Insider Tips for Visiting Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge with Kids

Best Time of Year to Visit

Spring (April - June) and fall (September - October) are ideal for visiting the Smoky Mountains with kids. The mild weather and beautiful blooms or fall foliage make outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Navigating Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge

Gatlinburg is compact and walkable with fun attractions close together, while Pigeon Forge is more spread out and car-dependent. Plan your days accordingly, and prioritize attractions by location to avoid backtracking.

Parking and Transportation

Many kids' activities in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge offer free or low-cost parking. Gatlinburg also has a free trolley system that can save time and parking stress.

Saving Money on Attractions and Cabin Stays

Look for combo passes, online coupons, and seasonal deals for popular attractions. Booking cabins in Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg way in advance or during off-peak times can save hundreds of dollars, and choosing accommodations with kitchens allows for easy, cost-saving family meals.

What to Pack for a Family Trip

Bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for variable mountain weather, sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, rain gear, and a small backpack for day trips.

Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN with Kids

1. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Cross the longest pedestrian suspension bridge, complete with glass floor panels in the middle, at Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Our family especially loved experiencing it at night during the Lights Over Gatlinburg holiday event, where the bridge sparkles beneath a canopy of lights. The park also features the 1.5-mile SkyTrail, a scenic walkway that leads to an observation tower with panoramic mountain views, for a more relaxed experience.

Explore the treehouse playground at Anakeesta. 

2. Anakeesta

This immersive mountaintop park with a theme-park vibe offers rides, attractions, and dining. Explore the 50-foot-high Treetop Skywalk, race down the mountain coaster, tackle a dueling zip line, or let kids enjoy the Treehouse Adventure play area. Don’t miss the Astra Lumina light show, available year-round. Note: This park tends to be more crowded, and lines to get up and down the mountain can be long.

3. Ober Gatlinburg

This mountaintop attraction offers a more classic, nostalgic ski-resort experience with winter sports like skiing, snow tubing, and year-round ice skating and ice bumper cars. Other attractions include the Tennessee Flyer mountain coaster, an alpine slide, summer tubing, and wildlife encounters. Like Anakeesta, it has observation points and a zip line, but its charm is rooted in traditional mountain recreation.

4. Gatlinburg Space Needle

Look over Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains from the 407-foot observation tower of the Gatlinburg Space Needle, one of the most iconic Smoky Mountains activities for kids and families.

5. Rowdy Bear's Smoky Mountain Snowpark

Swing and soar above this snowpark and take aim at over 50 targets on the Ski Lift Shootout Coaster. Other attractions include tubing, axe throwing, and a snow coaster.

6. Wild Bear Falls Water Park

Some of the most family-friendly attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are right at the hotels, like this indoor water park at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort. Kids can splash around in the water regardless of whether it's hot or cold outside.

7. Ripley's Believe It or Not

Explore three stories of interactive exhibits at Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Don't pass up the fun and wacky photo ops!

Ride a moving, 340-foot glide path along the "ocean floor" at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies. Photo courtesy of the aquarium

8. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a family favorite and a must-visit if you like aquariums! Kids will especially love crawling through underwater tunnels to get an up-close view of the penguins.

9. Arcadia

Enjoy 30,000-square-feet of family entertainment complete with games, simulators, and activities at this 30,000-square-foot family fun center and arcade.

10. Hollywood Star Cars Museum

Take a photo with the Ghostbusters' Ecto-1 or the Dukes of Hazzards' General Lee Dodge Charger at this quirky museum that's especially cool for car lovers.

11. Ripley’s Motion Blaster

Feel the excitement as you experience movies like never before on this interactive motion-simulator ride.

12. Gatlin's Escape Games

Conquer a number of challenges in a race against the clock at this Gatlinburg escape room. If you have kids under 12, you'll need to book a private room!

13. Mysterious Mansion

This haunted attraction has been terrifying guests for over 40 years, but beware—it's not for the faint of heart!

14. Gatlin's Rugged Ropes Course

Adventure through more than 30 challenges at this ropes course, one of the most fun things to do with kids in the Smokies.

15. Hillbilly Golf

Ride an incline up a mountain to play a round of mini golf at this fun and unique course.

16. Ober Mountain Wildlife Habitat

If you don’t happen to see a bear just strolling around town, check out the rescued bears and bobcats (and meet Casper the albino raccoon) at this fun little zoo.

