There’s no doubt the unique things to do in Pigeon Forge are unlike anything else you’ll find in the USA. This country mountain city has exciting amusement parks, dinner shows, immersive museums, and epic scenic destinations, making it the ideal destination for any traveler — whether on a solo journey, friends getaway, or family trip.
So come along ya’ll, the best moonshine tasting, Southern delicacies, entertainment centers, and natural sceneries await you deep in the Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge, Tennesse.
Unique Things to Do in Pigeon Forge
Here are some of the most truly unique things to do in Pigeon Forge that are more unusual or especially cool!
Indulge in Tennessee’s Famous Moonshine and Wine on a Tour
Wine and moonshine flow in the Tennessee Mountains, but it’s not so easy to visit all the best destinations without a driver (after all, moonshine is, well… strong). Luckily, local guides know this, and are not only willing to help you get around, but also want to bring you a one-of-a-kind Tennessee tasting experience.
Along with your local guide on tour, meet local crafters, learn about the process and culture behind Tennessee’s famous alcohols as well as prohibition history, and, of course, indulge in each sip doing one the must unique things to in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg TN.
The tour below includes multiple distilleries and wineries with transport and tasting for less than $70. What a steal!
Watch Rival Families Duel it Out at the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show Fued
Feast on a Southern menu of fried chicken, corn on the cob, mashed potatoes, and more home-style cooking while witnessing one of the running feuds in history play out live on stage! With daring stunts, comedy, live music, and dancing, this dinner show is a must-see in Pigeon Forge!
And don’t worry, if you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free, you can request a meal to suit your needs so you don’t have to skip out on the fun. Check out the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show Fued here.
Browse the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum
We suppose there has to be a museum for everything, right? And here, one of the weirdest things to do in Pigeon Forge is heading to the Salt & Pepper Shaker Museum to check out their collection of more than 20,000 salt and pepper shaker sets.
With such a vast collection, from cat shakers to NASA shakers, you might even be inspired to upgrade your set back home. In fact, the $3 entry into the museum also goes towards $3 off a set for their store, so you can take home a new set with you!
Uncover Sunken Memories in the World’s Largest Titanic Museum
If you’re a Titanic fanatic or simply interested in history, the Titanic Museum is a must-see, as it houses the world’s most extensive collection of Titanic artifacts. Inside the museum, you can enjoy immersive experiences such as “diving” down to the wreckage site and climbing the replica grand staircase.
The museum’s founder, with a love and passion for the Titanic, has done everything to bring guests a fun, thought-provoking, and one-of-a-kind experience to learn about the Titanic. Be sure to grab your tickets ahead of time to reserve your space!
Glide Among the Tress on an Alpine Coaster
Nestled in the Aplines just outside Pigeon Forge are some mountain thrills fun for everyone. Believe it or not, there are multiple alpine coasters around Pigeon Forge – the Great Smoky Alpine Coaster and the Rocky Top Alpine Coasters! Both are well-loved by riders.
The Great Smoky coaster is the longest downhill track in the United States that will take you through over a mile of the Alpine Mountain Forest, giving you a unique tour through the trees (no hiking required!) As a rider, you control the coaster’s speed, so don’t worry; there will be no wild coasters on the loose!
Experience Snow in the South at Pigeon Forge Snow
If you’re like me, you don’t want to live somewhere with snow, but every once in a while, you miss having access to all the fun snowy weather brings, such as snow tubing! Or maybe you’re not like me and love living with snowy weather — regardless, one thing I hope we can agree on is snow tubing is a blast! And rain, shine, or snow — whatever the weather, Pigeon Forge Snow is open year-round, so you can get the thrill of snow tubing any time of the year.
Fun fact: Inside, the temperature is 60-70 degrees, so there’s no need to bring any winter gear — bring yourself and your inner child! There’s even a snow play center, so when you’re done tubing, you can kick off a good ol’ snowball fight!
