Things to Do in the Smoky Mountains

Things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

The Smoky Mountains pack a lot into a small area. Gatlinburg sits at the entrance to the national park, Pigeon Forge is about ten miles north on the Parkway, and Sevierville is just beyond that. Most visitors split their days between the three, with a day or two in the park itself. Here's how they compare, so you can plan the trip that fits your group.

Gatlinburg: mountain town at the park entrance

Gatlinburg is a walkable mountain town where the shops, restaurants, and attractions line the Parkway. Ride the gondola to Anakeesta, cross the SkyBridge at the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park, see sharks at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, or take the tram up to Ober Gatlinburg. Taste local moonshine at the distilleries, browse the candy shops, and stroll downtown Gatlinburg after dark. See all things to do in Gatlinburg.

Pigeon Forge: shows, rides, and Dollywood

Pigeon Forge is the Smokies' entertainment hub. Dollywood anchors the town, and the Parkway is lined with dinner shows, mountain coasters, go-karts, mini golf, and museums. The Island brings together shops, restaurants, and rides in one walkable spot, and the evening shows are a highlight for many families. See all things to do in Pigeon Forge, plus Pigeon Forge restaurants and Pigeon Forge shopping.

Sevierville: outlets, caverns, and a water park

Sevierville, the first town you reach from Interstate 40, has Tanger Outlets, Soaky Mountain Water Park, and Forbidden Caverns, plus a historic downtown. See all things to do in Sevierville, Sevierville restaurants, and Sevierville shopping.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The national park is the reason many people come. There's no entrance fee, though a parking tag is required to park for more than 15 minutes. Hike some of the park's more than 800 miles of trails, chase waterfalls, drive the loop through Cades Cove to watch for wildlife, or take the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail just outside Gatlinburg. Start with our guides to the Great Smoky Mountains, hiking trails, and waterfall hikes.

Ideas for every kind of trip

With kids

Dollywood, Ripley's Aquarium, Soaky Mountain, and the mountain coasters top most family lists. See our guide to Pigeon Forge attractions for kids.

On a budget

The national park, downtown Gatlinburg, and plenty of scenic drives cost nothing. See our list of free things to do in Gatlinburg.

On a rainy day

Aquariums, museums, caverns, and shows keep everyone dry. See our rainy day ideas.

After dark

Dinner shows, live music, distilleries, and late-night dessert. See our guide to things to do in Gatlinburg at night and the Gatlinburg events calendar.

Where to eat

From pancake breakfasts to riverside steakhouses, each town has its favorites. Browse Gatlinburg restaurants, Gatlinburg breakfast spots, Pigeon Forge restaurants, and Sevierville restaurants, plus Gatlinburg's wineries and breweries.

Free attraction tickets with every paid night

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge?

Gatlinburg offers mountaintop parks, an aquarium, distilleries, and the national park entrance. Pigeon Forge has Dollywood, dinner shows, The Island, and family rides. Sevierville adds outlets, caverns, and a water park.

How far apart are Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge?

About ten miles on the Parkway, roughly a 15- to 30-minute drive depending on traffic.

Is there an entrance fee for the national park?

No. Great Smoky Mountains National Park has no entrance fee, but a parking tag is required to park for more than 15 minutes.

What's good to do with kids?

Dollywood, Ripley's Aquarium, Soaky Mountain Water Park, mountain coasters, and mini golf are family favorites.

How can I get free attraction tickets?

Book your cabin directly with Colonial Properties. The Stay & Play Pass gives your reservation one free ticket to each attraction on the list for every paid night.