PIGEON FORGE FAQS
Use the frequently asked questions below to get answers to all your Pigeon Forge destination and travel related questions.
Location & Geography
Where is Pigeon Forge located?
Pigeon Forge is nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee. The town is located off Interstate 40, 33 miles southeast of Knoxville, 4 miles south of Sevierville, and 5 miles north of Gatlinburg and Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
What county is Pigeon Forge in?
Pigeon Forge is located in Sevier County in East Tennessee.
What is the elevation of Pigeon Forge?
The elevation of Pigeon Forge is 1,010 feet. Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome), the tallest peak in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, has an elevation of 6,643 feet.
What is Pigeon Forge known for?
Pigeon Forge is known as America’s family-friendly playground, featuring attractions like Dollywood, TITANIC Museum Attraction, dinner shows, outlet shopping, and its proximity to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
What's the difference between Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg?
Pigeon Forge is more spread out along the Parkway and known for its diverse attractions, while Gatlinburg is more walkable and sits directly at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Getting Here & Getting Around
How do I get to Pigeon Forge?
Pigeon Forge is located just 12 miles off Interstate 40 and is easily accessible by car or air. Learn more about transportation options.
What is the closest airport?
McGhee Tyson Airport in Knoxville is 47 miles from Pigeon Forge. Airlines serving Knoxville include Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Avelo Airlines, and United Airlines. Visit flyknoxville.com or call 865-342-3000 for more information.
What's the best way to get around Pigeon Forge?
The easiest and most affordable option is the Pigeon Forge Mass Transit Trolley Service, which offers year-round service with regular routes throughout town. Free parking is available at Patriot Park (186 Old Mill Ave.), River Lot (2936 Teaster Lane), and Mountain Lot (2989 Teaster Lane). Learn more about getting around Pigeon Forge.
Can I drive a golf cart on the streets?
Golf carts designed for on-road use or modified to meet low or medium speed vehicle requirements and registered as such are allowed on streets where the posted speed limit is 35 miles per hour or less. Golf carts are not allowed on sidewalks.
Where can I find travel updates for Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains?
Visit MyPigeonForge.com/travel-alerts for current travel updates and alternate traffic routes, or check the NPS website for current park closures and alerts.
Weather & Best Times to Visit
What's the weather like in Pigeon Forge?
Pigeon Forge enjoys near-perfect weather year-round. Summer days average 85°F, while winter temperatures average around 40°F. Mountain elevations can be 10 to 20 degrees cooler, so bring layers if heading to higher elevations.
What are the average temperatures by month?
Average high and low temperatures in Fahrenheit: January (50°/27°), February (54°/30°), March (63°/36°), April (72°/43°), May (78°/52°), June (84°/60°), July (87°/64°), August (86°/63°), September (81°/57°), October (72°/45°), November (62°/36°), December (53°/30°).
Is Pigeon Forge a year-round destination?
Yes! Pigeon Forge offers family-friendly fun in every season with attractions, shows, outdoor activities, and special events throughout the year.
Planning Your Visit
How do I get visitor information?
Visit MyPigeonForge.com for the most current information about lodging, entertainment, attractions, and special events. You can also contact the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism at 865-453-8574 or toll-free at 1-800-251-9100.
Can I get a free travel guide?
Yes! Request your free Pigeon Forge Travel Planner to be mailed to you, or view the online version immediately.
How do I stay updated on events and deals?
Sign up for the monthly eNewsletter featuring upcoming events, activities, and money-saving offers. Follow Pigeon Forge on social media for exclusive coupons and the latest updates
Is Pigeon Forge family-friendly?
Absolutely! Pigeon Forge is considered one of the top family vacation destinations in the Southeast, with attractions, shows, and activities perfect for all ages.
How many days should I plan for a Pigeon Forge vacation?
Most visitors spend 3 to 5 days in Pigeon Forge to experience the major attractions, dinner shows, outdoor activities, and nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A week allows time to explore hidden gems and enjoy a more relaxed pace.
What are the most popular attractions in Pigeon Forge?
Popular attractions include Dollywood, Dollywood’s Splash Country, TITANIC Museum Attraction, The Island in Pigeon Forge, WonderWorks, and numerous dinner shows. Browse all things to do in Pigeon Forge.
Can I visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park from Pigeon Forge?
Yes! Great Smoky Mountains National Park is just 5 miles south of Pigeon Forge via the Parkway. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, wildlife viewing, and historic sites. Learn more about visiting the national park.
Can I bring my pet?
Yes! There are many pet-friendly things to do in Pigeon Forge. Several lodging properties, restaurants, and businesses welcome pets. Look for the pet symbol when browsing accommodations. Dollywood offers Doggywood pet accommodations (reservations suggested). Always confirm specific pet policies before visiting.
Lodging & Accommodations
What types of lodging are available in Pigeon Forge?
