Category Archives: Toddlers and Kids Activities

Discover Kid Friendly, Toddler Friendly Activities in the Smoky Mountains

Sara Evans Performs For Patriot Festival 2023 In Pigeon Forge

VisitMySmokies.com writes:

“Country Music Star Set to Headline at This Year’s Patriot Festival in Pigeon Forge

Each year, Pigeon Forge gets decked out in red, white, and blue to celebrate Independence Day with the Patriot Festival. This festival hosts live entertainment, activities for kids, delicious food, and a firework show to finish the evening. In the past, several big-name stars in the music industry have made their way to the Smoky Mountains to participate in the event, and this year will be no different. Find out who is the headline act at this year’s Patriot Festival in Pigeon Forge:

Recent news has broken that revealed who will be headlining this year’s Independence Day celebration in Pigeon Forge. The headliner at this year’s event will be none other than country music artist and Grammy-nominated entertainer Sara Evans! Evans is the fifth-most played female artist on country radio for the past two decades, and some of her hit songs include “No Place That Far,” “Suds In the Bucket,” and “Born to Fly.” Over her career, Evans has earned multiple awards, including American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and Grammy Award nominations.

Joining Sara Evans on the stage at this year’s Patriot Festival in Pigeon Forge will be On the Border – The Ultimate Eagles Tribute! This tribute band performs some of the greatest hits by The Eagles and is known by many as one of the greatest tribute bands on the scene. They will treat guests of the festival to classic hits such as “Desperado,” “Lyin’ Eyes,” and “Life in the Fast Lane.” Both performances by On the Border and Sara Evans will be free for those attending the special 4th of July celebration in Pigeon Forge!

In addition to the live music to enjoy during the day and into the evening, the Patriot Festival is well-known for its explosive firework show to cap off the event. The firework show begins when it gets dark to give guests the best view of the colorful fireworks high in the sky. You are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets to set up to enjoy the display! There will also be food vendors on-site where you can grab food to enjoy throughout the day, as well as plenty of other fun activities for the entire family.”

Read the full article at https://www.visitmysmokies.com/blog/events-pigeon-forge/headline-act-patriot-festival-pigeon-forge.

Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival And Games in Townsend, TN.

This year’s annual Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival is taking place at the Townsend Visitor’s Center in, you guessed it, Townsend, TN, on the main road on May 20th and May 21st. The Smoky Mountains have a large presence of Celtic, Irish and Scottish communities that have been here for hundreds of years, so a celebration of Scottish highlander culture in the Tennessee highlands goes together like a black bear and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park!

Here’s what the official website writes about the Scottish Festival and Games:

“Scotland in the Smokies is calling you!!! Celebrating its 41st year, the Smoky Mountain Scottish Festival and Games is Tennessee’s oldest festival of Scottish, Irish and Celtic culture. Presenting folk, roots, rock & pop music, highland athletics, pipes & drums, highland and Irish dance. Whisky tastings, vendors and a great selection of beer and food from the Scottish, Irish and British homelands. Enjoy a weekend of family fun in the beautiful foothills of Townsend, Tennessee, just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Heavy Athletics
Marvel over the feats of strength in this sporting spectacle of champions. Scottish heavy athletics owe their roots to the Highland warriors who would keep in shape between battles by competing amongst themselves with everyday implements. A stone, a blacksmith’s hammer, a tree trunk (caber) became tools for building strength for battle.

Piping & Drumming
Enjoy bag piping and drumming throughout the weekend during competitions that bring players from all over the world to compete in different levels ranging from beginners to professionals.

Highland Dance
Scottish Highland Dancing is an exciting celebration of the Scottish spirit! The dances are a combination of strength, agility, movement, music and costume. They are generally danced solo and in competition unlike other dance mediums. Dancers typically dance to traditional Scottish music such as Strathspeys, Reels, Hornpipes and Jigs all played by accompanying bagpiper. Dances are made up of different parts, called steps and are usually four or six steps to a dance.

Highland dancing was traditionally performed by men but is now performed by men and women. It is one of few arenas where men and women compete equally. In most competitions, the number of women competing far exceeds the number of men.

In addition to perpetuating a great cultural tradition, highland dancers appreciate the athletic challenges, competitive goals, performance opportunities as well as the opportunity to meet and become lifelong friends with dancers from other areas, both nationally and internationally.

