Each year, over 11 million people visit Pigeon Forge, TN and the Great Smoky Mountains! Offering breathtaking natural beauty and a host of wonderful family-friendly attractions, it’s easy to see why Pigeon Forge is one of the most popular vacation destinations in America. In addition to famous attractions like the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Dollywood theme park, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, there are a number of lesser-known (but equally exciting) things to do in the area. To help you make the most of your next getaway, check out these 7 unique things to do in Pigeon Forge TN and the Smoky Mountains.
1. Flyaway Indoor Skydiving
While skydiving usually conjures up images of jumping out of airplanes, pulling ripcords, and parachuting through the air, Flyaway Skydiving in Pigeon Forge offers a totally different experience. This indoor complex on the Parkway features a powerful vertical wind tunnel that allows guests to experience the sensation of free falling without actually leaping from a plane. No previous experience is necessary to go skydiving at Flyaway, as the attraction’s friendly staff will teach you everything you need to know.
2. Parrot Mountain & Gardens
Visiting Parrot Mountain & Gardens is another one of the most unique things to do in Pigeon Forge TN. This one-of-a-kind nature preserve in the foothills of the Smokies is home to hundreds upon hundreds of beautiful tropical birds. As you wander around the gorgeous four-acre estate, you will have the chance to chat with talkative parrots, feed lorikeets a special treat, and have your picture taken with a host of colorful feathered friends. Parrot Mountain even features a nursery where you can play with baby birds and shop for a new pet!
3. Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
The Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community is the perfect place to go souvenir shopping during your vacation! This 8-mile loop is lined with galleries, studios, and shops where you can browse a wide variety of locally made gifts. Some of the items you’ll find in the Arts & Crafts Community include paintings, pottery, photography, jewelry, candles, soaps, wood carvings, dulcimers, quilts, and stained glass. The Arts & Crafts Community is considered the largest group of independent artisans in North America. There are also a ton of restaurants in this community with delicious food you’ll want to try. For unique places to eat, check out these unique restaurants in Gatlinburg TN.
4. Hillbilly Golf
Hillbilly Golf is unlike any other miniature golf course you have ever visited! Located on a mountainside, the course is accessible via a fun tram ride that takes you to the first hole at the summit. Featuring amusing “hillbilly” inspired obstacles like tractors, outhouses, and moonshine stills, this beloved course is a can’t-miss stop for anyone who loves to play putt putt on vacation.
5. Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is the quirkiest attraction in the Smokies – and we wouldn’t have it any other way! Visitors to this museum will find over 20,000 sets of salt and pepper shakers from around the world. All of the shakers feature whimsical designs, with everything from space aliens to rubber ducks in the mix. Admission is only $3 and that money can be applied to any salt and pepper shaker purchase in the gift shop.
6. Outdoor Gravity Park
Outdoor Gravity Park is the only place in Pigeon Forge where visitors can go “zorbing”! A “zorb” is a giant transparent ball that people can roll around inside. At Outdoor Gravity Park, guests will zorb down a 1,000 ft. hill for a thrilling experience they will never forget. In the warm weather months, the zorbs are filled with 10 gallons of water, which makes each ride a wet and wild adventure.
7. Smoky Mountain Deer Farm & Exotic Petting Zoo
If your kids love animals, they will have a blast at the Smoky Mountain Deer Farm! This wonderful petting zoo is home to lots of friendly critters that you don’t get to see every day, including deer, camels, zebras, goats, kangaroos, elk, and many other animals. In addition to the petting zoo, the Smoky Mountain Deer Farm also features an awesome horseback riding stable.
More Things to Do in Pigeon Forge TN
When you’re looking for unique things to do in Pigeon Forge TN and the Smoky Mountains, the places we listed above are sure to please. However, they’re not the only fun things you can do while you’re in town! You don’t want to miss out on these things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg for first-time visitors.
