As the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is one of the most popular destinations in the entire southeastern U.S. The town once served as a refuge for settlers during the Indian raids of the late 1700’s. The name “Pigeon Forge” is derived from a time when passenger pigeons were nesting along the Little Pigeon River and an old iron “forge” built by the river in the early 1800’s. Today, the rural landscape has been changed quite a bit to include more than 60 attractions. Exciting amusement parks, waterparks, museums, family attractions, thrill rides, fabulous live musical entertainment, variety shows, dinner theaters, shopping, dining, plenty of outdoor adventures and so much more make Pigeon Forge a perfect family vacation paradise!

Here are just a few of some of the popular Pigeon Forge attractions:

Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Visit the area’s prime attraction and America’s most visited national treasure. Enjoy hiking trails, fishing, bear watching, horseback riding or just stay in your vehicle and take in all the scenery along winding roads. Stop by Caves Cove and for an Appalachian history lesson and see how the early settlers lived. Nature comes alive in autumn with a spectacular fall colors display and wildflowers bloom throughout the park practically year-round adding to the splendor.

The Island in Pigeon forge – A great family hang out, especially after a day at the park, featuring a colorful and lively fountain show, cool air conditioned ferris wheel, plenty of arcade games, amusement rides, shops and eateries. Alcatraz East, a crime museum, is set to open this fall, offering a behind the scenes history of crime investigation in a 19th century prison atmosphere.

Titanic Museum – Considered the World’s Largest Titanic attraction, tour through a replica of the doomed luxury ocean liner. Learn about the original ship through interactive and informative displays and authentic artifacts. Walk the elegant Grand Staircase and through the 3rd class hallways. Try your luck at maneuvering the sloping deck. Touch an iceberg, put a hand into freezing 28 degree water and sit in a real lifeboat to get an idea of what the final moments on board must have felt like.

Dollywood – There’s something for everyone at this totally family-friendly amusement park full of live entertainment, thrilling rides and lots of excellent southern-style food choices. Watch artisans at work while they carve wood or make candles or candy. If you’re lucky, you’ll even get to see country music start Dolly Parton perform at one of her famous on-site shows.

Parrot Mountain and Gardens – Take time out to commune with nature in a lushly landscaped, Bible-inspired garden setting. Get up close and personal with many species of stunning tropical and rare birds. Interact with hummingbirds, toucans, parrots and many other rare birds. Watch as baby birds at all stages of life are meticulously cared for and nourished.

For your next Pigeon Forge getaway, consider a stay at Sunrise Ridge Resort. This RCI Gold Crown Rated resort is located in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Enjoy relaxation and majestic mountain vistas, less than 2 miles away from all the action and excitement of Pigeon Forge. Well-appointed units feature a patio or balcony for perfect viewing of the starry night sky and plenty of room for relaxation. Some suites are equipped with a fireplace to keep you cozy on chilly evenings. The resort has two outdoor pools and one indoor pool, two hot tubs, an exercise facility and on-site laundry.