What to Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge Tennessee

Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge Tennessee is a great place for a family friendly vacation or weekend getaway.

The area is very tourist friendly so directions to places are simple. There is one main road that goes through Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge and each traffic light has a number. So you may get simple directions such as go to light number 5 and turn left. Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are side by side on the same main road.

There are many hotels on the main road for different budgets. Since this is a popular family vacation place, it's not uncommon for hotels to be booked, so you will want to make a reservation in advance, especially if you want to stay at a certain hotel. Christmas time is especially busy because there is a popular Christmas lights display and summer break from school is also busy.

If you prefer a cabin in the mountains rather than a hotel there are many cabins to choose from. These are perfect for a quiet, romantic getaway.

What to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg?

There are lots of things to do in this area, something for everyone, the young and old alike and many family activities where parents and their kids can enjoy activities together.

First off, there's Dollywood, named after the famous Dolly Parton. There are rides, shows, and shopping. There's an area of children's rides so any children will enjoy this part.

Then there is Parrot Mountain. Anyone who is not scared of birds will enjoy this. You have to travel off the main road and down a country road and up a hill but the short ride is worth it. There you can hold parrots and have your picture taken with them. Then you go on a walk and look at different species of exotic birds. There is one section of fruit nectar eating birds that is especially fun. The tiny birds are in a large caged area. You go in holding a small cup of fruit nectar and the birds descend on you to eat the nectar. Bring your camera for this one to tape your loved one getting "attacked" by tiny little birds.

Smoky Mountain National Park is also a popular destination. Here, families can enjoy hiking, walking through the park, picnics and other outdoor activities typical of any state park. People go here to enjoy the nature, fresh air and outdoor activities. Black bears live in the mountains, so be careful of bears and don't wander far away from the trails.

Gatlinburg Aquarium is a large aquarium of all kinds of aquatic animals. Go inside and take a tour of all kinds of animals that live under the deep blue sea. Children love going to the aquarium.

Ripley's Believe it or not Museum is a large building full of weird stuff and weird facts.

There are many singing and comedy shows which are more popular among adults traveling without young children. There is an ever changing large variety to choose from so get information before you go of what shows will be playing where. Watch country music performances or view a comedy show, whichever you prefer or both.

There are several other children's and family activities such as a place that holds black bears where you can feed them apples and take pictures. At another place, you go "gem hunting." You basically buy a bucket of dirt, poor it in running water and see what gems you can find. For children who like go-karts there is a track where kids can ride-go karts around.

Then there is shopping. Lots and lots of shopping. There are many souvenir and gift shops offering a huge variety of souvenirs and gifts to bring back home. There are hillbilly and country items, T-shirts, collectibles, and lots and lots of stuff. There are many shops to browse through and find interesting items.

Whether you are young or old, with or without kids, there is something for everyone in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Tennesssee.