Planning a family getaway to the Smoky Mountains? Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg offer a wide variety of activities that will keep everyone entertained. From thrilling amusement parks to scenic nature experiences, these top 10 family-friendly attractions are perfect for kids and families to enjoy together.
1. Dollywood (Pigeon Forge)
Dollywood is a must-visit destination for families. With roller coasters, live shows, and family-friendly rides, there’s something for everyone. The park also features a water park, Dollywood's Splash Country, for additional summer fun.
2. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
For nature lovers, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an outdoor paradise. Take a scenic drive, go on an easy hike, or spot wildlife in popular spots like Cades Cove. It’s an ideal way for families to explore the mountains together.
3. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies (Gatlinburg)
Ripley’s Aquarium in Gatlinburg is a great spot for a fun, hands-on experience with sea life. Walk through the glass tunnel for a 360-degree view of sharks, fish, and more, and get up close with stingrays and horseshoe crabs in the touch tanks. It’s an exciting and interactive adventure for the whole family!
4. Anakeesta (Gatlinburg)
Anakeesta is an outdoor adventure park offering breathtaking views of the Smokies. Families can enjoy activities like the Tree Canopy Walk, mountain coaster, and scenic overlook. There’s plenty of fun to be had, no matter your age!
5. The Island in Pigeon Forge
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex that’s great for families. Ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for panoramic views, explore the interactive fountains, or enjoy go-karting and arcade games.
6. WonderWorks (Pigeon Forge)
WonderWorks combines education and fun with hands-on exhibits that cover science, art, and imagination. It’s a perfect spot for kids to explore interactive displays on space, tornadoes, and more while learning in an entertaining way.
7. Ober Gatlinburg
Ober Gatlinburg offers year-round family fun. In winter, enjoy skiing and snowboarding; in warmer months, take on the alpine slide, go ice skating, or visit the wildlife encounter. The scenic chairlift provides stunning mountain views.
8. Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster (Pigeon Forge)
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster lets families race down the mountain at their own speed. It’s a thrilling experience for kids and adults, and with both day and night rides available, it’s fun no matter the time of day.
9. Pigeon Forge Snow (Pigeon Forge)
Experience snow tubing and indoor snow play, even in summer, at Pigeon Forge Snow. It’s a year-round indoor snow park where families can enjoy the thrill of snow tubing or play in the snow no matter the season.
10. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park (Gatlinburg)
Visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift for amazing views of the Smokies as you ride up to the top of Crockett Mountain. Once there, take a walk across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, for a cool perspective of the mountains and Gatlinburg below. It’s a relaxed and scenic way for the whole family to take in the sights!