There are plenty of things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for adults. Whether you're a couple of millenials out on a date night or a small group of friends on a weekend trip, you'll find that while many Pigeon Forge attractions are extremely family-oriented, there are just as many places to enjoy for adults of all ages. So leave the kids with a babysitter and head out on the town for an adults-only trip to the Smokies.
Do An Escape Room
One of our top recommendations for the best things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for adults is trying out an escape room. If you've never tried one before, you might think it's not for you - but we beg to differ! This is a uniquely fun endeavor that anyone who's ever enjoyed a scavenger hunt or a complex riddle will absolutely adore.
Escape Rooms
Play Mini Golf
Who doesn't love a little friendly competition? A round or two of mini golf in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge makes for a great date night activity or just a fun item to add into your weekend agenda. There are plenty of options on the parkway depending on your particular taste; we recommend checking out the top options in the link below.
Mini Golf
Sample Some Moonshine
This part of Appalachia has a lot of history of mountain men making moonshine deep in the woods of the Smokies. While prohibition hasn't been relevant in about 100 years, the legend of the 'shiners remains an important part of the Smoky Mountains region. Stop by one of our distilleries and sample some 'shine to see for yourself.
Moonshine
Visit A Smoke Shop
If you're up for trying a little more than moonshine, stop by the largest humidor in the Smokies at Smoky Cigar Smoke Shop. The shop carries a variety of pipe tobacco, hookahs, cigars and cigar accessories, as well as legal THC. They have two locations in Pigeon Forge and one in Gatlinburg, so stop by and tell them we sent you.
Smoky Cigar
Rent An ATV
A less obvious option for things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for adults involves something you might take for granted: a driver's license. If you're a car person, or maybe just feel like trying something new, or crave the wind in your hair on a beautiful day, consider renting an ATV and cruising the strip or visiting the national park.
Adventure Rentals
Axe Throwing & Pizza
Blow off some steam and throw an axe at a target with all your might. This exhilerating activity has really taken over in the area in the past couple of years, and with multiple places offering professional assistance, you really don't have an excuse not to try it. Maybe you're the odd one out who doesn't want to participate; kick back and relax with some delicious pizza and beer while your friends get to throwing.
Axe Throwing
Titanic Museum
Have you ever been inside the giant ship on the Pigeon Forge parkway? A visit to the Titanic Museum is truly a fascinating venture. The sinking of this glorious vessel in 1912 was one of the deadliest maritime disasters in human history, and this museum honors the legacy of the ship and its passengers in a respectful and informative manner. Grab a ticket in advance and see for yourself.
Titanic Museum
Alcatraz East
Another museum in Pigeon Forge that's great for adults is the one-of-a-kind Alcatraz East. This crime museum on the parkway explores American history from a different perspective with several unique galleries, interactive games, and temporary exhibits that change out periodically. If you're at all interested in true crime or forensics, you'll love this place.
Alcatraz East
Go For A Ride at The Island
We all know how much fun it is to spend a day at The Island in Pigeon Forge, but have you ever been on one of their rides? With the addition of five new rides in 2023, this place now has some amazingly fun options especially for adrenaline-seeking adults. Maybe just be sure to get dinner afterwards if you're planning on trying one of the spinny ones.
Rides At The Island
Try A Mountain Coaster
No matter how fast you want to go, a ride on a mountain coaster gives you complete control based on your own comfort level. This recent phenomenon in the Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg area is a fun activity at any time of the year. Go at your own pace and enjoy the surrounding scenery in a single or two-person cart.
Mountain Coasters
Have A Drink & Watch The Game
Want to have a day on the town without missing your favorite team play? There are plenty of sports bars and cool spots to find a seat at the bar and watch some sports. Most of these locations offer a killer menu for lunch or dinner as well. Make your date night complete at a rooftop bar, or sit on the patio and watch the Vols while you stuff your face with seafood.
Where To Watch The Game
Explore The Mountain Mile
Park the car and walk around at the coolest new place to wander in Pigeon Forge. The Mountain Mile Tower & Shops has tons of great shopping, dining, and free outdoor activities like cornhole, giant chess, and sitting around a fire pit. If you're brave enough, consider taking a ride on the Mountain Monster.
The Mountain Mile & Tower Shops
Take A Cooking Class
Learn the basics of Appalachian cooking through live demonstration classes at Smoky Mountain School of Cooking. Their new location in Gatlinburg offers a homestyle kitchen setting with expert instructors that are friendly and welcoming. The best part is you get to eat the delicious creation after completing your class!
School of CookingThis is really just a slice of options for things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for adults. Browse a complete list of things to do in Pigeon Forge or get more area-specific with our Gatlinburg attractions page. No matter the reason for your trip, you're bound to have a blast in the heart of the Smokies.
