A trip to the Pigeon Forge area isn't complete without a visit to the Smoky Mountain National Park! On our last trip, we discovered the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, which was truly unforgettable. The 5.5-mile loop contains historical sites, waterfalls, swimming holes, hiking paths, and amazing views. If you have a few hours to spare, this is our top recommendation! There are tons of other destinations in the park, too! Whether you're looking to drive around for a bit to admire the views or spend an entire day hiking and swimming, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Entry to the park is completely free, and parking passes for 15+ minute stops are $5 for the day or $15 for the week.
On our last trip to TN, we booked a 2.5-hour tour with Smoky Mountain Jeep Tours, and it was the highlight of our trip. If you're looking for a unique way to see different areas of the National Park while also learning about its history, this is a great option. They have several different routes, but we would highly recommend the Roaring Fork Motor Trail. If you book, make sure to call and ask for David as your guide!
Dollywood is hands down our favorite theme park! The rides are great, and there are fun shops and shows inside the park for those who aren't the biggest thrill seekers. Also, the fresh-baked cinnamon bread? To die for.
This is one of our favorite restaurants in the area, but make sure you show up hungry because the portions are huge, especially at dinner time. They serve southern, homestyle meals with yummy desserts!
If you're looking for a fun way to spend your night, The Island is a great option! There are tons of shops to browse through, along with several restaurants and snack stops. If you're not too scared of heights, we also love going on the Ferris Wheel at dusk for incredible mountain views.