What Is Famous About Pigeon Forge?

Overview of Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge is a mountain resort city located in Sevier County, Tennessee, in the southeastern United States. It is located just 5 miles north of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is nestled along the Little Pigeon River with the mountains forming the background and city skyline.

Pigeon Forge has a rich history dating back to the late 18th century when the first settlers began arriving in the area. According to the History of Pigeon Forge, settlers first reached the area around 1788 when it was still governed by North Carolina. The city got its name from an iron forge built along the Little Pigeon River around 1820 by Isaac Love. The forge was referred to as the “Pigeon Forge” and the name stuck for the developing town.

Today, Pigeon Forge is a major tourist destination in Tennessee and is primarily known for being home to Dollywood, the Titanic Museum, dinner shows, and abundant shopping outlets. The beautiful natural surroundings of the Smoky Mountains combined with man-made attractions draw over 11 million visitors annually. While tourism dominates the local economy today, Pigeon Forge maintains its heritage as a mountain community.

The Great Smoky Mountains

Pigeon Forge is located right next to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most visited national park in the United States. The park received over 14 million visitors in 2021, making it the second busiest year on record.

The Smokies, as they are affectionately called, span over 500,000 acres of forestland and showcase the diverse ecology of the Appalachian region. Visitors come from all over to hike the 800 miles of trails, observe wildlife, fish, camp, and take in majestic mountain views.

The town’s proximity to the national park is a huge draw for tourists. Many visitors stay in Pigeon Forge lodging while exploring the wonders of the Smokies during the day. The peak visitation months are June, July and October when the fall foliage colors the landscape.

Dollywood

Dollywood is a large theme park located in Pigeon Forge that is owned by famous country singer Dolly Parton. It originally opened in 1986 and has been a major attraction in the Smoky Mountains ever since. According to the park’s About Us page, Dollywood entertains over 2 million visitors annually, with attendance increasing 160% since it first opened.

Some of Dollywood’s most popular rides and attractions include roller coasters like Lightning Rod, Wild Eagle, and Thunderhead. The park also has traditional theme park rides like the carousel, Ferris wheel, and Drop Line tower. In addition to rides, Dollywood offers lively musical shows and entertainment throughout the day across its theaters and stages. The park’s flagship attraction is Dollywood’s Splash Country water park, which contains thrill slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and more.

Dollywood stands out with its Appalachian theme that celebrates the culture and spirit of the Smoky Mountains region. The park contains hearty southern cuisine, talented craftsmen demonstrating their work, and numerous shops filled with locally-made items. Its friendly charm and connection to Dolly Parton make Dollywood a special destination for families and country music fans visiting Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountains.

Titanic Museum

One of the most famous attractions in Pigeon Forge is the Titanic Museum. This half-scale replica of the infamous ship contains over 400 artifacts recovered from the wreckage at the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Titanic Museum attraction is designed to look like the actual Titanic, complete with a bow, grand staircase, bridge, and first-class suites. Guests can take a self-guided tour to view the artifacts and interactive galleries that tell the story of the Titanic’s fateful maiden voyage in 1912.

Some of the rare artifacts on display include passenger luggage, the ship’s whistles, floor tiles, and even an iceberg. The exhibits recreate what it was like to be a passenger onboard, featuring the famous grand staircase and common areas.

This innovative museum provides an immersive Titanic experience that makes you feel like you’re walking the decks of the real ship. It’s a poignant look at one of the most legendary tragedies in modern history. The Titanic Museum is one of the most unique attractions that put Pigeon Forge on the map.

Dinner Shows

Pigeon Forge is home to many exciting dinner shows that provide entertainment along with a hearty meal. Two of the most popular dinner shows in Pigeon Forge are Dolly Parton’s Stampede and Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud (https://www.mypigeonforge.com/where-to-eat/dinner-shows/).

Dolly Parton’s Stampede is a fan favorite, providing a fun competition between the North and South with horse riding stunts, special effects, and music while guests enjoy a four-course feast. This dinner show highlights the friendly rivalry between the two sides and is very family-friendly (https://www.dollywood.com/shows/).

Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud depicts the famous feud between the rival Hatfield and McCoy clans. Guests root for their chosen side while enjoying a three-course meal and entertainment featuring singing, dancing, comedy, and stunts. With its vaudeville style acts and hillbilly hijinks, this dinner show provides lots of laughs for audiences (https://www.mypigeonforge.com/where-to-eat/dinner-shows/).

Both of these popular dinner shows provide a memorable evening of food and entertainment that highlights the culture and charm of Pigeon Forge.

Outdoor Activities

Pigeon Forge is surrounded by the awe-inspiring Great Smoky Mountains, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures. From hiking trails to white water rafting, there are plenty of ways to experience the beauty of nature while getting your adrenaline pumping.

Some of the most popular outdoor activities in Pigeon Forge include:

• Hiking – With over 800 miles of hiking trails, Pigeon Forge is a hiker’s paradise. Popular trails include the Clingmans Dome Trail, Alum Cave Trail, and Chimney Tops Trail.
• Whitewater Rafting – Raft down the Pigeon River’s Class III-IV rapids for an exhilarating ride. Outfitters like Rafting in the Smokies provide guided tours.
• Ziplining – Glide through the treetops on ziplines like the ones at CLIMB Works and SkyWild Mountain Adventure Park.
• Horseback Riding – Take in mountain views on guided trail rides from stables like Smoky Mountain Horseback Riding.

The scenic natural surroundings also make Pigeon Forge ideal for more relaxing activities like scenic drives along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. With so many ways to experience the outdoors, Pigeon Forge is a paradise for adventure seekers.

Shopping

Pigeon Forge is home to many large outlet malls and shopping centers where visitors can find great deals on brand name items. The biggest outlet mall is the Tanger Outlets Sevierville, which has over 100 brand name stores including Nike, Coach, Michael Kors, Under Armour, and more. Shoppers can find deals up to 60% off every day.

Other popular outlet malls in Pigeon Forge include the Pigeon Forge Outlet Mall, which has stores like Bass Pro Shops and Belk, and the Smoky Mountain Premier Outlets, home to stores like Crocs, Carters, and Calvin Klein. In addition to the large outlet malls, Pigeon Forge also has many large shopping centers and strip malls with a variety of stores and restaurants.

With tax-free shopping and so many stores to choose from, it’s no wonder shopping is one of the most popular activities for visitors in Pigeon Forge. The outlet malls and shopping centers offer great deals on clothes, shoes, accessories, gifts, souvenirs, and more.

Restaurants

Pigeon Forge has an incredibly diverse array of restaurants, with something to suit every taste and budget. From down-home Southern cooking to upscale steakhouses, you’ll find it all here. Many restaurants embrace the Smoky Mountain theme, like the Old Mill Restaurant, located inside an operating 19th century-style grist mill. Their menu features regional specialties like chicken and dumplings, country-fried steak, and blackberry cobbler.

For a more upscale dining experience, check out the Local Goat, which serves creative twists on classic American fare focusing on locally-sourced ingredients. You’ll also find plenty of familiar chain restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe, plus favorites like pancake houses, BBQ joints, burger spots, and more. With over 200 eateries located throughout Pigeon Forge, you’re sure to find something appetizing during your Smoky Mountain getaway.

Cabins

Pigeon Forge is known for its wide variety of cabin rentals, which serve as popular lodging options for vacations in the Smoky Mountains. The town offers hundreds of cabins ranging from rustic, cozy retreats to luxurious, amenity-filled getaways. Cabins typically feature wooded settings and mountain views, providing a secluded experience surrounded by nature. Many cabins have amenities like hot tubs, fireplaces, game rooms, and swimming pools. The cabin rentals are ideal for families and groups who want extra space, privacy, and a “home away from home” feel on their vacation. Companies like Cabins in Pigeon Forge and Pigeon Forge Cabin Rentals offer options ranging from cozy 1 bedroom cabins to expansive luxury retreats sleeping 20+ people.

Events

Pigeon Forge hosts numerous popular annual events throughout the year that attract visitors from across the country. One of the most popular is the Rod Run Car Show held each April, which features over 4,500 classic cars on display along with live entertainment and vendors. The city also hosts the Winterfest celebration from early November through February, featuring over 5 million Christmas lights, a parade, and other holiday activities.

Other notable annual events include the Summer Craft Fair showcasing over 200 artisans in July, the Patriot Festival with military tributes and fireworks over Labor Day weekend, and the Songwriter’s Festival in October honoring the roots of country music. Several Scottish heritage events occur annually as well like the Smoky Mountain Highland Games and the Robert Burns Supper & Celebration.