The Smoky Mountains region of Tennessee may offer more than enough natural beauty to make any stay in the area magical, but nature isn’t the only artist at work in the Gatlinburg area. If you’re looking to truly take your imagination to its limits you’ll find a variety of attractions and shows in Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge that can easily place visitors in a veritable trance through their unique design and stunning presentations. Whether you’re looking for a traditional magic show or interactive experience, you’ll find it all waiting amidst the charm of the Smokies.

WonderWorks

Located in Pigeon Forge, WonderWorks offers an interactive setting of both education and amazement. Throughout your journey through this unique attraction you’ll have the opportunity to experience an earthquake, step into the eye of a hurricane and even take a rest on an authentic bed of nails. And while WonderWorks is designed to stimulate the minds of children, adults are sure to find a variety of exhibits every bit as interesting to them as they are to the little ones. If discovery is on your vacation agenda, then visit WonderWorks where the entire family can discover together.

Magic Beyond Belief

If you’re looking to discover magic while visiting Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge you’ll be hard pressed to find a more decorated magician than Terry Evanswood at Magic Beyond Belief. Terry’s performance alone will be more than enough to assure the audience of his illusion prowess; though having been awarded the Merlin Award by the International Magicians Society certainly doesn’t hurt his credibility, and ensures audience beforehand that they’ll be seeing a consummate performer. From simple sleight-of-hand to large-scale productions involving tigers, magic is on full display in the Smokies with Magic Beyond Belief.

Cirque De Chine

Featuring 60 gold and silver award-winning medalists, the Cirque De Chine offers visitors an encompassing look at acrobatics complete with the traditions of China. Acts demonstrated throughout the performance include plate spinning, trapeze balancing, hoop diving and more, while the 2,000 year old culture of China is showcased through the more than 75 different costumes used throughout the show. Those looking for a high-energy time of entertainment, cultural diversity or simply an entertaining show, Cirque De Chine is definitely worth looking into.

With just two months left before Summer is once more three seasons away, now is the time to take full advantage with a visit to Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. Offering a combination of large-scale entertainment and natural beauty, there are a number of ways for visitors to enjoy themselves and through activity and relaxation - especially when during the summer. Below, you’ll find a few different ideas to help spark ideas for one last summer romp!

Dollywood’s Splash Country

Dollywood Theme Park’s sister-site, Splash Country, offers visitors a full day of splashing good fun in a water park environment that offers something for nearly every visitor. A variety of flumes, slides, tubes, lazy rivers and tide pools are waiting for you at Splash Country to offer an active day of family entertainment. Along with the many thrilling and relaxing options found throughout the park, guests will also find a number of eateries and snack venues to ensure you’re energy is up to par.

Rafting

Both Pigeon Forge and Nantahala Rivers showcase rafting options that can be appreciated by an expert while still offering enough room for novice rafters to not be overwhelmed. If you’re looking to end your summer in thrilling fashion, then this is certainly a prime way to spend your time in Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge.

Shows

While you can catch them throughout the year, that in no way means that Gatlinburg’s list of live shows isn’t a great way to beat the summer heat when visiting the Smokies. Musical eras, comedy, magic, gospel, tributes and general Smokies culture are just some of the topics you’ll find entertainingly handled through the variety of show offerings in the area. Whether you’re looking for a way to cool down after a long day of activity or hope to make going to the show your main activity, there’s a show for virtually every vacation style when visiting Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge.

The always family-friendly atmosphere of Dollywood is about to become even more so with the inclusion of KidsFest this summer! From June 13 - August 3 Dollywood will feature a variety of special events and characters alongside its typical fare for a magical theme park outing that is sure to keep the family entertained. Included in this year’s festival are special attractions including Creature Adventures starring the Kratt Brothers, and the popular combo of Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber in VeggieTales Live. Along with the set shows scheduled throughout the festival, visitors will also find new friends roaming Dollywood including Miss Penny & Patches the Scarecrow and outdoorsmen Cas & his bluetick hound Walker.

Running right alongside KidsFest, Gatlinburg’s Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales Festival will also be taking place throughout the summer in downtown Gatlinburg. Set to take place from June 13 - August 31, Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales offers nightly celebrations of the sounds of Gatlinburg ranging from the 1800’s to the current landscape.

Of course, a trip to Gatlinburg isn’t complete without visiting the Great Smoky Mountains. And there’s no better way to take in an encompassing view of the Smokies than with an exciting helicopter tour. From brief flights that merely take you up for a view to immersive journeys that span over 80 miles, there are numerous ways to enjoy the Smokies from the sky during your next Gatlinburg vacation.

Nestled in the heart of the Smokies, Gatlinburg is a charming destination that captures the beauty of nature while still managing to stay conveniently modern. And while it may be hard to believe, there are numerous vacation activities throughout Gatlinburg-Pigeon Forge that amazingly represent the adventure and excitement that the wilderness of Gatlinburg has offered those passing through centuries before. From shooting down a streaming flume and soaring through the air to uncovering a wide variety of wildlife, it’s all waiting wrapped in convenience in Gatlinburg!

