Pigeon Forge, located in Tennessee, is a perfect destination for families looking for enjoyable activities that cater to all age groups. Whether you’re traveling with young kids, teenagers, or grandparents, the city offers a wide range of attractions that everyone can enjoy. From exciting amusement park rides to interactive exhibits, Pigeon Forge has something for every family member.
This guide focuses on the best family-friendly rides in the area, ensuring your trip is filled with fun and memorable moments. These rides are designed to be safe and entertaining for children, while still offering enough excitement for adults. Whether you’re exploring theme parks or outdoor adventures, Pigeon Forge provides a welcoming atmosphere for families to bond and create lasting memories. Let’s dive into the top rides that make Pigeon Forge a must-visit destination for families.
Dollywood Theme Park
Dollywood is one of the top family-friendly destinations in Pigeon Forge, offering fun for all ages. The park features a mix of rides, from gentle options like the carousel for little ones to thrilling roller coasters like Lightning Rod for older kids and adults. With over 50 attractions, there’s something for everyone.
In addition to rides, Dollywood is known for its live entertainment. Families can enjoy shows that highlight the music and culture of the Smoky Mountains. Seasonal festivals, such as the Harvest Festival and Smoky Mountain Christmas, add extra charm and activities throughout the year.
Before visiting, check the height requirements for rides to ensure younger children can participate. To save time, consider the TimeSaver Pass, which helps reduce wait times and lets you enjoy more attractions. Dollywood is a must-visit for families looking for a mix of adventure, entertainment, and Southern hospitality.
The Island in Pigeon Forge
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a top destination for families looking for fun and entertainment. With a variety of adventurous rides in Pigeon Forge, this spot offers something for everyone, no matter their age.
One of the main attractions is The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel. It provides stunning views of the Smoky Mountains and the surrounding area. The ride is smooth and relaxing, making it perfect for all ages.
For those seeking adventure, the Island Ropes Course is a great choice. This multi-level course is designed for different skill levels, so both kids and adults can enjoy it. It’s a fun way to challenge yourself while staying safe.
Another highlight is The Island Show Fountain. This water and light show is set to music and is a hit with visitors of all ages. The fountain’s colorful displays and synchronized movements create a magical experience.
Here are some tips to make the most of your visit:
- Consider the Unlimited Rides Pass if you plan to enjoy multiple attractions. It’s a cost-effective option for families.
- Visit in the evening to see The Island lit up with beautiful lights. The atmosphere is especially enchanting at night.
The Island in Pigeon Forge is a must-visit for families. With its mix of rides, activities, and shows, it’s a place where everyone can have a great time.
Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is one of the most popular family-friendly rides in Pigeon Forge, offering fun for all ages. What makes this ride unique is that you control the speed. If you’re a thrill-seeker, you can zoom down the track, but if you prefer a slower pace, you can take it easy and enjoy the ride. This flexibility makes it perfect for families with different comfort levels.
As you ride, you’ll be surrounded by stunning mountain views. The track winds through the scenic Smoky Mountains, giving you a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the area while having fun. It’s a great way to combine adventure with relaxation.
For an extra special experience, try riding at night. The track is lit up after dark, creating a magical atmosphere that’s completely different from the daytime ride. It’s a must-try for visitors looking for something unique.
Before you go, keep in mind the age and height requirements. Children must meet specific criteria to ride alone, but younger kids can still enjoy the coaster by riding with an adult. This ensures everyone in the family can join in on the fun.
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is a top choice for families visiting Pigeon Forge. It’s exciting, scenic, and suitable for all ages, making it a memorable experience for everyone. Don’t forget to add this ride to your itinerary!
Anakeesta
Anakeesta is one of the top family-friendly attractions in Pigeon Forge, offering fun activities for all ages. Located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, it combines adventure, nature, and relaxation into one unforgettable experience.
Start your visit with the Chondola Ride, a unique way to reach the summit. You can choose between an open-air chairlift for a breezy ride or an enclosed gondola for a more relaxed journey. Both options provide breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Once at the top, explore the Treetop Skywalk, a series of suspended bridges that let you walk through the forest canopy. It’s a peaceful yet exciting way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. For a bit more thrill, try the Rail Runner Mountain Coaster, a single-rail coaster that takes you on a fast-paced ride down the mountain with stunning views along the way.
Families with younger kids will love the gem-mining activity. It’s both fun and educational, allowing children to sift through dirt to find colorful gemstones.
When it’s time to eat, Anakeesta has several dining options. The mountaintop restaurants offer delicious meals with panoramic views, making it a perfect spot to relax and refuel.
Insider Tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and make the most of your time. Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s plenty of walking involved.
Anakeesta is a must-visit for families looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation in Pigeon Forge. With activities for all ages, it’s a destination that everyone will enjoy.
WonderWorks
WonderWorks in Pigeon Forge is a top family-friendly attraction that combines fun and learning for all ages. With over 100 interactive exhibits, it offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit spot for families.
One of the main highlights is the Interactive Exhibits. These hands-on displays cover a wide range of topics, from space exploration to natural disasters. Kids and adults alike can enjoy experimenting with science in a fun and engaging way.
For those seeking a bit of adventure, the Indoor Ropes Course is a thrilling option. This glow-in-the-dark course is perfect for older children and adults, offering a mix of challenges and excitement. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, don’t miss the **6D Extreme Motion Ride**. This multi-sensory experience combines motion, sound, and visuals to create an unforgettable ride.
Here are some insider tips for you:
- Socks Required: Some activities, like the ropes course, require socks, so make sure your kids are prepared.
- Plan for Several Hours: With so many exhibits and activities, you’ll want to spend at least a few hours exploring everything WonderWorks has to offer.
WonderWorks is a great choice for families looking for a mix of education and entertainment. Its variety of activities ensures that everyone, from young kids to adults, will have a memorable experience. Make sure to add it to your Pigeon Forge itinerary!
Flyaway Indoor Skydiving
Flyaway Indoor Skydiving offers a unique experience where visitors can feel the thrill of freefall without jumping from a plane. Using a vertical wind tunnel, this attraction creates strong air currents that lift participants into the air, simulating real skydiving. It is open to anyone aged five and up, making it a great activity for families looking for adventure in a controlled environment.
Before entering the wind tunnel, all participants receive training from certified instructors. They provide safety tips, demonstrate body positioning, and guide flyers through the experience. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, instructors ensure that everyone feels comfortable and confident before taking flight.
Insider Tips for the Best Experience
- What to Wear: Comfortable clothing and lace-up shoes are recommended to ensure ease of movement. Loose items like jewelry should be removed before entering the tunnel.
- Booking in Advance: Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Flyaway Indoor Skydiving is a fun and safe way to enjoy the excitement of skydiving with the whole family. It’s an experience that combines adventure with safety, making it one of the must-try activities in Pigeon Forge.
In a Nutshell
Pigeon Forge is a perfect destination for families looking for fun and excitement. With a variety of rides and attractions, there is something for everyone, no matter their age or adventure level. From the stunning views on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel to the twists and turns of the Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster, every experience offers a unique way to enjoy this lively town. If you prefer something interactive, attractions like WonderWorks provide a mix of entertainment and learning for kids and adults alike.
For those who love high-speed thrills, go-kart racing and water rides offer plenty of excitement. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, scenic chairlifts and train rides provide a chance to take in the natural beauty of the area. With so many options, planning a family trip to Pigeon Forge is easy and enjoyable.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a longer stay, these family-friendly rides ensure that every moment is filled with fun. Gather your loved ones, explore the attractions, and create memories that will last for years to come.