Are you looking for the perfect mountain family vacation destination? If so, Pigeon Forge, TN may be the perfect destination for you and your family, located just outside of Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Our guide will take you through the top things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids, from thrilling rides, nature escapes, and indoor family fun!
Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, this town is a treasure trove of activities that will surely keep children of all ages entertained. From scenic hikes to engaging indoor activities, Pigeon Forge offers experiences that are both educational and enjoyable.
On our recent trip to the area, we were thrilled to find a plethora of kid-friendly attractions that were budget-friendly too! In this guide, I will share our top picks and some insider tips to make your family trip to Pigeon Forge an unforgettable one.
48 of the Top Things to Do in Pigeon Forge With Kids
Dollywood
As one of the most popular family-friendly theme parks in the country, Dollywood is an absolute must-visit for families traveling to the charming city of Pigeon Forge. The park offers a delightful blend of heart-pounding rides, captivating live entertainment, and tons of mouthwatering food options. The culture of the South is also clearly evident at the park, so if you are a country lover, you will be in heaven!
One of the best things about visiting Dollywood during our visit was the many kid-friendly rides and attractions, along with the rides that were more fitting for older children and adults, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the visit! There are plenty of shows and entertainment options that are catchy and will keep the kiddos engaged and entertained. Combine your visit to Dollywood with a visit to Splash Country to cool off after a hot day.
Throughout the year, you can also join in on Dollywood’s special events and themed nights, such as Smoky Mountain Christmas, Flower and Food Festival in the Spring, and the Harvest Festival.
Dollywood offers accommodation options, including the DreamMore Resort & Spa, the HeartSong Lodge and Resort, and the Bear Cove Cabins. When planning your trip to Pigeon Forge, be sure to check out Dollywood’s Stay and Play packages to save yourself some money.
Insider tip: Purchase your tickets online in advance to save time and money! There is a large parking area, but the park offers a free trolley to the front of the park to save you some walking!
Best Things to Do in Pigeon Forge with Kids: Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud
If you are looking for both an excellent meal and some solid entertainment, the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud is an excellent option for you! This unique dinner show offers guests an exciting blend of entertainment and dining, featuring a lively retelling of the famous feuding families’ story – the Hatfields and the McCoys.
While you sit back and enjoy the high-energy performance filled with singing, dancing, and hilarious comedy, you’ll be served a hearty Southern feast. The meal traditionally includes fried chicken, pulled pork, mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, and a specialty dessert.
When purchasing tickets, you can choose from general admission, premium seating, and the VIP experience, which gives you the best seats, a meet and greet with cast members, straw hat, lanyard, and cheering flag. You can also choose which team you would like to cheer on-either the Hatfields of McCoys (with the exception of the VIP experience, which is on team Hatfield).
Wonderworks
Wonderworks, while not unique to Pigeon Forge, is an excellent attraction for a rainy day in Pigeon Forge. The indoor amusement park combines education and entertainment, making it one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids. This unique upside-down building houses more than 100 interactive exhibits that challenge your mind and senses.
From experiencing a simulated earthquake to lying on a bed of nails, there’s something for everyone at this one-of-a-kind destination. Wonderworks also features laser tag, a ropes course, and even a magic show. It’s the perfect place to spend a day with the family or friends, especially on a rainy day.
Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud
For an action-packed experience, head to Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud. This will give you one of the most interactive and complete dinner show experiences in Pigeon Forge. Watch as lumberjacks compete against each other in challenging tasks, interact with the lumberjacks on stage and after the show, and enjoy a delicious meal, including a barbeque sandwich, coleslaw, baked beans, a drink, and a cookie. During intermission, kids can participate in a special event and perform some tasks themselves!
You will also find hours of challenging fun at the Adventure Park. Get some thrills on the Flying Ox, a combination of a zip line and roller coaster. Participate in some loggersports, which you will witness the performers doing in the show. The park features a ropes course perfect for kids ages 5 and older. Timber Towers is a 80-foot tall free-fall attraction perfect for thrill seekers.