Dollywood

Dollywood’s 125 acre setting is more than enough to feature something for the entire family! Thrilling rides, children’s play areas, live shows and a wide spread of dining options all come together for an experience that can easily last the entire day. That’s not all though, aside from the sheer fun that can be found at Dollywood, visitors will find an authentic representation of Smokies mountain heritage and culture at nearly every turn.

Dollywood’s Splash Country

If you’re looking for a fun way to beat the Smokies summer heat, then look no further than Dollywood’s Splash Country. Designed as a sister-attraction to Dollywood, Splash Country features a variety of lazy rivers, flumes, tubes and slides that can offer a wide range of experience. Whether you’re looking to languidly stay afloat under the summer sun or fly through pitch-black tubes to raucous wave pools below, it’s completely up to you how you spend your day at Dollywood’s Splash Country. And while the park doesn’t offer the same spread of live shows as Dollywood, you will still find numerous dining options to ensure that you’re energy is on high throughout the entire day.

RainForest Adventures

RainForest Adventures may not pack the thrilling action of a theme park, but there’s no doubt that this zoological attraction is every bit as intriguing as any theme park out there. This all-indoor exhibit contains hundreds of animal species, as well as numerous sites you’d expect to see in their natural habitats, including a working 25-foot waterall! From snakes and other creepy crawlers to exotic bird species, there’s a site to capture the imagination of one and all at RainForest Adventures.

This June Gatlinburg will treat Smoky Mountain visitors to a cultural taste of the area with the Smoky Mountain Tunes and Tales Festival in downtown Gatlinburg. From June 13 through August 31, downtown Gatlinburg will be filled with 14 different entertainers displaying various time periods from the 1800’s to modern times nightly. From story telling and dancing to singing and instrumentation, visitors are sure to find a wide range of entertainment focusing on the culture and traditions of the Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge area.

Of course, the Tunes and Tales Festival is far from the only way to find a true Smoky Mountain experience when visiting Tennessee. Those looking for excitement mixed with sights and sounds of the area’s past are sure to find Dollywood to be an engaging experience. Numerous thrill rides, children’s rides, live shows and dining options cover the park with a constant atmosphere of the Smokies providing the perfect setting.

A trip to Gatlinburg just isn’t complete without visiting the Great Smoky Mountains. And there’s no better way to take in an encompassing view of the Smokies than with an exciting helicopter tour. From brief flights that merely take you up for a view to immersive journeys that span over 80 miles, there are numerous ways to enjoy the Smokies from the sky during your next Gatlinburg vacation. 

While your first thoughts of Gatlinburg may conjure images of Tennessee creeks and the towering Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge can also provide visitors an astounding variety of live entertainment when traveling through the area. From laugh out loud comedies to mind boggling magic shows, the entertainment scene throughout Gatlinburg is easily varied enough to rival the scope of its natural wonders. And to help get you thinking about how you’d like to spend your time in Gatlinburg we’ve featured a few of the many types of live entertainment Gatlinburg offers.

Comedy Barn

As the name implies, comedy is at the forefront of the Comedy Barn; though visitors are sure to find an encompassing time of entertainment. Aside from comedy, the Comedy Barn features jugglers, fire-eaters and even a handful of barnyard animals! Of course, comedy takes center stage for a performance that is appropriate and entertaining for the entire family.

Magic Beyond Belief

Home of the Merlin Award-winning Terry Evanswood, Magic Beyond Belief offers a family outing of wonder through unbelievable illusions and quality showmanship. And while Terry is the featured performer of the show, he’s far from the only talent performing throughout the night. Helping assist Terry are Klondike the Wonder Dog, a 400-pound white tiger and other critters containing a hint of magic!

Smoky Mountain Jubilee

Featuring quality harmonies, an explosive live band and a touch of comedy, the Smoky Mountain Jubilee is a comprehensive time of entertainment that pays homage to the traditional gospel sound of the area. The quartet will amaze with its precision while Highpockets keeps the time lively with his crazy antics and zany humor. Offering a little of everything in terms of entertainment, and a whole lot of Smoky Mountain charm, the Smoky Mountain Jubilee is a great way to be entertained and take in the culture of the area.

With the Smoky Mountains ever looming in the background, Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge offers travelers unprecedented natural beauty. And while experiencing the sights of the area in any fashion can be a moving experience, there are a number of unique ways to tour the area that can make your adventure all the more special. Below, we’ve covered just a few of the many less traveled ‘roads’ to experiencing Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge for a memorable time in the Smokies.

Monster Truck Rides

While it’s not exactly a tour, Monster Truck Rides in Gatlinburg is still set amidst the Smoky Mountains, and is certainly a thrilling experience. Housing a 454 motor atop 66 inch tires, Monster Truck Rides in Gatlinburg will take guests around the off-road track at Wildcat Motorsports for a bumpy, adventurous thrill ride. If you’re more interested in the actual means of transportation than you are seeing sights, then the Monster Truck Rides is definitely an option for you.

