Pigeon Forge Things To Do With Kids: 18 Adventures You’ll Actually Want to Do, Too

Dollywood isn’t just a theme park—it’s basically childhood magic tucked into the Smokies. From high-speed coasters for your little daredevils to calmer rides like the Frogs & Fireflies in Wildwood Grove, there’s something for every comfort level.

Live entertainment keeps energy high, and the park’s Southern charm makes even snack breaks fun. Wildwood Grove in particular is a huge hit with kids, offering shaded areas, water play zones, and whimsical attractions built just for them.

Pro Tip: Get there early and head straight to the back of the park—crowds tend to start at the front and work their way back. Parking is massive but well-organized; trams are available, or you can upgrade to preferred parking for a closer spot.

If you’ve got an animal-loving kid (or you just want a break from the sun), Ripley’s Aquarium in nearby Gatlinburg is a no-fail hit.

Shark Lagoon’s moving walkway glides you beneath massive sharks, sawfish, and stingrays, while the Penguin Playhouse offers glass tunnels kids can crawl through for face-to-flipper encounters.

Hands-on touch tanks let them safely pet stingrays and horseshoe crabs—yes, it’s safe and yes, it’s super cool. Everything is indoors, so it’s perfect for rainy days or hot afternoons.

This is no ordinary dinner show—it’s a full-blown Wild West spectacle that kids absolutely eat up (literally). From horse tricks and aerial stunts to audience participation and a show-long North vs. South rivalry, the energy never lets up.

The four-course meal is kid-friendly and comes without utensils—yes, you eat with your hands, and yes, it’s as fun as it sounds. The pre-show and interactive elements keep kids engaged from the start. Parking is free and ample, but arriving 30–45 minutes early guarantees better seating and time to enjoy the preshow fun.

Think of this as dinner and a cartoon come to life. The show’s packed with over-the-top comedy, diving dogs, clogging, and some seriously impressive stunts that will keep even the squirmiest kids glued to their seats.

There’s an all-you-can-eat Southern feast served before the lights dim, so you won’t hear “I’m hungry” during the performance. It’s loud, it’s silly, and it doesn’t take itself too seriously—perfect for families. Free on-site parking is available, and lines move quickly if you arrive 30 minutes early.

WonderWorks is that upside-down building you’ll pass on the Parkway—and yes, it’s as wild on the inside as it looks. It’s an indoor science playground for curious kids and exhausted parents alike, with over 100 hands-on exhibits, a ropes course, laser tag, and even a hurricane tunnel.

Your kid can lie on a bed of nails, try virtual sports, and feel what an earthquake is like—all without the pressure of a “don’t touch” museum. The layout’s multi-level, so wear comfy shoes and be ready to pace yourself. Parking is in the shared lot out front and usually has space, but it gets busy midday.

When the kids have energy to burn and the weather isn’t cooperating, TopJump is the answer. It’s part trampoline park, part ninja warrior course, and part climbing gym, all under one roof.

There’s a huge arcade and a candy store inside too, which makes it easy to spend a couple of hours here without complaints. Parents can relax in the observation area with Wi-Fi while the kids go wild.

This isn’t your average mini golf—Crave is a candy-coated dreamland. Kids get scorecard challenges at each hole (think silly poses or mini-golf dares), which makes the game even more fun. The rooftop course has awesome views, while the indoor course is perfect when it’s too hot or rainy. Bonus: There’s also mini bowling and escape rooms for older siblings or brave tweens!

Sword fights, acrobats, mermaids, and sea lions—this is dinner theater on steroids. Kids will love cheering for their pirate crew while chomping on a hearty meal served during the show. The massive indoor pirate ship stage keeps the action front and center, and there’s never a dull moment.

The show also includes audience interaction and jaw-dropping stunts, so expect some wide-eyed moments. Parking is easy and free in the adjacent lot, and doors open early so you can grab a seat and snap pirate-themed pics before showtime.

Anakeesta feels like a mountaintop village plucked from a storybook. You’ll ride a scenic chairlift or Ridge Rambler up the mountain, then explore treetop skywalks, ziplines, the AnaVista Tower, and charming shops and food spots.