Insider tip: Book your tickets in advance to secure your spot for this popular attraction. Children 3 and under can attend the show free of charge.
The Island
The Island is another one of the things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids that offers a little something for everyone. This outdoor entertainment complex features a mix of shopping, dining, and attractions all in one place. Whether you are looking to just stroll, do some shopping, and pick up a couple souvenirs or seeking some thrilling adventures, the Island will have something for you!
You can ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for stunning views of the area or take a spin on the Island Ropes Course for some adrenaline-pumping fun. There’s also mini-golf, go-karts, and escape rooms available for those seeking more thrills. And don’t forget to try some classic southern cuisine at one of the many restaurants on-site.
The Comedy Barn Theater
Pigeon Forge has no shortage of entertaining dinner shows, and the Comedy Barn Theater offers one of the best. This family-friendly comedy show features clean jokes, hilarious skits, and music that will have you rolling in your seat. You can even participate in interactive games and challenges with the performers during the show. It’s a great way to spend an evening with loved ones while enjoying some side-splitting entertainment.
MagiQuest
Let your inner wizard or witch come to life at MagiQuest, an interactive role-playing game. You can choose a wand and complete challenges throughout the enchanted kingdom, including battling dragons and solving puzzles. And don’t worry, there’s no need for prior knowledge or experience in the world of magic – the friendly staff will guide you through everything. Aside from MagiQuest, the attraction also has a glow in the dark indoor Pirates mini-golf, the Adventure Arcade, and the Odyssey Mirror Maze.
Beyond the Lens!
Enter into the world of the extraordinary and unusual at Beyond the Lens! This attraction is a unique fusion of education and entertainment, taking guests on an interactive journey through pop culture, technology, and fascinating unexplained phenomena. During the experience, you can enjoy the FlyRide, VR games, 2 minute escape room challenges, and plenty of unique photo opportunities. Don’t miss the Space Themed Giant Ball Pit or the Bigfoot Discovery Expedition for a slice of out-of-this-world fun.
Pirate’s Voyage
Embark on an unforgettable adventure at Pirate’s Voyage, one of the most thrilling attractions in Pigeon Forge. Join the fierce pirates as they battle on land, on deck, in water, and high above full-sized pirate ships in an indoor hideaway lagoon!
Watch in awe as the crews display spectacular acrobatics and deliver an amazing performance showcasing the life of pirates. If your child is anything like mine and is a mermaid lover, they will be delighted to see special appearances by these characters during the show. Don’t forget to savor the delicious four-course pirate feast while enjoying the show.
Best Things to Do in Pigeon Forge with Kids: Go-Karting
Experience the ultimate adrenaline rush at Pigeon Forge’s premier go-karting attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a newbie behind the wheel, Pigeon Forge offers a variety of go-karting tracks to satisfy your need for speed. From twisting multilevel tracks to straightforward speedways, there is a track for every thrill-seeker.
Pigeon Forge has many fantastic go-karting options for families. Some of the top options are Fun Stop, Blake Jones, and Fast Tracks. Xtreme Racing is an excellent option for families with older children (minimum age of 11), with three thrilling go kart race options. Adventure Raceway is another great option and features an elevated wooden track.
Titanic Museum
The Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge is no ordinary establishment – it’s a tribute to the timeless story of the Titanic. As you step into this iconic ship-shaped building, you’re taken on a journey back to 1912, to relive the fateful voyage of the largest and most luxurious steamship of its time.
The museum houses over 400 authentic artifacts, valued at over $4 million, providing a tangible connection to the past. These carefully preserved relics, along with the meticulously recreated rooms and interactive displays, paint a vivid picture of life on the Titanic.
