Things to do in gatlinburg and pigeon forge for adults

If you are coming to the Smokies and need help planning what to visit we’ll help you! We know the best attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge that are well worth a visit! It’s all family friendly and sure to leave you and your family or friends to be talking about your trip for years to come! Here are the 10 must visit attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge:

Table of Contents Show

1. Anakeesta
2. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
3. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park
4. Dollywood
5. Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud Show
6. The Island in Pigeon Forge
7. The Old Mill Square
8. Country Tonite Theater Show
9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
10. Cades Cove
Which is better for adults Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
What is the number one thing to do in Gatlinburg?
Is Pigeon Forge fun for adults?
What is there to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge?

1. Anakeesta

Anakeesta is an aerial adventure park in Gatlinburg. The only way to reach the summit of Anakeesta is by chair lift or gondola. Once you make it to the top you’ll find plenty of fun to have! You can race down dual ziplines, take a walk over 30 feet in the air at the tree canopy walk, or even just eat some good food! It won’t matter your age there is something for everyone to enjoy at Anakeesta whether it’s something exciting or relaxing.

2. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

The Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is home to over 2,000 animals! Inside you can find sharks, a sea turtle, penguins, and so much more! There are several exhibits that actually allow you to interact with animals and touch them too! Other exhibits throughout the aquarium are interactive and make learning fun! With 3 levels of things to see everyone in your group is sure to find something interesting and cool to see! Take a look at more fun things to do at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies before you visit!

3. Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

When you’re in Gatlinburg, you can’t miss out on visiting Gatlinburg SkyLift Park. Home to the famous chairlift, you’ll reach the top of the mountain to discover incredible mountain views unlike any other. The SkyDeck provides amazing photo opportunities and a place where you can relax as you look out at the Smokies. Test your bravery by walking across the Gatlinburg SkyBridge with glass panels in the center that look straight down into the forest below. Everyone will have a blast at the SkyLift Park!

4. Dollywood

Dollywood is named after beloved country star, Dolly Parton. Like her, the park is a bright, welcoming place and full of Southern heritage. The park is home to over 30 rides and shows. From award winning rollercoasters to bumper cars and gentle kid rides, there is something for everyone and it’s no secret why this is one of the top Pigeon Forge attractions! While you wander around the park you’ll come across lots of unique stores to shop in and tons of good smelling food! Make sure to try the cinnamon bread or the 25-pound apple pie while you are there!

5. Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud Show

The infamous feud between the Hatfields and McCoys takes center stage in the Smokies at the Hatfield and McCoy Dinner Show! Come watch the two families play tricks on each other and laugh the night away. Moreover, you’ll be dining on delicious Southern cooking while watching the show. The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud Show is one of our favorite must visit attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge!

6. The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge is another one of our favorite attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge to visit because there’s so much to do! The Island is a large entertainment complex full of shopping, dining, and other attractions. Some of the most popular destinations to visit are The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, Paula Deen’s Restaurant, The Escape Game, and more!

7. The Old Mill Square

The Old Mill Square offers shopping, dining, and is a great place to relax. It is one of the most popular Pigeon Forge attractions! You can watch metal workers practice their craft, you taste some moonshine, or dine on classic Southern food. The Old Mill restaurant is a must try here! And after you eat you can take a nice walk around Patriot Park which sits directly behind the Old Mill.

8. Country Tonite Theater Show

The Country Tonite Show is one-of-a-kind. It’s fun for the whole family, and showcases some incredibly talented local singers, dancers, and musicians. You will enjoy a variety of dynamic singing and dancing, side-splitting comedy, powerful gospel, and American patriotism. Country music performed in the shows is from all eras, so everyone will find a song they enjoy.

9. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the U.S. When you visit it, you’ll understand why. The Smokies have a wonderful sense of peace and wonder to them. The national park is free to enter and offers days worth of fun to have. You can hike, bike, horseback ride, fish, and more!

10. Cades Cove

Cades Cove is part of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is free to enter. Cades Cove is an 11-mile loop that you may travel by car, bike, or even horseback. Along the loop you will come across many historic structures like cabins, churches and a grist mill. You’ll also be treated to fantastic views of the Smoky Mountains and if you are lucky you may even see wildlife like deer and bears!

There’s something for everyone to enjoy in the Smokies! Give any of these attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge on our list a try and return to your comfy cabin with us at night! If you’re looking for more ideas of what to do while you’re in town, take a look at some of our favorite Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge attractions.

Which is better for adults Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?

All in all, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are both incredible spots to visit. If you're looking to experience the true tourist experience of the Smoky Mountains, you'll want to visit Gatlinburg. If you're looking for an equally thrilling experience, but a little away from the crowds, Pigeon Forge is your answer.

What is the number one thing to do in Gatlinburg?

Top Ten Gatlinburg Attractions.

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies..

Ole Smoky Moonshine..

Gatlinburg Sky Lift..

Hillbilly Golf..

Ripley's Haunted Adventure..

Gatlinburg Space Needle..

Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway..

Hollywood Star Cars Museum..

Is Pigeon Forge fun for adults?

You can go watch the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, enjoy a meal at Smoky Mountain Brewery, go for a walk through Patriot Park, go shopping, and so much more. This is proof that Pigeon Forge isn't full of things to do just for kids — the adults can have a good time too!