If you have never been to the Smokies, you’re probably wondering what you should do when you’re in the area. There are so many amazing attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, so you may have a hard time deciding what you should do. We want to share some of the top things to do with you! Here’s the ultimate bucket list of attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge:
1. Anakeesta
Anakeesta is an attraction you won’t want to miss out on when you’re in town. You ride to the top on a chairlift and are greeted by Firefly Village. There are several shops and restaurants in the Village area you’ll want to check out. There are quite a few places where you can sit back and relax, as well as plenty of fun things to do! You can zipline, play on the playgrounds, or ride the mountain coaster. Your whole family will enjoy Anakeesta! Learn about the top things to do at Anakeesta!
2. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
Want to enjoy beautiful views of the mountains? Gatlinburg SkyLift Park is the place to go. You’ll also ride to the top on a chairlift, and then step onto the viewing deck. You won’t find views of the Smokies like this anywhere else. You can enjoy a drink in the SkyCenter or sit on one of the benches with your sweetheart and enjoy the view. Plus, you don’t want to miss out on walking across the SkyBridge or exploring the SkyTrail! Learn more about Gatlinburg SkyLift Park before you go!
3. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a place your whole group will want to visit. This attraction is great for kids and adults. You get to explore the exhibits with underwater creatures and learn all about them. There are fish, sharks, penguins, and so much more. You could spend a whole day at the aquarium!
4. Moonshine Tasting
A popular attraction in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is moonshine tasting. It’s just a small $5 tasting fee to try all kinds of moonshine flavors. Ole Smoky Moonshine is a pretty popular place to taste moonshine in both cities. They have their original flavor, as well as some pretty unique flavors, such as margarita and dill pickle. This is a great activity for people who are at least 21 years old.
5. Dollywood
You can’t visit Pigeon Forge without going to Dollywood ! This theme park is a one-in-a-million attraction you won’t want to miss. Ride roller coasters, kiddie rides, and family rides. Try all kinds of delicious food and snacks. Learn more about Dolly Parton and browse through the shops. You’ll have a great time at Dollywood!
6. The Island in Pigeon Forge
Another place you won’t want to miss out on is The Island in Pigeon Forge . This entertainment complex has over 40 stores you can browse through if you love to shop. Kids will stay entertained with rides and the arcade. Your whole family can sit around the Show Fountain and relax as you watch the water and lights dance to music. There are also several snack shops and restaurants to check out.
7. Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show
If you want to enjoy dinner and a show, you need to visit Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show. You won't get any ordinary dinner here. It's an all-you-can-eat supper with your favorite Southern dishes. You can help yourselves to as much or as little as you'd like! After you eat, you'll gather in the climate-controlled grandstand to watch an adventure-filled show with thrilling lumberjack competitions, family-friendly comedy, and more. Be sure to stay after the show is over to meet the lumberjacks and jills!
8. Hillbilly Golf
Mini golf is a staple on vacation. If you want to play at a course that's unlike any other and truly captures the beauty of the Smoky Mountains, then you have to visit Hillbilly Golf. To start, you'll ride an incline 300 feet above the city to play the most unusual miniature golf. There are two 18-hole courses to choose from, or you can play both! The courses feature challenging mountaineer hazards that make it fun for all ages.
Not sure where you want to stay when you visit these attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge? Here are the best towns in the Smoky Mountains to help you decide!