Pigeon Forge offers diverse accommodations including hotels and motels, cabins and chalets, condominiums, and campgrounds. Many properties feature mountain views, indoor pools, and convenient Parkway locations.
Are there accessible attractions for visitors with disabilities?
Yes! Most major attractions in Pigeon Forge are ADA accessible and offer accommodations for guests with disabilities. Contact individual attractions directly to confirm specific accessibility features and services.
Dining & Shopping
What dining options are available?
Pigeon Forge offers everything from Southern comfort food and barbecue to steakhouses, pancake houses, and international cuisine. The city is also home to popular dinner shows that combine entertainment with a meal. Browse dining options here.
What shopping options are available?
Pigeon Forge features outlet malls, specialty shops, souvenir stores, and unique shopping destinations like The Island in Pigeon Forge and The Mountain Mile. Find everything from designer brands to local crafts and Smoky Mountain memorabilia. Explore shopping options here.
How do I find discounts and coupons for attractions?
Visit MyPigeonForge.com for current coupons and special offers. The 2025 Travel Planner includes dozens of money-saving coupons for attractions, dining, and lodging. You can also download coupons to your mobile device at fun.MyPigeonForge.com.
Activities & Entertainment
What special events happen throughout the year?
Pigeon Forge hosts year-round events including rod runs, craft fairs, seasonal festivals at Dollywood, Winterfest lights displays, and the Patriot Festival. View the complete calendar of events.
What outdoor activities are available besides the national park?
Outdoor activities include go-kart racing, horseback riding, fishing in the Little Pigeon River, mountain coasters, outdoor gravity park activities, and hiking the Riverwalk Greenway. Many attractions offer outdoor adventure experiences.
Is Pigeon Forge accessible for sports teams and groups?
Yes! Pigeon Forge features the LeConte Center at Pigeon Forge, Ripken Experience Pigeon Forge, and Wear Farm City Park, which host tournaments and competitions year-round. The city offers excellent group and meeting facilities.
Special Services
Are there options for weddings in Pigeon Forge?
Yes! Pigeon Forge offers wedding venues, chapels, planners, and florists to make your special day memorable. Wedding licenses are available at the Sevier County Courthouse in Sevierville or the satellite Clerk’s Office in Patriot Park. Learn more about weddings in Pigeon Forge.
Is there a visitor center where I can get information?
Yes! The Pigeon Forge Welcome Center is located at the Department of Tourism offices. You can also find information at various locations throughout the city or contact the tourism department at 1-800-251-9100.
What should I pack for my trip to Pigeon Forge?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, layers for varying temperatures (especially if visiting the mountains), sunscreen, and casual attire. Bring a light jacket even in summer for higher elevations in the national park. Most activities and restaurants have a casual dress code.
Is there public Wi-Fi available in Pigeon Forge?
Yes! The Pigeon Forge Public Library (2449 Library Drive) offers free Wi-Fi and computer access to visitors. Many hotels, restaurants, and attractions also provide complimentary Wi-Fi to guests.
Practical Information
What time zone is Pigeon Forge in?
Pigeon Forge is on Eastern Time. Tennessee observes Daylight Saving Time beginning the second Sunday in March and returns to Eastern Standard Time the first Sunday in November.
What is the area code?
The local area code is (865).
What is Pigeon Forge's population?
Pigeon Forge has a population of 6,345, while Sevier County has a population of 98,802.
Can I get cell phone service?
Cell phone signals are readily available in Pigeon Forge but can be difficult to find in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
Where can I find EV charging stations?
Many Pigeon Forge restaurants, hotels, and attractions provide Electric Vehicle charging stations, including the Mountain Lot across from the LeConte Center. The Tower Shops at The Mountain Mile offers a Tesla SuperCharger station.
Are there recycling facilities?
Yes! Sevier County has the highest recycling rate in Tennessee thanks to a state-of-the-art recycling center that sorts recyclable materials from collected trash, with 60% turned into compost for county use.
Do restaurants and stores sell alcohol?
Beer may be purchased at convenience markets and grocery stores. Many Pigeon Forge restaurants sell beer and wine. Wine is also available at Mountain Valley Winery.
Can I carry a firearm with my permit?
Tennessee generally recognizes handgun carry permits issued by any state, but you must have your permit in your possession when carrying in Tennessee. Restrictions on where firearms may be carried are available at handgunlaw.us.
Distances to Nearby Cities
How far is Pigeon Forge from major cities?
Gatlinburg, TN (7 miles), Knoxville, TN (36 miles via I-40 or 28 miles via US-441), Asheville, NC (88 miles, 1.5 hours), Nashville, TN (3.2 hours), Atlanta, GA (2.9 hours), Chattanooga, TN (2.0 hours), Lexington, KY (3.2 hours), Greenville, SC (2.3 hours).
For more information, visit MyPigeonForge.com or contact the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism at 1-800-251-9100.