Scottish Clans
Find out if you belong to a Scottish Clan! Clan hosts can help you learn more about a clan, including their tartans, as well as welcome you into membership should you decide to officially join a clan.”

See more on this event at https://www.smokymountaingames.org/.

Pigeon Forge Rotary Craft Fair – Spring

Reposted From The Pigeon Forge Tourism Page:

“The Rotary Spring Craft Fair starts two weeks from yesterday on Friday April 21st and runs through Saturday April 29th at The Mountain Mile in Pigeon Forge Tennessee. The hours are 10-6 everyday. Admission is $3 @and your money goes to support charitable causes. Please share this post and come check out the craft fair!”

Smoky Mountain New Years Eve Parties For 2023

So what’s Sevier County got in store for New Years Eve parties for 2023? Here’s what the cities are posting:

Pigeon Forge:
New Years Eve Celebration At The Island

From their website:
“Ring In the New Year With a Bang!

Join us at The Island in Pigeon Forge as we countdown to 2023 with a dazzling Island Show Fountain and midnight fireworks production on Saturday, December 31! The Island in Pigeon Forge will be open on Saturday, December 31st from 10 a.m. to midnight, and we look forward to celebrating with you as we ring in the New Year! The Island in Pigeon Forge is excited to offer families the opportunity to celebrate and make cherished memories together while ringing in the New Year in spectacular fashion! Join us on New Year’s Eve for a day of family fun and incredible midnight fireworks, and let’s kick off 2023 with a bang!”

See this event at:
https://islandinpigeonforge.com/new-years-eve/.

Gatlinburg:
New Year’s Eve Celebration and Fireworks Show

From their website:
“Gatlinburg will ring in the new year under the cover of the iconic Gatlinburg Space Needle for its 35th Annual New Year’s Eve Ball Drop and Fireworks Show on Saturday, December 31. Since 1987, this free, family-friendly celebration has been one of the largest organized New Year’s Eve events in the nation, and this year’s celebration is set to be a spectacular end to the year.

Visitors are encouraged to arrive early to take advantage of the celebration specials offered by many Gatlinburg restaurants and businesses. Live music begins at 10 p.m. at the base of the Space Needle on Historic Nature Trail/Airport Rd.”

See this event at:
https://www.gatlinburg.com/event/new-years-eve-celebration-and-fireworks-show/19/.

New Year’s Eve Lights of Wonder

From their website:
“Ring in the New Year at the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park!

The city of Gatlinburg is getting ready to have its fireworks display from the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle this New Year’s Eve! To get the very best, and most unique view, of the fireworks in (and above) town, you need to get your VIP “NYE Lights of Wonder” tickets for an exclusive fireworks viewing on top of the SkyLift Park’s mountain and SkyBridge. From the SkyBridge, you will be vieiwing the fireworks from 500 feet above Gatlinburg and roughly 100 feet above the Space Needle’s firework’s launchpad. View the fireworks from the best spot in town, enjoy the Lights Over Gatlinburg lights after-hours at the SkyLift Park, AND come back to visit the SkyLift Park as many times as you would like to the very next day- January 1st!

Tickets are limited at will sell out, so get yours today before it’s too late!”

See this event at:
https://www.gatlinburg.com/event/new-years-eve-lights-of-wonder/438/.

Sevierville:
Wilderness at the Smokies

From their website:
“Ring In New Year’s With Us!
Join us as we say goodbye to 2022 and welcome in 2023 in a variety of fun ways!

Monty’s Mini New Year’s Eve Bash
Wilderness at the Smokies will be hosting a Mini New Year’s Eve Party on Saturday, December 31st from 12‐1:30 pm for children under the age of 11. The event will occur in the River Lodge Conference Room and will include a dance party and party favors and sweet treats for kids to enjoy.

Camp Social’s New Year’s Eve Crab Legs and Prime Rib Buffet
From 2-8 pm on New Year’s Eve our Camp Social will be having a Crab Legs and Prime Rib buffet unlike any other.

Reservations will be required. Please call 865.868.4483 to make your reservation.”

See this event at:
https://www.wildernessatthesmokies.com/blog/new-years-eve-2022/.

The Pines Downtown Retro NYE Bash

From their website:
“Join us for a NYE Retro Bash event in Historic Downtown Sevierville!
* Live Video Jockey
* Champagne Toast at Midnight
* Party Favors
* Duckpin Bowling
* Games & More!