See artists at work at the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community. Photo by Anna Fader

17. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community

This community is a must-visit to find authentic Appalachian arts and crafts. Drive the eight-mile loop to meet the artisans and learn about their work. Meet third-generation broom-maker Jim Ogle at Ogle Broom Shop. At Cliff Dweller’s Gallery, shop from over 50 makers, take crafts classes, and enjoy kids’ activities.

18. The Village Shops

This shopping area in downtown Gatlinburg is designed to look like a quaint European village and offers dozens of small boutiques and dining. Stop by The Donut Friar for amazing, fresh donuts and Ole Smoky Candy Kitchen to watch the taffy machine and pick up some fudge.

Fun Things to Do in Pigeon Forge, TN with Kids

19. Dollywood

Thrill at the exciting rides and attractions at Dollywood, the mega theme park that carries the moniker of one of its owners, entertainer Dolly Parton. During our summer trip, my 12-year-old was on a mission to ride every coaster in the park, and loved every minute of it!

20. Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud

Pick a side and enjoy an all-you-can-eat southern feast at this hilarious dinner show.

21. Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud

This is another fun dinner show where your family can feast on an all-you-can-eat buffet while enjoying lumberjack stunts and laugh-out-loud comedy.

22. WonderWorks

Explore the Wonder Zones at this indoor amusement park, featuring six immersive discovery zones, laser tag, a 4D simulator, and an indoor ropes course.

23. Beyond the Lens!

This pop-culture-themed indoor entertainment spot features over 150 interactive exhibits that include virtual-reality rides, a hunt for Big Foot, games, photo ops, and more.

24. MagiQuest

MagiQuest is home to four exciting attractions, including pirate mini golf, a mirror maze, an arcade, and our favorite—the interactive magic-wand adventure. It is such a unique experience to wander through the castle, casting spells and unlocking hidden secrets along the way.

25. Old Time Photos

Capture your vacation memories in a fun, memorable way with an old-time photo experience! We loved dressing up and taking home this unique keepsake to remember our trip by.

No matter the weather you can play putt-putt at Crave Golf Club, which has both indoor and outdoor courses.

26. Crave Golf Club

Play a sweet round of miniature golf, with both indoor and outdoor courses, at this candy-themed golf club.

27. The Comedy Barn

Enjoy an evening of family-friendly laughs at the Comedy Barn, which features acts such as magicians, jugglers, ventriloquists, comedians, and more.

28. TopJump Trampoline Park

Kids can jump off some energy on a rainy day at this trampoline park, which also has an arcade, a ninja course, a stunt tower, and more.

29. Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

Set sail on a nautical journey at this interactive dinner show featuring full-size pirate ships, live animals, and a four-course feast.

30. The Track

Challenge your family to a go-kart race at this awesome venue tat features a three-level go-kart track. When your race is over, enjoy mini golf, bumper cars, kiddie rides, blaster boats, and an arcade.

31. Goats on the Roof

One of the most unique Smoky Mountains activities for kids, Goats on the Roof is always a highlight for us! Families can feed goats, mine for gems, play a round of mini golf, and take a ride on the Goat Coaster.

32. Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo

Kids can visit with hundreds of tropical animals—from sloths to armadillos to axolotls—at this great little zoo.

Older kids can create their own knives at Iron Mountain Metal Craft.

33. Iron Mountain Metal Craft

Wow the big kids by letting them forge their own knife at Iron Mountain Metal Craft. My husband, sons, and father had an amazing time creating their own knives; it was such a unique, hands-on experience!

34. Titanic Museum

Touch a real iceberg, walk a replica of the Grand Staircase, see authentic Titanic artifacts, and more at this interactive museum in Pigeon Forge.

35. Pigeon Forge Racing Coaster

Race through the mountains with your family on the only dual-track mountain coaster in the area. Fun fact: NASCAR driver BJ McLeod is part owner of this attraction!

36. Hollywood Wax Museum

Take photos alongside celebrity wax replicas at this wax museum, also home to a mirror maze, a virtual-reality game, and a haunted walk-through.

37. Dollywood Splash Country

Cool off from the summer heat at Dollywood's water park, featuring thrilling water slides, a wave pool, a lazy river, splash areas, and more.

38. Pigeon Forge Snow

Go snow tubing year-round at this indoor snow park. Our family had a blast racing down the slopes!

39. SkyLand Ranch

Bring the family to SkyLand Ranch for a fun-filled day of rides, miniature animal encounters, tasty food, and beautiful Smoky Mountain views.

40. Great Smoky Mountain Wheel

View the mountains from 200 feet in the air on this massive Ferris wheel.

See planes and military vehicles up close at the Tennessee Museum of Aviation.