One of the most poignant experiences is receiving a boarding pass of an actual Titanic passenger or crew member at the beginning of your tour – at the end, you’ll discover their fate in the grand Titanic Memorial Room. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of maritime adventures, or simply curious, the Titanic Museum is a must-visit sight in Pigeon Forge.
Hollywood Wax Museum
The Hollywood Wax Museum, an iconic fixture of Pigeon Forge, offers a unique opportunity to rub shoulders with stars, albeit their lifelike wax replicas. The photo opportunities and unique chance to “meet” some of your favorite stars makes this one of the best things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids.
Upon entering, you will be greeted by a giant King Kong scaling the empire state building – a fitting introduction to the world of glamour and cinema that lies within. The museum displays realistic wax figures of movie stars, musicians, athletes, and other celebrities, allowing visitors to see their favorite personalities up close.
The sets are designed to reflect iconic scenes from Hollywood blockbusters, giving you the chance to immerse yourself in the magic of cinema. Its interactive nature encourages visitors to snap pictures and even pose with the stars for a memorable souvenir. Whether you’re a movie enthusiast or simply looking for some fun, the Hollywood Wax Museum in Pigeon Forge is a crowd-pleaser.
Dollywood’s Splash Country
Dollywood’s Splash Country is a 35-acre water park located adjacent to the Dollywood theme park and one of the best things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids, especially on a hot day! This fun-filled destination is a tribute to Dolly Parton’s childhood spent in the riverbanks of the Great Smoky Mountains. The park offers a splash-tastic retreat for families, featuring a variety of thrilling water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers.
Key attractions include the Bear Mountain Fire Tower, a multi-level interactive play structure, and RiverRush, Tennessee’s first and only water coaster. The park also offers private retreats and canopies for those seeking relaxation amidst their aquatic adventure. For the little ones, Little Creek Falls provide a safe and fun play area. With its refreshing water attractions and scenic Smoky Mountain setting, Dollywood’s Splash Country is an essential summer visit in Pigeon Forge.
Pigeon Forge Snow
Pigeon Forge Snow is an innovative indoor snow facility located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It’s America’s first indoor snow park, and it offers a unique opportunity to enjoy real snow all year round, regardless of the season. The park features a massive hill for tubing, built with 100% real snow, providing a truly authentic winter experience for visitors of all ages.
Additionally, the SnowPlay area lets you build snowmen, make snow angels, or have a friendly snowball fight, even in the middle of summer. From beginners to experienced snow adventurers, Pigeon Forge Snow ensures a memorable and exciting experience in a safe and comfortable indoor environment.
Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel is a towering, 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel nestled in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Offering breath-taking views of the stunning Great Smoky Mountains, this ride is a must-see attraction for all visitors. The Wheel is easily accessible at the Island in Pigeon Forge.
It boasts fully enclosed, air-conditioned gondolas, ensuring a comfortable and serene ride, no matter the weather. Each ride on the Wheel provides a panoramic view of the Pigeon Forge skyline and the surrounding Smoky Mountain scenery, making it a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Outdoor Gravity Park
The Outdoor Gravity Park is an amusement park and one of the best things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids. It is particularly renowned for its unique zorbing experience, a thrilling activity originating from New Zealand. The park features custom-built tracks and oversized, transparent spheres, allowing you to tumble downhill in an exhilarating yet safe manner.
The spheres are filled with up to 10 gallons of water, creating a slippery interior that lets you slide around as you descend the hill. There are three different tracks to choose from, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely roll or an adrenaline-fueled ride, Outdoor Gravity Park caters to all. A visit to this park guarantees a fun-filled day that you won’t forget.
Forbidden Cavern
While located about a half hour outside of Pigeon, Forbidden Cavern is worth both the mention and the visit! Forbidden Cavern is a natural wonder that attracts many visitors due to its striking geological features and rich historical significance. The cavern is home to an extensive network of underground passageways adorned with striking formations of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstones, each telling a story etched in stone over millions of years.