** Food, beverages and bowling sold separatley. **”

See this event at:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-pines-downtown-retro-nye-bash-tickets-477548499417.

Top 10 Things To Do With Toddlers In Pigeon Forge (Repost From MyPigeonForge.com)

In recent months, Pigeon Forge’s main tourism website, www.mypigeonforge.com, had posted a blog article recommending 10 things you can do with very small children in the city of Pigeon Forge. As part of Smokies Network’s commitment to posting and sharing ideas and tourism information relevant to visiting families with small children in tow, we wanted to repost their article here.

Mypigeonforge.com writes:

While keeping toddlers entertained may not always be an easy task, you’ll find plenty of fun attractions and activities to enjoy during your Smoky Mountain vacation. Some of the attractions even have designated areas that are specifically geared toward our little guests. Be sure to check out these top 10 things to do with toddlers in Pigeon Forge on your next visit.

1. Climb and bounce around at TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena.
TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena has a Kids Zone that is designed to be a safe play area for the younger ones. They can play in the ball pit, bounce around in the free jump area, slide down the slides over and over, jump into the foam pit, and best of all, no big kids are allowed! Parents can relax and the little ones can have some fun of their own.
https://www.mypigeonforge.com/business/topjump

2. Race, splash and play at Ripley’s Super Fun Park.
From toddlers to teens, Ripley’s Super Fun Park is your one-stop destination for family fun. The little ones can race each other on the kiddie go-kart tracks. Toddlers that are at least 3 feet tall can go for a ride with mom or dad on the family go-kart track filled with lots of fun twists and turns. Or hop in the blaster boats equipped with water cannons for a friendly water battle.
https://www.mypigeonforge.com/business/ripleys-super-fun-park

3. Let their imaginations run wild at Wonderworks.
The famous Wonderworks upside down mansion is another great attraction that offers tons of activities for both kids and adults. Toddlers will love dancing their heart out in front of the screen that mirrors their body movements in brilliant and vibrant colors. Or jumping from key to key on the giant piano and playing music with their feet.
https://www.mypigeonforge.com/business/wonderworks

4. Build a snowman at Pigeon Forge Snow
What kid doesn’t enjoy building a snowman? Pigeon Forge Snow offers an abundance of wintry excitement all year long. The Snow Play area is for all ages to enjoy playing in the snow and making forts, snow angels, or whatever else they can imagine. Youngsters that are at least 38 inches tall and 3 years old can go snow tubing down the hill. The indoors temps are a comfortable 60-70 degrees year-round, so there is no need to worry about bundling up to stay warm!
https://www.mypigeonforge.com/blog/hit-the-slopes-at-pigeon-forge-snow

5. Take a stroll through Patriot Park and feed the ducks.
Patriot Park is a great place to hang out and enjoy the outdoors with kids of all ages. The park features a paved walking trail lined with U.S. state flags placed in the order they achieved statehood. The little ones will love feeding the ducks or watching them float along the Little Pigeon River. There is also plenty of open green space for running around, playing catch, flying a kite or throwing a frisbee. Make it an extra special day by laying out a blanket and enjoying a picnic lunch together.
https://www.mypigeonforge.com/things-to-do/patriot-park

6. Discover all there is to do at Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country.
Dollywood is loaded with fun things to do for everyone in the family. In addition to thrill rides, the park is filled with lots of other great rides and attractions that are perfect for toddlers and little kids. Country Fair is an area designed just for kids. Toddlers will enjoy rides on the busy bees, the twisting lemon cups and the piggy parade. Wildwood Grove is another great area for the younger ones. From gliding through the backwoods on a black bear to racing around and around on frogs as they try to catch fireflies to a secret play area near the Wildwood Tree, Dollywood is a great place to keep toddlers entertained with hours of play.
https://www.mypigeonforge.com/things-to-do/dollywood

7. Feed the goats and ride the coaster at Goats on the Roof.
A ride on the mountain coaster at Goats on the Roof offers thrills for all ages. You control the speed of the cart as it twists and winds on its journey down the mountain. The coaster reaches top speeds of nearly 30 mph and offers beautiful mountain views along the way. Children must be a minimum of 38 inches tall and 3 years old to be able to ride the coaster with mom or dad.
https://www.mypigeonforge.com/business/coaster-at-goats-on-the-roof

