Fun in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

People laughed at work when I said we were going to Pigeon Forge.  I didn’t really know what to expect but from what I could tell it looked like there were plenty of things to do and we were going to be in Gatlinburg also – another destination that people snickered about.

Convenient camping location in Pigeon Forge

Well let me tell you, we had a blast and there was no shortage of things to do. We stayed at the KOA in Pigeon Forge which is easily in walking distance or a short bike ride to the Old Mill  district.  It was a great place to spend a few days or longer.  We didn’t opt to visit Dollywood or the splash park or do any of the dinner shows but they’re there along with plenty of ‘outlet’ stores.

The Old Mill District is more of a collection of several shops and restaurants than an actual district but it was great.  There is a place to taste moonshine – ten flavors.   We bought some because they were so damn good.  The flavors are to die for like apple pie and blueberry.  We ate at the Old Mill Pottery House Cafe & Grille and had great service and delicious food. Highly recommend.

Horseback Riding in Pigeon Forge

We went horseback riding at the Big Rock Dude Ranch, a short drive from just about anywhere in the town but not an easy bike ride away.  There is room to place a motor home along the road but we didn’t try their parking lot as the trees were pretty low going in.  The ride was great and the trails fun and the scenery excellent.  This is really a must do if in the area and there were kids riding too so it’s fun for the whole family.  The guide was wonderful and we really enjoyed the trails which were unlike any in Florida which are all flat.  The price was quite reasonable too.  Really a fun time.

Go Kart Riding in Pigeon Forge

We also did some of the crazy go kart rides that are all over the place – great fun tracks and all sorts of types of tracks for anyone to enjoy.  If you like go karts, this is a destination for you!  There are tracks that have four and five different tracks that you can mix up when buying time so that you can try multiple tracks at one location and some of these mega tracks are all close together.  We road bicycles along the main road and had no trouble hitting some.

At the Old Forge Distillery you can sample up to ten flavours of moonshine.  I must say we’ve become a fan after the tasting.  The flavours included Apple Pie, Blackberry, French Toast and more.  It was hard to tell which was the best, so we bought several, including a sample package of five flavors that makes for a great gift.  There were plenty of things to buy in this excellent store and is truly a fun shopping and sampling experience for adults.

All in there is plenty for everyone in Pigeon Forge.  It is a well-developed tourist destination and is mecca for anyone who loves a good pancake house.  But you can do just about anything here.  You don’t have to love country shows and outlet malls to enjoy a stay here.  We will be back!