Gatlinburg - Pigeon Forge 4 stars hotels

With a first-rate view of the Great Smoky Mountains and a variety of family-friendly activities, Pigeon Forge is a big breath of fresh air. Nestled between the ridges of several mountains, Pigeon Forge is a welcome stop between Sevierville and Gatlinburg. Although the slow-paced city itself houses a total population of less than 10,000, the area balloons with the number of guests who visit year round. Whether you're investigating the area's outlet malls, strolling along the parkway or relaxing in a hillside cabin, Pigeon Forge offers a picturesque vacation spot sure to please.

Things to see and do

Dollywood

More than just a theme park, Dollywood is perhaps the most famous attraction in Pigeon Forge. Spanning 150 acres, Dollywood features award-winning shows, craft demonstrations and theme park rides. With water attractions, children's rides and even a traditional carousel, Dollywood has exciting thrills for visitors of all ages. If you're more interested in music or a show, the expansive theme park boasts performances such as the famous Dixie Stampede.

Aquarium & Museums

There's no need to travel to the ocean to see playful penguins and fierce sharks when Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies is available in the heart of the city. With educational and fun aquatic exhibits, this is more than a basic aquarium.

The Hollywood Wax Museum Entertainment Center features stunning likenesses of celebrities made entirely of wax. Guests to the Titanic Museum can explore the half-scale replica of the ship to see what it was like on that fateful voyage, while the interactive exhibits of the WonderWorks upside-down mansion is an experience unlike any other.

Shopping

With a parkway lined with collectibles, arts, crafts and factory outlet stores, the city is a shopper's dreamland. In addition, Pigeon Forge features the largest selection of quilts in the southeastern United States. It is home to world-famous handcrafted southern belle dresses, which are perfect for special occasions.

Parks and recreation areas

With the Great Smoky Mountains as a backdrop, it's little wonder that Pigeon Forge has such an extensive park system. With open spaces available to rent for weddings and parties, the city's public outdoor spaces include Patriot Park, Wear Farm City Park and Pigeon Forge City Park. Many of these locations also allow for outdoor sports activities such as tennis, baseball and swimming.

Many companies offer outdoor services, such as white water rafting and zip-lining, for those interested in more extreme activities. With some of the most incredible landscapes in the region, Pigeon Forge is the perfect backdrop for your first mountain adventure.

Where to stay

Such a bustling destination calls for a whole host of Pigeon Forge hotels, from comfortable lodges to popular hotel chains for short or extended stays.

Close to Dollywood

If Dolly is calling you, it might be a good idea to lodge near the theme park. La Quinta Inn Pigeon Forge Dollywood is an ideal choice, with its location, free breakfast and swimming pool. For a more luxurious stay, the All Season Suites is just two miles from Dollywood and offers a fitness room and hot tub.

When to visit

The four seasons are distinct and unique in Tennessee, creating a different trip for guests throughout the year. Summers in Pigeon Forge are the hottest and busiest at nearly 90 degrees during the daytime. Winters bring snowy conditions below freezing that are just right for skiing in the mountains. When the autumn leaves begin to change colors, the conditions are perfect for long hikes in the Tennessee hills.