Planning a week-long vacation to Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg? These charming towns nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly activities. Here’s a seven-day itinerary to help you explore the best of what these destinations have to offer with a week-long vacation to Gatlinburg.
Day 1: Dollywood Adventure
Start your journey with a full day at Dollywood, one of the most popular attractions in Pigeon Forge. The theme park offers something for everyone, from thrilling roller coasters like the Wild Eagle to more gentle rides for younger children. Enjoy live performances showcasing country music and traditional Appalachian culture. Don’t forget to try some delicious southern cuisine at one of the park’s many eateries. End your day with a spectacular fireworks display that will leave the entire family in awe.
Dollywood
2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd
(800) 365-5996
Day 2: Exploring the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Spend your second day immersed in the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Begin with a hike to Laurel Falls, a family-friendly trail leading to a stunning 80-foot waterfall. For a more leisurely adventure, drive through Cades Cove, where you can spot wildlife such as deer, black bears, and wild turkeys. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch surrounded by breathtaking scenery. The park’s visitor centers offer educational exhibits about the area’s natural and cultural history, perfect for curious minds.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
(865) 436-1200
Day 3: Relax at Your Vacation Rental
Take a break from the hustle and bustle and enjoy a day of relaxation at your SkyView Rentals cabin. Start your morning with a leisurely breakfast on the balcony, taking in the stunning mountain views. Spend the afternoon lounging by your private indoor pool or playing a game of duckpin bowling with the family. In the evening, gather around the fire pit to roast marshmallows and share stories. This day of rest will recharge your batteries for more adventures to come.
Day 4: Gatlinburg’s Ripley’s Aquarium and SkyLift Park
Head to Gatlinburg to explore Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies on your fourth day. The kids will be thrilled by the underwater tunnel, where they can see sharks, stingrays, and other marine life up close. After the aquarium, take a ride on the Gatlinburg SkyLift for panoramic views of the Smoky Mountains. At the top, visit SkyLift Park and walk across the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. It’s an exciting adventure that offers both thrills and incredible views.
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
88 River Rd
(865) 430-8808
Gatlinburg SkyPark
765 Parkway
(865) 436-4307
Day 5: Outdoor Adventures at Anakeesta
Spend your fifth day at Anakeesta, Gatlinburg’s outdoor family adventure park. Begin with a scenic ride up the Chondola to the summit of Anakeesta Mountain. Once there, explore the treetop canopy walk, zipline through the forest, or let the kids play in the treehouse village playground. For a more relaxing experience, stroll through the beautiful Vista Gardens or enjoy a meal at one of the mountaintop dining spots with stunning views. Anakeesta offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for the entire family.
Anakeesta
76 Parkway
(865) 325-2400
Day 6: The Island in Pigeon Forge
On your sixth day, visit The Island in Pigeon Forge, an entertainment complex with a variety of attractions and activities. Start with a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for spectacular views of the area. Kids will love the arcade, mirror maze, and bumper cars. Explore the unique shops for souvenirs and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants. End your day with the Island Show Fountain, a stunning display of water and lights synchronized to music.
The Island in Pigeon Forge
131 The Island Dr
(865) 286-0119
Day 7: Exploring Forbidden Caverns
Discover the underground wonders of the Forbidden Caverns on your final day. Located just outside Pigeon Forge, these remarkable caves are filled with fascinating geological formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. The guided tour takes you through well-lit pathways, providing insights into the history and natural wonders of the caverns. Kids and adults alike will be amazed by the underground streams and the eerie beauty of the caves.
Forbidden Caverns
455 Blowing Cave Rd
(865) 453-5972
You’ve Made It Home
SkyView Rentals offers a variety of luxurious, custom-built homes and log cabins in the heart of Pigeon Forge, adjacent to the stunning Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These rentals are ideally located to provide easy access to the area’s attractions, shopping, and restaurants, while still offering a peaceful retreat where you can relax and unwind. Imagine staying in a cozy log cabin or a spacious home with breathtaking mountain views, equipped with modern amenities such as elevators, indoor pools, and duckpin bowling alleys. Each property is designed to make you feel right at home, with features like fire pits for roasting marshmallows and balconies for enjoying your morning coffee amid nature.
Book Your Vacation Rental Today
Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg offer a variety of activities and attractions, making them perfect for a week-long vacation. Book your stay today!