Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are great destinations for enjoying the Smokies at a comfortable pace. From scenic drives and easy-to-access attractions to live entertainment and local shopping, there are plenty of ways to experience the area without feeling rushed. Whether it’s taking in the mountain views, enjoying a dinner show, or browsing shops around town, it’s easy to plan a trip that feels both enjoyable and stress free.
Drive The Cades Cove Loop
Cades Cove Loop Road is one of the most well-known scenic drives in the Smokies, offering an easy way to take in mountain views, open fields, and historic cabins along the way. The 11-mile loop is fully drivable, with plenty of pull-offs where you can stop, take photos, or just enjoy the scenery. It’s a relaxed way to experience the park at your own pace, with frequent opportunities to spot wildlife and explore without needing to hike.
Cades Cove Loop
Eat At Mama’s Farmhouse
Mama’s Farmhouse serves traditional southern meals family style and all-you-can-eat. Get a taste of true southern Appalachia when you gather around the table and pass bowls of delicious homemade classics like hand breaded fried chicken, dumplings, sweet potato casserole, green beans, and so much more.
Mama’s Farmhouse
Hang Out At The Island
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a great spot to slow things down and enjoy plenty of things to do. You’ll find live music throughout the day, the popular fountain show set to music, and plenty of seating to relax and take it all in. The area is fully paved and easy to get around, with restrooms available throughout. There’s also a free tram from the nearby parking lot, making it simple and convenient to visit without the hassle of finding a spot right at the entrance.
The Island in Pigeon Forge
Country Tonite Theatre
Faith, family, and freedom: that’s what Country Tonite Theatre is all about. A show at this theater includes singing, dancing, comedy, gospel, and so much more. Pigeon Forge is stacked with entertaining dinner shows for everyone!
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Take a Guided Tour of The Smokies
Pink Jeep Tours offer a comfortable and easy way to explore the Smokies without having to drive yourself. Sit back and enjoy the views as a knowledgeable guide takes you through some of the area’s most scenic spots, sharing local history and insights along the way. It’s a great way to see more of the mountains, learn about the area, and enjoy the experience at a relaxed pace.
Book A Tour
Moonshine & Wine Tasting
Moonshine and wine tasting is a fun and easy way to experience a local favorite in the Smokies. With multiple tasting rooms across the area, it’s a great way to sample a variety of flavors at your own pace. For an even more relaxed experience, the VIP Rocky Top Wine Trail tour offers a guided tasting with a shuttle, so you can sit back and enjoy without worrying about getting around.
Wineries in Pigeon Forge Distilleries in Pigeon Forge
Visit A Museum
Whether you feel like walking down the grand staircase at the TITANIC Attraction, or exploring American history from a different perspective at Alcatraz East Crime Museum, you will find plenty of interesting walkabouts to choose from here. If you’re traveling with kids, we recommend WonderWorks.
Museums
Go For A Picnic
A picnic is a great idea especially if you’re visiting the Smokies with family, particularly grandkids. Some are even directly adjacent to some wonderful swimming holes, making this excursion double the fun for anyone craving to cool off during a hot Tennessee day. There are 5 wonderful picnic areas in Gatlinburg as well as several others scattered throughout the Smokies.
Picnic Areas
Go For A Smoky Mountain Hike
The Gatlinburg Trail is one of the most accessible ways to enjoy the Smokies on foot. This mostly flat, easy-to-follow trail runs alongside the river, making it feel more like a relaxing walk than a hike. With convenient parking at Sugarlands Visitor Center or near the trailhead off River Road, it’s an easy stop to add to your day. You can go as far as you’d like and turn around whenever you’re ready, making it a simple and enjoyable way to take in the scenery at your own pace.
Gatlinburg Trail
Ride The Trolley
The Pigeon Forge trolley system is an easy and convenient way to get around town without having to drive. With free parking at trolley lots and an all-day pass for just $3.00, it’s simple to park once and explore attractions, shops, and restaurants along the Parkway. Trolleys run throughout the day and into the evening, and all are handicap accessible with lift-equipped entry for wheelchairs and mobility aids, making it a stress-free option for getting around.
Trolley InfoThe Smokies are easy to enjoy when you take things at your own pace. With a mix of views, attractions, and local experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy along the way.