The cavern also has a rich Native American history and was once used by the Eastern Woodland Indians as a shelter in the winter and a place to mine minerals for making arrowheads. Today, knowledgeable guides lead family friendly tours through the cavern, sharing fascinating tales of its history and geology. Exploring Forbidden Cavern is an adventurous step back in time and a must-see attraction when visiting Pigeon Forge.
Go For a Swim
In the heart of Pigeon Forge, amidst the natural beauty and thrilling attractions, you’ll find a plethora of swimming opportunities that cater to all ages and preferences. Whether you’re looking to relax and soak up the Tennessee sun, or seeking a more adventurous swim, Pigeon Forge has something for everyone.
The Pigeon Forge Community Center has an indoor and an outdoor pool, perfect for a leisurely swim. For those looking for a unique swimming experience, visit Dollywood’s Splash Country. This water park offers a variety of waterslides, a wave pool, and a lazy river, ensuring a fun-filled day for the whole family.
If you prefer a more serene environment, the natural rivers and lakes around Pigeon Forge provide a tranquil setting for a refreshing swim amidst nature’s beauty. The Little Pigeon River Banks are an excellent option with seven swimming holes to choose from. Always remember to observe safety guidelines while swimming outdoors.
Alcatraz East Crime Museum
The Alcatraz East Crime Museum provides a unique insight into the world of crime and punishment. The museum’s exterior mimics the infamous Alcatraz Island prison in San Francisco, setting the stage for the intriguing exhibits inside. With five galleries spanning two floors, the museum explores American criminal history from the colonial period through modern times.
Visitors can examine authentic artifacts, including the actual car in which Bonnie and Clyde met their end and infamous mobster Al Capone’s rosary. There’s also a considerable focus on forensic science and its increasing role in solving crimes.
Interactive exhibits and immersive environments make the Alcatraz East Crime Museum a captivating journey through America’s criminal past. Whether you’re a true crime enthusiast or just looking for an unconventional museum experience, a visit to the Alcatraz East Crime Museum is a must when in Pigeon Forge. While all ages are permitted, this museum may be better suited for older children.
Rockin’ Raceway Arcade
Rockin’ Raceway Arcade is one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids on both rainy and sunny day! The outdoor go-kart racing tracks are perfect for enjoying the fresh air while getting some thrills, while the indoor arcade is a great way to keep the kids entertained on a rainy day.
The arcade is home to a vast array of arcade games, from classic pinball and skee-ball to the latest cutting-edge video games. The arcade’s retro aesthetic, complete with neon lights and lively music, adds to its allure, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of vintage carnivals.
Ride the Pigeon Forge Trolley
The Pigeon Forge Trolley is more than just a means of transport, it’s an opportunity to explore the city and its surroundings with a touch of nostalgia. The trolley routes span all the key locations in Pigeon Forge, from Dollywood to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it an ideal option for visitors.
The trolleys are not only economical and convenient but they also offer a unique perspective of the city. As you traverse through scenic routes, you can sit back, relax and soak in the beautiful views, making your journey an experience in itself. Be sure to check out the Pigeon Forge trolley route while planning out your visit to the area!
Wears Farm City Park
Wears Farm City Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts nestled in Pigeon Forge. This sprawling park offers a multitude of recreational opportunities that cater to all age groups. From well-maintained sports fields for soccer and basketball, to playgrounds designed for safe, imaginative play, the park is a hub of active living.
For those seeking tranquility, the park’s walking trails wind through lush, green landscapes, providing a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Family picnics can be savored at the park’s pavilions, and the open green spaces offer plenty of room for family-friendly games or relaxing amidst nature.
Big Top Arcade in Pigeon Forge
Big Top Arcade in Pigeon Forge brings the classic carnival atmosphere to life with a modern twist, offering an eclectic mix of traditional and state-of-the-art arcade games. Here, visitors of all ages can enjoy a variety of entertainment options including racing games, claw machines, and interactive video games.