8. Teach your toddler how to play mini golf.
A great way to create new memories with the family is with a round of mini golf. And Pigeon Forge has lots of amazing miniature golf courses to choose from. Play a round of putt-putt with your toddlers at Toy Box Mini Golf, where you’ll find all your favorite childhood toys scaled to epic proportions. For those with a sweet tooth, the candy-themed courses at Crave Golf Club are just the ticket.
https://www.mypigeonforge.com/blog/best-places-to-play-mini-golf-in-pigeon-forge

9. Go on a kid-friendly hike in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Explore the outdoors as a family by taking your toddler for a hike or stroller ride in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The park is home to over 800 miles of hiking trails and a large variety of wildlife. Sugarlands Trail, located directly behind the Sugarlands Visitor Center, is a great trail for beginners and for the little ones. The Sugarlands Valley Trail is also located nearby the visitor center and highlighted by a waterfall. The half-mile path is partially paved and wide enough to accommodate a stroller.
https://www.mypigeonforge.com/blog/4-hiking-trails-perfect-kids

10. Put a smile on their faces at a dinner show.
After a fun-filled day spent exploring attractions in Pigeon Forge, end the day with dinner and a show. Pigeon Forge shows offer world-class entertainment that will delight even the youngest of guests. Dolly Parton’s Stampede features a mouth-watering 4-course dinner and a spectacular performance that includes 32 horses accompanied by riders that perform thrilling stunts and musical productions. Another dinner show that is sure to put smiles on your toddlers’ faces is the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud. They’ll love the singin’ and dancin’ and jaw-dropping stunts, watching divin’ hillbillies and divin’ dogs in the swimming hole and the newest addition to the show – a billycopter!
https://www.mypigeonforge.com/blog/family-dinner-show-fun-in-pigeon-forge

See this article in full at https://www.mypigeonforge.com/blog/top-10-things-to-do-with-toddlers-in-pigeon-forge.

Winterfest In The Smokies 2022

As of writing, it has just turned October of 2022 and the gorgeous Autumn colors and season is now going to start coming into the Smokies. But while we’re watching the leaves turn and sipping down anything with pumpkin spice in it for the next 30-something days, a question comes up that asks, “Is it too early to be thinking about Winterfest after that?” Years of experience with the Winterfest celebrations in the Smokies says that thinking and planning even as early as July is not unreasonable for the amount of activities the season will provide, along with their popularity making availability for some events and accommodations not guaranteed.

If you are wanting to come to Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Sevierville for Christmas events and other holiday fun, the time to start planning is now. This will be the last month where cabin availabilities may be found and hotels will have unoccupied rooms, as well as restaurant reservations for Thanksgiving and Christmas (or even near enough). Winterfest in the Smokies does get popular enough that even tickets to Dollywood may get sold out for the day. The early bird gets the worm in this case, and those who plan ahead for their Smoky Mountain vacation and will definitely get worms! Welcome to Winterfest in the Smokies 2022!

And what are some of these events that are so hyped up? We’ll list a few of the big ones right here:

* Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas *
November 5th to January 1st.

From their website:
“Wander through more than five million holiday lights shining bright throughout the Dollywood park, delight in the spectacular holiday performances, soak up the warm Christmas atmosphere, and it’s easy to see why Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas is such a beloved holiday tradition.

Celebrate the holiday season with award-winning entertainment throughout the holiday season.

* Christmas in the Smokies, a heartwarming tradition enjoyed by families for years, returns indoors to centerstage at the Celebrity Theater.
* Heart of the Holidays is a new show featuring several members of Dolly’s family and a mix of some of her holiday favorites alongside songs from her new Christmas album, A Holly Dolly Christmas.
* Heart of the Holidays takes place in the DreamSong Theater.
* Christmas with the Kingdom Heirs, another returning guest favorite, can be found at the Pines Theater.”

See this event at https://www.mypigeonforge.com/event/dollywoods-smoky-mountain-christmas.

* Gatlinburg Winter Magic Kickoff and Chili Cookoff *
November 10th

From their website:
“Celebrate the kickoff of Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic! Gatlinburg hosts this annual event on Thursday, November 10 from 5 to 8 PM at the Shade Tree Parking at 120 Historic Nature Trail. Festivalgoers will enjoy free, live entertainment offered throughout the event.”

