Think You Know Pigeon Forge? Think Again!

Most visitors come to Pigeon Forge for Dollywood, dinner shows, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. But what if your next trip included a few surprises like racing your friends down a glowing mountain coaster, sipping local wine, or wandering through a tropical bird paradise? Let’s uncover the side of Pigeon Forge that even locals love to keep secret.

1. Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster: Race Your Way Down the Mountain

If you crave a thrill, the Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster is a must. Unlike traditional coasters, you control your speed as you zip down the mountain in your own cart. The best part? Two parallel tracks let you race friends or family! Plus, this ride is especially magical after dark when the track lights up!

Why it’s unique:

• Side-by-side racing
• Nighttime rides with glowing lights
• Great for friendly competition

2. Alcatraz East Crime Museum: Step Into the World of Forensics

Ever wanted to solve a crime? At Alcatraz East Crime Museum, you’ll explore real criminal cases, test your detective skills, and see artifacts from infamous outlaws. It’s interactive, educational, and totally different from the usual attractions.

Highlights:

• Hands-on forensic science exhibits
• True crime artifacts
• Family-friendly and educational

3. The Old Mill: History, Shopping, and Southern Eats

The Old Mill is a working gristmill from the 1800s, still producing cornmeal and flour today. Watch the waterwheel turn, browse artisan shops, and enjoy classic Southern meals at the on-site restaurants. The peaceful setting and rich history make it a must-see.

Don’t miss:

• Fresh-baked goods and stone-ground grains
• Riverside dining
• Unique local crafts

4. The Island Show Fountain: Free Light & Water Spectacle

In the heart of The Island in Pigeon Forge, you’ll find a choreographed fountain that dances to music and lights. It’s free, relaxing, and perfect for a break between shopping or rides. Shows run day and night, so you can catch the magic anytime.

Why visit:

• Free entertainment
• Family-friendly atmosphere
• Great photo ops, especially at night

5. Rocky Top Wine Trail: Sip and Savor Local Flavors

Adults will love the Rocky Top Wine Trail, a self-guided tour of local wineries offering complimentary tastings. Sample everything from sweet fruit blends to classic reds, and collect stamps at each stop for a special gift.

Pro tips:

• No reservation needed
• Free tastings at each winery
• Perfect for couples or groups

6. Parrot Mountain and Gardens: A Tropical Oasis in the Smokies

Step into a lush garden filled with hundreds of colorful parrots and exotic birds. At Parrot Mountain and Gardens, you can feed, hold, and photograph these friendly creatures. The peaceful setting feels worlds away from the busy Parkway.

What makes it special:

• Interact with birds up close
• Beautiful landscaped gardens
• Unique photo opportunities

7. Biblical Times Dinner Theater: Stories That Come Alive

For a meaningful night out, check out Biblical Times Dinner Theater. Their live shows blend music, acting, and impressive sets to bring Bible stories to life. It’s a unique alternative to the usual dinner shows and appeals to all ages.

What to expect:

• Live performances with a spiritual message
• State-of-the-art sound and visuals
• Family-friendly entertainment

Mini-Summary: Why These Spots Stand Out

These seven attractions offer a mix of adventure, history, relaxation, and local flavor, perfect for travelers who want more than the usual tourist stops. Whether you’re racing down a mountain, sipping wine, or exploring a tropical garden, you’ll find something truly memorable in Pigeon Forge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some hidden gems in Pigeon Forge?

Hidden gems include the Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster, Parrot Mountain and Gardens, and the Rocky Top Wine Trail. These spots offer unique experiences away from the crowds.

Is the Rocky Top Wine Trail family-friendly?

While tastings are for adults, many wineries have family-friendly atmospheres and beautiful grounds for everyone to enjoy.

Can you visit The Old Mill without dining there?

Absolutely! You can tour the historic mill, browse the shops, and enjoy the riverside scenery even if you don’t eat at the restaurants.

