Visit: Traveling to Pigeon Forge
Visit: Traveling to Pigeon Forge
Discover the best family vacation destinations in Pigeon Forge
This post was sponsored by the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism; all opinions expressed in this post are my own.
Regarding the Pigeon Forge attractions & businesses mentioned in this blog, please check their respective websites for an update on their COVID-19 operational updates.
About Our Vacation to Pigeon Forge
Recently, my mom got into researching our genealogy and she discovered that there is a branch of our family tree located in Tennessee. So we decided to head to Tennessee to see the Great Smoky Mountains and trace our roots. And as a travel enthusiast, I very rarely turn down the opportunity for a good road trip. So we packed up my parents' SUV and hit the road to a great Smoky Mountain vacation in Pigeon Forge, TN.
The total drive time from Tulsa, Oklahoma to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee clocked in at a little under 13 hours. But we decided to break the trip down into a leisurely 2-day drive that would allow us to stop and take pictures along the way. We traveled through the beautiful Ozark National Forest in Arkansas, stayed the night in Memphis, and made our mark on Beale Street before traveling through Nashville to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Ready to travel around the USA? Be sure to check out my travel guides for fun things to do in San Antonio, TX, Maui, HI, Oklahoma City, OK, and Houston, TX too!
Travel Guide: Traveling to Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge is a small town located in Sevier county, Tennessee that offers many family-friendly activities. From traveling through the Great Smoky Mountain National Park to staying in pigeon forge cabins to eating some delicious food, this city has something for everyone.
What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Pigeon Forge?
Honestly, East Tennessee is spectacular throughout the year. We went to Pigeon Forge in the fall. To me, there's nothing better than being surrounded by beautiful mountains, soothing streams, and changing leaves that arrive in Tennessee during the fall. Just be aware that it's like stepping into a painting or a postcard, and it's something you'll remember for a lifetime.
Where to Stay in Pigeon Forge
Black Fox Lodge
Black Fox Lodge is a beautiful, rustic resort in the heart of Pigeon Forge. Enjoy stunning river and mountain views while relaxing at this Hilton-operated property.
The Inn at Christmas Place
If you're looking for a festive place to stay all year round, look no further than The Inn at Christmas Place. This hotel is decked out in all things Christmas, from the lobby to the guest rooms. It's the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit!
The Ramsey Hotel and Convention Center
The Ramsey Hotel and Convention Center is one of the best options for traveling guests. This hotel offers all of the amenities you could need, with free breakfast every morning, 24-hour pool day or night, heated pool, Jacuzzi hot tub, and room service. It's a wonderful travel destination that will suit every traveler's needs.
Dollywood's DreamMore Resort
If you're looking for a place to stay in Pigeon Forge, Dollywood's DreamMore Resort is a great option for your Smoky Mountain vacation. It's an authentic resort that is as close to the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains as you can get. Plus, it's owned by Miss Dolly Parton, herself, so you know you'll be in good hands. And if you want to visit the Dollywood theme park, it's right next door!
Courtyard Marriott
This hotel offers plenty of fun for the whole crew. Take a dip in the lazy outdoor river, roast marshmallows by the firepit with friends at night, or enjoy a cup of coffee on your private balcony in the morning.
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The Best Restaurants in Pigeon Forge
The Old Mill Restaurant
If you're looking for a delicious Southern meal while in this city, look no further than the Old Mill Restaurant. They serve up traditional home-cooked dishes that will have your taste buds singing with joy. I'm not kidding - everything we ate there was amazing, and I even became a member of the "Clean Plate Club"!
Before you head to the Old Mill Restaurant for dinner, make sure to walk down the steps and take a picture by the actual historical Old Mill on the Little Pigeon River. The view and the sunset are amazing, and it's a great place to take pictures. Just be careful not to fall in!
Chocolate Monkey
If you're looking for a delicious dessert to finish your meal, head to Chocolate Monkey. They have some of the best hand-dipped caramel and chocolate-covered apples around. My personal favorite is the Caramel Pecan with White Chocolate Drizzle apple. Trust me, you'll thank me later.
Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que
If you're looking for a delicious, smokey barbecue meal, Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que is the place for you. With 26 years of experience, the crew at this local favorite knows how to cook up a good meal. Plus, they have the awards to prove it!
Flapjack's Pancake Cabin
If breakfast is your most important meal of the day, then starting your day with a made-from-scratch stack of piled-high pancakes from Flapjack's is guaranteed to put you on the right foot.
Huck Finn's Catfish
If you're looking for some good southern cooking , Huck Finn's Catfish is the place to go. This restaurant serves up some of the best catfish in East Tennessee, and they're also famously known for their “All ‘u can eat vittles” (mashed potatoes, hush puppies, coleslaw, and more) - perfect if you're looking to get your fill. So come hungry and leave happy.
The Best Places to Visit & What To Do in Pigeon Forge
Book a Pink Jeep Tour
If you're looking for adventure, fun, and an exciting way to see the sights and sounds of the mountains, consider booking a Pink Jeep Tour. Signature bubblegum pink 4 x 4 Jeeps are perfect for exploring the local flora and fauna, as well as streams, waterfalls, and more.
Visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
I'm not going to lie. You can't come to Pigeon Forge, TN and miss the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. If you are an early riser, taking a morning hike to catch the sunrise through the Smokies is something everyone should experience.
Take a Guided Horseback Riding Tour
Now for all you cowboys and cowgirls out there who want to feel like you've stepped back in time without actually being from the 1800s, horseback riding is the way to do it. Horseback riding excursions are a great way to explore the Smoky Mountains for all ages and skill levels.
Go Moonshine Tasting
My dad was really excited about this "activity". He couldn't wait to do it. And being his forever partner-in-crime, I wanted to go along with him. There were so many different flavors of moonshine alcohol. Get a jar or two if you can. It's a great souvenir and it'll give you something to remember your trip by.
Ride a Mountain Coaster
When traveling to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, one of the must-do activities is riding a mountain coaster. These coasters provide an adrenaline rush as you race down the track, through the woods, and around curves through the Great Smokies.
Spend the Day at Dollywood Amusement Park
The theme park owned by the one and only Dolly Parton - Dollywood is jam-packed with excitement for people of all ages. From thrilling roller coasters and water ride attractions to amazing shows and live music performances, you'll be entertained from morning to night on your perfect pigeon forge vacation.
Thank You
I hope this travel guide has helped you fall in love with Pigeon Forge as much as my family and I did. So don't wait another minute - start planning for your next vacation in our favorite little mountain town!
If you have any questions or want to share your own experience, please feel free to reach out on social media or leave me a comment below.
Thanks for reading!
-XOXO Melissa “Mel”
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*Originally published in August 2020, this post has been updated by Mel Drake to add the new sections of "About Our Vacation to Pigeon Forge", "Travel Guide: Traveling to Pigeon Forge", and "Spend the Day at Dollywood Amusement Park" weren't included in the original post. Photos have been updated along with structural and grammatical changes as well.