Kids will love the treehouse playground and mountain coaster, while parents can soak in the Smoky Mountain views. It’s outdoorsy without being too rugged—great for kids who want to run free but still be close to snacks.

Pro tip: Use the Gatlinburg parking garage and walk to the base station. It’s a little bit of a trek, but the experience at the top is worth it.

Zorbing is basically rolling downhill in a giant inflatable ball, and yes, it’s as chaotic and hilarious as it sounds. You’ll choose from different tracks—some speedy, some twisty—and the ball is filled with water so you slip and slide the whole way down. It’s wet, wild, and not for the faint of heart, but kids around 12 or 13 will be obsessed. Each ride is short, but you can book multiple rolls if they want to go again (and they will).

This coaster is one of the longest in the U.S., and it zips, twists, and winds through wooded terrain with some serious speed. Riders control their own brakes, so thrill-seekers can let it rip while cautious kids can take it slower. Night rides are lit up with colorful lights and feel like something out of a video game. It’s exciting but smooth—great for tweens and parents who still like a little adrenaline.

Towering 200 feet above The Island, this Ferris wheel gives kids a bird’s eye view of Pigeon Forge and the mountains beyond. Each glass-enclosed gondola is climate-controlled, so it’s comfy year-round. The ride is smooth and surprisingly calming, making it a nice break between higher-energy activities.

Afterward, explore the rest of The Island for shops, snacks, and the dancing fountain show. Parking is free at The Island’s lot, and a tram runs from the lot to the action every few minutes—super convenient if you’re traveling with tired feet.

This is like a museum, arcade, and selfie studio all rolled into one. Kids can jump into wild photo ops, test their skills in the Flip Zone, or try the FlyRide—an immersive motion ride across the U.S. It’s part tech playground, part pop culture playground, and definitely not boring. Everything is indoors and climate-controlled, which is a big win on hot or rainy days.

Patriot Park is a go-to for low-key family downtime. The paved walking loop is stroller-friendly and lined with American flags and memorials—great for a little learning while the kids burn off steam. There’s a grassy field perfect for kicking a ball or letting the little ones roam.

It’s calm, clean, and close to The Old Mill, so you can pair it with duck-watching or a sweet treat after. Free parking is right on site, and it’s also a trolley stop if you’re planning a car-free day.

Old Mill Square makes history feel less like homework and more like a fun walk with snacks. Kids love watching the massive waterwheel turn while ducks waddle nearby hoping for a crumb. You don’t have to spend a dime to stroll the area, peek into the pottery shop, or watch candy being made.

It’s especially magical in the late afternoon when the sun hits the river just right. Parking is free and easy, though it can fill up fast around mealtimes—go earlier or mid-morning for a smoother experience.

This is where locals take their kids when they just need to go play. There are multiple playgrounds for different ages, walking trails for scooters or strollers, and wide open fields perfect for frisbee, soccer, or laying on a blanket with snacks. It’s not overly crowded and has a relaxed, clean feel that’s perfect for a picnic. Restrooms are available (big win), and there’s plenty of shade on hot days. Free parking is right by the playgrounds, so you don’t have to drag tired kids across a giant lot.

This greenway is one of those “why didn’t we come here sooner?” spots. The paved trail follows the Little Pigeon River and links major spots like Patriot Park and The Island, so you can make a day out of it without ever getting in your car. Kids can scooter, bike, or walk alongside ducks and squirrels—and there are shaded benches if someone needs a snack break. It’s peaceful and easy to navigate, even with strollers.

Pro tip: Park at either end depending on what you want to explore afterward—they both offer free lots.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a must-do for families visiting Pigeon Forge—and yes, it’s free to enter. While there’s no admission fee, you’ll need a parking tag if you plan to stop for more than 15 minutes (available in daily, weekly, or annual options).

With kid-friendly spots like Cades Cove for wildlife spotting, Laurel Falls for an easy paved hike, and Clingmans Dome for jaw-dropping views, there’s something for every age and energy level.

The Junior Ranger Program is also a fun bonus—grab a booklet at a visitor center and let the kids earn a badge while exploring.

Pro tip: cell service is patchy inside the park, so download maps ahead and pack snacks, water, and layers.