See this event at https://www.gatlinburg.com/event/gatlinburg-winter-magic-kickoff-and-chili-cookoff/16/.

* Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights *
November 13th to February 19th.

From their website:
“See more than 5 million shining Pigeon Forge holiday lights when you take the Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights! Along your driving tour, you’ll see bear, deer, fox and other critters native to the Smoky Mountains “wandering” through Pigeon Forge. Sparkling lights, giant ornaments, and tall, tall trees are seen on Island Drive and throughout the Island in Pigeon Forge. Even the 200-foot-tall Great Smoky Mountain Wheel shows off the holiday spirit with red, green and white lights.

Get a glimpse of some of your favorite fairytale characters lighting up the Pigeon Forge Parkway. You’ll see Mother Goose, the giant clock from Hickory Dickory Dock, the cat and fiddle of Hey Diddle Diddle fame, and Humpty Dumpty, complete with all the king’s horses and all the king’s men. Another highlight of the Winterfest Driving Tour of Lights is a 60-foot-tall tree adorned with colorful lights, ribbons and sparkling ornaments from the very bottom to the twinkling star on top.”

See this event at https://www.mypigeonforge.com/event/winterfest-driving-tour-of-lights.

* Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade *
December 2nd

From their website:
“Beginning at 7:30 p.m. from Baskins Creek Bypass and East Parkway, a spectacular parade line-up of balloons, floats decorated by local businesses and community groups, and high school marching bands, spans through downtown before ending at traffic light #10. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early on parade day.

City officials will host a grand illumination ceremony of the Gatlinburg Christmas Tree at 7:25 pm on the Parkway Plaza at Traffic Light #3. The Parade route begins at Baskins Creek By-Pass, travels to Traffic Light #3, turns south onto the Parkway, and ends at Traffic Light #10.”

See this event at https://www.gatlinburg.com/event/fantasy-of-lights-christmas-parade/36/.

* Sevierville’s 60th Annual Christmas Parade *
December 3rd

From their website:
“Downtown Sevierville offers a full day of holiday merriment on December 3. Begin the day with Sevierville’s 60th Annual Christmas Parade (December 3, 2022 at 11am EST). This traditional hometown parade is a great way to add a little more joy to the holidays. Then come back to downtown Sevierville that evening for an old-fashioned tree lighting at the Sevier County Courthouse. Enjoy children’s crafts, photos with Santa, and plenty of delicious holiday snacks and music during Christmas at the Courthouse (December 3, 2022 at 6pm).”

See this event at https://visitsevierville.com/Winterfest.aspx.

Smoky Mountain Rollercoasters

Like the article says, this post is all about the Smoky Mountain rollercoasters we have in the area that you and the kids can enjoy! We’ll skip a protracted intro and go right to the list, which includes rollercoasters at Dollywood, Ober Gatlinburg, Anakeesta and the independent ones in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and Wears Valley.

Let’s go!

Dollywood – Blazing Fury
“An out-of-control fire is just minutes away from engulfing this 1880s town, and chaos ensues as the town’s residents, a cast of characters ranging from firefighters to gunslingers and damsels in distress, hurry to escape the blaze. Riders scream through town on this indoor roller coaster, taking each hill and curve with great speed as they try to outrun the fire.

Dollywood – Daredevil Falls
“Only a real daredevil will venture into an abandoned logging camp for a one-of-a-kind boat expedition. If you’re up to the challenge, let our adventurous guides help you navigate your way through some close calls with the bears and the old left-behind lumber machinery. But, just when you catch your breath, your boat careens over a waterfall down a 60-foot drop at a heart-racing 50 mph!

Dollywood – FireChaser Express ®
“They say where there’s smoke, there’s fire. In the Smoky Mountains that’s more than just a saying. Fortunately, it seems like with every big blaze, there have always been a few brave souls willing to answer the call – heroes able to tame nature’s fury and preserve the Smokies for generations to come! Now comes your turn to celebrate that heroic spirit in a new coaster sure to test your mettle, and leave you screaming for more! It’s FireChaser Express – the nation’s first dual-launch family coaster – blasting riders forward and backward!