41. Tennessee Museum of Aviation

Take your family on an exciting adventure at this aviation museum to explore real warplanes, military vehicles, and aviation exhibits. My teen, an aspiring pilot, loved seeing the planes up close!

42. Outdoor Gravity Park

Go zorbing! (Think: giant inflatable hamster ball.) Kids will thrill to roll down a 1,000-foot hill at the Outdoor Gravity Park.

43. Parrot Mountain and Garden of Eden

Explore acres of landscaped gardens and hundreds of birds at Parrot Mountain and Garden of Eden. You can even touch and feed the birds!

44. Dolly Parton's Stampede

Enjoy horse-riding stunts and musical productions alongside a four-course meal at this iconic Pigeon Forge dinner show.

45. Dig'n Zone Theme Park

Dig into fun a this unique theme park, where kids and adults can operate real construction equipment and enjoy exciting rides.

46. Toy Box Mini Golf

Try your hand on an 18-hole toy-themed mini golf course. When you're done, enjoy a laser maze, take photos with giant toys, and shop at the candy and toy shop.


Take in the beauty of the mountains at Great Smoky Mountains National Park.  

More Smoky Mountains Activities for Kids and Families

47. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Explore the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park, America’s most visited national park. We love discovering new trails, overlooks, and hidden gems each time we visit. Drive through historic Cades Cove, where you can spot deer, turkeys, coyotes, and even the occasional black bear. Take a leisurely hike up to Grotto Falls and walk behind the cascading waterfall, or swim next to a waterfall at Midnight Hole.

Visit the abandoned resort ghost town of Elkmont. On a clear day, see seven states atop the observation tower at Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome). We were amazed at how far we could see!

But you don't even need to leave your vehicle to take in the beauty of the Smoky Mountains. Take a scenic drive along the winding Roaring Fork Motor Trail or the Foothills Parkway. Tip: On the Foothills Parkway, don't miss Look Rock Tower Trail, a short and easy, all-seasons hike leading to panoramic views of the mountains. Also be sure to stop at the roadside waterfall known as The Sinks while driving through the park.

48. Zip Lining

Fly at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour through the mountains at Legacy Mountain Ziplines.

49. Horseback Riding

Go horseback riding through the mountains with Sugarlands Riding Stables.

50. Whitewater Rafting

Go whitewater rafting through the Smokies along the Pigeon River with Smoky Mountain Outdoors Rafting.

51. Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Climb aboard this historic railroad for a scenic excursion with views of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Nantahala National Forest, and more.

River tubing is a great summertime activity in the Great Smoky Mountains. 

52. River Tubing

During the summer months, float in a tube down the river with Smoky Mountain River Rat. We loved it this summer, and the kids had a blast at the jumping rock along the river! Pro tip: Wear water shoes!

53. Off-roading on a UTV

Embark on a UTV adventure through the Smoky Mountains. We loved the rugged trails, creek crossings, and stunning views at the top!

54. Guided Adventures

Smoky Mountain Guides makes it easy for the whole family to explore the great outdoors. From scenic hikes to backpacking adventures and kayaking trips, they offer guided tours for every age and skill level.

55. Fly Fishing

Learn to fly fish with a guided trout fishing adventure through Fly Fishing the Smokies.

56. Llama Riding

Take a guided tour of the mountains on a llama through Smoky Mountain Llama Treks.

Day Trips from Gatlinburg and Nearby Excursions

57. Blue Ridge Parkway — Nearby Smokies

Enjoy a scenic day trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway while taking in breathtaking mountain views and exploring overlooks.

58. Tuckaleechee Caverns — Sevierville

Explore Tuckaleechee Caverns and see an underground waterfall. Walking through the massive chambers felt like stepping into another world!

59. Zoo Knoxville — Knoxville

Enjoy one of the best wildlife experiences in Tennessee at Zoo Knoxville, where you can explore interactive exhibits and meet amazing animals like lions, river otters, great apes, and so many more.

60. Oconaluftee Indian Village — Cherokee, NC

Learn about Cherokee history, traditions, and culture through guided tours, seasonal shows, and dances, all set in a natural environment at Oconaluftee Indian Village.

Indulge in a famously giant cinnamon roll at Crockett's.

Great Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Restaurants for Kids

61. Crockett's Breakfast Camp — Gatlinburg

Indulge in a big breakfast at Crockett’s and be sure to order one of the famous cinnamon rolls. Tip: Join the waitlist ahead of time. It gets crowded, but it’s worth the wait. Our family loved starting the day with this delicious meal!

