Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is one of those destinations that manages to balance natural beauty with big-time entertainment. Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, it’s a town that never seems to stop buzzing. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with a mix of Southern hospitality, family attractions, and a little bit of that honky-tonk flair that makes it unmistakably Tennessee. Known for its lively Parkway lined with theaters, restaurants, and quirky attractions, Pigeon Forge has grown from a small mountain town into a hub that draws millions of visitors every year.
But what makes Pigeon Forge really shine is the fact that it has something for everyone. People in the south call it the “Myrtle Beach of the Mountains” which if you have been to Myrtle Beach, SC, is a perfect description in my opinion.
If you’re a thrill-seeker, you’ve got Dollywood and its legendary roller coasters. If you’re into music and nightlife, there are moonshine tastings and live bluegrass around every corner. And if you’re just looking to relax, the mountain views and campgrounds are second to none. Whether you’re camping under the stars, sipping Tennessee whiskey, or watching a fountain light up the night, it’s a place that brings people together.
- STAY: Clabough’s Campground & RV Park
- SEE: Dollywood Theme Park, Mountain “Alpine” Coaster, and The Island. Nearby – Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- DRINK: Moonshine flight from Old Smokey Distillery, Old Smoky Habanero Whiskey with Red Bull, Frozen Daquiris at Mellow Mushroom (My in-laws keep the souvenir cup in their RV, so they give a discount for reusing it.)
- EAT: Fried Catfish (Or Fried Chicken) at The Old Mill Restaurant with all the fixings.
The Same
The Dinks (Double-Income, No Kids) lived in North Carolina for over 20 years. Pigeon Forge happened to be my Mother in-laws favorite place, so we visited often with them. The Family made a trip out for a long weekend in the mountains and packed a ton into a short trip.
Clabough’s Campground & RV Park
Clabough’s Campground & RV Park is a staple for visitors who want the flexibility of camping while staying close to the main attractions. Located just off the Parkway, it offers a mix of RV hookups, cabins, and tent sites, along with family-friendly amenities like pools, a game room, and playgrounds. What sets Clabough’s apart is its ability to deliver the best of both worlds—you’re in the middle of Pigeon Forge’s action, but once you settle in at your site, the atmosphere feels quiet, laid-back, and neighborly. It’s the kind of place where people wave as they pass by, kids ride bikes through the campground roads, and evenings often end with the smell of campfires in the air.
For both The DINKs and The Family, Clabough’s was the perfect base. We loved having a comfortable spot to return to after long days of exploring. For us as DINKs, the appeal was coming back after moonshine tastings or an escape room challenge to relax by the fire with no set schedule. For the Family, the kids loved having a pool and open spaces to play in between outings. It made for the perfect home-away-from-home that worked for everyone’s pace.
The Island in Pigeon Forge
The Island is one of Pigeon Forge’s most popular attractions, and it’s easy to see why. This sprawling entertainment complex has something for all ages: restaurants, unique shops, amusement rides, and even a massive Ferris wheel with panoramic views of the Smokies.
- At the heart of it all is the Island Show Fountain, a choreographed water, light, and music show that happens every half hour and brings people together in a moment of shared awe. It’s free, it’s lively, and it feels like the heartbeat of the entire property.
- The parrot at The Island in Pigeon Forge is one of those quirky, unexpected touches that adds to the charm of wandering around there. It’s in a cage and we could have sat there much longer and watched him had it not been so hot out.
- The DINKs’ can’tt resist popping into Mellow Mushroom for a round of frozen daiquiris. The real kicker? Michelle’s in-laws have held onto their souvenir cup in their RV, and they proudly use it every time they come back to Pigeon Forge for a great discount on the Daquiris. If you haven’t had their pizza it’s good as well.
The DINKs
I wouldn’t say it is our favorite area in the mountains, but it does have something for everyone so it works well for family trips and we have visited more than a handleful of times for that reason. Sept and October are the best months even though the leaves haven’t totally started to change but its the perfect weather to being outdoors.
Old Smoky Distillery at The Island
Old Smoky Distillery is a must-stop for anyone wanting to taste a bit of Tennessee’s signature spirit. Known for its wide variety of flavored moonshines, the distillery is as much about the atmosphere as the drinks. Live bluegrass music often fills the air, and the staff keep tastings lighthearted and fun. With flavors ranging from classic white lightning to sweet concoctions like apple pie and peanut butter whiskey, it’s a place where even non-whiskey lovers can usually find something they enjoy.
For us, Old Smoky was one of the highlights of our trip. We joined a moonshine tasting, and it was both entertaining and educational—complete with jokes, stories, and of course, generous pours. We each gravitated toward different flavors, but the apple pie and blackberry stood out as favorites. The live music playing outside made it feel like a real Tennessee experience, not just a tourist stop. We left with a couple of jars, laughing about how many “samples” actually add up by the end of a tasting.
