Why people may often think of Las Vegas or Atlantic City as places to set out for a destination vacation, America is home to so many quaint resort towns that offer so much for families, couples, and even solo travelers to enjoy.
While often overlooked, these gems provide so much to see and do, offering modern amenities alongside classic activities to do.
The charming yet bustling mountain resort city of Pigeon Forge in Tennessee is one shining example of this. Nestled at the gateway of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge offers a great place to relax and unwind as you take in the beauty of the range while offering so much to enjoy whenever the time calls for it.
From one of the most respected theme parks in the country, to the nation’s most breathtaking hiking trails, to some of the greatest live entertainment options, this article will explore everything that makes Pigeon Forge so special and why it’s one of Tennessee’s hottest vacation destinations.
The Scenery
As mentioned, Pigeon Forge is nestled only 5 miles north of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a sprawling vista of over half a million acres featuring lush forests, massive mountains, and breathtaking waterfalls throughout.
High ridges from the Smoky Mountains surround the town, with Pine Mountain standing tall over the west, Shields Mountain looking over the east, and Cove Mountain covering the south of town. The national park is home to plenty of trails that cut through the many forests and go over the many mountain ridges throughout it.
While exploring, be sure to appreciate the many rivers and waterfalls that make the area such a stunning area to take in.
The Destinations
Pigeon Forge is home to one of the finest, more unique, and most beloved theme parks around, Dollywood.
An exciting and charming love letter to Appalachia, this park features thrilling rides, delicious eats, and amazing entertainment, and you can enjoy it all while taking in the pure majesty and beauty that the Smokies offer. Proudly ranked as one of the best theme parks in America for several consecutive years by TripAdvisor, it’s easy to see why—it’s some of the most fun you can have in Tennessee!
While the following place isn’t quite as well-known as Dollywood, it’s a well-loved and respected amusement park that has earned plenty of adoration from Pigeon Forge visitors over the years. The Island in Pigeon Forge is a quaint and playful amusement park featuring the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel and SkyFly ride. It’s the perfect place to unwind with the kids while you enjoy a bite and a brew at The Barn or Margaritaville.
The Entertainment
If you love live entertainment, Pigeon Forge is the perfect destination to enjoy shows of all kinds that cater to differing tastes.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede is one of the largest and most beloved dinner theater shows in the country. Showcasing a bit of friendly rivalry between the North and South, an incredible horse show, and stunning special effects—all done over some of the finest musical production you’ll ever see. What makes it better is the fully loaded four-course Southern feast.
The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud show is a hilarious and captivating dinner theater performance featuring a blend of hilarious hijinks, captivating musical numbers, and impressive special effects that will really draw you in and make you feel like you’re a part of this historic feud between these two families. On top of the amazing show, they offer an incredible all-you-can-eat southern dinner featuring fried chicken, pulled pork, coleslaw, cobbler, and more!
Visit Pigeon Forge Today
It’s clear why Pigeon Forge holds such a cherished spot in Tennessee’s crown of tourist destinations. While Nashville is going to stand out on the national stage as America’s Music City, Pigeon Forge manages to carve out its own unique space, standing as America’s most family-friendly hidden gem.
Its pristine landscapes, unmatched entertainment, and many nostalgic charms all come together to make it a truly unique American gem. While bright lights and city attractions in places like Las Vegas have their own appeal and allure, the heartwarming embrace of a mountain town like Pigeon Forge offers something singularly different and authentically pure.
The fusion of modern entertainment and nature’s majesty provides a wholesome escape that draws travelers year after year. So, if you’re contemplating a memorable getaway, let the enthralling vistas, thrilling rides, and soulful rhythms of Pigeon Forge beckon. After all, sometimes the best destinations are those that offer not just sights, but also heartwarming experiences and cherished memories.
