Pigeon Forge is a small, charming town in Eastern Tennessee known for its picturesque beauty and family-friendly vibe. Travel enthusiasts worldwide have this small mountain town on their bucket lists.
Now, one would think that the town of the fabulous Dolly Parton would be all about luxury, glamor, and extravagance. In other words, it can be pretty expensive. But that’s not the case.
Being a family-friendly town, Pigeon Forge is all about affordable entertainment at every turn. So, whether you want to explore the parks or visit local attractions, this town offers well-rounded entertainment for families — and that too without breaking the bank.
1. Have a Round of Mini Golf
If you’re considering an indoor activity like mini golf Pigeon Forge is the place to be. This small, light-hearted activity allows you to engage with your families and have hearty competition regardless of age. Both kids and adults enjoy the game equally.
Mini golf courses like Gatlin’s Blacklight Golf, Pirate Golf at MagiQuest, Crave Golf Club, and Circus Golf are among the top choices for a worthwhile mini-golf experience.
2. Explore the Gorgeous Smoky Mountains
If you visit East Tennessee and miss the Great Smoky Mountains, you can call your trip a bust. This stunning mountain region is home to a wide range of hiking trails, whether you are looking for something easy and family-friendly or a strenuous track that even the most experienced hikers find challenging.
You can spend an entire day with your family exploring the natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains by going on a picnic to enjoy a delicious meal in nature. Give yourself the time to unwind and relax from the hustle and bustle of city life by exploring the quiet forests and picturesque mountains.
Apart from this, there are tracks like the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, where you can enjoy the charms of the Smoky Mountains without leaving your vehicle. Visit the Smokies to learn about the different wildlife, flora, fauna, and seasons in this part of the world.
3. Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum
If you weren’t able to see Michael Jackson in person, that doesn’t mean you cannot click a picture next to his lifelike wax figure. Welcome to the Hollywood Wax Museum at Pigeon Forge, where you can see all your favorite Hollywood icons at an affordable price.
The museum is divided into different areas based on genre to display the diversity of Hollywood icons. You can take pictures with the figures and explore other activities at the museum that both kids and adults can enjoy. Also, don’t forget to visit the gift shop to buy souvenirs and take some memorabilia home.
4. Go to The Island
The Island in Pigeon Forge is divided into various activities, so the visitors can easily do what they like and what fits their budget. Visitors can enter without an admission fee and explore the vibrant, fun-filled activities.
You can engage in simple activities like exploring the shops for local crafts, enjoying the fountain show, and going on affordable rides. A key attraction of The Island is the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, which gives you a complete view of the surrounding area. To appreciate its beauty, you can visit it in the evening when Pigeon Forge is beautifully lit.
We know how Eastern people love their food. So, you can find a wide range of restaurants, from fast food chains to local eateries. To enjoy the best of The Island, it’s best to visit in the evening. Look for any local events that might be happening there to experience the best of East Tennessee.
5. Take Time Out for Dollywood
You cannot return from Pigeon Forge without visiting Dollywood. One of the most exciting theme parks, Dollywood is a perfect spot to beat the summer heat. Although water coasters are the highlight of this park, you can also engage in other activities like a large wave pool and raft rides. Plus, there is a kiddy area for the little ones to splash around and have fun with water without any danger.
Visitors can also experience live entertainment through concerts and stage shows every day. It is a true representation of Tennessee culture. After a long, fun-filled day at the rides, you can also enjoy a delicious meal to call it a wrap.
Although Dollywood offers 40 rides and attractions, exploring them in one day is impossible. Families on a budget can look for the most interesting ones and check for discounts and coupons.
6. Trolly Ride Around Town
If you want to explore most of Pigeon Forge with a little walking, hop on a Trolley from the Pigeon Forge Mass Transit Center and explore your surroundings. The tickets are super cheap, and kids under the age of three ride for free.
It is a great way to go from one stop to the other without walking a lot or getting caught in the traffic. These trolleys cover all the key attractions and stop at different stops that can be a point of attraction for the visitor. You can leave the trolley at a stop you wish to explore further and get in the next one to continue the journey.
Remember to check the schedule to plan your day. The trolly will pass through the picturesque Pigeon Forge town, providing plenty of Snapchat-worthy options for pictures. For families with children, it is ideal to avoid the peak hours, as it can get crowded.
Explore Pigeon Forge on a Budget
Pigeon Forge is one of the most eye-captivating towns in Eastern Tennessee, and it has something for everyone. As a family on a budget, you can look for spots that are affordable but do not compromise the fun or your vacation at all.
Research the spots you plan to explore in advance and check for any deals and discounts. From light-hearted but competitive rounds of mini golf to thrilling rides at Dollywood, Pigeon Forge offers a variety of activities for everyone.
All you have to do is find something that suits your pocket.