Planning a family vacation can feel overwhelming when you’re trying to find activities that keep both younger and older kids entertained. That’s why Pigeon Forge, TN, is such a fantastic destination for families. With a mix of theme parks, live shows, interactive museums, and outdoor adventures, it offers something for everyone.
Whether your kids love thrilling rides, hands-on experiences, or exploring nature, this guide will help you plan an unforgettable family trip. Below, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids, ensuring a fun, engaging, and stress-free vacation.
Spend a Day at Dollywood
A trip to Dollywood is a must-do when visiting Pigeon Forge with kids. This family-friendly theme park, co-owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, features thrilling rides, live performances, and Southern charm.
For younger children, Wildwood Grove is a magical area filled with gentle rides, a giant glowing tree, and interactive play zones. Older kids and thrill-seekers will love roller coasters like the Lightning Rod, one of the fastest wooden coasters in the world.
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, don’t forget about Dollywood’s Splash Country, an exciting water park with slides, wave pools, and splash pads designed for younger kids. Whether your family loves rides or just taking in live music performances, Dollywood is a full-day experience that everyone will enjoy.
Enjoy Dinner and a Show
One of the best ways to combine dinner with entertainment is by attending a dinner show in Pigeon Forge TN. It’s the perfect way to keep kids engaged while enjoying a meal, and one of the top choices for families is the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud.
This exciting show brings the longest-running family feud to life with comedy, thrilling stunts, and live music. Unlike other performances, this one includes diving dogs and hillbilly performers who put on an impressive display in an on-stage swimming hole. The interactive nature of the show keeps kids laughing, cheering, and fully engaged throughout the performance.
The best part? You get to enjoy a delicious, all-you-can-eat Southern feast. So, if you’re looking for an evening activity that keeps kids entertained while also offering a hearty meal, the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud is a must-see.
Explore The Island in Pigeon Forge
For a fun-filled experience that doesn’t require an expensive ticket, head to The Island in Pigeon Forge. This entertainment complex features a mix of shopping, dining, and attractions, making it perfect for families who want a relaxed day of fun.
One of the most popular attractions is the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the mountains. Younger kids will enjoy the Dancing Fountain Show, where water jets and lights dance to music, creating a mesmerizing display.
For extra fun, families can visit the arcade, bumper cars, mirror maze, and escape room, ensuring that there’s something for every age group. Parents can relax in the rocking chairs by the fountains while kids run around and play.
Visit the Titanic Museum Attraction
If your kids enjoy hands-on learning, the Titanic Museum Attraction is a fantastic stop. This museum allows families to experience what it was like aboard the Titanic through interactive exhibits and real artifacts.
Visitors receive a boarding pass with the name of an actual Titanic passenger, making the experience feel more personal. For families who love educational experiences that don’t feel like school, the Titanic Museum Attraction is both fascinating and engaging.
Get Close to Nature at the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
If your kids love outdoor adventure, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a great way to add some excitement to your trip. It’s the longest downhill alpine coaster in the U.S., stretching over one mile through the scenic Smoky Mountains.
Unlike traditional roller coasters, riders control their own speed, so it’s a great option for younger kids who may not be ready for high-speed thrills. Children as young as three can ride with an adult, making it a fun activity for the whole family.
Take a Scenic Drive Through the Great Smoky Mountains
One of the most relaxing yet rewarding activities in Pigeon Forge is taking a scenic drive through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
A great choice for families is the Cades Cove Loop, an 11-mile scenic drive where you might spot deer, wild turkeys, and even black bears from your car. If you want to stretch your legs, try the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail, a short and stroller-friendly hiking path perfect for younger kids.
Enjoy Animal Encounters at Parrot Mountain & Gardens
For a peaceful and unique attraction, visit Parrot Mountain & Gardens. This hidden gem allows families to interact with colorful parrots, feed tropical birds, and even hold baby birds in a nursery setting.
Unlike a traditional zoo, this attraction feels like stepping into a tropical paradise, surrounded by beautiful flowers, winding pathways, and friendly birds. It’s an excellent spot for kids who love animals.
Have a Blast at TopJump Trampoline Park
If your kids need to burn off energy, TopJump Trampoline Park is the perfect place.
This indoor attraction features:
- A massive trampoline area for jumping fun
- A ninja warrior obstacle course
- A foam pit for safe flipping and diving
- A Clip ‘n Climb climbing center with rock walls of various difficulty levels
It’s a great rainy-day activity and an excellent way for kids to stay active while having fun.
Play Mini-Golf at Crave Golf Club
Mini-golf is a classic family activity, and Crave Golf Club takes it up a notch. This candy-themed mini-golf course features both indoor and rooftop courses, making it a great option for all weather conditions.
After a round of golf, families can grab a milkshake or candy treat at the on-site snack bar.
Pigeon Forge is one of the best family-friendly destinations in the country, offering a mix of adventure, entertainment, and relaxation. Whether your family loves theme parks, hands-on attractions, or nature excursions, there’s no shortage of things to do.
By planning ahead and picking activities that match your child’s interests, you’ll create a stress-free, memorable vacation filled with laughter and fun.
