Are you ready to explore the US’ favorite family vacation destination? Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is an outdoor-adventure seeker’s paradise. Each year, millions of people flock to this beautiful mountain town in the hillock of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
The rolling hills surrounding the city offer stunning vistas and plenty of opportunities for fun. The Southern cuisine and hospitality in the city’s restaurants and shops make visiting Pigeon Forge a great experience.
But before you visit, you must know a few tips. This blog post will provide you with some useful information that’ll make your stay in Pigeon Forge memorable.
Know the Best Time to Visit
Most travelers recommend planning for your trip to Pigeon Forge. Your research must include the best time to travel, the best places to stay, and the attractions you plan to visit. The city’s seasonal events should also be factored in as part of your plan.
Late March and early June is the perfect time to be in Pigeon Forge if you’re seeking pleasant weather and shorter lines for attractions. However, if you want to make the most of the festivals here, visit during the city’s Summerfest (June-August) or the Smoky Mountain Christmas festival (November and December).
Pick the Best Hotel
When it comes to finalizing the best Pigeon Forge hotel, you’ll want to consider the things that are important to you. Do you prefer a luxurious lodge or a cozy bed-and-breakfast? Or perhaps you want a hotel right on the Parkway, which offers easy access to all the sights and attractions. Also, if you’re traveling with kids, ensure the hotel has kid-friendly amenities and services. You might want an indoor pool, a game room, or a play area to keep them entertained.
Ask About the Group Discounts
Pigeon Forge has plenty of attractions that offer group discounts. So, if you’re visiting with family or friends and want to save money, ask about group discounts in advance. Most attractions will offer discounts for groups of 10 or more, so you can save a lot on admission fees. You can call the attractions directly or check their websites for more information. You can also search for group specials online to get some great deals.
Buy Attraction Tickets Online
Long waiting lines can be a major bummer! To avoid this, it’s best to book attraction tickets online in advance. You will save time and money. Many attractions have online ticketing systems, so you can easily purchase tickets to the places you plan to visit. You can either do it before heading to Pigeon Forge or while there. Most cabins offer a free Wi-Fi connection, so you can purchase tickets from the comfort of your cabin.
The Local Attraction Brochure has Coupons
Once you arrive in town, pick up brochures for the Pigeon Forge attractions at stands located near restaurants and other local attractions. The brochures usually have discounts ranging from a few percent to a Buy One Get One Free offer for tickets or treats at area businesses. You may even find a coupon for the creative cake shop on the Parkway if you’re lucky. Make sure you check the expiry date before using the coupons. Nothing hurts more than a missed deal.
Dollywood has an After 3 PM Deal
Dollywood is Pigeon Forge’s most popular theme park. It boasts thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, and plenty of entertainment. The Wild Eagle, Thunderhead, and Dollywood Express are the best rides here. The park is also home to seasonal events and festivals throughout the year. If you plan to visit Dollywood, take advantage of the After 3 PM discount to save some money on admission tickets. With this deal, visitors can return the next day for free. The offer is valid from March through October.
The Smith Family Dinner Show Offers Free Meals for the Kids
The Smith Family Dinner Show is one of the top-rated attractions in the city. Here, you can enjoy a hearty laugh, listen to great music, and have a delicious meal. If you’re traveling with kids, they offer free meals for children under 12. You only need to book your tickets in advance and mention that you need complimentary meals for the kids. Of course, there must be paying adults in the group to avail of this offer. Also, don’t forget to bring your camera so you can capture all the fun memories!
WonderWorks Allows Re-Entry on the Same Ticket
Most attraction spots in Pigeon Forge don’t allow visitors to leave and re-enter on the same ticket. However, WonderWorks is an exception. If you purchase a single ticket, you can use it to enter the building once and come back anytime during the same day. It is excellent if you want to grab a bite to eat outside and don’t want to bother with buying another ticket. Make sure you keep your ticket safe so you can return and finish exploring the museum.
When at WonderWorks, don’t forget to check out their fantastic laser tag arena. You must also take a glow-in-the-dark ropes course adventure and a simulated hurricane experience. It’s both fun and educational!
Afternoons are the Busiest
Since Pigeon Forge is a popular tourist spot, the area can get quite busy during peak season. Most attractions have their busiest time in the afternoons when the weather is hot. To avoid long lines and overcrowding, it’s best to visit the top attractions in the morning or late evening. You can also take a break and explore the city in the afternoon while everyone else is waiting in line!
Some spots are less crowded during weekdays, so you can always plan your visit accordingly. However, we recommend you check the attractions’ opening hours in advance to plan your days well.
Conclusion
Pigeon Forge never lets anyone leave dissatisfied. Whether it’s the adventure paired with affordable prices or the discounts you can get at local attractions, this city offers something for everyone. So do your research, plan your visits accordingly, and make the most of your time here. We recommend including festivals and seasonal events in your itinerary to get a real taste of the city.
