows in the Smokies. People who don’t, fervently disagree. Know thyself. Also, be warned, while snacks are available, this isn’t a “dinner show”. Runtime is about 90 minutes. Pricing varies by day.
4. The Titanic Museum
This is one of the best museums in town. Is the Titanic Museum interesting? Does it offer diverting exhibits? I can’t lie. It does. Walk down the grand staircase, see real artifacts, and touch a real iceberg. Stay because the exhibits will pull you in. Allow at least a couple of hours for this attraction. General admission is $35 for adults and $15 for kids 5-12. Check for discounts on Tripster.
5. The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
Located in the center of The Island at Pigeon Forge, The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is a 200-foot tall, slow, and steady Ferris wheel with incredible views of Pigeon Forge. Discounts are available for the military, seniors, and locals. Pro-Tip: There’s also a printable $2 coupon on the official Wheel website. Ride time is 8-10 minutes. General admission is $16.99 for adults and $11.99 for kids (3-11).
6. Goats on the Roof
Shopping, golf, and a classic mountain coaster. And … goats on the roof. What more could you want? It is important to note, there are two Goats on the Roof locations. But the Parkway location is simply a storefront. If you want to ride the Goat Coaster (or is it the G.O.A.T coater?) and see/feed real live roof goats, visit the Wears Valley Road location. There’s also golf, gem mining, and Jurassic Tymes Mini Golf (new for 2023) on-site. Coaster tickets are $12 per person. Mini golf tickets are also $12 per person (for 18 holes) or $20 per person for 18.
7. Dolly Parton’s Stampede
In addition to being the original dinner show in Pigeon Forge, Dolly’s Stampede remains the classic. It is the gold standard in the genre for many. The Christmas version of the show is an annual tradition in our household. With animals, food, and friendly competition, it’s a show for the whole family. Call ahead if you have special dietary needs. Tickets average about $59-$79 per person depending on the season. The show’s runtime is right at 1.5 hours.
8. Pirates Voyage Dinner Show
For my money, this is the best of the top-tier dinner shows in Pigeon Forge, but your mileage may vary. Generally, people of all ages will enjoy the show. It goes over the top for allowing me to talk like I’m in Master and Commander and tell my kids to look sharp and step lively. Tickets average about $59-$79 per person depending on the season. But always check for discounted tickets before you book. Call ahead if you have special dietary needs. The average show runs for 1.5 hours.
9. Gatlinburg Golf Course
Not all the golf in Pigeon Forge is mini. The Gatlinburg Golf Course, located squarely in Pigeon Forge, is a well-maintained course with challenging tee box locations. Also, it is a great way to spend a few hours outside and enjoy your vacation with some physical activity and competition. But be warned. This course is in the heart of the city, just off Dollywood Lane and a few of the fairways are tight. Off-season prices (Dec 1- April 14) are $30 for 9 holes or $50 for 18. In-season prices are $40 for 9 holes after noon or $75 for 18 holes. Discounts are available for kids and seniors. Rental clubs are available for an extra charge.
10. Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud
If you’d prefer to just watch someone else do a little exercise and compete, The Lumberjack Feud is legitimately entertaining from a sporting point of view. It’s a great attraction. The competition seems genuine and it’s fun to watch. Prices for the supper show are $49.99 for adults and $24.99 for kids. Pro-Tip: Save $5 on Lumberjack Feud when you use the promo code TSC at online checkout or use this printable coupon on-site. Arrive 45 minutes prior to showtime.
Note: Prices mentioned are as of the time of this writing and may vary.
RELATED VIDEO: 30 Things To Do in Pigeon Forge
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Wow! I’m shocked that you didn’t put SkyFly Soar America on this list. Especially since USA Today ranked it as the #1 attraction in the United States in 2021.
Number one NEW attraction in the United States.
Sky Fly Soar is one of the best attractions ever. No long lines to wait in and very affordable for the whole family. Better than Soaring at Disney World.