Planning a trip to Pigeon Forge? Whether you’re going for a day, a weekend, or a full three-day getaway, you’ll love exploring this beloved mountain town. With family-friendly activities, local eats, amusement parks, and outdoor adventures, Pigeon Forge has something for everyone, but it can be hard to know what you should do when you have limited time.
Instead of getting overwhelmed while deciding where you should visit, check out our one-day, two-day, and three-day Pigeon Forge itineraries to help you plan your trip!
1-Day Pigeon Forge Itinerary
Perfect for: Day-trippers or short stops through the Smokies
In the Morning
- Eat at Sawyer’s Farmhouse Breakfast: Start your day off with a hearty Southern breakfast at this locally loved spot. Known for their fluffy pancakes, crepes, and scratch-made biscuits, Sawyer’s is a great spot to enjoy Southern cooking before your day of adventure. It fills up fast on weekends, so get there early or be ready for a short wait.
- Visit the Titanic Museum and/or Hollywood Wax Museum: The Titanic Museum offers an immersive journey through history, complete with actual artifacts from the ship and interactive exhibits that rotate throughout the year. Plan on 60-90 minutes to see it all without rushing. For pop culture lovers, the Hollywood Wax Museum features life-like statues of your favorite celebrities, making it a hit for kids and adults alike.
In the Afternoon
- Check out nature in the Smokies with a UTV rental: WildSide’s UTV tours give you a chance to see the Smokies up close. It’s a thrilling way to explore mountain trails and hidden scenic routes — don’t forget sunglasses and a bandana for the ride! Tours run about 90 minutes and take you through rugged terrain up to Raven’s Den, where the views open up over the whole valley. Guides lead the way, so you don’t need any off-roading experience to hop in and go. If you’re short on time, this is the one adventure to prioritize on a single-day trip. It’s the fastest way to feel like you’re truly immersed in the mountains.
In the Evening
- Go to The Island for rides, games, and fun: The Island in Pigeon Forge is an entertainment complex featuring a giant Ferris wheel, arcade games, laser tag, bumper cars, and live music. It’s a great way to end a quick trip on a high note. The Ferris wheel lights up after dark and gives you a solid view of the Parkway, so it’s worth timing your visit for sunset if you can.
- Eat dinner at the Island: With a range of restaurants, from casual to sit-down, The Island has something for every family. Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen is a favorite for its hearty Southern comfort food and family-style dining. Expect a wait during peak season, so make sure to put your name in before you hit the rides.
2-Day Pigeon Forge Itinerary
Perfect for: Couples, families, or groups with limited time
Day 1: Adventure Day
In the Morning
- Breakfast at Reagan’s House of Pancakes: Start your day with a hearty meal at Reagan’s House of Pancakes, a local favorite offering a variety of breakfast classics. Their all-you-can-eat buffet features pancakes, eggs, bacon, and more, making it a perfect spot for families looking to fuel up before a day of adventure.
- Race Go-Karts at Xtreme Racing Center of Pigeon Forge: Hit the gas at one of the fastest tracks in town. This attraction offers high-speed fun that kids and thrill-seeking adults will love. Multiple track options mean everyone in the group can find their speed, from junior racers to the adults chasing the fastest lap. It’s a quick stop, so it’s an easy way to kick the day off with some adrenaline before the bigger adventures ahead.
In the Afternoon
- Grab a sweet treat at Chocolate Monkey: On your way to WildSide, swing by this Parkway favorite for homemade fudge or one of their giant caramel apples, loaded with candy, chocolate, and nuts. It’s a quick, easy stop to grab something sweet before you dive into the afternoon’s adventure.
- Go ziplining at WildSide: Soar above the trees on WildSide’s MegaZip course, the longest zipline in America, and see the Smokies in a whole new way. The ride spans nearly 5,800 feet with speeds up to 55 mph across four side-by-side lines, so if you’ve got a friend or family member with you, you can race them the whole way down. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, check out the adventure park’s mountain biking and UTV rentals, too.
In the Evening
- Dinner at Timberwood Grill: Located at The Island, this rustic-style restaurant offers hearty American fare and is perfect for winding down after a busy day. The wood-fired dishes and cozy lodge-style dining room make it an easy place to sit back and let the day’s adrenaline wear off before you’re back on your feet exploring.
- Visit The Island: Catch the Island Show Fountain’s light display or enjoy a relaxed stroll through the shops. Looking for something more active after dinner? The Island has plenty of games, rides, a ropes course, and even an arcade!
