Planning a trip to Pigeon Forge and looking for things to do with a toddler? We've put together a helpful list of ideas to help get you started. Ranging from popular attractions in Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg to simple and free activities that the family can enjoy together, this collection of fun things to do with a toddler in Pigeon Forge is sure to help you plan your vacation.
The Track
Located on the Pigeon Forge parkway, The Track goes beyond a go kart track. They have tons of fun activities for toddlers including the red baron airplane ride, a carousel, spinning tops, swings, a miniature ferris wheel, and a train that takes your little ones around the premesis.
The Track
Ripley's Aquarium
Marvel at all ocean creatures without ever getting wet at this amazing and educational aquatic world in downtown Gatlinburg. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is a great attraction for young children to enjoy the sights and sounds of sea creature life, or even have some hands-on exploration fun at the discovery center, one of the best things to do with a toddler.
Ripley's Aquarium
TopJump Toddler Zone
The trampoline arena at TopJump may be extreme, but the facility offers safe fun for all ages - including the little ones. Their Toddler Zone is like a "VIP experience" for younger guests. It has an exclusive open jump area, foam pit, blocks, and more. No big kids allowed!
TopJump
Eat At Mama's Farmhouse
Kid's under 5 years old eat free at Mama's Farmhouse! Featuring delicious southern cooking served in family style portions, this southern Appalachian gem is a treat for all ages. Harken back to a time when folks gathered around the table and passed bowl after bowl of homemade goodness in the spirit of family, fellowship, and healing.
Mama's Farmhouse
Pigeon Forge Snow
You may have already heard of the country's first indoor snow facility right here in Pigeon Forge, but did you know that Pigeon Forge Snow offers other fun classic winter activities that younger children can enjoy? Visit the snowplay area where guests can build snowmen and make snow angels. There is even a second level where parents can watch their children while they get a snack or beverage.
Pigeon Forge Snow
Frizzle Chicken
The cafe at Frizzle Chicken Farmhouse includes over 100 wacky singing animatronic chickens who will serenade you with all your favorite songs while you enjoy your meal. Customers of all ages enjoy the friendly atmosphere, and who doesn't love the menu of classic Southern favorites? Located conveniently on the Pigeon Forge parkway right next to the Comedy Barn Theater.
Frizzle Chicken
Anakeesta
There is so much to do at Gatlinburg's Anakeesta. While adults and older kids might opt in for the mountain coaster or zipline, toddlers can enjoy the Treehouse Village playground area or even gem mining, complete with an interactive waterfall and sluice. When they tire out, everyone can cool off in the Splash Pad's geysers in Black Bear Village.
Anakeesta
Big Rock Dude Ranch
Take the kids to Big Rock Dude Ranch and enjoy the free petting zoo. The petting zoo includes goats, ponies, rabbits, llamas, emus, chickens, ducks, peacocks, geese, and birds of all shapes and sizes. You can also purchase a bag of feed for $3 and feed the animals.
Big Rock Dude Ranch
Feed The Ducks At Patriot Park
One of the best things to do with a toddler in Pigeon Forge is feed the ducks at Patriot Park. While the city discourages feeding them bread, you can purchase some duck feed nearby at the Old Mill General Store. Patriot Park doesn't include a playground, but has a nice large green grassy area with a walking path. It's a great place for an afternoon picnic.
Parks & Rec
Take A Stroller Friendly Hike
Hiking can seem like a daunting task with a toddler. Don't stress- there are stroller friendly hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains that will make it easier for you to get outdoors and get some fresh air. These trails are considered accessible for strollers because they are flatter and more leveled. Check one out on your next trip.
Stroller Friendly Hikes
Watch The Fountains At The Island
Your kids will love The Island's state of the art dancing fountain. This one of a kind display of water and light performs 14 different choreographed musical presentations with over 89 vertical nozzles and a geyser that shoots water 60 ft. in the air. The fountain puts on its performance at the top of every hour between 10 am & 11:30 pm every day of the week.
The Island
Visit A Park With A Playground
Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the surrounding areas have several great parks that are great for young children. Wear Farm City Park (off Wears Valley Road) has a playground with activites great for 2-3 year olds. From TripAdvisor: "Great clean park! My 2 year old loved it." We also recommend the new Mt. Ton of Fun Inclusive Playground with play equipment that addresses all 5 developmental domains.
Parks & Rec
Sugarlands Visitor Center
Learn a little bit about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park at the Sugarlands Visitor Center. You little kids will love looking at the nature exhibits up close. The Sugarlands Visitor Center also offers a free 20-minute video about the park and ranger-led programs offered seasonally. A fun thing to do with a toddler is to head over to the nearby Gatlinburg Trail and experience a “hike” and see some of the historic cabins and waterfalls.
Visitor Centers
Hotels With Water Parks
A great way to spend time with your family on vacation is at a hotel with a water park. Many of these hotels will also offer areas designed for younger children who may not be able to swim. Splash pads, kiddie pools and more are available. Check the amenities of each hotels to make sure there is something perfect for your kid.
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