A Record-Breaking Year: Pigeon Forge Vacations Are at an All Time High
If you love vacationing in Pigeon Forge, TN, you’re not alone! According to a recent report from Local 8 News in Knoxville, tourism in one of our favorite Smoky Mountain cities is at an all time high. More people are taking Pigeon Forge vacations than ever before, with amusement park revenue up by 16 % from last year, restaurant revenue up by 20%, and lodging revenue up by 24%.
Here at Visit My Smokies, we are thrilled to hear that Pigeon Forge is attracting so many new and returning visitors! Let’s take a look at what makes Pigeon Forge one of the Southeast’s top family vacation hubs.
Dollywood and Other Amusement Parks
The number one attraction in Pigeon Forge is indisputably Dollywood. Envisioned and operated by Smoky Mountain native Dolly Parton, this one of a kind theme park is known for thrilling rides and incredible music shows. With 2.5 million annual visitors, it is safe to say that Dollywood is doing more than its fair share to bring folks to Pigeon Forge. During the warmer months, Dollywood’s Splash Country water park is also a hugely popular place to cool off and have some fun.
In addition to Dollywood, Pigeon Forge is also home to a number of smaller amusement parks and rides that provide plenty of thrills without the big ticket price. Bear Country Fun Park and The Track both offer exhilarating go-kart racing, wet and wild bumper boats, and special kiddie rides for young vacationers. Families on Pigeon Forge vacations have also been flocking to the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, a totally unique ride through the mountains.
Outdoor Adventures Abound
Located just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pigeon Forge is one of the most naturally beautiful places in the entire country. While the national park provides seemingly endless opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and fishing, you can also have a great outdoor adventure without leaving the county limits.
The Pigeon Forge area is home to a number of great zipline courses where you can whizz through the mountains at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour! Horseback riding is another popular activity in the region, with a variety of excellent riding stables minutes away from the center of town. Visitors who are looking for a more low key way to enjoy the great outdoors will love strolling around Patriot Park and Old Mill Square on a sunny afternoon.
Dinner Theaters Galore
Another thing that makes Pigeon Forge unique is its variety of family friendly dinner shows. When you spend an evening at these world class theaters, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal and fantastic entertainment. Watch history’s most famous feuding families have it out at the hilarious Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show, see unforgettable horseback riding tricks at Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede, or become a super sleuth at the Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Show. No matter which show you choose, you’re in for a real treat!
Hundreds Upon Hundreds of Places to Stay
There is certainly no shortage of places to stay for Pigeon Forge vacations! The area is filled with cabin rentals, chalets, condos, and campgrounds. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family reunion, you are guaranteed to find the perfect lodging for your escape in the Smokies. To start planning your trip, check out our complete listing of Places to Stay in Pigeon Forge.