Quick Comparison of Unique Pigeon Forge Attractions

Local Tips for Your Pigeon Forge Itinerary

• Visit the Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster after dark for the best light show
• Collect all your Rocky Top Wine Trail stamps for a free souvenir
• Bring your camera to Parrot Mountain (photo ops are everywhere!)
• Book tickets for the Biblical Times Dinner Theater in advance

Plan Your Stay: Make the Most of Your Pigeon Forge Adventure

With so many unique things to do, you’ll want a cozy place to unwind. Booking a private cabin gives you space, mountain views, and all the comforts of home, plus easy access to these hidden gems.

Ready to plan your trip? Book your Pigeon Forge cabin stay today!

Take a look:

* Thanksgiving/Christmas Craftsmen Fair *
11/24/20 – 12/6/20

From Gatlinburg.com:
The Great Smoky Thanksgiving & Christmas Arts & Crafts Show runs from November 24 – December 6. Unique handcrafted gifts made by members of Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community are offered as they host their annual Thanksgiving show at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community is the nation’s largest organization of independent artisans makes its home in Gatlinburg and the 8-mile Arts and Crafts Loop along Route 321, Buckhorn Road and Glades Road.

The Tennessee artists and craftspeople here create beautiful and useful things with techniques handed down for centuries. Find gorgeous quilts, old-fashioned straw brooms with hand-carved handles, exquisitely woven baskets, hand-dipped scented candles, Victorian ceramic pitchers, pottery, dulcimers, stuffed bears and leather vests. There is handmade jewelry, unlike anything you’ll find in the malls back home. Painters capture scenes of landscapes and mountain life, while potters and weavers work magic with clay and cloth.
https://www.gatlinburgcrafts.com/;

* Festival of Trees *
11/25/20 – 11/29/20

From Gatlinburg.com:
Hospitality Solutions is happy to announce that the long-standing holiday tradition of the Gatlinburg Festival of Trees will continue in 2020! This year has brought unprecedented changes, and our event might be a bit different than in years past. We are working to redesign the event to adhere to the TN Pledge guidelines, and Festival related activities will be determined by current conditions at the time of the event. The Festival of Trees runs from November 25th to November 29th and promises to provide holiday cheer and memories for families to kick off the holiday season!

The proceeds of this event benefit the Boys & Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains and the Gatlinburg Chamber Foundation Scholarship Fund. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Smoky Mountains serve more than 1,600 local youth across Sevier County. The clubs offer youth a safe place to learn and grow through programs designed to build character and strengthen life skills while not at home or school. The Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce Foundation awards college scholarships each year to graduating seniors. We are very pleased to announce that the proceeds from the Festival’s 46th Anniversary year netted a donation of over $55,000 to the Boys and Girls Club of the Smoky Mountains and $12,000 to the Gatlinburg Chamber of Commerce Foundation Scholarship Fund.

Please join us in continuing the tradition of ringing in the Christmas season with the 2020 Festival of Trees. We greatly appreciate your support of this event, which has been a part of our community for over 46 years.

* Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas *
November 7th, 2020 to January 3rd, 2021

From mypigeonforge.com:
Wander through more than five million holiday lights shining bright throughout the Dollywood park, delight in the spectacular holiday performances, soak up the warm Christmas atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas is such a beloved holiday tradition.
See Award-Winning Christmas Shows

Celebrate the season with award-winning holiday musical performances like It’s a Wonderful Life, Christmas in the Smokies and many more. Bring your family to Dollywood and experience these cherished holiday stories this Christmas.
Experience the Wonder of Christmas

The whole family will delight as they wonder through Glacier Ridge, Dollywood’s winter wonderland filled with sparkling displays and a spectacular 50 foot video motion Christmas tree.
Create Family Memories

More than 20 of Dollywood’s signature rides and attractions operate in a festive environment that is sure to get everyone into the spirit of the season. And guests can indulge in seasonal specialties and treats offered at various eateries throughout the park.   See more info at www.dollywood.com.

* Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Disaster Dinner Feud *
November 1st, 2020 – January 2nd, 2021

Come join Pa Hatfield and Ma McCoy as they try to set aside their differences in the spirit of the Season. Watch as these two famous feudin’ families come together for a night of fun, food and entertainment. The Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Disaster Dinner Feud is guaranteed to make you feel better about spending the holidays with your in-laws!

