I am collaborating with Hotels.com. Recently, I asked myself if I should visit the region of Pigeon Forge. Something that I have heard others do over and over again. Am I missing something? Even last week I overheard someone while I was at Barre3 class saying they were so excited that they were visiting with their family this very week. My region of the U.S.A. does make this an easily drivable road trip. I guess that answered one reason whether I should go, but what else do I need to know? Let’s review this together. I got my information from My Pigeon Forge.
They said that “At Pigeon Forge, a moment can last a lifetime. When the time is right, the whole family can find their moment in the mountains. There are rides for the thrill-seekers, rib-sticking restaurants for the foodies, and more shows and attractions than you can shake a stick at – all set against the beautiful backdrop of the Smoky Mountains”
Sounds pretty good doesn’t it?! I did a deep dive search on my own website Spa Travel Gal for Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and Gatlinburg and came up with nothing. I have never been to this region of Tennessee, so follow along with me and let’s answer a few simple research questions about Pigeon Forge.
What Are the Best Hotels in Pigeon Forge?
Bob Schatz, Tennessee, Vermont, photographer
Of course, I started with searching for hotels with spas and found amazing hotels in Pigeon Forge. My top pick was actually not in the Gatlinburg area, but right on what is called Pigeon Forge Island. I will give you one guess why….:) It has a spa. Check out here the St. Somewhere Spa at the Margaritaville Resort.
What is Pigeon Forge?
Pigeon Forge is a mountain town where many vacation in the eastern part of Tennessee. Yes, one does find Dollywood there. No I did not say Bollywood, but the playground of the famous country singer Dolly Parton. This is her own personal Appalachian themed amusement park full of rides, a water park and of course museums full of her costumes and other country music memorabilia.
What else will I find in Pigeon Forge?
Pigeon Forge’s other attractions include many country music venues including the Smoky Mountain Opry, a ton of dinner theaters including Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede.
Is There Shopping in Pigeon Forge?
The answer is Yes, Yes, Yes. There is a huge outlet mall in Pigeon Forge. Need I say more. I know that will make a lot of you happy.
What is a Goat Coaster?
While we may not be able to go to Switzerland right now to ride an alpine coaster, we can go to Pigeon Forge and ride a Goat Coaster! What is a goat coaster you may (most likely will) ask?
Per the store Goats on the Roof “The concept of having goats on a roof dates back to the 1970s, when Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant in Door County, Wisconsin was known for its roof-munching inhabitants. Here at Goats on the Roof in Pigeon Forge, we’ve stayed faithful to those original alpine roots by building a mountain coaster that’s become one of our most popular attractions – after the goats, of course.”
This alpine ride is almost a mile long and can reach speeds up to 30 miles per hour. If my treat afterwards is feeding and playing with goats, then I am up for it. Other than the goats, the best thing about this alpine adventure is snow is not needed. I remember this past March I was in a ton of snow in Switzerland, so much it was a white out and we were unable to sled.
Tell Me More about Gatlinburg
When I started researching Gatlinburg, I found a lot about exploring. We all feel the need to explore more lately after being inside, so this may be a great way to do some outdoor exploration .
Per Gatlinburg’s official website, The “Great Smoky Mountains National Park is right at our doorstep. Whether you plan to hike with the littlest members of the family or set off for a backcountry campout with friends, Gatlinburg is the perfect basecamp for your adventure. If you are seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, you can find yourself completely immersed in nature just a moment’s drive from town. Trails to waterfalls, historic sites and magnificent overlooks are all within easy reach of Gatlinburg.
They say that it is no coincidence that many call their region “The Great Outdoors” and “The Great Smoky Mountains.” They would love the title of the “Great Gatlinburg” since Gatlinburg is full of great outdoor activities for everyone including you. One can find simple hikes (easy enough for someone with iffy knee issues to full out dare-devil hikes full of heights to scare a goat. Many people go rafting with the Nantahala Outdoor Center when they visit the area. River rafting can be extremely exhilarating.
Still trying to find more information about Pigeon Forge? Look for the hashtag #MyPigeonForge on social media then go to Hotels.com to make your reservations for fun.
Have you decided if you should take a road trip to Pigeon Forge yet?
Traveling During Covid
As travel today remains uncertain, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind at all times. If you are comfortable with traveling, please travel responsibly and within regulation as any travel is at your own risk.
If you do decide to travel at this time, here are our recommendations:
- Wear a face mask.
- Bring hand sanitizer and wash your hands on a regular basis.
- Check official websites before your trip for the latest updates on policies, closures and status of local businesses.
- Book a hotel with free cancellation in case you need to change your plans at the last minute.
