Families come from far and wide to vacation in the Smokies. For East Tennesseans, it’s easy to spend the afternoon, the day or even longer exploring the practically endless number of activities in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. There’s something for just about everyone! Knoxville Moms has compiled a list of over 100 things to do for families. Some of these may be obvious (hello Dollywood!), but we guarantee you’ll find some hidden gems. We hope we can help you spend some special family time in the Smokies!
100+ Family Fun Things to Do in the Smokies
Pigeon Forge
Dollywood 2700 Dollywood Parks Boulevard Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 1-800-DOLLYWOOD
Spanning 160 acres in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood offers more than 50 rides and attractions. Dollywood has received more awards than any other theme park in the world for its live entertainment. In 2020, Dollywood was ranked the #8 theme park in the world and the #6 theme park in the U.S. based on traveler reviews by TripAdvisor users. In addition to mouth-watering, Southern-style food offered throughout the park, Dollywood hosts several of the South’s largest festivals with special performing groups and concerts. The park operates mid-March to January. More information is available at Dollywood.com.
Named America’s Must-See Waterpark, Dollywood’s Splash Country features a variety of water slides and attractions—from mild to wild. Dollywood’s Splash Country features an 8,000-sq.-ft. lagoon-style leisure pool; the state’s tallest twin speed slides; a multi-level interactive play structure; a 25,000-sq.-ft. wave pool; multi-mat racer slides; as well as a relaxing lazy river. Available for rental, Riverside and Waterside Retreats offer privacy and luxury. The waterpark operates mid-May to Labor Day; visit Dollywood.com for operating hours.
For great entertainment combined with a delicious meal, there are three great choices in Pigeon Forge: Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, and the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud. If your family is looking for an exciting lineup that includes amazing equestrian acts, friendly competition, foot-stomping music, comedic fun and a four-course feast, Dolly Parton’s Stampede is the perfect choice. There are unique experiences to be made around every corner, led by the show’s 32 magnificent horses. If you want a uniquely-exciting and daring adventure on the high seas during your mountain visit, join the fun and fearless crew of characters that is Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show. Combine a four-course pirate feast with the thrill of sword fights, beautiful mermaids gracefully performing high above the water, and enjoy a couple of castaways that include a “Salty” sea lion. The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud combines side-splitting comedy, musical acts with sensational singing, dancing and mountain clogging, and it all starts with an all-you-can-eat feast. From start to finish, the feud is action-packed with “battles” of musical talents and dozens of crazy diving stunts in the 24-foot deep swimming pool that is part of the show set. More information at www.dinnershowtickets.com.
The Comedy Barn Theater offers families an evening of fun and laughter combining the talents and antics of magicians, comedians, ventriloquists, and jugglers. Lovable animals take the stage for more family fun, while live country and gospel music as well as Smoky Mountain clogging also take center stage for a variety show with memorable performances that everyone in attendance will enjoy.
Filled with “clean comedy” for every member of the family, this wholesome show literally is non-stop with a variety of comedic talent and musical entertainment for an evening of family fun and unending laughter. This award-winning family comedy variety show has been Pigeon Forge’s Funniest Show for more than 25 years. Show times and reservations are available by calling (865) 428-5222 or visiting comedybarn.com.
Experience the beauty of the Smokies in an all-new way with PINK Jeep Tours in Pigeon Forge. Ride in a custom Jeep on one of several 2-3-hour excursions through some of the most breathtaking scenery in and around Great Smoky Mountains National Park – it’s an amazing adventure no matter what the season! On the Newfound Gap tour, the main attraction is its stunning views, offering up-close stops near streams and lookouts for great photographs. Or enjoy an informative drive through historic Gatlinburg and a photo stop at a scenic overlook, while learning how Great Smoky Mountains National Park came to be and why it is the most-visited national park. Another tour features the breathtaking beauty along the Foothills Parkway, touted by many as “the prettiest drive in America.” Enjoy the scenic drive from Wears Valley to Townsend, one of three “gateways” to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and view the park’s highest points. Each tour concludes with a thrilling 4×4 off-road adventure to finish off a breathtaking experience. Relax and experience the great outdoors and leave the driving to PINK Jeep Tours on your next Smokies getaway. More information is available at the Pink Jeep tour website.