Things To Do With Kids in Gatlinburg, TN

The Escape Game Pigeon Forge offers immersive, family-friendly escape room adventures that challenge kids and parents to work together solving puzzles and cracking codes. With exciting themes like pirate ships, playground mysteries, and Mars missions, families bond while racing against the clock in beautifully designed rooms that feel like stepping into another world.

Smoky Mountain Ziplines offers an exhilarating canopy tour adventure that lets families soar through the Tennessee forest together. With multiple difficulty levels available, this highly-rated attraction (4.9 stars from over 1,800 reviews!) provides a thrilling yet safe introduction to ziplining for older kids and adventure-seeking families looking to create unforgettable memories in the Smokies.

Wears Valley Zipline Adventures offers an exhilarating treetop experience that the whole family can enjoy together, with age-appropriate courses designed specifically for different skill levels. Soar through the stunning Smoky Mountain forests on professionally-guided canopy tours that combine adventure with breathtaking valley views, creating memories that will last long after your vacation ends.

Parrot Mountain and Gardens offers an unforgettable hands-on experience where kids can feed and interact with hundreds of colorful parrots and tropical birds in a stunning mountain setting. The combination of beautiful botanical gardens, panoramic Smoky Mountain views, and friendly feathered friends creates a magical experience that's both educational and entertaining for the whole family.

The Gatlinburg Trail is a hidden gem for families seeking an easy introduction to Great Smoky Mountains National Park without the challenging terrain. This completely flat, paved two-mile riverside path is one of the only stroller-accessible trails in the park, making it perfect for families with little ones in wagons or strollers, and it's one of just two trails in the park where leashed dogs are welcome.

The Island in Pigeon Forge is a vibrant entertainment complex that combines thrilling attractions with laid-back family fun. The towering Great Smoky Mountain Wheel serves as the centerpiece, while choreographed fountain shows, an expansive arcade, and diverse dining options keep families entertained for hours without feeling overwhelming or overly commercialized.

The Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster delivers an unforgettable adrenaline rush as you wind down a mountain track through the Tennessee wilderness. What makes it perfect for families is the individual speed control,nervous riders can take it slow while thrill-seekers can brake less for maximum excitement, all on the same ride. With an impressive 4.7-star rating from nearly 16,000 reviews, it's consistently one of Pigeon Forge's top-rated family attractions.

The Comedy Barn Theater delivers two hours of laugh-out-loud entertainment that's genuinely appropriate for all ages,a rare find in comedy venues. This Pigeon Forge institution combines stand-up comedy, juggling acts, magic tricks, live musical performances, and adorable trained animals into one high-energy variety show that keeps kids giggling and parents entertained night after night.

Wear Farm City Park is a spacious community park nestled in the scenic Wears Valley area, offering families a refreshing break from the busier Pigeon Forge attractions. With well-maintained playground equipment, expansive grassy fields perfect for frisbee or soccer, and plenty of shaded picnic areas, it's an ideal spot for active families who want to let their kids run free in a beautiful mountain setting.

Sugarlands Visitor Center is the perfect first stop for families exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Kids can earn Junior Ranger badges, interact with engaging nature exhibits, and watch wildlife videos while parents gather trail maps and tips from knowledgeable rangers who can recommend age-appropriate hikes and current wildlife sighting spots.

Emert's Cove Historic Covered Bridge is a charming step back in time that's perfect for families seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. Kids will love exploring the rustic covered bridge, skipping stones in the gentle creek below, and picnicking in the scenic natural setting while parents capture beautiful family photos in this picturesque Smoky Mountain gem.

Dollywood is a premier family theme park nestled in the Smoky Mountains, offering over 40 rides ranging from gentle toddler attractions to thrilling roller coasters. Beyond the rides, families can enjoy award-winning live shows, traditional Appalachian crafts demonstrations, and seasonal festivals that make every visit unique and memorable.