Get Patriotic at the Dolly Parton Stampede
Dolly Parton fan or not, this Dolly Parton Stampede dinner show is fun for a date night or the whole family! Witness epic horse stunts and aerial performances, all while indulging in a four-course meal (with dessert, too, of course!) Come early before your reserved time and stroll along the horse walk to meet the horses that perform in the show
Buy all the Cat-Themed Souvenirs at the Smoky Mountain Cat House
Cat lovers unite, and the Smoky Mountain Cat House! Stop in, browse some of the best cat-themed merchandise, and even pick up some goodies for your furry baby back home, such as cat nip or playthings.
With over 30 years in business, the Smoky Mountain Cat House is one of the most unique things to do in Pigeon Forge, TN, when strolling the local shops and when you miss your cat from home (hint: they have a cat here, of course!)
Roll through the Smoky Mountain Hills on a Jeep Tour
When you want an exciting adventure but don’t want to do all the planning work, a jeep tour through the Smoky Mountains has got you covered! A local guide will be sure to give you thrills, views, and interesting information about the history and fauna of the area.
Plus, since there are tours that only last a few hours, you can spend your morning or afternoon exploring the mountains with plenty of time to spare for other cool things to do in Pigeon Forge.
Hop on the Redneck Comedy Tour Bus
Now this might be one of the most unusual things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg TN — hopping on the Redneck Bus comedy tour through the Smoky Mountains! Laugh along with your guide as you tour through the area and make a moonshine-tasting stop!
Ya’ll know it wouldn’t be a redneck tour without some moonshine! Known as one of the best tours in Pigeon Forge, it’s not only a great way to get to know the area, but also to experience local culture and comedy.
View Historic Crime Artifacts at the Alcatraz East Crime Museum
The Alcatraz East Crime Museum is an interactive, in-depth look into the penal system, famous criminals, the justice system, and everything crime and justice-related. The museum is even home to Ted Bundy’s VW Bug, and the Bronco OJ Simpson drove during his infamous televised car chase. If you’re a true crime fan, museum lover, or interested in the darker side of humanity, don’t skip this unusual thing to do in Pigeon Forge, TN.
Hang with the Birds at Parrot Mountain & Gardens
Parrot Mountain and Gardens boasts hundreds of exotic birds, sprawling gardens, and even a cabin that groups can stay the night in as one of the most unique places to stay in Tennessee. Let your senses be tingled with the smell of flowers, the sounds of birds, and the beautiful views all around.
To put the cherry on top, guests can interact with and even feed these beloved and beautiful animals. As Parrot Mountain takes in rescued and injured birds, giving them a home, you can take your contribution further beyond your entrance fee and sponsor a bird.
Rev your GoKart Engines at the NASCAR SpeedPark
A day at the NASCAR SpeedPark is a day of go-karting with a twist! Voted at the number #1 GoKarting hot spot in Pigeon Forge multiple times, it’s a must-go for thrilling NASCAR-themed fun. Start your mini-NASCAR engine and select one of many tracks, some suited for cautious drivers and some to speed demons.
Golf in the Hills at Hillbilly Golf
Calling all mini-golf fans! While Hillbilly Golf is actually located in Gatlinburg, if you enjoy a creative mini-golf course, add this one to your bucket list! Hillbilly Golf is a mountainside golf course with a lift to the top, where you’ll begin your Tennessee mini-golf mountain adventure, shooting golf balls around the hills. It’s a great date idea or family fun activity to find yourself at when in Pigeon Forge!
Learn to Knife-Smith at Iron Mountain
A visit to Iron Mountain is one of the most unique things to do in Pigeon Forge, where you bring home an excellent souvenir and also learn a cultural craft.
With the goal of preserving the tradition and art of black and knife-smithing, guests can sign up for a class and forge a knife from a horseshoe, railroad spike, or ponyshoe. This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Pigeon Forge you’ll never forget.
Snag Some Unique Goodies at the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community
There’s no better way to support the creative local community and find unique items to bring home than visiting the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. With an imprint in the community of Gatlinburg for over 80 years, this is one of the best gems to visit and browse ceramics, woven baskets, and more handmade goods from the area.