The Escape Game Pigeon Forge
The Escape Game Pigeon Forge delivers a thrilling, immersive experience where adventure seekers can test their problem-solving skills and teamwork. Each escape room scenario offers a unique storyline, with participants tasked to decipher clues, overcome challenges, and unlock secrets, all within a 60-minute countdown.
From unearthly adventures in outer space to high-stakes heists in a historic museum, these games provide realistic environments that transport players right into the heart of the action. Can you escape in time? At The Escape Game Pigeon Forge, the mission is possible, but the challenge is all part of the fun!
Wild Gals Old Time Photo
Wild Gals Old Time Photo in Pigeon Forge offers a unique, fun-filled experience that allows visitors to step back in time. Here, guests can dress up in authentic period costumes and pose in meticulously designed sets, creating memorable old-time photos.
Whether you choose to be a 19th-century saloon girl, a notorious outlaw from the Wild West, or a distinguished Southern belle or gentleman, the skilled photographers at Wild Gals will ensure your photographs capture the spirit of the era. This interactive experience is perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a memento of their time in Pigeon Forge.
Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park
Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park in Pigeon Forge is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering exhilarating activities that fuse fun and excitement. Among its top attractions are the gravity-propelled Mountain Coaster and the world-first Alpine Flyer, both designed to get your adrenaline pumping as you speed through the scenic beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains.
The Mountain Glider, a unique suspended single rail coaster, allows visitors to soar through the treetops, providing a bird’s eye view of the stunning natural surroundings. During the winter, you can enjoy the snow tubing hill. For those seeking a thrill under the stars, Rowdy Bear Park offers night rides, illuminating the track for a dazzling nocturnal adventure. Whether you’re an adrenaline junky or on a family vacation, Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park ensures a memorable visit full of thrills and laughs.
Toy Box Mini Golf
A classic game of mini-golf with a unique twist, Toy Box Mini Golf is a great attraction for both the young and the young at heart. The imaginative mini-golf course takes you on an exciting journey through a whimsical world of favorite childhood toys. Oversized game pieces, massive teddy bears, and colossal building blocks enrich the playing field, creating a vibrant and playful atmosphere.
Each hole presents a unique challenge, making the game suitable and enjoyable for all skill levels. After a fun-filled round of golf, visitors can explore the on-site toy store and take home a memento of their magical day. Toy Box Mini Golf offers a unique twist on a classic pastime, making it a must-visit location in Pigeon Forge!
Soaky Mountain Waterpark
Soaky Mountain Waterpark is another excellent destination for families and thrill-seekers alike in Pigeon Forge. Located about a half hour’s drive outside of Pigeon Forge, this sprawling waterpark is home to a variety of exhilarating water slides, a massive wave pool, and a relaxing lazy river.
For those with a need for speed, the Avalanche is a must-try, propelling riders down a steep incline and into a high-speed drop. Younger visitors will love the Boondoggle, a multi-level play structure complete with mini slides, water cannons, and a gigantic tipping bucket. With plenty of lounging areas and eateries scattered throughout the park, Soaky Mountain Waterpark provides an entire day’s worth of fun and relaxation under the Tennessee sun.
Activate Games
Unleash your competitive spirit at Activate Games, an innovative gaming experience nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. This high-tech, interactive facility transports players into a digital world, combining traditional physical activities with cutting-edge technology. From laser dodge to a real-life version of the classic video game Pac-Man, there’s an array of games designed to test your skills and agility.
Each game is uniquely designed, promising a different challenge and guaranteeing hours of fun. And with different difficulty levels offered, Activate Games caters to all ages and abilities. After a day exploring the natural wonders of the Smoky Mountains, dive into a world of virtual competition and see who comes out on top. Activate Games is not just a gaming center, but a fusion of physical and digital playground that offers a fun-filled, unforgettable experience in Pigeon Forge.