Dollywood – Lightning Rod ®
Themed after a tricked-out 1950s-era hot rod, Lightning Rod ® launches riders from zero to 45 mph more than 20 stories up its lift hill to one of the ride’s first airtime moments. At the crest of the hill, riders face twin summit airtime hills before tackling the daring first drop. Lightning Rod races down the 165-foot drop and propels guests along its 3,800-foot track to a top speed of 73 mph. There is no surprise why USA Today readers have consistently named Lightning Rod ® one of the top-10 best roller coasters in the country.

Dollywood – Mystery Mine ®
What if there is no light at the end of the tunnel? Find out on Dollywood’s Mystery Mine® steel coaster where a 1,811-foot track travels through an abandoned coal mine. Uncertain encounters and amazing maneuvers await, including a hair-raising 95-degree, 85-foot vertical drop that plunges into darkness!

Dollywood – Tennessee Tornado
What happens when a mighty twister sweeps through an old Tennessee Mining Company? Locals say the swirling winds twisted ore into what we now call the Tennessee Tornado. A force of nature all its own, this triple spiral-looping coaster makes you feel like you’ve landed inside a funnel cloud as you zoom down a 128-foot drop through an actual mountain at speeds nearing 70 mph. It’s enough to make local weather forecasters issue a “Tennessee Tornado Warning!”

Dollywood – Thunderhead ®
An old sawmill once moved lumber out of the mountains at Thunderhead Gap. Wood is still the focus, but now the operation known as the Thunderhead is the wildest ride in the woods! Carefully situated between two mountains, this massive wooden coaster stands tall among the mighty trees and takes advantage of the area’s rough and tumble terrain to create a daring ride featuring a 100-foot drop and a top speed of 55 mph.

Dollywood – Whistle Punk Chaser®
Whistle Punk Chaser, a junior coaster, throws thrilling twists and turns at Dollywood’s younger loggers, helping prepare them for the day they can join their parents aboard the award-winning Thunderhead wooden coaster.

Dollywood – Wild Eagle ®
America’s first wing coaster, the first ride of its kind in the U.S., is perched 21 stories above Dollywood and takes riders on a unique experience that feels as if they are actually soaring high above the Smoky Mountains. Instead of having the train on the track, Wild Eagle® seats riders on either side so there is nothing but air above and below the rider!

See these rides at https://www.dollywood.com/themepark/rides/.

Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster is the longest downhill ride in the United States,with over 1 mile of track! So if you are looking for an unforgettable experience in your vacation here in the” Great Smoky Mountains”, this is a must do!

The vehicles are designed to carry two visitors in comfort but can be handled easily by one alone. The riders are in control of the velocity (up to about 30 mph) and this gives them a unique hands-on experience! Rain, snow or sunshine no problem – the excellent braking effect is unchanged so you can ride year-round!

See this ride at http://www.smokymountainalpinecoaster.com/.

Rocky Top Coaster
Welcome to Rocky Top Mountain Coaster, the longest coaster in East Tennessee! Join us for over 9 minutes of twists, turns, tunnels, and maybe even some unexpected surprises along the way! Whether you have a need for speed, or enjoy a slower coaster experience, RTMC has something for everyone. Bring your entire family for an unforgettable experience.

See this ride at https://www.rockytopcoaster.com/.

Rowdy Bear Mountain
Ski Lift Shootout Coaster
Rowdy Bear Ridge is home to North America’s first Alpine Flyer. This is a 2 seater suspended coaster that swings, dips, and soars through the Ridge of Rowdy Bear. This coaster is suitable for riders 40” tall and up. Coaster operates day and night and can be combined with our incredible Tubing Hill by purchasing a combo ticket.

Avalanche Snow Coaster
Strap in for an awesome ride on our Avalanche Snow Coaster and zip through the Ridge at whatever speed you want! That’s right, you control the speed on this coaster! Whether you’re looking for a calm ride or you want to go full throttle, the choice is yours! Simply push the handle forward to speed up or backwards to slow down!

See these rides at www.rowdybearmountain.com/.

Goats On The Roof
The Coaster at Goats on the Roof is an exciting journey through the hills of Tennessee at speeds just under 30mph and with a view that can’t be seen anywhere else in town. Whether you enjoy riding alone or pairing up – it doesn’t matter since the carts are designed to comfortably carry one or two people. Each cart is equipped with hand brakes so you can go slow if you are a little nervous, or let it rip if you are a speed demon. This hands-on ride is fun for the whole family, from children to grandparents. All are guaranteed to have a fantastic and memorable time!