Day 2: Relaxation Day
In the Morning
- Breakfast at Old Mill Restaurant: Nestled by the Little Pigeon River, this historic spot offers Southern-style breakfasts with stunning views and homemade grits. The 1830s gristmill sits right next door, so grab a table by the window and watch the water wheel turn while you eat.
- Shop at The Old Mill: This charming district is home to artisan shops, candy stores, and pottery studios. Give yourself an hour or two to wander since it’s easy to lose track of time browsing handmade goods and watching potters work the wheel. When you’re done exploring and shopping, grab lunch at Pottery House Cafe for a laid-back midday meal.
In the Afternoon
- Visit Parrot Mountain and Gardens: Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and meet colorful parrots up close. It’s a peaceful, vibrant experience perfect for families. Plan on an hour to wander the pathways and let the kids get hands-on with some of the friendlier birds.
- Explore local museums: For a dose of local culture, check out the Alcatraz East Crime Museum, the Titanic Museum, and the Elvis Presley Museum. Each one runs about an hour, so pick one or two depending on how much downtime you want built into the day.
In the Evening
- Dinner and a show at Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud: Wrap up your trip with a lively evening of singing, dancing, and comedy as the Hatfields and McCoys attempt to settle their differences mountain-style. While you watch, feast on an all-you-can-eat Southern homestyle meal featuring fried chicken, pulled pork, mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, and Granny’s special dessert.
3-Day Pigeon Forge Itinerary
Perfect for: Families or travelers who want a balance of thrill and nature
Day 1: Nature Day
In the Morning
- Breakfast at Mel’s Classic Diner: A nostalgic 1950s-style diner serving generous portions and fast, friendly service. It’s conveniently located near WildSide, so it’s an easy first stop before you head that way. The retro counter seating and classic diner fare make it a fun way to kick things off, especially if you’ve got kids excited for the adventure ahead.
- Outdoor adventures at Wildside: Choose from UTV tours, mountain biking, or ziplining at Wildside’s adventure park. It’s a great way to kick off your trip with some adrenaline-fueled fun. With three ways to explore 900 acres of mountain terrain, you can match the pace to your group. Go all-in on one activity or sample a couple if you’ve got the morning to spare.
In the Afternoon
- Lunch at Smokies Cuban Cafe: After you’re done with your mountain adventures, grab lunch at Smokies Cuban Cafe. This local gem offers flavorful Cuban sandwiches, coffee, and tropical fruit shakes. If you plan to head to the national park afterward, get your food to go and have a picnic in the park.
- Hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Ready to see the Smokies in all their glory? The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-visit for anyone who loves the outdoors. Try the easy Laurel Falls Trail for a kid-friendly waterfall hike, or take on the more strenuous Alum Cave Trail if you’re up for a challenge. Both trailheads are a straightforward drive from Pigeon Forge, so you’ll have plenty of afternoon left to explore once you arrive.
In the Evening
- Dinner at Local Goat: Known for its craft burgers and locally sourced ingredients, the Local Goat is a comfortable place to relax after a long day. The laid-back patio and hearty menu make it an easy spot to sit back and swap stories about the day’s adventures.
- Grab a local brew: There’s almost nothing better than a cold one after a long day of exploring and adventuring in the Smokies. Check out Smoky Mountain Brewery, which offers a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere with handcrafted beers brewed on-site.
Day 2: Anakeesta Day
In the Morning
- Breakfast in Gatlinburg: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Pancake Pantry on historic Parkway. Their made-from-scratch pancakes and mountain-fresh eggs will fuel everyone for a day at Anakeesta.
- Arrive at Anakeesta: Aim to park or take the free Gatlinburg Trolley to the Anakeesta entrance by 9:30 AM so you can be among the first to board the all-glass Crystal Express Gondola up to AnaVista Mountain Village. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, a light jacket (it can be cooler at elevation), and sunscreen.
In the Afternoon
- Explore Tree Canopy Adventures: Challenge yourself on Anakeesta’s Treetop Skywalk, the longest tree-based skywalk in North America — 880 feet of hanging bridges suspended 50-60 feet above the forest floor. Keep an eye out for a bear on the ground below or a woodpecker in the branches nearby. For a different kind of view, climb the 86 steps up AnaVista Tower for 360-degree panoramas of the Smokies, with glass floor panels that let you peer straight down into the gardens 60 feet under your feet.
- Lunch with a View: Dine at Cliff Top Grill & Bar, perched atop the mountain. Choose from gourmet salads, burgers, or flatbreads while overlooking panoramic views of the Smokies.
- Fun & Games:
- Dueling Ziplines: Race a friend on parallel courses down the hillside.
