Situated 8 miles north of the Great Smoky Mountain National Park a three hour drive from Hickory, North Carolina, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is a mountain resort city and a popular tourist destination. Settled in the 1780s, the town gets its name from an iron forge built along the Little Pigeon River in 1817 but it wasn't until the 1980s that Pigeon Forge experienced its commercial boom to become the family vacation hub it is today.
It's called "The Land of More," referring to the numerous attractions, restaurants, lodging options, shops and businesses within the city limits. Along the five mile stretch of the Parkway, the six-lane Route 441 that travels North and South through town, you'll find over 80 fun-filled attractions and entertainment options. From go-carts, arcades and mini-golf to museums, theatres and other entertainment venues, there's something here that each member of the family will enjoy. In fact, there is so much to do on the parkway alone, it is impossible to do everything during a week's visit! Add in the numerous hiking and outdoor activities that abound in the area and one could easily stay entertained through the summer months.
It's easy to get lost in the fun and thrill of the attractions within Pigeon Forge, but there's more than meets the eye here. This area is rich in history. From the Old Mill that dates back to 1830 and still running today to the storylines of lumberjacks and family feuds at the dinner shows, the history of the area is interweaved into daily operations and lives on in harmony with the modern times. There are educational opportunities around every corner. From the story of the Titanic to science and physics, kids of all ages often won't even realize that they are learning while having fun. The natural beauty of the Smoky Mountains surrounds the man-made structures within the city limits, providing a calm alternative to the bustling playground of attractions.
One thing's for sure, Pigeon Forge is a great place to make more memories and enjoy more special moments with the family this summer. It's a vacation everyone will enjoy and remember. "More fun that sticks with you..." come explore the Land of More!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzCEZ7I-qs4
Learn more at http://www.mypigeonforge.com/.
Disclaimer: The writer was a recent guest of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism for two nights during which accommodations at the Inn on the River were provided at a discounted rate and various attractions were offered at no charge for the purpose of this article.
