I’ve been going to Tennessee on yearly vacations literally since I was born. I love being in the Smokies! If you’ve never been or maybe it’s just been awhile here are 9 awesome things to do in Pigeon Forge, TN.

1. DOLLYWOOD

Dolly Parton practically owns the state of Tennessee in my opinion, but in Pigeon Forge, it’s pretty obvious. Dolly has numerous shows you can go see, but the thing I can't wait to do every year is head into Dollywood! Not only is it a fun family environment, but it got some awesome rides too.

2. Titanic Museum

Hear me out, I know it sounds boring. The Titanic Museum was built to have the outward appearance of the actual R.M.S Titanic which is pretty awesome if you ask me. You receive a boarding pass with a real passenger’s name on it and head inside where you walk through the halls full of information and items from the actual ship. At the end of your tour, you will find out the fate of your passenger and see a memorial wall to all those who lost their lives in the tragic sinking of the Titanic. All in all, it’s a great way to spend a day and it's really interesting.

3. The Aquarium (In Gatlinburg)

Kind of cheating (not in Pigeon Forge), but how can you not love the aquarium? The Ripley’s Aquarium is a perfect way to spend the day. Each time I go there are new things for me to see which always makes me want to come back, and they have penguins. Who doesn’t love penguins? If you’re looking for a relaxing way to spend a day but still be entertained look no further. The aquarium also sits right on the edge of the strip in downtown Gatlinburg so after a day of fun in the aquarium you can hit up some awesome restaurants.

4. Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud

One of my favorite parts of going to Pigeon Forge is all the awesome dinner shows they have. You get to enjoy an amazing meal and get to see a show all at once! The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud is one of the best shows my family has ever tried. We love watching the show which features live music, comedy, and an all-you-can-eat meal (which by the way is awesome). Hatfield & McCoy’s in and every year stop for my family, and we won’t be breaking that tradition anytime soon!

5. The Island

The Island seemed a little out of place to me at first but now I can’t imagine our trips without it! The Island features all kinds of shops, foods, and attractions. Right in the middle is a giant Ferris wheel “The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel” which takes you 200 feet above the Pigeon Forge Parkway and gives you a spectacular view in the all-glass gondolas that you sit in. The Island has so many things to offer you can find something everyone enjoys!

6. Ripley’s Old MacDonald’s Farm Mini-Golf

We have been visiting this place for years and I don’t see that changing anytime soon. Old MacDonald’s putt-putt offers a unique golfing experience. Surrounded by talking farm animals and flying pigs you can’t ask for a better place to spend an evening playing some mini-golf!

7. Xtreme Racing

If you like Go-Karts this is the place for you. With three tracks and go-kart speeds of up to 40 mph this place makes go-kart racing awesome. Xtreme also offers karts for the younger family members who may not be big enough to race the fast ones. It’s a great place to spend a day with the family!

8. Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

(Cheating again) The Mountain Coaster is located right inside Gatlinburg and is a unique experience. Whether you ride day or night you won’t be disappointed with the beautiful views as you are lifted up the mountain. Once at the top you are released and can control your own speed back down. The coaster is brought to life at night with lights surrounding you so you can still see the view and enjoy the ride.

9. Go out to eat!!

I can’t pick just one restaurant. So here are my top 5 (not in order, that’s also impossible)

1. The Old Mill
2. Carino’s Italian
3. Mama’s Farmhouse
4. Blaine’s (Downtown Gatlinburg)
5. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co (Downtown Gatlinburg)