If the idea of a fun couples getaway sounds like the perfect way to spend time together, then Pigeon Forge is the place to go. This charming Tennessee town has everything you need for a romantic escape, from breathtaking natural beauty to fun shows and thrilling adventures. Whether looking for a relaxing weekend or an action-packed getaway, Pigeon Forge has it all.
My husband and I visited Pigeon Forge this summer and had so much fun. Located just a few miles from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, this city offers plenty of attractions for couples looking for an unforgettable getaway. Here are some things that make Pigeon Forge an ideal destination for couples.
Our visit to Pigeon Forge and surrounding areas was hosted. All opinions are my own.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Return to nature with a visit to the most visited national park in the nation. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is breathtaking and filled with lush forests, wildlife, and more. The park is just a short drive from Pigeon Forge, so you will be surrounded by natural beauty at every turn. Hiking trails, camping, and picnicking are just a few of the activities couples can enjoy together.
I couldn’t believe how close the park was to the town. You are driving down the highway, and boom, you are in the national park.
2. Scenic Drives
Enjoy some of the most beautiful views in all of Tennessee on a scenic drive along one of Pigeon Forge’s roads or highways. Take in stunning mountain vistas and picturesque valleys while you explore with your loved one.
Pigeon Forge is home to various wildlife, from black bears to majestic elk. Snap a few photos and enjoy some up-close and personal time with nature.
3. Dinner Shows
Enjoy a night out on the town with dinner and theater in one place. Pigeon Forge has some amazing dinner shows that are sure to be an unforgettable experience. Enjoy everything from classic country music to comedy and magic while you dine with your partner for a memorable evening together.
Recommended Dinner Shows
- Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud
- Dolly Parton’s Stampede
- Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show
- Country Tonight
- Comedy Barn
4. Array Musical Variety Show
Pigeon Forge is home to various fantastic shows, from Broadway-style musicals to comedy revues. My husband and I attended the newest show in Pigeon Forge, the Array Musical Variety Show, housed in the Mountain of Entertainment Theater.
The show had everything from fantastic musical numbers to acrobatics, magic, and more.
Other Recommended Shows
5. Dollywood
What couple’s Smoky Mountain getaway would be complete without a trip to one of Tennessee’s most iconic attractions? Spend a day together at Dollywood and enjoy everything from exciting rides to delicious food and world-class entertainment.
When I visited, it was the final day of their Food and Flower Festival. The flowers were gorgeous! We enjoyed the rides, the entertainment, and the food. Even if you are not a rider, there is much to do. You can quickly fill a day without amusement rides.
Be sure to visit The Grist Mill and enjoy their delicious cinnamon bread.
6. Delicious Dining
Pigeon Forge has something for every palate, from down-home southern cooking to upscale cuisine. Whether you’re in the mood for barbecue, seafood, or fine dining, you’ll find it here.
These are the restaurants I enjoyed in Pigeon Forge and can recommend:
Junction 35 Spirits Kitchen & Bar
One side of this establishment is a distillery/tasting room/store, while the other is a restaurant. Junction 35 Spirits Kitchen & Bar offers delicious food in a casual atmosphere in the Mountain Mike Plaza.
The Old Mill Pottery House Cafe
Pottery House Cafe serves made-from-scratch sandwiches, salads, and hearty entrées with local ingredients. Each meal is served on dishes created by the potters next door. Their famous breads are baked on site daily, with grains straight from the mill. Where else can you buy bread where they grind grain and then bake it from scratch? Delicious is an understatement.
Country Roads Axe Co.
For scrumptious pizza, visit Country Roads Axe Co. They combined West by God CoalFired Pizza, ax-throwing, and a full-service bar for a unique experience in the Smoky Mountains under one roof. They use projected targets and real axes.
7. The Island In Pigeon Forge
Spend a day browsing the shops, restaurants, and attractions at The Island in Pigeon Forge. Couples can also ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for breathtaking views of the city and beyond.
My husband and I rode this and you have quite a view from the top. We also enjoyed riding Sky Fly: Soar America. It was similar to Disney’s Soarin’ at Epcot, but it focused on America.