Whether you’re city-folk or country cuzins, you’ll love the holiday singing and dancing, mighty feats of strength, jaw-dropping stunts and side-splitting comedy. There’s something for everybody at the Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Disaster Dinner Feud!

And Granny’s pulling out all the stops for the holiday dinner! She’s cookin’ up a heap of fried chicken and country pulled pork shoulder barbecue. Add smashed taters, creamy coleslaw, homemade rolls, corn on the cob, creamy vegetable soup and Granny’s special dessert. Afterward, you’ll need to loosen up your belt! It’s the best dinner in town–Granny guarantees it!

See more information on this event at https://www.mypigeonforge.com/event/hatfield-and-mccoy-disaster-dinner-feud.

* Christmas At Dolly’s Stampede *
November 3rd 2020 – January 2nd, 2021

Your experience during Christmas at Dolly’s Stampede begins in our non-alcoholic saloon where you will enjoy special entertainment from our house band Mountain Ruckus. Hear some of your holiday favorites performed with a mixture of comedy added.

During the Christmas show, the cast, including 32 magnificent horses, takes you on a nostalgic holiday trip with a friendly North Pole – South Pole rivalry. Watch in delight as the Sugar Plum Fairy brings toys to life right before your eyes. Our live nativity scene, which includes three kings arriving atop real camels, brings the true meaning of Christmas to life. Santa himself will also make an appearance in a horse-drawn sleigh.

See more information on this event at https://www.mypigeonforge.com/event/dollys-stampede-christmas.

Gatlinburg’s original name was  White Oak Flats.  Gatlinburg was settled in the mid 1800s by Martha
Jane Huskey Ogle.  The widow traveled from North Carolina with her seven children and built a cabin
that can still be seen on the Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts’ campus right in downtown Gatlinburg,
Tennessee.  The town took its late name from Radford Gatlin, a part-time Baptist preacher who arrived
in 1854 and worked as the tiny town’s post master.  He was able to have the name changed to
Gatlinburg, but soon departed after a feud with the Ogle family, Gatlinburg’s largest clan at the time.

Today Gatlinburg is a  picturesque town that is the gateway to the  Great Smoky  Mountain National
Park. Your family will enjoy a wide choice of accommodations and plenty of day and nighttime
activities. Up in the mountains above  Gatlinburg there’s adventure, inspiration, romance and memories
to last a lifetime.

Pigeon Forge

Officially incorporated in 1960, Pigeon Forge derives its name from two sources, the flocks of passenger pigeons that stopped along the river while on migratory flights and an iron works established by Isaac Love in 1820.  Pigeon Forge’s primary land mark, the Old Mill, was built in 1830 by William Love and continues to grind corn to this day.  With support from the county’s most famous daughter, country music singer Dolly Parton, Pigeon Forge has grown into a dynamic tourism center.  Everywhere you turn you’ll find something fun to do in Pigeon Forge – from the attraction lined Parkway to the outlet malls to the  live music – all in the shadow of the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains.

Sevierville

Originally known as Forks-of-Little-Pigeon, Sevierville began as a 29 acre farm tract.  The town took its name from famous pioneer and Tennessee’s first governor John Sevier and in 1795, Sevierville was named county seat.  101 years later, its graceful courthouse was completed at a cost of $21 ,697 and is still one of the county’s most easily recognized architectural structures.  The original Seth Thomas clock continues to ring out the time on the half hour. Sevierville has become the gateway to more than 650 miles of trails and breathtaking scenery in the Smoky Mountains.  Sevierville has become one of the fastest growing entertainment showplaces in the Southeast, not to mention our shopping opportunities and our attractions and sports.  Sevierville boasts that they are
“Where Smoky Mountain Fun Begins!”