62. Applewood Farmhouse — Sevierville

Don’t miss the signature apple fritters at Applewood Farmhouse, and visit the on-site candy factory for another sweet treat.

63. Junction 35 Kitchen — Pigeon Forge

Junction 35 at The Mountain Mile is a kid-approved spot! After our meal, my kiddos had a blast in the play area and courtyard outside the restaurant, running around and letting off some energy. There's also a small train ride around the plaza.

64. Flapjack's Pancake Cabin — Multiple Locations

Order a bear-shaped pancake at Flapjack’s, which has three locations in Gatlinburg, one in Pigeon Forge, one in Sevierville, and one in Kodak.

65. Mama's Farmhouse — Pigeon Forge

Enjoy a family-style meal at Mama’s Farmhouse. Check out the outdoor play area for kids and yard games for all guests.

66. Big Daddy's Pizzeria — Pigeon Forge

Eat pizza and play arcade games at Big Daddy’s Pizzeria, one of the kid-friendliest Pigeon Forge restaurants for families.

Best Gatlinburg Family Cabins and Hotels

67. The Appy Lodge

The Appy Lodge is a family-friendly Gatlinburg hotel with updated rooms, free breakfast, indoor and seasonal outdoor pools, and complimentary downtown Gatlinburg parking for guests.

68. Elk Springs Resort Cabins

Elk Springs Resort offers luxury cabins in Gatlinburg and condos with one to six bedrooms in a private 68-acre setting adjacent to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

69. Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort

Families that stay at Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort may not even need to leave the grounds, as the resort offers several dining options, an indoor water park, a zip line, mini golf, and a spa.

Best Hotels and Cabins in Pigeon Forge for Families

70. Dollywood Resorts

Dollywood offers two resorts for families: DreamMore Resort & Spa and HeartSong Lodge & Resort, both with indoor and outdoor pools, Camp DW kids’ activities, and exclusive Dollywood theme-park privileges.

71. Little Valley Mountain Resort

Rent Pigeon Forge family cabins at Little Valley Mountain Resort, which features a swimming pool, mini golf, playgrounds, hiking trails, stocked fishing ponds, and more. Our family had a wonderful time relaxing in our cabin and enjoying the on-site amenities.

Kids will love the indoor and outdoor water parks at the Resort at Governors Crossing. Photo courtesy of Smoky Mountain Resorts

72. Resort at Governors Crossing

The Resort at Governor's Crossing offers condo lodging with amenities like indoor and outdoor water parks, a pirate playground, movie nights, and mini golf.

73. Wilderness at the Smokies

In addition to indoor and outdoor water parks, Wilderness at the Smokies has a family adventure center with a three-story ropes course, multi-level laser tag, blacklight mini golf, and a mega arcade.

Find the full list here: Best Pigeon Forge Hotels and Hotels in Gatlinburg, TN for Families

FAQ for Visiting Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge with Kids

Q: Is Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge better for families?
A: Both are great, but it depends on your travel style. Gatlinburg is compact and walkable, perfect for strolling, shopping, and easy access to the national park. Pigeon Forge is larger and more spread out, with more thrill rides, shows, and attractions geared toward families with a car.

Q: What is the best time of year to visit Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge with kids?
A: Spring (April - June) and fall (September - October) are ideal. The weather is mild, the scenery is beautiful, and there are fewer crowds compared to summer. Winter offers festive lights but can be cold, while summer is busier and HOT!

Q: Are there free things to do in Gatlinburg with kids?
A: Yes! Families can enjoy free activities driving Great Smoky Mountains National Park and getting out at scenic overlooks (you'll have to pay a $5 fee if you park your vehicle for more than 15 minutes), riding the free trolley, or strolling through downtown Gatlinburg to enjoy street performers and window shop.

Q: What Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge family cabins are best?
A: Look for cabins with multiple bedrooms, kitchens, and kid-friendly amenities like game rooms, hot tubs, and mountain views. Popular options include Cabins USA, Gatlinburg Falls Resort, and Smoky Mountain Cabins & Rentals, which cater specifically to families.

Q: How many days should I spend in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge with kids?
A: A five- to seven-day day trip is ideal for families, allowing time to explore both towns, enjoy Dollywood, and fit in outdoor adventures without feeling rushed.

Q: Is Dollywood good for young children?
A: Absolutely! Dollywood has dedicated “Wildwood Grove” and “Country Fair” areas with kid-friendly rides, shows, and interactive attractions suitable for toddlers and young kids, along with plenty of dining and shaded rest areas. There's even an indoor playground that little ones will love!

Photos by the author except where noted

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