Pigeon Forge, TN is home to some of the most famous attractions in the Southeast! The Dollywood theme park and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park both draw millions of visitors to the area each year. In addition to these big name attractions, there are also a number of hidden gems in the Smokies that deserve your attention. To help you prepare for your next vacation, we have put together a guide to five wonderful things to do in Pigeon Forge off the beaten path.
1. See the Beautiful Birds at Parrot Mountain and Gardens
Parrot Mountain and Gardens is a paradise for anyone who loves birds! This unique attraction is home to hundreds of gorgeous tropical parrots who can’t wait to meet you. Guests at Parrot Mountain will have the chance to feed lorikeets, talk with a macaw, and get their picture made with a plethora of feathered friends. Parrot Mountain also has a nursery where you can play with baby birds and even take one home if you’re in search of a new pet.
2. Have Lunch at Pigeon Forge Deli
Pigeon Forge Deli is a fantastic lunch spot that is tucked away in The Shops of Pigeon Forge on East Wears Valley Road. A visit to Pigeon Forge Deli is definitely worth the drive because the food is absolutely delicious! All of the sandwiches at the deli are made with house-baked bread and the freshest ingredients available. Popular menu items include The Ultimate Reuben, Pot Roast Sub, Pizza Loaf, and the BLT. No meal at Pigeon Forge Deli is complete without trying one of their hand-rolled soft pretzels!
3. Visit Goats on the Roof
Goats on the Roof is an attraction that lives up to its name! This one-of-a-kind destination actually has live goats on the roof that you can feed using a special bicycle-powered contraption. In addition to feeding the goats, guests can enjoy homemade ice cream and fudge, kick back in a rocking chair, or go mining for gems. Thrill seekers will not want to miss The Coaster at Goats on the Roof, an awesome alpine coaster that features plenty of twists and turns through the forest. It’s easy to see why visiting Goats on the Roof is one of the best things to do in Pigeon Forge off the beaten path.
4. Go Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park
Outdoor Gravity Park is the only place in Pigeon Forge where you can go zorbing! In case you have never heard the word, a “zorb” is a giant transparent sphere that is big enough for a person to roll around inside. At Outdoor Gravity Park, guests can race down a 1,000-foot hill in a zorb that is filled with over 10 gallons of water. The water prevents participants from tumbling inside the zorb, and it is very refreshing on a hot summer’s day!
5. Shop at the Smoky Mountain Cat House
Located just a short walk from The Old Mill Square, the Smoky Mountain Cat House is a delightfully quirky shopping destination in Pigeon Forge. As you may have guessed by its name, the Cat House is completely dedicated to feline-themed memorabilia. Visitors will find jewelry, clocks, wallets, change purses, T-shirts, and many other items with cat-inspired designs. The Cat House even has its own furry residents, the owner’s cats: Mo, Luna, Bella, Leeloo, and Ziggy.
We hope you have a blast enjoying these fun things to do in Pigeon Forge off the beaten path! If you’re looking for a great place to stay during your vacation, check out these excellent Pigeon Forge cabin rental companies.