See this ride at https://goatsontheroofofthesmokies.com/goat-coaster.php.

Moonshine Mountain Coaster
Ride the best mountain coaster attraction in Gatlinburg!

The single or double rider coaster cars coast down the mountain on a specially-designed silent track. Use indvidual brake handles to control your speed and enjoy the ride, any way you like. Gatlinburg’s FIRST and NEWEST mountain coaster is a safe, unique, family-friendly thrill ride that puts you in the driver’s seat, literally! The single or double rider cars coast down the beautiful Smoky Mountains where you can enjoy the beautiful views at speeds up to 30 mph. You may even see a bear or two! Check out our gift shop, and purchase your ride photo and other great merchandise! Groups are welcome!

We’re open year-round, so bring the family (some age and height restrictions apply)… no special skills required. We have an uphill lift that takes you to the top. Then get ready for an exciting coaster ride down the mountain. The Moonshine Mountain Roller Coaster lets you enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains in a whole new way!

See this ride at www.moonshinemountaincoaster.com/.

Ober Gatlinburg – Ski Mountain Coaster
The Ski Mountain Coaster departs near the Snow Tubing Park. The ride begins with a 1000 ft tree-covered and relaxing ride to the top. At this point, the rider simply enjoys the view, as it is a comfortable tow to the top of mountainside. Once at the top, riders are now in control of their own speed for the next 2750 ft of turns, dips, zig-zags, corkscrews and G-force adventures. Although the mountain coaster can be exhilarating, it is the ultimate family experience any age can enjoy. Riders may choose to leisurely cruise the coaster track or reach speeds up to 25 MPH, while hugging turns and dips down the mountain. Designed for comfort, the unique ADG Mountain Coaster carts provide a secure and comfortable ride with room for two riders. Their higher backrests and shorter brake levers allow for easier handling and control.

See this ride at www.obergatlinburg.com/ski-mountain-coaster/.

Anakeesta – Rain Runner
Anakeesta’s single-rail mountain coaster is the first of its kind in the United States! Fly down the mountain on this single rail track with 1,600 feet of downhill twists and turns at speeds up to 25 mph! Race through the trees at your own speed with a 400 ft elevation change! This exhilarating ride offers a thrill at every turn before enjoying a scenic uphill ride to the top of Anakeesta Mountain. Our Rail Runner carts feature back and headrests for a comfortable and safe ride! We offer solo and tandem rides for guests with small children.

See this ride at https://anakeesta.com/rail-runner/.

Smoky Mountains for the Kids!

Smoky Mountain Kids, attention Moms and Dads…… what is fun to do in the Smokies with kids? Everything! We always like to encourage outdoor activity and the Great Smoky Mountain National Park as the #1 activity to consider when visiting the Smoky Mountain Area. The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the reason these communities have grown and become a vacation destination so we hope that you might visit the park and learn and teach your children about the beauty of the park and it’s importance to our well being. The Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is an excellent place to take the children or the family!. You will find stop off locations for short walks or light picnics, you will find trail heads to water falls such as Rainbow Falls and Grotto Falls, along with gorgeous scenery and wildlife. At the beginning of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail is Mynatt Park, which we can highly recommend for free kids fishing and a picnic. At the end of the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail you will find Ely’s Mill, a very unique and memorable top. There are many favorite locations in the Smokies, Metcalf Bottoms and more so take your time and do some exploring!

It is not difficult to find information about Dollywood, Anakeesta and The Island. We know there are mountain coasters and mini-golf, we want to share with you some of the small businesses in the area that are fantastic. Small business Smoky Mountains we could call it! These choices are for kids of ages up to 12.

Gatlinburg:

Izzy Bees Stuffed Friends
Build a bear or a forest animal at Izzy Bees, located in the Mountain Mall in Gatlinburg. This store is locally owned and operated and has really cute options to build your own friend and dress the friends and choose among many options. Prices are the best in the area and this is guaranteed fun for the kiddos and will make an excellent memory and souvenir.

Hillbilly Golf
Located on the parkway as you enter Gatlinburg you will find Hillbilly Golf on the left before you see stoplight #3. Hillbilly Golf recently celebrated their 50th anniversary and it is long time staple in Gatlinburg for kids and family fun. It’s the original, give it a try the kids will love it.

