Fun, Quirky Things to Do in Pigeon Forge this Summer

There is a reason that Pigeon Forge is such a popular destination for tourists from near and far – there is so much to do! While visiting Dollywood and exploring the Great Smoky Mountains are some of the main draws to the area, there are so many other quirky, exciting adventures that you can have in Pigeon Forge.

Why not try something new? Here are some unique and fun things to do in Pigeon Forge this summer.

The Great Outdoors

Pigeon Forge and the surrounding Great Smoky Mountains are a dream come true for those who love spending time outside. Between stunning summits and waterfall hikes, outdoor enthusiasts shouldn’t miss these other options.

  • Hikers and animal lovers, unite! Why not try a Smoky Mountain Llama Trek? You’ll enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains and the Pisgah National Forest alongside a team of llamas who love being petted, taking selfies, and snacking on oatmeal cookies. Take your kids along on one of the shorter trails, or experience an unforgettable overnight trek under the stars.
  • Get ready, road trip lovers. Tourists and locals alike can finally enjoy the stunning Foothills Parkway from Walland to Wears Valley. This parkway was incomplete for decades due to the “Missing Link” – a 1.5-mile stretch that connected two halves of the parkway. Drive over 9 scenic bridges and take in the beauty of the misty mountain range that surrounds the parkway.

Adventurous Activities

There is no shortage of adventures for thrill-seekers visiting the Pigeon Forge area. There are opportunities abound to get your blood pumping while taking in the natural beauty of Eastern Tennessee.

  • Have you ever been on an alpine coaster before? Similar to a sled on a track, you’ll ride through the mountains and revel in the views with a hit of adrenaline. The Pigeon Forge area has two amazing alpine coasters; the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster and the Rocky Top Mountain Coaster are both wonderful options for racing through the trees and breathing in that fresh air. Why not try both?
  • The Gatlinburg Skybridge is the longest suspension bridge in North America, letting you walk through the sky and see the Great Smoky Mountains and the town of Gatlinburg from a bird’s eye view. Those who are scared of heights should watch out for the glass panels in the middle of the bridge. Head out in the evening, when the bridge lights up and the sun sets for a breathtaking experience. 

Exciting Eats

Foodies, get ready. Indulge in the delicious bites and sips that await you on your trip to Pigeon Forge.

  • Those with a sweet tooth will love Smoky Mountain Candy Makers. Almost 50 years old, Smoky Mountain Candy Makers gives that old-fashioned sweet shop feeling complete with delicious salt water taffy.
  • Sure, you’ve tried ice cream, but have you experienced curled ice cream? Curl de la Creme offers customized ice cream with mix-ins and toppings, complete with a unique curly aesthetic that you can’t help but post on Instagram.
  • We may be biased, but wine lovers can’t miss out on the Rocky Top Wine Trail. Visit our five unique wineries featuring award-winning wines, ciders, and sweet fruit wines in flavours like Watermelon and Rhubarb!

And Now, For Something Entirely Different

Some of the best things in Pigeon Forge can’t be categorized. From learning about criminal history to enjoying a snow day in summer, expect the unexpected and thrilling.

  • True crime buffs won’t want to miss the Alcatraz East Crime Museum. This campy, fun museum gives visitors an immersive experience into the history of American crime, with rotating exhibitions and interactive components.
  • Most people don’t think of tubing, building snowmen or having a snowball fight when they take a summer vacation to Tennessee. Enter the ultimate way to cool off: Pigeon Forge Snow. At this indoor, year-round snow park, families can enjoy snow tubing any time of year.

The delights of Pigeon Forge create opportunities for endless summer fun. We can’t wait to hear about your favorites when we see you on the wine trail this summer!

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