As you probably know, Pigeon Forge is home to several huge attractions people love to visit, including Dollywood and The Island. Maybe you’ve been to these fun attractions and are looking for something a little different on your next trip to the Smokies, so you’ll be glad to know that there are several places off the beaten path you’ll want to experience! Check out these top 5 hidden gems in Pigeon Forge you have to find:
1. Bluff Mountain Adventures
Getting outside and experiencing the wilderness is a goal for many people who vacation in the Smoky Mountains. A great hidden gem in Pigeon Forge that allows you to get outside in a fun way is Bluff Mountain Adventures. You’ll be taken on a guided ATV ride through 6,000 acres of trails that explore the foothills of East Tennessee. Along the ride, you’ll get to see incredible views and enjoy being outdoors!
2. Outdoor Gravity Park
A truly unique place to visit is Outdoor Gravity Park. This adventure park is known for zorbing, which is where people climb inside an 11-foot inflatable ball and roll down a hill. Up to 3 people can ride in a zorb together, or you can ride by yourself! You get to choose from 3 different tracks to experience, and kids who are 5 and up can ride too! There’s not another attraction quite like this one in the Smoky Mountains!
3. Heritage Carriage Rides
Another hidden hem you’ll have to find is Heritage Carriage Rides. This is a fun activity for families or the perfect way to end a romantic evening with your sweetheart. Carriage rides start at Walden’s Creek Landing and take guests on a 15-minute excursion. Riding along in a horse-drawn carriage with twinkly lights will create a magical experience you won’t forget.
4. Lil Black Bear Cafe
If you’re trying to find a true mom-and-pop restaurant that’s a hidden gem, look no further than Lil Black Bear Cafe. This hole-in-the-wall eatery serves breakfast and lunch, and people keep coming back again and again. Start out your day with a stack of warm pancakes drizzled in syrup and butter. You also can’t go wrong with a southern staple like biscuits and gravy, or you can try something unique like a bagel sandwich. If you decide to stop by for lunch instead, you can get soup and salad for something light, or try the signature Smoky Mountain Squealing Burger, which is a beef patty topped with pulled pork and covered in cheddar cheese. No matter what you decide to get, you’ll be glad you stopped at Lil Black Bear Cafe!
5. Elvira’s Cafe
Another hidden gem in Pigeon Forge you will want to find is Elvria’s Cafe. Located on Wears Valley Road, this local restaurant is the perfect place to go for breakfast, lunch, or brunch on Sundays. For breakfast, try the Tennessee Haystack, which is an open-faced biscuit topped with bacon, ham, and two eggs your way, and homemade sausage gravy, or you can get a signature sweet or savory crepe with the filling of your choice. Lunch options include a fried green tomato BLT, a roasted turkey crepe, or a cheeseburger. Everyone will find something delicious at Elvira’s!
Now you know about some of the hidden gems in Pigeon Forge you need to find on your next trip! Are you trying to decide what else you want to do while you’re in town? Check out these other Pigeon Forge attractions for some ideas!
