By Diane Steinbach
Things for Kids to Do in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
Whether you are on your way for a week of camping in the Smoky Mountain National Park or just want to take the kids for a weekend getaway, a stop in Pigeon Forge is a great idea. A family friendly destination, Pigeon Forge has got all the shows, shopping and sports you desire plus plenty of things to keep cranky kids smiling throughout the vacation. With a little planning and some advance ticket purchases, you can get your kids excited to head out to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee.
Dollywood
This is not just a mecca for country and bluegrass music but an all-round amusement park. Your kids will love the Mystery Mine and Thunderhead roller-coasters, water rides and the other typical amusement park rides with a country theme. Live entertainment, a memorable steam train ride and delicious regional food will make it a fun stop for everyone. You won't be able to miss the signs leading to Dollywood from the expressway, but it'll be off I-40 (exit 407) or TN Highway 66 South. Check out Dollywood.com to check for dates and hours of operation as there are often seasonal festivals and hours vary by season.
Magic Beyond Belief
Even if you aren't a huge fan of magic shows, your kids will be mesmerized by the myriad of illusions set in a family friendly environment. Terry Evanswood keeps the crowd amazed with his tricks, wild animals and stories, and meeting him after the show isn't a rarity! The show is great for kids of all ages and will definitely give your family something to talk about over dinner! Get your tickets in advance as the shows are often sold out.
2135 Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 428-5600
Pigeonforgemagic.com
Adventure Quest
A little something for everyone, Adventure Quest is a sports complex that will keep the kids feeling good. Home to the Best Mirror Maze the whole family will giggle their way out of this well-designed trap. There's also a nice little black-light miniature golf course with a pirate theme, perfect for little boys. Be sure to try your hand in the Mission Impossible laser room which lets kids of all ages challenge their flexibility by dodging alarmed lasers. A nice break from the sunshine and heat in summer, Adventure Quest is a good deal at about $15.00, as of 2009.
Adventure Quest
2491 Great Smoky Mountains Parkway
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 686-5586
Zorb Smoky Mountains
A little high priced but a fun and unique experience, the Zorb is basically a ball that you enter and roll down a hill in. Almost as much fun to watch as to do it yourself, there is just something about rolling around in a huge ball that makes you laugh. Kids can choose to do the Zydro, which is a water-Zorb, which is a great relief on a hot day. Upwards of $30.00 in 2009, the quick trip down the hill is memorable, but you'll have to meet weight requirements. You can buy videos and pictures of yourself in the Zorb as well, to enhance your scrapbook.
203 Sugar Hollow Road
Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
(865) 428-2422
Zorb.com/smoky
About the Author:
Diane Steinbach has been writing for a variety of professional, educational and entertainment publications for over 15 years. Her work consists of three books on art therapy including : "Art as Therapy: Innovations, Inspiration and Ideas" (Steinbach, 2005.) She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in art therapy and behavioral science from Mount Mary College in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Photo Credits:
andrewds14 flickr.com, whitewatersf flickr.com, danielle_blue flickr.com, butler.corey flickr.com