- Gem Mining: Kids will love panning for “gems” in the Creekside Mining Sluice.
In the Evening
- Sunset Stroll & Shopping: Head to Black Bear Village for artisan souvenirs and a relaxed atmosphere as the sun starts to dip. Gather around the fire pit, grab a sweet treat or a cold brew, and soak in the music and energy as friends and families wind down together. Golden hour light over the mountains makes for some of the best photos of the whole trip.
- Dinner at Clifftop Restaurant: Head to Clifftop, located right in Black Bear Village, for an elevated dinner featuring mouth-watering steaks, gourmet burgers, signature salads, and savory appetizers, followed by a house-made dessert if you’ve got room. Pair it with a local craft beer or something from the full bar while you take in sweeping views of Mt. LeConte and the Smokies.
- Astra Lumina: As night falls, wrap up the day with Astra Lumina, Anakeesta’s Enchanted Night Walk Amongst the Stars, the first experience of its kind in the U.S. Wander through illuminated pathways, projections, and music that transform the mountainside into something otherworldly. It’s the perfect way to close out a big day before heading back down the mountain.
Day 3: Zoo and Fun Day
In the Morning
- Sleep in after a big day at Anakeesta: Take it slow, or for early birds, walk the scenic Riverwalk Greenway—a paved, tree-lined trail that runs alongside the Little Pigeon River. It’s an easy, low-key way to stretch your legs after two adventure-packed days before you settle into a more relaxed final day.
- Brunch at Brick and Spoon: Located near the zoo, Brick and Spoon is a Southern-style brunch spot that serves up elevated classics like stuffed French toast and shrimp & grits.
In the Afternoon
- Visit Rainforest Adventures Zoo: With over 130 species of tropical animals and interactive exhibits, Rainforest Adventures Zoo is a fun and educational stop for families. Get up close with sloths, reptiles, and big cats, and don’t skip the hands-on feeding experiences if you’ve got kids along for the ride. Expect to spend between one and two hours at the zoo, depending on how long you linger at each exhibit.
- Late lunch at Big Daddy’s Pizzeria: Just a few minutes from the zoo, this spot is loved for its wood-fired pies and quick service. It’s an easy, no-fuss stop to refuel before you head into the evening’s activities.
In the Evening
- Mini-golf at Crave Golf Club: This top-rated mini-golf destination features indoor and rooftop courses with candy-themed holes, perfect for kids. If your kids are Scooby-Doo lovers, go mini-golfing at Scooby-Doo! Mystery Putt for a themed round with a mystery-solving twist. Both courses are indoors, so it’s a great pick even if the weather turns on you.
- Dinner at Blue Moose Burgers & Wings: Affordable, casual, and packed with variety, Blue Moose Burgers & Wings is a great way to close out your trip. The relaxed vibe and big menu make it easy for everyone in the group to find something they’re happy with, whether they’re ready for a big finish or just want something simple.
FAQs About Visiting Pigeon Forge
How many days do I need in Pigeon Forge?
A day trip covers the highlights, but two to three days gives you room for both the adrenaline stuff and the slower, scenic side of town without feeling rushed.
Where should I stay in Pigeon Forge?
Pigeon Forge cabins are the go-to for many travelers, offering privacy and rustic charm with modern comforts. You’ll also find plenty of hotels and resorts along the Parkway for easy access to attractions.
How do I get around Pigeon Forge without a car?
The Pigeon Forge Trolley covers the Parkway and connects to Gatlinburg, with fares around $1 per ride or $3 for an all-day pass. It’s a budget-friendly way to skip Parkway traffic and hop between attractions without needing a car for every stop.
Is Pigeon Forge affordable?
Yes. Between free scenic hikes, low-cost museums, and public parks, there’s a lot to do without spending much. Cabins and group lodging also help bring the cost per person down for families and groups traveling together.
Is Pigeon Forge good for kids?
Yes. Interactive museums, go-karts, mini-golf, and family-friendly adventure parks give kids plenty to do at every age.
Make WildSide a Part of Your Pigeon Forge Itinerary
When you plan to visit Pigeon Forge and love outdoor adventures, don’t forget to visit WildSide. Our adventure park offers thrilling outdoor experiences perfect for families, couples, and groups. Whether you’re ziplining through the treetops, exploring our trails with a rental UTV, or trying out mountain biking, it’s a can’t-miss adventure spot in any Pigeon Forge itinerary.
Learn more about WildSide’s adventure park today! If you’re ready to book your day at WildSide, check out our ticket options.