Which is More Pedestrian Friendly: Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg?

“Should we walk, or do we take the car?” That’s an important choice when you’re on vacation. When you’re visiting Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, which is more walkable? Here’s what you need to know. 

Gatlinburg: Stroll the Strip

Gatlinburg the winner if you want to ditch the car and get in your steps. Gatlinburg’s attractions, shops, and restaurants cluster along the main street, known to locals as the Strip. Most walks between attractions take about 10 to 15 minutes.

Parking is easy, with more than two dozen paid, public and private lots and garages around town. Want to park for free? Arrive early to snag one of the limited, free spaces at the city’s two park-and-ride lots, located at the Gatlinburg Welcome Center or the City Hall complex. Then walk, or ride the free Gatlinburg Trolley up and down the Strip, to save your soles.  

What will you find as you amble through town? Major attractions including Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, and Anakeesta theme park are just minutes apart. Family activities including mini golf, arcades, and laser tag line the Strip. Distilleries, restaurants, and boutiques tempt you to take plenty of delightful, delicious breaks.

Pigeon Forge: Cruise the Parkway

Expect to drive between most attractions here. Attractions are more spread out along the Pigeon Forge Parkway. 

But there’s a secret that savvy travelers know about this car-centric town: You can park once, then ride the Pigeon Forge Trolley, hopping on and off at any stop. The trolley saves you from repeatedly parking throughout the day, and drops you within steps of most major attractions. Most rides cost $1, and an all-day pass is only $3. 

The Parkway is home to top-quality stage shows like the swashbuckling Pirates Voyage and the hilarious Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud. Attractions offer something for every interest, from history at Titanic Museum Attraction to hands-on science fun at WonderWorks. Just down the road is Dollywood, a must-do day out for the whole family!

Enjoy Everything Both Towns Offer

There’s an easy way to see everything you want, while saving time and money. Stay in a Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge cabin rental. We’ve got cabins close to both downtowns. We’ve even got condos within walking distance of the Strip or the Parkway! Reserve your convenient, comfortable cabin right now.