WonderWorks

WonderWorks is the upside-down building just off the Pigeon Forge Parkway, and one of the most recognizable attractions in the Smokies. Inside, it's an indoor amusement park for the mind, with hands-on science exhibits, a glow-in-the-dark ropes course, laser tag and a motion theater, all under one roof.

WonderWorks has been part of Pigeon Forge since 2006. It's built for curious kids and the grown-ups who bring them, and because it's entirely indoors, it's one of the best things to do in Pigeon Forge when it rains.

The upside-down building

The story goes that WonderWorks was once a top-secret laboratory in the Bermuda Triangle, until an experiment went wrong and the whole building landed upside down on Music Road in Pigeon Forge. The roof sits on the ground, the foundation points at the sky, and the building has become one of the most photographed spots in town.

Your visit starts by walking through an inversion tunnel that "turns you right side up" before you head into the exhibits.

The Wonder Zones

WonderWorks is divided into six Wonder Zones, each built around a different kind of hands-on fun.

Disaster Zone

Feel the wind of a hurricane simulator and experience what extreme weather is really like, safely indoors.

Space Discovery Zone

Try on a spacesuit, climb into a Mercury space capsule and see what it takes to be an astronaut.

Physical Challenge Zone

Test your strength, speed and balance, and take on the rock wall.

Light and Sound Zone

Play with light, color and sound in exhibits that show how your senses work.

Imagination Lab and Far Out Art Gallery

Build, create and explore in the Imagination Lab, then check out the mind-bending art and illusions in the Far Out Art Gallery.

Ropes course, laser tag and the 4D XD theater

Once you've explored the exhibits, head "up" to the basement for the action-packed part of WonderWorks.

Indoor Ropes Course

Climb through a glow-in-the-dark ropes course with obstacles four stories above the ground. Climbers must be at least 48 inches tall to go on their own, or at least 42 inches tall with an adult, and closed-toe shoes are required.

Laser Tag

Battle friends and family in a fast-paced, black-lit laser tag arena.

4D XD Motion Theater

Buckle into a motion theater that combines a 3D film with special effects and moving seats for a whirlwind ride.

The Wonders of Magic show

WonderWorks is also home to The Wonders of Magic, starring illusionist Terry Evanswood, one of Pigeon Forge's longest-running headline performers. The show takes place in the Imagination Theatre inside WonderWorks and is ticketed separately. It's a family-friendly, interactive magic show, and a fun way to add an evening to your WonderWorks visit.

Visiting with younger kids

WonderWorks works for all ages, but it's a big, busy place, so a little planning helps with little ones. Start with the hands-on exhibits while everyone has energy, save the ropes course and laser tag for older siblings, and take breaks as you go. Kids who are too small for the ropes course on their own may still be able to climb with an adult, so check the ropes course height requirements before you go.

Birthday parties and groups

WonderWorks hosts birthday parties and group visits, which makes it a fun pick for a family celebration, a school or church group, or a reunion with lots of kids. Contact WonderWorks ahead of time to plan a party or group outing.

How long to plan

WonderWorks recommends allowing about three to four hours to see everything, including the ropes course, laser tag and the motion theater. Families with younger kids may move faster, and science-loving kids can easily stay longer. Plan to arrive well before closing, since tickets stop selling an hour before the doors lock.

Tips for your visit

Wear the right shoes

If anyone in your group plans to climb the ropes course, make sure they wear closed-toe shoes.

Go early on rainy days

Rain sends a lot of visitors indoors, and WonderWorks is one of the first places they head. On a wet day, arrive early to beat the crowd.

Parking is free

WonderWorks has its own free parking lot in front of the building.

Make a day of it

Pair WonderWorks with another indoor favorite, like the Titanic Museum, the Hollywood Wax Museum or the Alcatraz East Crime Museum, then spend the evening at The Island in Pigeon Forge. For more ideas, see our guides to indoor attractions in Pigeon Forge and rainy day things to do.

Plan your visit

Frequently asked questions

What is WonderWorks in Pigeon Forge?

An indoor amusement park inside an upside-down building, with hands-on science exhibits, an indoor ropes course, laser tag and a 4D XD motion theater.

Why is the WonderWorks building upside down?

According to the WonderWorks story, a lab experiment in the Bermuda Triangle went wrong and the building landed upside down on Music Road in Pigeon Forge.

How long does WonderWorks take?

Plan on about three to four hours to see everything.

Is WonderWorks good for kids?

Yes. It's designed for all ages, with hands-on exhibits for young kids and the ropes course and laser tag for older kids and teens.

Is there a height requirement for the ropes course?

Yes. Climbers need to be at least 48 inches tall to climb alone, or 42 inches with an adult. Closed-toe shoes are required.

Is parking free at WonderWorks?

Yes. Free parking is available in the lot in front of the building.

Is WonderWorks in Gatlinburg?

No. WonderWorks is in Pigeon Forge, at 100 Music Road just off the Parkway.