Pigeon Forge

Toy Box Mini Golf
Located at 112 Dollywood Lane, Toy Box Mini Golf is one of the newest mini golf amusements in the area and seems to be a real hit with the kids. It is full of nostalgia in its decor and loaded with all kinds of amusements and fun for the family. Find it on Dollywood Lane in Pigeon Forge.

The Smoky Mountain area has many free parks and we know kids love parks. Outside of the main park, the Great Smoky Mountain National Park in which you will find hiking and fishing and all kinds of exploring as mentioned above, these parks are community parks that the kids will love and have no admission fee!

Smoky Mountain Free Area Parks.

For Kid Friendly Restaurant Choices and favorite Family Restaurants in the Smokies, visit here with just a click!

Kids Love The Trout Farm!

Have you heard of The English Mountain Trout Farm? Located in the Sevierville area just off 411 are several attractions we know the kids and the family will enjoy. One of them is The English Mountain Trout Farm.

Enjoy a beautiful ride to a less visited area of Sevier County and the Smoky Mountains. English Mountain Trout Farm is located at 291 Blowing Cave Rd., Sevierville, Tennessee 37876. English Mountain Trout Farm has a little bit of fun for all ages. You don’t have to have children with you to enjoy your visit, however, we highly recommend this visit for toddlers and children. This attraction is also a very good wheelchair accessible location for those with special needs.

At the Trout Farm you can catch your fish and have them cook it for you! You Hook ‘Em and We’ll Cook ‘Em you will hear them say! Bait, fishing poles and fishing attendants are all part of the experience when you pay your small fee for your license for the time you are fishing. If you prefer to just enjoy their delicious Trout, then you can simply order and eat, they are known for their delicious home cooked foods.

Dine In or Take Out, Outdoor Seating, High chairs and wheelchair access makes The English Mountain Trout Farm one of our favorite picks for things to do with Toddlers and Children in the Smoky Mountains.’ Did we mention the Gem Mine? Oh my, who knew it was so much fun to Gem Mine. The kids will love it and so will you. This is such a great place for families!

The English Mountain Trout Farm is highly rated by Trip Advisor and others. Expect a wonderful experience when you visit.

https://www.englishmountaintroutfarm.net

Where Are Good Kid Friendly Restaurants?

We often get this question and have also traveled with kids so we want to give you some suggestions that cover many thoughts and ideas.

As far as Discounted Kids Meals or Free Kids Meals, please contact the restaurant to be sure they are continuing the most recent deals we are aware of.

Cici’s Pizza allows kids 3 and under to eat for $1.99, includes drink.

Golden Coral allows the 3 and under to eat free with an adult meal.

Texas Roadhouse allows older kids eat for $2.99 with an adult meal.

Shoney’s allows kids under 4 to eat with an adult at no cost.

We hope you like these suggestions. There are so many more but these are some of our favorites.

Frizzle Chicken Farmhouse.
Located in Pigeon Forge, on the parkway, this restaurant is also an affordable choice as they honor kids with a free meal with an adult! 100 singing chickens will entertain the kids while they wait for their food!

Big Daddy’s Pizza
Located in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, we can recommend this place for its excellent pizza and menu that accommodates many diet types families may have. Find a great atmosphere and excellent food at Big Daddy’s Pizza. Find arcade games and good diet choices.

Because Pizza is a popular family choice, you will find many Pizza Places. Mellow Mushroom is on the parkway in Pigeon Forge along with Big Daddy’s we mention above. You will find a Pappa Johns, Dominos, Little Caesars, and Pizza Hut in each community. Genos Pizza is on the Parkway in Pigeon Forge and also will delivery about anywhere. Pick up Pizza by the slice and many other delicious ready made and price friendly things at Weigel’s stores.

Breakfast and the Pancake Houses.

The Flapjacks Pancake Houses and Reagan’s Pancake House and the Log Cabin Pancake Houses are ALL GREAT! There is an IHOP in town on the Parkway between Sevierville and Pigeon Forge also if that is a favorite. You will find the Pancake House type restaurants in Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville and really all of them are very good. If you happen to be in Wears Valley give Hillbilly’s Restaurant a try!

Wears Valley is a great place to find some of the locally owned restaurants and shops. Hillbilly’s Restaurant would be a fun stop for all ages including kids, Paw Paw’s is just great fixin’s and there is really a lot to experience in Wears Valley that is not as crowded and a more down home experience. Where to Eat in Wears Valley