Visit the Wax Celebrities at the Hollywood Wax Museum
Ever dreamt of meeting your favorite celebrities? Well…your dream can come true (in a sense) here at the Hollywood Wax Museum. Use the themed props to snap photos and learn about the celebrities along the way, so if you ever do run into them in the real world, you’ve got some conversation starters!
In addition to the Wax Museum, the entertainment center features a few other unusual things to do in Pigeon Forge, including a real-life zombie outbreak simulator and a 5-D adventure ride!
Explore the Depths of the Forbidden Caverns
The Forbidden Caverns is the perfect outdoor activity when you’ve experienced the mountains and want to switch it up by going underground! On an hour tour, you’ll experience the extraordinary beauty of the underground world and learn about the long-standing history of these caverns, from how the Native Americans used them to their moonshine production days — yes, they were once used for moonshine production!
Putt Putt & Play at the Crave Golf Club
The Crave Golf Club is more than just a mini-golf course. Sure, the rooftop golf course is perfect for family and friends to get a little competitive, but the golf club is home to a variety of fun, including escape rooms and mini-bowling! So if you love a game of mini-golf, be sure to check our their unique and fun 19-hole rooftop course and enjoy other activities on-site.
See the Speculator Country Tonite Show
Keeping crowds entertained for over 25 years is a challenging feat, yet the Country Tonite Show knows how to put together the best tunes, choreographies, and comedy bits into one hell of a country show!
Fun for everyone, including children and those who aren’t fans of country music, it’s a must-see when in Pigeon Forge! On top of their nightly show, you can catch country music celebrities performing here, making this a one-stop shop for country entertainment in the Smokies!
Hike with Llamas in the Smoky Mountains
This might be one of the more weird things to do in Pigeon Forge — go on a hike with a llama buddy! Now, while getting here is a bit of a trip, it’s well worth it if you want a one-of-a-kind experience. The llama farms offer a variety of experiences, from visiting the farm and getting to know the llamas to taking you on hikes in the mountains with them.
Fly through the Mountains with Legacy Mountain Ziplines
Flying through the sky with Legacy Mountain Ziplines is a flight you will surely not forget! With seven zip lines plummeting through the tree stops and across valleys, the two-and-a-half-hour experience is suited for everyone 4 and up — so bring your partner, family, or friends and get ready for an adrenaline rush.
Take on Twisting Water Slides at Dollywood’s Splash Country Water Park
The best way to cool off on a hot summer day in Pigeon Forge is by plummeting down some water slides or floating in the pool at Dollywood’s Splash Country Water Park. Surrounded by the lush mountain forestry, visiting the park is a beautiful way to enjoy the local scenery while cooling off and getting your water park thrills on!
Meet the Rooftop Residents at Goats on the Roof
If you accidentally pass the building with goats on the roof, you’ve gone too far! Because yes, there are literally goats on the roof here. Goats on the Roof is a family fun center with a roller coaster, gem mining station, mini-golf, and freshly baked goodies. You can even buy a can of goat food and bring it to the roof to share with the beloved goats, the cherry on top of every visit here!
Get ‘Zorb’y with it at Outdoor Gravity Park
If there’s any unique adventure experience to do in Pigeon Forge, it’s this one! Climb in and get ready to roll along multiple tracks (& don’t forget a bathing suit!) And don’t worry, inside the Zorb, you won’t be getting tossed around, instead, you’ll be stable and gliding along as the Zorb speeds its way downhill.
So come along and bring two friends (three people can ride at once!), or go solo. Regardless, you’ll have an amazing time smiling and laughing throughout your zorbing experience here.
Take a Walk down TV history Lane with Brian Hoffman’s award-winning tribute to Red Skelton
Honoring iconic US radio show host Richard Bernard “Red” Skelton, this Pigeon Forge live show offers family-friendly entertainment. It’s a nostalgic nod to the beloved Red Skelton Comedy show that graced television from the 1950s-1970s, so take a trip back in time and encounter past-times characters and comedy acts in this one-person show! Even if you don’t know the Red Skelton show, what better way to experience a nostalgic piece of television history than taking a seat for this spectacular act?