Horseback Rides

Located in nearby Townsend, a horseback ride at Apple Valley Riding Stables is a great way to explore the base of the Smoky Mountains. Passing through light forests and trickling streams, a horseback ride is the perfect tour for those wanting an intimate look at the lay of the land. And the best part is, due to Apple Valley Riding Stables expert care and handling of their horses novice and seasoned rider alike can enjoy this beginner’s horseback ride along the Smoky Mountains.

Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tram

The Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tram offers Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge visitors unparalleled views of the Smoky Mountain area. The tram travels from downtown Gatlinburg to Ober Gatlinburg Ski Resort & Amusement Park, offering guests approximately 20 minutes of panoramic sightseeing. And the best part is, you don’t get just one ride with your order, but an unlimited two day pass! So whether you’re looking to get just the right photo opportunity or merely enjoying viewing the Smokies from the sky, you’ll be set.

Gatlinburg’s Dollywood routinely offers area visitors a lively time of thrill rides, live entertainment, theme park dining and general fun, but throughout the Spring season travelers will also find an encompassing look at world culture with Dollywood’s Festival of Nations. Set for March 21 through May 5, Festival of Nations highlights artistry and entertainment from a variety of cultures for an interactive and entertaining learning experience for the entire family. Song, dance, craftsmanship, cuisine and much more will all be displayed throughout the entirety of the festival, with various acts, demonstrations and exhibits all being displayed.

And while the full line-up for the festival is far from set, there are already a number of great options rounding out Festival of Nations to ensure another successful time of cultural exploration in the Smokies.

Browse the list below for an idea of what to expect from this year’s Festival of Nations at Dollywood.

Dollywood’s Festival of Nations’ Special Features

• Calpulli Mexican Dance Company: April 3 - 28
• Chiemgau Schuhplattler (Bavarian Folkdancing): March 21 - 31
• Kayumanggi Philippine Performing Arts: April 23 - May 5
• Villa de Alhama (Spanish Folklore): March 28 - April 4
• Rhythm of the Dance: March 21 - May 5
• Ecuador’s Atahualpa: March 21 - May 5
• O’Malley’s Place: March 21 - May 5
• Zambia Vocal Group: March 21 - May 5

Gatlinburg in the Spring is a truly amazing sight. The radiant Sun shining above the picturesque Smoky Mountains, vibrant display of wildflowers and countless outdoor activities come together for a true slice of mountain paradise. And while the general atmosphere in itself is more than reason enough to visit, Gatlinburg’s SpringFest ensures that you’ll find plenty to keep you busy while marveling in the beauty of the region.

Beginning on March 12 and running through June 8, SpringFest presents a wide variety of events ranging from the always popular Ribfest & Wings to the Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage. And aside from the many special events scheduled throughout the season, visitors will also find a general décor of rebirth blanketing the area as baskets of fresh flowers are set throughout the town and street performers take to the warm weather to entertain both passing locals and visitors alike.

To help you plan your Gatlinburg vacation during SpringFest, we’ve highlighted the many activities and events that will be taking place throughout the celebration this year!

Schedule of Events for Gatlinburg SpringFest:

• Annual Easter Arts & Crafts Show: March 19 – 22
• Gatlinburg’s Ribfest & Wings: April 17
• Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage: April 23 – 27
• 27th Annual Scottish Festival & Games: May 17 – 18
• Gatlinburg Fine Arts Festival: May 17 - 18

The Smoky Mountains offers a wide variety of family entertainment ranging from general outdoor activities and theme park excitement to engaging area tours, but with Gatlinburg’s array of dinner shows guests get a one-two combo with great entertainment and a fulfilling meal. Below we’ve highlighted a few of the different dinner shows currently available in Gatlinburg – Pigeon Forge to give potential travelers a few ideas to build their vacation around.

Black Bear Jamboree Dinner & Show

The Black Bear Jamboree Dinner & Show presents a Broadway-style performance that encompasses bluegrass, country, gospel, oldies and more. The brisk pace of the entertainment will ensure that attention is kept at high as guests are taken through the many cultural sounds of the area. The food is also an authentic representation of the Smokies with southern style chicken, hickory pit barbecue ribs, corn on the cob, creamy vegetable soup and much more! Those looking to fill up on fun and food are sure to find a great time waiting at Black Bear Jamboree Dinner & Show.

Blackwood Breakfast Variety Show

The Blackwood Breakfast Variety Show is the perfect way to meet the day with energy and enthusiasm. Hilarious comedy and moving gospel numbers will combine for a full entertainment experience, while the breakfast will ensure you have the energy needed to fully participate and meet the day head-on. Everything from biscuits and sausage to cheese omelets and fruit salad will be served up alongside smooth vocals and laugh-out-loud comedy during the Blackwood Breakfast Variety Show for a morning like you’ve never experienced.

Hoot ‘n’ Holler Dinner Show

Italian dining and 20th century, vaudeville-inspired song and dance combine at Hoot ‘n’ Holler Dinner Show. Hilarity and audience participation will be on the menu in terms of entertainment while the Italian feast will ensure that no one in the audience is left hungry. And for those looking for a complete day of fun, Hoot ‘n’ Holler Dinner Show tickets can also be purchased in combination with WonderWorks admission!