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. Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show
If you want to enjoy dinner and a show, you need to watch the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show. You’ll laugh until your sides hurt as you watch these two feuding families on stage. There will be comedy sketches, musical interludes, and plenty of other entertainment. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy a true southern dinner while you watch.
8. Titanic Museum
Titanic Museum is a great place to take history lovers and people who want to learn more about this tragedy. There are interactive exhibits for kids to enjoy and learn about. You can walk through the museum and go through the self guided tour at your own pace. There are replicas of parts of the ship and artifacts from the movie and the actual ship. Near the end of the tour, you’ll find a memorial room dedicated to the passengers who lost their lives.
Not sure where you want to stay on your trip to the Smokies? Here are the best towns in the Smoky Mountains to help you decide!
These attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are just some of the ones you will enjoy when you come to the area. Look through our Luxury Pass to find free tickets and discounts to these attractions and more when you stay in one of our cabins!
