The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary for a Pigeon Forge Vacation

Are you planning a quick getaway to the Smoky Mountains? With so much to see and do in the area, we know it can be a challenge to fit everything into just a few days — but we’re here to help! We’ve designed the ultimate weekend itinerary that includes can’t-miss area attractions, lodging tips, and restaurant recommendations. For help planning your weekend trip, check out this Pigeon Forge vacation itinerary:

Day 1

Arrive at the Perfect Lodging

The first day in Pigeon Forge is one of the most special because you get to settle into the accommodations of your choice! When it comes to choosing where to stay, you have plenty of options. For a more private and spacious retreat, choose a cabin rental or a condo that comes with all the comforts of home. To be close to all the action and enjoy simple luxuries, such as complimentary breakfast and concierge services, choose a hotel on the Pigeon Forge Parkway! Wherever you choose, you’ll love the moment you arrive because that means it’s officially the start to your Pigeon Forge vacation! Take some time to unload the car and get settled, then get ready for a fun-filled weekend.

Take a Drive Through the Area

After you’ve unloaded the car, it’s time to get out and explore! We recommend taking a drive along the Pigeon Forge Parkway to see all the attractions, shops, restaurants, and views. Keep an eye out for anything that stands out that you want to visit while you’re in town! You can even drive into Gatlinburg to see what they have in store. If you visit during Winterfest, a drive through the area allows for you to take in millions of twinkling lights once the sun goes down, as well as impressive holiday displays!

Enjoy a Dinner Show

We’re sure you’ve worked up an appetite traveling to Pigeon Forge and exploring the area — so there’s no better place to visit next than a dinner show! Dinner shows combine a delicious feast with high-energy entertainment, providing a great value to everyone visiting. You’ll love enjoying both food and fun at a Pigeon Forge dinner show! Of course, our top suggestion for a show to visit is Dolly Parton’s Stampede. Our high-spirited adventure features 32 magnificent horses and a cast of talented trick riders, musical productions, special effects, and a four-course feast made to satisfy all your country cravings. It’s the most fun place to eat in the Smokies! Another popular dinner show in the area is Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, where you can witness an epic pirate battle with acrobatics and more while eating a four-course dinner. The Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud is also a great option! You can watch the Hatfields & McCoys try to settle their differences through jaw-dropping stunts, mighty feats of strength, and singing and dancing competitions, all while feasting on an all-you-can-eat Southern dinner. You can’t go wrong with any of the dinner shows in Pigeon Forge on your weekend vacation!

Day 2

Eat Breakfast at Frizzle Chicken Café

After a good night’s rest, it’s time to enjoy a full day of adventure in Pigeon Forge! Start off by dining at the most family-friendly restaurant in town — Frizzle Chicken Café. The menu features Southern breakfast favorites like chicken and waffles and biscuits and gravy, and there are special Bear Cakes for the kids! That’s not all, though. While you eat, you’ll get to listen to singing animatronic chickens! It’s a unique dining experience you don’t want to miss, and it’s the best way to kick off a fun day in Pigeon Forge.

Head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

After breakfast, it’s time to take a drive into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! This is the most visited national park for a reason. There are so many things to do, from hiking and wildlife viewing to fishing and horseback riding. We recommend purchasing a parking tag and exploring one of the popular trails in the Smokies, like Laurel Falls. This trail is family friendly and leads to a 60-foot waterfall! If you prefer to take in the sights from your car, go for a drive along the Cades Cove Loop Road for the chance to see wildlife, historic structures, and beautiful views. For the best day, pack lunch to enjoy in one of the many picnic areas in the park!

Laugh the Night Away at The Comedy Barn

Once you’ve explored the Smoky Mountains, it’s time to kick back, relax, and laugh the night away at The Comedy Barn Theater! This is the most attended clean comedy theater in the world. The show features comedians, jugglers, ventriloquists, and adorable animals, all who specialize in making you laugh! You’re guaranteed at least one laugh each minute when you visit this show. Be sure to arrive early to give yourself time to browse the gift shop and find the perfect souvenir!

Day 3

Catch a Smoky Mountain Sunrise

For the last day of your weekend trip to Pigeon Forge, wake up early to catch a Smoky Mountain sunrise! This is one of the most special sights to see in the area. Whether you’re watching from your cabin deck, your hotel balcony, or you’ve driven somewhere to witness it, you’ll want to have your cameras ready to capture the scenery! Some popular spots to catch a Smoky Mountain sunrise are Newfound Gap, the Clingmans Dome Observation Tower, and Morton Overlook.

Visit Dollywood

If you visit during the Dollywood season, a trip to this world-class theme park is a must. Dollywood is home to more than 50 rides, plenty of entertainment, and award-winning dining! Whether you want to ride the longest coaster in the park, Big Bear Mountain, or experience a scenic trip on the Dollywood Express, there is something for everyone at this attraction. We recommend visiting during one of the popular festivals, like the Flower & Food Festival in the spring, the Harvest Festival during the fall, or Smoky Mountain Christmas during the holiday season! Before you leave, be sure to stop by The Grist Mill for some of the park’s world-famous cinnamon bread — and get a few loaves to take back home with you too!

Leave With Unforgettable Memories

As your Pigeon Forge vacation comes to a close, there’s only one thing left on our weekend itinerary: leave with unforgettable memories! Just a couple days spent in this special place will provide years’ worth of memories you and your loved ones can share. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures while you’re in town to serve as reminders of what a great time you had!

Are you ready to start planning your Pigeon Forge vacation? Learn more about the best things to do in town by taking a look at these can’t-miss activities!