Who would believe that a town that was once filled with wheat fields and farmlands is now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Southeastern United States?
From its once humble beginnings, that’s exactly what Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, has become. And, the journey continues today.
Titanic Museum Attraction
Building on the popularity of the Great Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge began making a name for itself in the tourism industry back in the 1960s. Attractions, motels and restaurants began popping up to serve travelers who wanted to enjoy the trails, wildlife and spectacular views found in the mountains.
Today, the town attracts millions of visitors each year, thanks in part to dozens of family friendly offerings like Dollywood, Titanic Museum Attraction, Pigeon Forge Snow and many more. Theaters and dinner theaters, filled with outstanding productions, entertain visitors daily with music, dance, magic and comedy.
Dining
Dozens of restaurants feature everything Southern favorites to seafood and International fare. A couple of favorites with visitors are Old Mill Restaurant, serving comfort food at its best, and Local Goat, an outstanding farm-to-table establishment. There also are plenty of fast food restaurants, pancake houses and coffee shops, plus several candy stores, filled with homemade fudge, Smoky Mountain taffy and other items to satisfy the sweet tooth.
Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
Activities and Attractions
Museums offer a variety of things to see and do. Alcatraz Crime Museum is a journey through the criminal and crime-fighting history of the U.S., while WonderWorks is filled with hands-on activities that the entire family will enjoy.
For a variety of activities in one place, check out the Island in Pigeon Forge. It’s filled with dining, shopping and the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, which takes riders on a 200-foot ride high above the town.
Ripken Experience Pigeon Forge attracts youth baseball teams from across the country. As well as some international teams, to play in tournaments throughout the spring, summer and fall. Wear Farm City Park has basketball courts, baseball diamonds, walking trails and a handicapped accessible playground for all to enjoy.
Pigeon Forge also hosts a number of award-winning events throughout the year. Including A Mountain Quiltfest™ in March, showcasing the art of quilting, and Wilderness Wildlife Week™ in May, filled with seminars and activities celebrating the great outdoors.
Campgrounds
There are 16 campgrounds located in Pigeon Forge, ranging from 32 to 310 campsites. Each one features a variety of amenities that can include swimming pools, playgrounds, laundry facilities, fitness centers, Wi-Fi and military discounts. All Pigeon Forge campgrounds are pet-friendly. A complete listing of available campgrounds can be found in the 2018 Pigeon Forge travel guide, which can be ordered by calling 1-800-251-9100. You also can download a version at MyPigeonForge.com.
This Smoky Mountain town continues to grow, bringing more and more adventures for families to enjoy. More information on what to see and do is at MyPigeonForge.com.