8. Outdoor Gravity Park
For a thrilling experience, try zorbing at Pigeon Forge’s Outdoor Gravity Park. You ride down a hill in a bubble (plastic inflatable ball). They add about 10 gallons of water to the ball, you crawl in, they zipper the ball shut, and down the hill you go. It is a fun and thrilling adventure for individuals and couples.
We tried this adventurous sport and I wrote about my zorbing experience. It was a new and thrilling experience and a lot of fun. Nothing brings couples closer than having fun together!
9. Nightlife
Pigeon Forge comes alive at night with live music, dancing, and fun. From dinner shows and live music to nightclubs and bars, there are plenty of options for couples looking to have a fun evening out on the town.
10. Moonshine And Other Spirits Distilleries And Tastings
No trip to Pigeon Forge is complete without a stop at a moonshine distillery. Learn about crafting this unique concoction while sampling some of the local flavors. They even have pickles and fruits such as cherries, pineapple, and mandarin oranges in moonshine. With so many options, you’ll find something you enjoy.
We participated in several tastings during our visit. My husband couldn’t leave town without the cherries in moonshine.
Distilleries In Pigeon Forge
11. Horseback Riding
Explore the Smoky Mountains together from atop a horse. Couples can take a guided tour or, for the more experienced riders, take an adventure of their own. Four concession horseback riding stables within the park are open from mid-March through November.
12. Whitewater Rafting
If you’re looking for some heart-pumping adventure, take a rafting trip down the Little Pigeon River with your partner. With plenty of rapids and fun, you’ll have a blast and create unforgettable memories.
We enjoyed this experience with Rafting in the Smokies. It was a fun ride with Class III and IV rapids.
13. Wonderworks
Science meets fun at this interactive museum and amusement park. Couples looking to unleash their inner child can explore the many hands-on exhibits and attractions at Wonderworks.
14. Shopping
From charming unique shops to bustling Tanger Outlets, Pigeon Forge has something for everyone when it comes to shopping. You can find handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Spend the day window-shopping or splurging on something special for your partner.
15. Ziplines
Experience an adrenaline-filled adventure together by taking a zipline tour of the Smoky Mountains. You can take your relationship to new heights with amazing aerial views and have an unforgettable experience.
16. Alpine Coasters
I love alpine coasters. We rode several during our visit. All offered a great experience as you take a thrilling ride down the mountain.
Alpine Coasters In Pigeon Forge
- Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster: We rode during the day and again at night with all the neon lights — two completely different experiences on the mile-plus-long track.
- Rocky Top Mountain Coaster: We rode 9 minutes of twists, turns, and tunnels during the day.
- The Wild Stallion at nearby Skyland Ranch in Sevierville: We rode this 8-plus-minute ride over a 1.25-mile track during the day.
17. Festivals
Throughout the year, Pigeon Forge plays host to various festivals and events that couples can enjoy. There is always something exciting happening here.
18. Titanic Museum Attraction
An interesting museum to visit, the Titanic Museum Attraction in Pigeon Forge is a vast permanent collection of Titanic artifacts and memorabilia. Inside, you can climb a replica of Titanic’s hand-crafted Grand Staircase.
The museum focuses on what the passengers and crew of the Titanic experienced. You can feel the chill of an iceberg, listen to survivor stories, and learn more about the sinking of this famous vessel.
As you enter the attraction, you are assigned a person who was on the ship. You learn more about that person’s history as you walk through the museum. You will know if they survived or perished at the end of the museum. My husband’s character died and my character survived.
It is a very realistic and interactive educational experience for all ages.
Where To Stay
There are lots of places to stay in Pigeon Forge. These are my recommendations:
Camp Margaritaville
We stayed at Camp Margaritaville during our visit and it was great. They have a bowling alley, an outdoor pool with slides, a lazy river, and more on the premises.
Secluded Cabins
If you want a more secluded setting, try a cabin. Nothing says romance like a charming cabin in the woods where you can spend your evenings soaking in your private hot tub under the stars. Or snuggle by the fireplace to enjoy a cozy evening with your loved one.
Pigeon Forge truly has it all for a romantic couple’s getaway. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, exciting nightlife, or quiet seclusion, you’ll find everything right here in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Plan your trip today and experience the romance and charm of Pigeon Forge.