Wears Valley

Located in the valley between Pigeon Forge and Townsend lies Wears Valley.  Certainly a drive not to be missed by any traveler to our area.  Not well known by visitors until recent years, this drive offers some of the best scenery the area has to offer.  Homesteads and farmland abound with unique shops and lodging opportunities.  Wears Valley offers a quieter view of the Smokies.  With Mt. LeConte in the distance and farmland all around you can stop in the various shops and relax as you uncover some of the area’s greatest crafts and food.   Part of the journey from Pigeon Forge to Cades Cove, Wears Valley is worth the visit.

Townsend
Long known as the “peaceful side of the Smokies,” Townsend offers an alternate route to Cades Cove and the rest of the park. The little town gets its named from Col. Wilson B. Townsend, a turn of the century logging baron.

After purchasing over 80,000 acres of prime forest, Townsend set up a saw mill and shipping depot in Townsend. Today, Townsend is a quiet riverside hamlet and attracts visitors who want to enjoy the Smokies away from the other towns’ traffic and lights. Some visitors may recognize it as the setting for “Christy,” the popular CBS period drama about a young pioneer school teacher. With Cades Cove in the back yard, Townsend is a must journey for any trip to the Smokies. Tubing and picnicking are among favorite activities to share.

From Mypigeonforge.com:

A spectacular 3-day event for any car enthusiast! $8000.00 cash giveaway, Top 25 Awards, Ultimate 5 Awards and King of the Hill. Huge swap meet with hundreds of show cars and car corral.

Join the many automotive enthusiasts and come on out to the Pigeon Forge Rod Run, the area’s largest automotive event! The Rod Show will be returning to its original location at The LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge. Don’t miss this incredible car show! For registration and show information contact MCS Promotions at (865) 687-3976.

See more on this event at the main event website at http://www.rodrun-pigeonforge.com/.

For Halloween, as of September 1st, here are some events that locals and visitors can plan on enjoying.

* Great Pumpkin LumiNights *
Sep 25, 2020 – Oct 31, 2020
Held at: Dollywood

“Great Pumpkin LumiNights is just one of the fun things to see and do at the annual Dollywood Harvest Festival presented by Humana. Dollywood’s Great Pumpkin LumiNights features spectacular lighted pumpkin displays throughout the Dollywood park, which glow with the fire of fall. And this season’s event promises to be even more spectacular with artistic sculptures, whimsical scenes and loads of fun for families to experience all throughout Timber Canyon.

Here is just a sampling of some of the fun family activities taking place at Dollywood’s Great Pumpkin LumiNights:

* Character Meet & Greet
* Master Carvers
* Glow Face Painting
* Specialty Foods”

See this event at https://www.mypigeonforge.com/event/dollywood-great-pumpkin-luminights.

* Halloween Spooktacular Event *
Oct 29, 2020
Held at: Pigeon Forge Community Center

“Join the family-fun Spooktacular Halloween Event at the Pigeon Forge Community Center on the Thursday before Halloween. This free and non-scary event is a safe alternative for families to go Trick or Treating.”

See this event at https://www.mypigeonforge.com/event/spooktacular-halloween-event.

* Ripley’s Fright Nights *
Oct 2, 2020 – Oct 31, 2020
Held at: Ripley’s Haunted Adventure

“Ripley’s Haunted Adventure Fright Nights happen every weekend in the month of October. This year the theme is Nostalgic Nightmare.

Reserve the Exclusive Package that includes the Fright Night VIP Couple Package PLUS a Meet & Greet, Photo with the Monsters and Front on the Line entry for Fright Nights! Limited Availability.”

See this event at https://www.gatlinburg.com/event/ripleys-fright-nights/.

* Halloween Trick of Treat *
Oct 31, 2020
Held at: The Island in Pigeon Forge

“Step right up! Step right up! Join us for our annual Halloween Trick of Treat at The Island in Pigeon Forge.

Enjoy free Trick or Treating Halloween night at The Island In Pigeon Forge and unlimited rides for just $5 for those in costume. Watch live Bluegrass band, Midnight Run, from 5pm-11pm on the Ole Smoky Stage.”

See this event at https://www.mypigeonforge.com/event/halloween-trick-treat.

