4 Fun Things to Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

One great feature of our downtown Gatlinburg condos is their location. They are walking distance to downtown Gatlinburg and about a 20-minute drive to Pigeon Forge. This makes it easy to enjoy all the fun attractions in both cities. Learn more about the area by exploring this list of 4 fun things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge:

1. See Marine Life at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a popular attraction in downtown Gatlinburg. It houses a variety of activities that bring visitors up close and personal with marine life. Step aboard the Glass Bottom Boat and see a whole marine ecosystem at your feet. Go to the Penguin Playhouse and watch a penguin waddle around and paint pictures with its feet. Learn more about all the creatures you see from the aquarium’s knowledgeable staff members. Some of them may even participate in live dive shows and teach visitors from behind the glass. With so many things to do, it’s safe to say that you’ll have a “jaw-some” time!

2. Go to the Gatlinburg Space Needle

Another one of the fun things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge is to go to Gatlinburg’s Space Needle. The bottom floor is home to the largest arcade in Gatlinburg, Arcadia. It is jam-packed with a collection of classic and contemporary games. Play them and redeem your tickets for fun prizes. To experience the best of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, ride to the top in a glass elevator and see stunning 360° views of the Great Smoky Mountains. Use the viewfinders on the observation deck for an even better look at the scenery, and make it an educational experience with the Higher Learning exhibits!

3. Experience the Dollywood Theme Park

The Dollywood theme park opened its gates in 1986 and has been a beloved Pigeon Forge tourist attraction ever since. Every visitor will find something fun to do. In the mood for a thrill? Ride popular roller coasters, such as the Wild Eagle. Sit under an eagle’s wings and see what it’s like to fly as you travel at speeds of up to 61 miles per hour. Along with roller coasters, the park also has more laid back rides, one of which is the Dollywood Express. This is an old-fashioned train ride through the Smokies. It has no height restriction, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the beautiful views! While you’re in Dollywood, be sure to check out some of the entertaining shows as well. Hear a cappella style singing, country music, and more!

4. See a Dinner Show

Pigeon Forge is known for their great dinner shows! Eat a delicious meal while watching an entertaining show. For example, at the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Feud, you’ll see two wacky families attempt to resolve their differences through songs, funny jokes, and daring stunts. Dolly Parton’s Stampede is another excellent dinner show in the area. You will love watching the four-legged stars of the show prance around the arena. There is also an aerial performance that includes an original song sung by Dolly Parton! It is no surprise that Dolly Parton’s Stampede is the “World’s Most-Visited Dinner Attraction”!
We hope you enjoy all of these fun things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge! Need more ideas for vacation activities? Check out our list of unique things to do in Gatlinburg!