Smoky Mountain River Rat
Experience the thrill of white water rafting at Smoky Mountain River Rat, one of the most popular outdoor attractions in Pigeon Forge. This adventure center offers a variety of rafting experiences, catering to rafters of all ages and experience levels.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking the excitement of Class III and IV rapids on the Upper Pigeon River, or you prefer a leisurely float down the Lower Pigeon River, the Smoky Mountain River Rat has an adventure for you. In addition to rafting, they also offer tubing experiences, perfect for those hot summer days. The Smoky Mountain River Rat offers a fun, exciting, and safe way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains while satisfying your thirst for adventure.
TopJump Trampoline Park
Leap into a world of fun and excitement at TopJump Trampoline Park, Pigeon Forge’s ultimate indoor trampoline experience. This state-of-the-art trampoline park offers endless fun for the whole family, with a variety of activities designed to entertain and challenge visitors of all ages.
Here, you can defy gravity on the open jump field, hone your skills on the dodgeball court, or take on the Ninja Course. For the little ones, there’s a dedicated kids’ area, ensuring they can bounce safely. And if you need to catch your breath, there’s an arcade and a candy store to explore.
Head to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A trip to Pigeon Forge would not be complete without a visit to Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Begin your day with a sunrise hike up to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the mountains. Take a leisurely drive along the 11-mile Cades Cove Loop, keeping your eyes peeled for white-tailed deer, black bears, and coyotes. Spend the afternoon exploring the park’s numerous trails, perhaps choosing the popular Alum Cave trail or the tranquil path to Abrams Falls.
As the sun starts to set, find a quiet spot to set up a picnic — perhaps in one of the park’s picturesque meadows — and indulge in some stargazing. A day at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a day spent in awe of nature’s grandeur, a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with the natural world (While you certainly can see many of the highlights of the park in one day, we don’t believe just one day will be enough!)
Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay Mini-Golf
Step into a world of swashbuckling fun and adventure at Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay Mini-Golf. This captivating mini-golf course transports players into a whimsical pirate-themed world, complete with carefully crafted water features, pirate ships, and treasure chests. Each of the 18 holes presents a unique challenge, perfect for golfers of all skill levels.
The course is as much about the journey as it is about the game — with playful pirate lore etched into every corner and interactive elements designed to delight both children and adults. Whether you’re aiming for a hole-in-one or simply looking to spend a fun-filled day with family, Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay Mini-Golf promises a memorable experience.
Crave Golf Club
Dive into a world of confectionary whimsy at Crave Golf Club, a sugary paradise that brings mini-golf into a whole new dimension. This immersive, candy-themed course offers both indoor and rooftop options, each with 19 holes designed to challenge and amuse players of all ages. Navigate your way past giant marshmallows, climb over candy canes, and dodge flowing rivers of chocolate as you aim for par.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. Crave Golf Club is also home to a sweet treat bar, two escape rooms, a mini-bowling alley, and a candy store that will make you feel like a kid in a candy shop — literally. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a family looking for an unforgettable outing, Crave Golf Club is the place to be.
Kid’s Country
Immerse yourself in a world of child-like wonder at Kid’s Country, one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids.This family-friendly amusement park is filled to the brim with over 20 rides specifically designed for children, ensuring a day of non-stop excitement. Here the kiddos can enjoy a carousel, ferris wheel. Rio Grande train ride, a swinging boat, and plane ride. The nearby Track Family Recreation Center offers more fun, including bumper cars, bumper boats, mini-golf, go-karts, and an arcade.
Scenic Helicopter Tours
Experience Pigeon Forge like never before with Scenic Helicopter Tours. Soar high above the stunning landscapes of the Smoky Mountains, taking in panoramic views of the expansive forests, winding rivers, and towering peaks. Each tour is piloted by experienced and knowledgeable guides, ensuring a safe and informative adventure.
