Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is a family-friendly destination nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, offering an abundance of exciting activities perfect for kids and families looking to enjoy an adventure together. Whether you’re seeking thrills, educational experiences, or simply a day of fun in the great outdoors, Pigeon Forge has something to offer everyone.
For families planning a trip to this charming mountain town, here’s a guide to some of the top kids’ activities in Pigeon Forge that are sure to create lasting memories. These attractions and experiences are ideal for families visiting with children, from toddlers to teenagers, and make for the perfect addition to your vacation itinerary. If you’re looking for the best options to keep your little ones entertained, The Kids Point has got you covered with helpful tips on navigating the best family-friendly spots in Pigeon Forge!
Dollywood Theme Park
No visit to Pigeon Forge would be complete without spending a day at Dollywood. This world-renowned theme park is perfect for families, offering an exciting blend of thrilling rides, live entertainment, and kid-friendly attractions.
For younger children, Dollywood offers a wide variety of gentler rides such as the Busy Bees, a classic carousel, and the Rockin’ Roadway, a charming driving experience. Older kids can get their adrenaline pumping with exciting roller coasters like Thunderhead and Wild Eagle.
Beyond the rides, Dollywood is known for its exceptional shows, including performances from local singers, magicians, and dancers. Families can also explore the park’s many seasonal festivals, including Smoky Mountain Christmas and Barbeque & Bluegrass, which feature festive parades, themed entertainment, and plenty of delicious food. Don’t forget to visit the Dollywood Splash Country water park for even more summer fun!
The Island in Pigeon Forge
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a sprawling entertainment complex that combines family-friendly attractions with shopping, dining, and scenic views. One of the most popular spots is the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot-tall observation wheel that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
For little ones, there’s the Island Ropes Course, a high-flying adventure that challenges kids to climb and zip across platforms. Kids can also enjoy the Bumper Cars, Up Up and Away, and the Shooting Gallery. The Carousel and Island Express Train are perfect for younger children, while The Island Show Fountain offers a mesmerizing water and light show that can be enjoyed by everyone.
With a variety of restaurants, snacks, and ice cream shops, The Island is a great place to spend the day with your family, with something for kids of all ages to enjoy.
The Comedy Barn Theater
If your family loves to laugh, be sure to check out the Comedy Barn Theater in Pigeon Forge. This family-friendly comedy show features hilarious performances from magicians, ventriloquists, and comedians. The show is packed with slapstick humor, goofy gags, and interactive skits that will keep everyone giggling.
One of the best things about the Comedy Barn is that it’s appropriate for all ages. Kids will enjoy the goofy antics, silly jokes, and animal acts, while parents will appreciate the clean, wholesome humor. The show also features live music and a talented cast of performers, making it a must-see for any family visiting Pigeon Forge.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
For families with children who love marine life, Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in nearby Gatlinburg is a must-see. While not located directly in Pigeon Forge, it’s just a short drive away and is worth the visit for its interactive exhibits and educational displays. The aquarium features a wide variety of marine creatures, including exotic fish, sea turtles, and playful penguins.
One of the highlights of the aquarium is the Shark Lagoon, where visitors can walk through a glass tunnel and observe sharks swimming overhead. Kids will also love the Touch Tanks, where they can get hands-on with stingrays and other marine creatures. For those looking for a more immersive experience, Ripley’s also offers behind-the-scenes tours and the chance to feed the animals.
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
For families seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster offers a unique and exciting experience. This coaster takes riders on a scenic downhill ride through the mountains, where you can control your speed as you zip along the track. The coaster is open year-round, and the experience is especially stunning during the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
With the ability to ride solo or with a partner, the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a great choice for families with older children and teenagers. The ride is safe and fun, making it a thrilling experience for adrenaline junkies of all ages.
WonderWorks
WonderWorks is an interactive science museum that combines education with entertainment, making it a fantastic destination for families. Located on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge, this inverted building is packed with over 100 hands-on exhibits that encourage exploration and creativity.
Kids will love the Wonder Zones, where they can engage with science experiments and interactive displays that teach them about physics, space, and engineering. Highlights include the Bubble Lab, where children can create giant bubbles, and the Space Discovery Zone, which allows visitors to explore the wonders of outer space.
WonderWorks also offers a Laser Tag arena, making it a great place to combine fun with learning. It’s an ideal stop for families who want an activity that’s both educational and entertaining.
Pigeon Forge Snow
For those who want to experience the magic of snow in any season, Pigeon Forge Snow is the perfect spot. This indoor snow park allows visitors to enjoy snow tubing all year long. The facility uses real snow, so the experience feels just like a day at a winter wonderland.
Children of all ages can enjoy tubing down the slopes, and there’s even a special area for younger children to safely enjoy the snow. If your family is visiting during the warmer months and missing the snow, Pigeon Forge Snow offers a fun and unique way to beat the heat while enjoying the thrill of winter sports.
Outdoor Adventures in the Smoky Mountains
Pigeon Forge’s natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, and there are plenty of activities to enjoy in the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Families can hike on one of the park’s many trails, ranging from easy nature walks to more challenging mountain routes. Some of the best family-friendly trails include the Laurel Falls Trail and the Gatlinburg Trail.
For a more adventurous experience, families can also go zip-lining, horseback riding, or take part in a guided rafting tour down the river. Many of the area’s outdoor outfitters offer family-friendly excursions, making it easy for families to explore the great outdoors together.
Toy Box Mini Golf
If your family enjoys mini-golf, Toy Box Mini Golf is a fun and colorful course located in Pigeon Forge. This unique course features large, toy-inspired sculptures and vibrant, whimsical designs that make it a hit with kids. The course itself is challenging enough to keep older kids engaged but simple enough for younger players to enjoy.
Toy Box Mini Golf also has an indoor section for when the weather isn’t ideal, so it’s a great option for rainy days. With its family-friendly atmosphere and entertaining design, it’s an excellent way to spend quality time with the kids.
The Titanic Museum Attraction
The Titanic Museum Attraction is a fascinating and educational experience for families interested in history. This interactive museum allows visitors to explore the story of the famous ship through over 400 artifacts, including personal belongings, photographs, and more.
Kids will enjoy the hands-on exhibits, including the chance to try their hand at steering a ship or learning about life on board through the eyes of the passengers. The museum also offers educational programs for younger visitors, making it a great way to learn about history in an engaging and kid-friendly environment.
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is the ultimate family-friendly destination, offering a wealth of activities and experiences that cater to children of all ages. From thrilling rides at Dollywood to educational experiences at WonderWorks, the variety of attractions ensures that families can enjoy quality time together while making lasting memories.
If you’re planning a family vacation to Pigeon Forge, be sure to include these top kids’ activities on your itinerary. Whether you’re seeking adventure, entertainment, or learning opportunities, Pigeon Forge has something for everyone.
At The Kids Point, we understand the importance of family fun and adventure. We hope this guide has inspired you to make the most of your trip to Pigeon Forge and experience everything this wonderful town has to offer!