Have a Family Fun Day at The Island in Pigeon Forge
The Island at Pigeon Forge is your one-stop spot for every type of fun. It’s great for families, couples, and friends alike. Entry is free, and as you go, you pay for the attractions and rides you want to enjoy (although there is an unlimited ride pass for serious thrill seekers!). In addition to the fun, there’s a variety of unique shops and restaurants to get your fill of souvenirs and delicious treats!
Pick Up Some Southern Goods at the Historical Old Mill Square
The Old Mill is the place to find the best locally and American-made goods, including jams, flour, and pottery. Seriously, if you want to snag yourself from good ol’ Southern goodies to take home, this is the spot! In addition to great local shopping, there’s a restaurant and cafe to indulge in, so come hungry and ready to chow on some delicious Southern food!
More Things to Do in Pigeon Forge TN
Enjoy the Pigeon River
Pigeon River is the perfect spot to enjoy some down-to-earth fun, whether fishing, floating, or simply walking along the waters. One of Pigeon’s Forge’s historic attractions, the Old Mill, also lies along the West Prong of the river, a great stop for history buffs. In fact, they still grind flour at the mill! Check out this guide for all you need to know about the river, as it has plenty to offer.
Enjoy Breakfast with Fresh Whipper Butter at Sawyer’s Farmhouse Restaurant
In the day-to-day world, there’s Denny’s, IHOP, or Cracker Barrel — but on your special vacation to Pigeon Forge, there’s Sawyer’s family-owned Farmhouse Restaurant, whipping up the most extraordinary, delicious, and made-with-love Farmhouse diner food. Oh yeah, and they also whip up their own butter! On the menu, you’ll find waffles, pancakes, burgers, and more, all crafted to mouth-watering perfection.
Rush Down the Rapids White Water Rafting
Probably one of the most thrilling of the unique things to do in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg on this list is white water rafting! And while adventurous, even the kids can do it (depending on the tour, of course, but I recommend this one for all ages).
This is especially one of the best activities for a hot summer day, where you can enjoy picturesque mountain views while flying down the rapids! Be sure to bring two things: something to get soaked in and an adventurous attitude!
Take on the Trampolines at TopJump
Push your physical limits to the test at TopJump with their trampolines and their climbing wall, Ninja course, and dodgeball field (yes, the dodgeball is on trampolines!). And once you’ve physically pushed yourself, don’t worry; there’s other fun on-site, including an arcade and candy shop.
Take in the Fresh Air at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
With mountains surrounding Pigeon Forge, those who love hiking should not miss the trails in the Great Smokey Mountains National Park to immerse themselves in nature, enjoy the outdoors, and take in sweeping views.
Check out this guide here for a list of some of the best hikes so you can take on a trail best for you –whether it’s an all-day expedition or a morning trek. You can even make an overnight trip out of it, hike the park during the day, and stay overnight, enjoying the sounds of nature outside your lodging.
Visit the WonderWorks Immersive Museum
WonderWorks is the ultimate edutainment experience that is great for the whole family. With Pigeon Forge taking every experience to the max, WonderWorks is no exception with exhibitions such as the extreme weather and space experience zones. We guarantee you won’t find a museum like it back home that’s as immersive and fun as this one, so if you’re a museum lover or simply want your kids to learn while having fun, WonderWorks is the spot!
Take in the MountainViews from a Helicopter
There are multiple helicopter tours in Pigeon Forge that will take your breath away from soaring over the mountains to enjoying the night lights of Pigeon Forge. Take in a unique perspective and get a tour insight you won’t find anywhere else.
While there are many companies running tours, we recommend checking out all your options and you can get started here just to peak into how many amazing tours are available (& for a decent price!)
We hope.you have found some unique things to do in Pigeon Forge that suit your needs! Let us know in the comments below.
For more unique stays, check out these Tennessee Treehouse Rentals.