Choose from a variety of tour options – from an introductory tour over the city to an extensive exploration of the Smoky Mountains National Park. Each flight offers a unique perspective of Pigeon Forge, making it an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for an adrenaline-pumping excursion or a nature lover wanting to appreciate the beauty of the Smoky Mountains from a new vantage point, Scenic Helicopter Tours is an absolute must-visit.
Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride
Immerse yourself in a prehistoric world with the Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride. This thrilling indoor ride takes you on a journey through the dense and mysterious jungles of a time when dinosaurs ruled the Earth. As your boat navigates the dark waters, you’ll encounter life-sized replicas of various dinosaur species, each more awe-inspiring than the last. The detailed animatronics and atmospheric sound effects create an incredibly realistic experience that will captivate both kids and adults.
The Island Ropes Course
Experience exhilarating excitement at The Island Ropes Course. This three-story high-flying adventure attraction provides an unmatched experience of balancing above The Island in Pigeon Forge, surrounded by beautiful scenic views. The course also has two zip lines and a free fall jumping experience.
From swinging steps to cargo nets, the Island Ropes course offers a variety of challenges suitable for both novices and experienced climbers. Children can enjoy the Sky Tykes course, a smaller version designed specifically for the younger adventurers. Safety is paramount, with secure harnesses and well-trained staff ensuring a worry-free, fun-filled experience.
Arcade City at the Island
Arcade City at The Island is another excellent option for indoor family entertainment and one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids. With plenty of classic and new arcade games set amongst the shopping, dining, and other entertainment options of The Island, Arcade City will provide you with many laughs and fun memories.
Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors
Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors at The Island is another one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids. Enter an enchanting world filled with reflections and optical illusions as you navigate through hallways of mirrors. Each turn challenges your perception and decision-making skills, pushing you to find your way out of this exciting maze.
Designed to cater to all age groups, Hannah’s Maze of Mirrors offers an interesting blend of fun, adventure, and a little bit of mystery. If visiting with young children, be careful to avoid them walking into the mirrors. We have done this many times, and while at times funny, a screaming toddler does not make for a fun experience!
Ripley’s Super Fun Park
Dive into a world of endless fun and entertainment at Ripley’s Super Fun Park, yet another star attraction at The Island in Pigeon Forge. This amusement park is a hub of numerous exciting rides, games, and interactive exhibits that cater to thrill-seekers of all ages. Highlights include the go-karting track, Blaster Boats, an arcade, or a ride on the carousel.
For some more Ripley’s fun, check out the other fun Ripley’s locations scattered around Pigeon Forge, including the Ripley’s 5D Moving Theater, mini-golf, mirror maze, mountain coaster, haunted adventure, and Ripleys Believe It or Not! Museum.
Funstop Family Action Park
Immerse yourself in the ultimate family entertainment experience at Funstop Family Action Park, located in The Island. This family-centric park boasts a variety of action-packed activities, from go-kart racing and mini-golf to thrilling skydiving simulators and exciting zip lines. The highlight of the park is the 3-story ropes course that challenges your agility and balance. With each activity promising a safe and exhilarating experience, Funstop Family Action Park effortlessly blends excitement with family bonding, making it one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids.
Gatlin’s Mirror Maze
Step into a world of endless reflections and intriguing puzzles at Gatlin’s Mirror Maze. This unique attraction, situated in the heart of The Island in Pigeon Forge, promises a mind-boggling experience, as visitors navigate their way through a labyrinth of mirrors.
The maze is designed to challenge your perception and sense of direction, offering an enjoyable mix of fun and frustration. Whether you’re with family or friends, Gatlin’s Mirror Maze provides an unforgettable shared experience, ensuring an amusing and exciting adventure.
Pigeon Forge Gem Mine
For those with a fascination for gems and geology, a visit to the Pigeon Forge Gem Mine is a must. No matter where we are, this is an activity my daughter always seeks out, and we believe your children will love it just as much! The fun experience itself to the educational opportunities it provides makes it one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids.