We are going to provide a list of some of the Candy Stores in the area.  They are very fun to visit and will enhance every vacation for sure!

A family tradition since 1952 located in Gatlinburg, TN making homemade candies from our specialty taffy, chocolate brown bears and peanut brittles! It doesn’t matter what your favorite is you want to experience it at the Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen!

https://olesmokycandykitchen.com/

Country Candy Kitchen

See taffy being made daily in our stores (times vary somewhat). Choose your favorite flavors or grab a handful of assorted.The copper kettle fudge is our original recipe, and really is handmade in copper kettles. Choose assorted or your favorite flavor, a handy knife is included (Peanut Butters are not included in assortments)

The copper kettle fudge is our original recipe, and really is handmade in copper kettles. Choose assorted or your favorite flavor, a handy knife is included (Peanut Butters are not included in assortments).

The hand-dipped chocolate candies come in an assortment of nut clusters, caramels, pecan turtles and jellies. A wonderful choice for gift giving or sampling.

http://countrycandykitchen.com

Old Mill Candy Kitchen

As a part of the Old Mill Complex you can be sure the Old Mill Candy Kitchen is a must visit.  Oh my the delights as you enter.  Taste the many fudge combinations, try their hard candies, taffies and more.

The Old Mill Candy Kitchen

Family owned and operated, Mountain Chick Cafe is a must stop destination for breakfast, lunch and espresso! Located on the main parkway going through Wears Valley/Wears Valley Road, minutes from Pigeon Forge, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and entrance to the Foothills Parkway.

Mountain Chick Cafe has been in operation since 2018 and we have happily provided thousands of breakfast and lunch meals for visitors and locals each year from there. We feature a large selection donuts that are made fresh daily. Located in the heart of Wears Valley, we offer the perfect place to enjoy a bite to eat and take in gorgeous views! Our goal is to create a cozy spot for locals and visitors to gather.

*Sevier County Fair
September 1-4

Enjoy All Week! * Exhibit Hall * Native American Teepee * Poultry Show * Mainstreet Market * Kid’s Tent * Animal Kingdom *

Enjoy Daily! We have a SPECIAL treat for Fair Goers this year. Rudy Uresti an extremely talented Variety Entertainer, who has performed all over the world, will be performing multiple shows nightly. You’ll find him between Mainstreet Market & the Exhibit Hall.

Be sure you check out the “Fairs Gone Bye Wall” & the “Pioneer/Century Farms Wall” in the Exhibit Hall. You might even spot yourself in a picture!

OPENING CEREMONIES – BOBBY PETERSON WITH AMERICAN EAGLE FOUNDATION

5:00pm – 9:00pm – Shaun Abbott on the Food Pavilion Stage, sponsored by Sevier County Bank

5:45pm – Cow Buddies competition in the Cattle Tent

6:00pm – Beef Showmanship, Beef Show Jr and Commercial following Showmanship in the Cattle Tent

6:00pm – Fairest of the Fair Pageant, presenting Preteen, Teen, Miss, Mr/Mrs, on the Fairest of the Fair Stage

7:00pm – Farm Warrior Challenge (Adults) in the Arena

See this event at https://www.seviercountyfair.org/.

And again, we remind our visitors and guests to our area to continue practicing responsible behavior regarding social distancing, wearing masks and keeping sanitation habits in order. Wearing masks while in public is mandated as required in Sevier County and we express strong encouragement for it as well.

Thank you and we hope to see you soon!

A good place to start your journey is the Sugarlands Visitors Center on Route 441 at the Gatlinburg entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. There are nature exhibits, a short film, guidebooks, maps, and park rangers who give lectures guided strolls, and answer questions. 

Please be take care when setting out into our National Park for a hike.  Here are a few things you will need to know before you go!

• Always hike with another person.
• Always bring a small flashlight.
• Always bring water.
• All water taken from the backcountry should be treated.
• Let someone know your route and return time.
• Wear appropriate shoes

Whether you are an avid hiker or a beginner the Smokies offer trails for you.  Use this guide for quick reference.