The Escape Room at The Island
Escape rooms have become popular everywhere, but at The Island, the Pigeon Forge Escape Game offers themes that feel unique to the area. Groups work together to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and beat the clock in immersive storylines like “The Great Smoky Mountain Cabin” or “Gold Rush.” It’s a fun challenge whether you’re with friends, family, or just looking for something different from the typical attractions.
We signed up for an evening game, and it did not disappoint. The puzzles were clever, the story engaging, and the whole setup felt immersive. Working together under the ticking clock added just the right amount of pressure, and we came so close to finishing in time. Or at least we like to tell ourselves that. While we didn’t quite “escape,” it was an absolute blast and gave us plenty to laugh about afterward.
The Old Mill Restaurant
The Old Mill Restaurant is a Pigeon Forge institution, serving up hearty Southern comfort food in a rustic, historic setting. Located alongside the historic grist mill that dates back to the 1800s, the restaurant emphasizes homemade, from-scratch dishes like biscuits, cornbread, fried chicken, country ham, and seasonal vegetables. Beyond the food, the charm comes from the views of the Little Pigeon River, the old mill machinery, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel like they’ve stepped back in time. It’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to taste authentic Appalachian cuisine while soaking in the region’s history.
During our stay in Pigeon Forge, we made a stop at The Old Mill Restaurant for a late lunch. The smell of fresh-baked bread and simmering gravy greeted us as soon as we walked in. We ordered a mix of fried chicken, and fried catfish along with the , and everything was cooked to perfection. The rustic decor and river views made it feel like a true Southern escape. It wasn’t just a meal; it felt like a full sensory experience of Pigeon Forge’s history and flavor. While the prices might seem a bit high, they include all the fixings and a refreshing glass of tea.
The Family
We packed up our trailer and headed out from NY with our Family incl,uding our pup. I am always amazed by how much we can get in with a extra-long weekend trip.
Dollywood Theme Park
Dollywood is Pigeon Forge’s crown jewel, a theme park co-owned by country legend Dolly Parton that blends thrilling rides, live entertainment, and Appalachian culture into one unforgettable experience. With roller coasters like Wild Eagle and Lightning Rod, family rides, water attractions, and plenty of shows, it’s designed to entertain guests of all ages. The park is also famous for its food—think giant turkey legs, BBQ, and that irresistible cinnamon bread from the Grist Mill.
For the family, Dollywood was pure magic. The kids were wide-eyed from the moment we walked in, bouncing from one ride to the next. While the big coasters were a thrill for the adults, the family rides and shows made sure everyone had something to enjoy. Lunch at the park was surprisingly good, and yes—we made multiple stops for cinnamon bread. The park was clean, well-staffed, and full of charm. Watching the kids experience their first big roller coaster ride was a memory we’ll never forget.
Mountain “Alpine” Coaster
The Mountain Alpine Coaster is one of the longest downhill coasters in the Smokies, giving riders the unique thrill of controlling their own speed as they twist and turn through the forested mountainside. Unlike traditional roller coasters, the alpine coaster puts you in the driver’s seat, letting you slow down or let it rip as you race to the bottom. It’s an experience that combines natural scenery with just enough adrenaline to make it unforgettable.
For our family, the alpine coaster was one of the highlights outside of Dollywood. The kids loved having control of their speed, laughing and screaming the whole way down. The parents enjoyed it just as much—it’s not often you find an activity that everyone, from kids to adults, can get equally excited about. We rode it more than once because one time just wasn’t enough. It was the perfect balance of thrill and accessibility, making it a standout in our Pigeon Forge adventure.
Summary
Pigeon Forge truly lives up to its reputation as a place where the Smokies meet Southern fun. From the cozy, welcoming vibe of Clabough’s Campground & RV Park to the bustling energy of The Island, it offers something for every type of traveler.
For us, the experience split along the lines of perspective. As DINKs, we gravitated toward moonshine tastings, live music, and the thrill of solving escape rooms together. As a Family, the excitement of Dollywood and the unique fun of the Mountain Alpine Coaster defined our days, while evenings back at the campground brought quiet moments and family time under the stars.
What makes Pigeon Forge so special is its ability to cater to both experiences seamlessly. Add in the Southern hospitality, the scenic beauty of the Smoky Mountains, and the endless list of attractions to choose from, and it’s easy to see why people keep coming back year after year. Whether you’re here for the rides, the music, the food, or just the chance to slow down and enjoy the mountains, Pigeon Forge delivers it all.
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