Visitors can purchase a bucket of soil, rich with gems and minerals, and use the mining sluice to wash away the dirt, revealing the stones hidden within. As well as providing an engaging activity, the Pigeon Forge Gem Mine also houses an educational center where visitors can learn about the different types of gems they’ve discovered.
SkyFly: Soar America
Located in the Island, SkyFly: Soar America is an exhilarating flying theater experience that takes you on a breathtaking journey across the United States. My daughter loved it so much that we rode 3 times! Through state-of-the-art technology and special effects, it offers an immersive adventure that allows visitors to feel the wind in their hair, the cool mist of the ocean, and the scents of the forests as they soar over some of the country’s most iconic landmarks and natural wonders.
From the majestic Grand Canyon to the bustling streets of New York City, SkyFly: Soar America provides a unique perspective and an awe-inspiring appreciation of the country’s vast and diverse landscapes. Leave your passports behind and strap in for an unforgettable flight at SkyFly: Soar America, where the thrill of exploration is brought to life.
Best Things to Do in Pigeon Forge with Kids: 7D Dark Ride Adventure
Located in The Island, the 7D Dark Ride Adventure offers a unique blend of 3D film, heart-pumping motion, and thrilling interactive gaming. With state-of-the-art digital effects, 7D technology transports you into an immersive world where you’re not just watching, but actually a part of the action.
As the room darkens and the film begins, you’ll feel your seat move and rumble with the action while you aim and shoot at on-screen targets. Experience the thrill of a roller coaster and the excitement of an interactive shooting gallery, all without leaving your seat.
Fantasy Golf
The options for mini-golf in Pigeon Forge are plentiful, with Fantasy Golf being one of the best options! Fantasy Golf delivers an enchanting miniature golf experience that is sure to delight players of all ages. Engage in a whimsical game amidst elaborately designed courses that weave through magical landscapes, filled with enchanting obstacles, fairytale-like structures, and water features. Add in some competition among the family and you are sure to create a memorable experience while experiencing one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids!
LazerPort Fun Center
LazerPort Fun Center offers an exciting and challenging experience for those looking for some adrenaline rush. The star of the show is their amazing laser tag arena, a futuristic world spread across a massive 10,000 square feet. Here, you can have a blast engaging in friendly battles, using high-tech laser guns to score points while navigating through neon-lit corridors, avoiding rival laser beams.
But that’s not all! LazerPort also has a wide range of fun options, including a huge arcade with both classic and cutting-edge games, and an exhilarating go-kart track. Whether you’re dodging laser fire, challenging your friends in an arcade showdown, or showing off your driving skills on the winding go-kart track, LazerPort Fun Center is one of the best things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids.
Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge
- Camping
- Vacation Home Rentals
- Check out Airbnb and VRBO to find cabin rentals with private hot tubs!
- Hotels
- Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort & Spa: indoor & outdoor pools, Camp DW kids activities, onsite dining, trolley service to Dollywood
- Margaritaville Island Inn: located in The Island, free breakfast, indoor & outdoor pools, onsite spa
- Country Cascades Waterpark Resort: Outdoor waterpark, indoor pool, activity center, gemstone mining, arcade, rock wall climbing, free breakfast, Snack Shack, and onsite dining.
- Music Road Resort Hotel and Inn: waterpark, indoor & outdoor pools, free wi-fi
- Clarion Inn: Kids stay free, free breakfast, game room, babysitting, waterslide, splash pad, lazy river, and indoor & outdoor pools
- The Inn at Christmas Place: free breakfast, indoor & outdoor pools, pond, gardens, fresh Santa cookies nightly, Santa story times, and special events
Where to Eat in Pigeon Forge
- Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen Pigeon Forge
- Margaritaville at The Island Pigeon Forge
- Frizzle Chicken Farmhouse
- The Old Mill Restaurant
Pin It For Later:
