Overview: Road Trip and Things To Do In Pigeon Forge TN
Just over the Western North Carolina/Eastern Tennessee border sets the town of Pigeon Forge. Located near the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pigeon Forge is an hour and a half drive away from Maggie Valley! If hiking the dense forest of the national park isn’t your thing don’t worry! This town has plenty to offer from local to major retail shopping, various restaurants, museums, live shows and the infamous Dollywood founded by the country queen Dolly Parton. Dollywood is home to roller coasters, amusement park rides, water slides, live music/shows, shops, and down home country fair. This two day itinerary is sure to be a blast during any season!
Day One: Road Trip and Things To Do In Pigeon Forge TN
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Meadowlark Lobby or Maggie Valley’s own Moo Mountain Bakery
Hours for Moo Mountain Bakery is 8am-3pm Wednesday-Sunday, Closed Monday-Tuesday. - Drive to Pigeon Forge: 1 hour and 35 mins via I-40
If needed pit stop at The Tennessee Welcome Center. The stop will be shortly after the Hartford exit (#447) 3116 Noble Way, Hartford, TN 37753. Information about various shows and venues for Pigeon Forge can be obtained at the center. - Shopping at Tanger Outlet Sevierville
1645 Parkway, #960, Sevierville, TN 37862 Phone: 865-453-1053
Shopping at Tanger Outlet Sevierville
Afternoon:
- Lunch and Shopping at The Island in Pigeon Forge
131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Phone: 865-286-0119
This entertainment center has over 18 restaurants to choose from; guaranteed to satisfy any taste. Shops in the complex range from local to major retail shopping.
Evening:
- Attend an Evening Show!
- Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show [Christmas Show in December]
Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show
119 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. Most show times are at 5:00p and 8:00p. For ticket information and show times inquires call 865-908-7469. The food is an all you can eat southern style chicken and fixings.
- Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede [Christmas Show in December] 3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. Most show times are at 6:00p and 8:30p. For ticket information and show times inquires call 865-453-4400 or 800-356-1676. Dietary modifications and handicap seating can be made available by calling above or prior to ordering your ticket via their website or by phone. The food is a southern inspired four course meal with whole chicken and fixings.
Non-Dinner Shows with Dinner Recommendations
- Smoky Mountain Adventures [Christmas Event Linkage on Event Page] 2713 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. Most evening show times are at 6:00p. For ticket information and show times inquires call 844-322-4400.
- The Smoky Mountain Opry [Christmas Event Linkage on Event Page]
The Smoky Mountain Opry
2046 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863. For ticket information and show times inquires call 865-428-7469
Discounted ticket pricing http://www.reservepigeonforge.com/ss/christmas-shows-in-pigeon-forge-tn
Dinner
- Dinner at JT Hannah’s Kitchen
3214 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Phone: 865-428-4200
Insider Tip: sign up for a J.T. Hannah’s reward card on their official website to get a free dessert on your first visit. Gluten free menus are available upon request.
Day Two: Road Trip and Things To Do In Pigeon Forge TN
Morning:
- Breakfast at the Meadowlark Lobby or Breakfast at Carver’s Maggie Valley Restaurant
Hours for the Maggie Valley Restaurant are 7am-3pm Monday-Tuesday, Wednesday-Thursday Closed, 7am-4pm Friday-Saturday. - Drive to Pigeon Forge: 1 hour and 35 mins via I-40
If needed pit stop at The Tennessee Welcome Center. The stop will be shortly after the Hartford exit (#447) 3116 Noble Way, Hartford, TN 37753. Information about various shows and venues for Pigeon Forge can be obtained at the center.
*Custom Driving Map/with directions.* goes here; redundant here? - Tour The Titanic Museum
2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Phone: 417-334-9500
Tickets inquires is available online, by mobile or just a call away.
Afternoon/Evening:
- Dollywood Amusement Park [Christmas Event Linkage on Event Page] 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 For information regarding tickets, accessibility or scheduled call: 800-365-5996
- Dinner and Shopping at The Island in Pigeon Forge
131 The Island Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Phone: 865-286-0119
This entertainment center has over 18 unique restaurants to choose from; guaranteed to satisfy any taste. - Insider Tip: Visit My Smokies offers free cancellation. If something happens and you can’t make it, you will receive your money back. For more information visit: http://visitmysmokies.reservedirect.com/da/dollywood-tickets-pigeon-forge
Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg Events
December
- Winter Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales
November 24, 2017 – December 16, 2017
Throughout the Holiday season, visitors of Gatlinburg can experience the festive season and traditions of the Winter Smokey Mountain and Tales. This event will be strolling through the town caroling, storytelling, dressed in festive outfits. Performances will take place DECEMBER 1-2, 8-9, 15-16
Downtown Gatlinburg, TN 37738 United States+ Google Map
- Winterfest Driving of Lights
NOVEMBER 07, 2017 – FEBRUARY 28, 2018
The lights of Winterfest is displayed from early November through the end of February throughout the town of Pigeon Forge. There are over 5 million lights shining during the driving tour. Throughout the tour, you will see displays of bear, deer, fox and other critters native to the Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge. A free Driving Tour of Lights brochure and map can be obtained at the Pigeon Forge Welcome Center or at the Pigeon Forge Trolley Office. You can also download the Driving Tour of Lights brochure and map here.
For more information please call ahead at these locations:
Pigeon Forge Welcome Center: 1950 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Hours: Monday – Saturday: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM Sunday: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM Phone: 865-453-8574
Pigeon Forge Trolley Office: 186 Old Mill Ave, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Monday-Friday 8:00 PM-9:00 PM Phone: 865-453-6444
- Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival
DECEMBER 1, 2017 until-JANUARY 1, 2017
Throughout the entire month of December at the Dollywood theme park celebrates its annual Smoky Mountain Christmas Festival. The entire theme park is transformed into a winter wonderland with remarkable holiday lights and seasonal displays. In addition to the theme park’s thrilling rides, guests will enjoy Christmas shows, holiday music, and the nightly event of the Parade of Many Colors. Dollywood will also have some extraordinary guests that children will certainly want to meet: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer along with his friends will be in attendance!
Where is the best place to see lights at the theme park?
The holiday decorations throughout the park are guaranteed to be sensational. The park’s very best lights can be found at the Timber Canyon section of the theme park. If you purchase a One-Day Ticket to the park and visit the theme park after 3 p.m., guests will granted admission to that park the next day.
- Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Show Schedule
DECEMBER 1, 2017-JANURARY 3, 2017
Tickets for these shows are available by phone or at the ticket booth upon entry to the park. Phone: 800-365-5996
Christmas in the Smokies
Location: Celebrity Theater at Dollywood
Dollywood’s annual musical Christmas tradition features a 14-member cast performance of hometown holiday favorites that celebrates the joy of the holiday season.
It’s a Wonderful life.
Location: Showstreet Palace Theater at Dollywood
Dollywood will perform a play bringing a classical Christmas story to life. Based on the unending holiday story of affection and kindness, audiences will love the newest addition to their Christmas season.
Appalachian Christmas
Location: Back Porch Theater at Dollywood
Celebrate an acoustic Christmas of authentic Appalachian mountain music at the Back Porch Theater with Appalachian Christmas.
Twas the Night Before Christmas
Location: Pines Theater at Dollywood
In this performance a family is helped by a Christmas miracle with the help of a mysterious, white-bearded stranger. Dancing and singing characters and a young girl’s belief in Santa highlighted this loveable tale.
O’Holy Night
Location: Valley Theater at Dollywood
A religious play connecting guests with the Christmas story of Jesus.
More fun Dollywood Christmas events you do not want to miss include:
Parade of Colors
Time: 8 p.m. nightly on operating days
Location: Showstreet at Dollywood
Occurring nightly throughout Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Event is the Parade of Many Colors. The parade will feature lively floats, interactive characters, live music, and more.
Rudolph and Friends
Location: Craftsman’s Valley at Dollywood
Operating days and hours vary; call ahead for more information.
Christmas shows/venues all month long:
- Hatfield & McCoy Christmas Dinner Disaster
119 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Most show times are at 5:00p and 8:00p
For tickets, pricing, show times: 865-908-7469 - Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Christmas Show
3849 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Most show times are at 6:00p and 8:30p
For tickets, pricing, show times: 865-453-4400 or 800-356-1676 - Christmas at the Smoky Mountain Opry
DECEMBER 1, 2017-DECEMBER-30, 2017
2046 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 for tickets and pricing: 865-428-7469 - The Titanic Museum Attraction’s Christmas and Winter Celebration
DECEMBER 1, 2017-JANURARY 3, 2017
Christmas at the Titanic Museum in Pigeon Forge is ornamented in Edwardian period. This venue displays the grand staircase replica and actual collected Titanic items from the wreckage. Christmas comes early to the Titanic Museum Attraction.
2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Phone: 865-868-1197
- Winter Ramp 2018
DECEMBER 30, 2017 – JANUARY 2, 2018
Winter Ramp is a Christian conference spanning three days dedicated to the passionate pursuit of Jesus. For more information about this event call the number below.
LeConte Center
2986 Teaster Lane Pigeon Forge, TN 37868 United States+ Google Map Phone: 865-429-7437
- New Year’s Eve 2017 Ball Drop & Fireworks Show
DECEMBER 31, 2017 – JANUARY 1, 2018
The town of Gatlinburg host it’s 2018 Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show around the intersection of Parkway and Historic Nature Trail located at the Space Needle late Sunday night, December 31, 2017.
Downtown Gatlinburg, TN 37738 United States+ Google Map
- New Year’s Eve at The Smoky Mountain Opry
DECEMBER 31, 2017 @ 8:00 PM
Start your New Year off right attending an award winning variety show in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. This venue will include watching the ball drop from NYC Times Square and dancing to a live band at the Smoky Mountain Opry Theater
The 2017 New Year’s Eve celebration at The Smoky Mountain Opry Theater begins with the show “Christmas at The Smoky Mountain Opry”™ at 8 p.m. on Sunday, December 31, 2017. The holiday spectacle will feature singers, dancers, ice skaters, aerialists, magicians and comedians during the live performance.
Smoky Mountain Opry 2046 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 United States+ Google Map Phone: 800-768-1170
- New Year’s Eve Celebration at The Island
DECEMBER 31, 2017 @ 10:00 PM
Ring in the New Year at The Island Pigeon Forge! After their widely successful event last year; its back with a night filled with entertaining activities. The event includes live music & plenty of family fun. The Island at Pigeon Forge New Year’s Celebration will conduct midnight countdown with fireworks. The best part is, it’s absolutely FREE by The Island! The fun packed night starts 10 pm so get there early to enjoy a full night of fun!
131 The Island Dr Pigeon Forge, 37863 United States+ Google Map Phone: 865-286-0119
JANUARY
- Wonderworks Sensory Nights
JANUARY 18, 2018 @ 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM • Admission: $10
WonderWorks is proud to host an evening event for children with special needs and sensitive disabilities. During this night, this computer modifies their displays for the guests in mind. On February 22nd parents, caretakers, family and children can attend the event for $10 at ticket.
WonderWorks
100 Music Rd Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 United States+ Google Map Phone: 865-868-1800
- Smoky Mountain Square Dance
JANUARY 26, 2018 – JANUARY 28, 2018
Advance package reservations required. More information to come.
Music Road Convention Center
303 Henderson Chapel Rd. Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 United States+ Google Map Phone: 1-855-421-0090
- Tennessee Winter Special Olympics
JANUARY 28, 2018- JANUARY 30, 2018
This annual Winter Games competition will gather athletes from around the Tennessee state as the strive for the gold in their respective sport. The Special Olympics Tennessee Winter Games will be held at Ober Gatlinburg. Over 150 athletes with intellectual disabilities will compete in Alpine Skiing, Snowboarding and Speed Skating in divisions based on age and ability.On Sunday night, the public and attendees are invited to witness the traditional Opening Ceremonies from 6:45 PM – 7:15PM at the Gatlinburg Convention Center. At the ceremony they will witness the March of Athletes, the Special Olympics Oath, a welcoming speech, and the presentation of the colors. The lighting of the Special Olympics flame will go on on January 29th morning at 9:00am at Ober Gatlinburg.
1001 Parkway #2, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Phone: 865-436-5423
February
- Wonderworks Sensory Nights
FEBRUARY 22, 2018 @ 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM • Admission: $10
WonderWorks is proud to host an evening event for children with special needs and sensitive disabilities. During this night, this computer modifies their displays for the guests in mind. On February 22nd parents, caretakers, family and children can attend the event for $10 at ticket.
WonderWorks
100 Music Rd Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 United States+ Google Map Phone: 865-868-1800
March
- Chuckwagon Cookoff Competition
MARCH 3, 2018 @ the Clabough’s Campground
Chuck wagon cook-off aid is a blast to the past. The competition held includes cash prizes for the most authentic wagon and awards in various food categories, including meat, potatoes, bread, beans and dessert. All food items are required to be prepared onsite and using ingredients provided at the scheduled event. Condiments may be used utilized at the cook’s preference. Prohibited ingredients are announced prior to the competition. For more information about this event visit: http://www.americanchuckwagon.org/index.html
Clabough’s Campground
405 Wears Valley Road Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 United States+ Google Map
- A Mountain Quiltfest
MARCH 20, 2018 – MARCH 24, 2018
Quilt Show and Vendor Hall Hours:
Wednesday, MARCH 22: 9:00 AM. – 5:00 PM
Thursday, MARCH 23: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday, MARCH 24: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday MARCH 25: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Enjoy yourself with the art and heritage of quilting at the 24th Annual A Mountain Quiltfest™. This event brings together quilters from all around the country to one event space for a wonderful quilting event. Artists and guests will have the opportunity to attend classes that are based on skill level and technique. Throughout the span of the event will be a quilt show that will display a variety of quilts for your observing pleasure. Quilters can choose between different categories from which they can enter their quilts to compete. The winners of the competition will go home with some great quilting prizes!
There will also be a display booths of vendors and related Quilt related crafts available for purchase.
The event venue will be held at the LeConte Center 2986 Teaster Lane Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, TN 37862 United States+ Google Map Phone: 800-251-9100
- Ponies in The Smokies 2018
MARCH 23, 2018 8:00 PM -MARCH 24, 2018 4:00 PM • $30
Ponies in the Smokies 2018 car show is held 108,000sqft of indoor venue. Inside visitors will be will exposed to vendors and special displays. Head on over the mountains of Tennessee and enjoy the beautiful Smoky Mountains and kick off the 2018 car show season right! Registration for this event will open at 9:00am on March 21st and will close at 3:00 PM on March 22nd. You may also register the morning of the car show. A ticket for the event gets you into Saturday’s cruise in for free along with three general admission passes. Awards will be given on Saturday at 3:00 PM at the cruise in.If you also wish to participate in the shine run on Wednesday & Thursday (March 21st and 22nd), you will need to purchase a shine run ticket. When you purchase the shine run ticket will receive a shine run card so you can participate in event’s run. If you choose not to buy a ticket for the car show online/by phone or if the event is sold out, you may purchase your ticket upon arrival to the show. This shine run ticket will also come with a general admission ticket and will enable you to have free access into Saturday’s cruise in.If you wish to only participate in the cruise in on Saturday March 24th there is a $10 entry fee due at the gate. The entry fee will include entry for car and driver. All travelers will be $5 each and children under 12 are free.Tickets for the event are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE. There are only 600 spots available for this event so don’t wait! Tickets can be purchased via https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ponies-in-the-smokies-2018-car-show-ticket-tickets-37035750928
Sevierville, TN 202 Gists Creek Road Sevierville, TN 37876 + Google Map
- Dollywood Festival of Nations
MARCH 17, 2017-APRIL 9, 2017
The Dollywood theme park welcomes the world during Festival of Nations event beginning on March 17. It is festivity of captivating multi-cultural celebrations presenting unique and traditional music, dance, food and art of nations from around the world. Festival of Nations intended to remind guests of the park of shared parallels of traditions while embracing unique, honored customs. Authentic international cuisine will be available daily including celebrations by visiting nations throughout the park. The Festival of Nations will provide guests with a chance to escape around the world without having to leave the heart of the Smokies. More information about scheduled shows will be announced.Operating days and hours vary; call ahead for more information.2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Phone: 800-365-5996
April
- Easter Sunrise at Ober Gatlinburg
APRIL 1, 2018
Gatlinburg’s Annual Easter Sunrise Service is Christian event enriched by the natural beauty of the Smokies. This event bring together community and its visitors at Ober Gatlinburg for a memorable worship service. It’s 40 minute mountain service will begin at 6:30 AM and will be led by local pastors of the Gatlinburg Ministerial Association. The offering collected during the service will be used by the Association in supporting those in need. Ober Gatlinburg will open to provide guests with free tram rides to the mountain top beginning at 5:30 AM and continuing at 15 minute intervals until the service begins at 6:30 AM. Complimentary parking is provided by Ober Gatlinburg for those who prefer to drive up the service. A breakfast buffet will be available at Ober Gatlinburg’s Seasons of Ober Restaurant from 7:15 AM until 10:30 PM.
1001 Parkway #2, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Phone: 865-436-5423
- Hands on Gatlinburg
APRIL 13, 2018 – APRIL 15, 2018
The 2018 Hands-On Gatlinburg Arts & Crafts Weekend connects artists with arts and crafts enthusiasts. It’s an opportunity to own and craft a unique piece of art. More than 15 studios in Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community will come together host a special event with over 40 different classes. The event will deliver guests the ability to learn how to craft their favorite art pieces from the professionals themselves. There will be plenty of do-it-yourself style classwork, from knitting to pastels, painting, jewelry-making, watercolor, scarf-making, weaving, pottery, crochet, woodworking, soap-making and so much more. Attendees will get to keep the items they make and display them alongside other coveted works of art. Classes for this event will be announced closer to event dates.
668 Glades Rd, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Phone: 865-621-0679
- Smokey Mountain Trout Tournament
APRIL 7, 2018-APRIL, 2018
The Annual Smoky Mountain Trout Tournament event is open to visitors of all ages. This tournament is challenging for both visitors and locals, with multiple categories to be scored in this largest trout tournament in the Smokies. All Gatlinburg and Tennessee fishing regulations will be observed during the event. For information, call 865-661-3474 or email rockytopoutfit@aol.com.
- Stronger Ladies Retreat
APRIL 9, 2018-APRIL 11, 2018
Stronger: The Journey, is a Christian event that will take a visitors on a whole-hearted trip to places you’ve rarely been. Openness is rare in ministries. Pain and “less than perfect” is the flagship for this beautiful woven tale of grace. The experience is raw, the struggle is real, and the storytellers are brutally candid. The path to freedom is unmistakable for these women. The tribunals are intense, but the road to freedom is walked, hand in hand, sisters leading sisters. They encounter mountains and rivers, but they stand victorious as an army of believers! Featuring the Crabb family and other guest groups. Scheduled night services are open to the public. Tickets are available at the door.
Music Road Convention Center
303 Henderson Chapel Rd. Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 United States+ Google Map Phone: 855-421-0090
- Dollywood Spring Music Series
APRIL 11, 2018-APRIL 29, 2018
Dollywood guests can expect performances by Dollywood entertainment alumnus and other musical artists.
Individual concert dates and show times will be announced at a later date.
Operating days and hours vary; call ahead for more information.
2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Phone: 800-365-5996
- Smoky Mountain Winefest
APRIL 14, 2018
Gatlinburg Smoky Mountain Winefest jumps the spring season in an eventful fashion. The event will offer wine aficionados a day of tasting the finest Gatlinburg’s culinary fare and Tennessee wineries. Winefest begins at 1:00 PM on Saturday and lasts through 6:00 PM. Sanctioned by the Tennessee Wineries Association, the highly efficacious event features wineries from across the state that provides samples of their labels along with small dish fare from the best restaurants in the heart of Smoky Mountains. Wine talks and food pairing demonstrations will be presented by the best sommeliers and top chefs that Tennessee has to offer all in one location.Visitors age 21 and older can purchase a ticket ($25 in advance and $30 at the gate) and receive a wristband for sampling and a branded wine glass. The wineries will provide wine samples of 1 oz at a time to everyone with a wristband. Guests will be able to purchase bottles of Tennessee wine to take home as well as wine-related merchandise . Tickets will be available online in early spring and will be available for purchase at the event. The event will be held at the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts
556 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Phone: 865-277-8989
- Smoky Mountain Fiber Arts Festival
APRIL 20, 2018 – APRIL 22, 2018
Bring your friends and family to a weekend of fun at the Smoky Mountain Fiber Arts Festival. Art activities will feature classes, educational demonstrations of spinning, weaving, needle-crafts, dyeing and even hands-on projects with children and adults. In addition, guests are encourage observe and interact the local artists at work with their fiber animal exhibitions and vending displays. There is no better place than Smoky Mountains to learn about fiber arts, craft supplies, groups, businesses and instructional resources. This event will take place at the Great Smoky Mountain Heritage Center.
123 Cromwell Dr Townsend, TN United States+ Google Map Phone: 865-448-0044
- Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage
APRIL 24, 2018-APRIL 28, 2018
As winter fades and the colors of spring blossom throughout the Smokies blossoms into the Great Smoky Mountain Association will host it’s 68th Annual Wildflower Pilgrimage. From APRIL 24-28, everyone from the professional botanist to the weekend gardener can experience an unprecedented access to some of the nation’s leading botanical experts as well as local Appalachian wildlife authorities. The Wildflower Pilgrimage dates back to 1951 and offers a wide range of programs including an array of instructional walks. Guided hiking tours will be available tailored to meet individual walking skill and ability, along with demonstrations and guest lecturers. These tours will showcase the abundant varieties of wildflowers, plants, ferns, mosses, trees and shrubs, as well as birds, reptiles and amphibians native to the Great Smoky Mountains.This event will be held at the W.L. Mills Conference Center & various venues in Gatlinburg
303 Reagan Drive Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Phone: 865-436-7318 ext 222
