7-Day Family Adventure Road Trip Itinerary in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

10:00 AM

Check-in at Hotel

Begin your adventure by settling in at a family-friendly hotel in Pigeon Forge, like The Inn at Christmas Place.
Drive to your hotel, close to local attractions.
USD150, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Lunch at The Old Mill

Enjoy a delicious meal featuring Southern comfort food in a charming setting by the river.
A short 5-minute drive from your hotel.
USD45, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit Pigeon Forge Funland

Let your little boy enjoy the arcade games and attractions designed for family fun.
Just a 10-minute drive from the Old Mill Restaurant.
USD30, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take a serene ride on the chairlift up to the mountain for breathtaking views and a walk on the SkyBridge.
20-minute drive to Gatlinburg.
USD60, 2 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Calhoun's

Savor the smoky taste of ribs and BBQ while enjoying a warm family atmosphere.
A 15-minute drive back to Pigeon Forge.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure at Dollywood

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Dolly's Stampede

Dig into a hearty breakfast with an interactive show to start the day with excitement.
5-minute drive from your hotel.
USD60, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Dollywood Theme Park

Enjoy thrilling rides and attractions perfect for all ages, including the Little Engine Playland just for younger kids.
Just a 5-minute drive to Dollywood.
USD170, 6 hours

4:00 PM

Snack at Dollywood

Try some of the local snacks, like cinnamon bread, to keep energy levels high for more fun.
Available within the park.
USD20, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Visit The Grist Mill

After Dollywood, take a tour of the park's historic Grist Mill for a little educational fun.
End of Dollywood visit.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Mamma's Farmhouse

Enjoy a family-style meal featuring fried chicken, biscuits, and homestyle sides.
A quick 10-minute drive away.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Explore the Great Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a complimentary breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
On-site.
Included, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Hiking at Laurel Falls Trail

Take a family-friendly hike to see one of the park's most beautiful waterfalls.
30-minute drive to the trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Pack a delightful picnic to enjoy at one of the park’s beautiful picnic areas.
Select a picnic area nearby.
USD30 (for picnic supplies), 1 hour

1:00 PM

Junior Ranger Program

Participate in this fun program tailored for kids, teaching them about nature and wildlife.
Held at various visitor centers within the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Scenic Drives

Enjoy a drive along Cades Cove to see wildlife and stunning mountain views.
Follow signs for Cades Cove Loop.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Alamo Steakhouse

Wrap up the day with a hearty steak dinner to satisfy everyone's appetite.
Drive back to Pigeon Forge, around 30 minutes.
USD75, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Gatlinburg Adventures

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Enjoy a signature pancake breakfast at this local favorite spot before a busy day.
20-minute drive to Gatlinburg.
USD40, 1.5 hours

10:00 AM

Gatlinburg Space Needle

Take an elevator ride up for spectacular views of the Smokies, and let your son enjoy the arcade games below.
Short walk from the restaurant to the space needle.
USD50, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Savor some local beer and family-friendly food in a fun atmosphere.
Easily walkable from the Space Needle.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Ober Gatlinburg

Experience thrilling rides, a wildlife encounter, and even a chance to go tubing in the winter.
A short drive or ride from downtown Gatlinburg.
USD70, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Dining Room at Buckberry Lodge

End your day with a scenic dinner in an upscale lodge setting.
Drive back to Gatlinburg, about 10 minutes.
USD80, 2 hours
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Day 5: The Island in Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

9:00 AM

Breakfast at The Island in Pigeon Forge

Head to the Island for a fun breakfast at Paula Deen's Family Kitchen, overlooking the beautiful island.
A quick drive to the Island.
USD55, 1.5 hours

10:30 AM

The Island at Pigeon Forge

Explore shops, attractions, and take a spin on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel.
On-site at The Island.
USD55 (for attractions), 3 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at The Island Vodka

Relax over a light lunch with great views of the park and a selection of unique menu items.
Just steps away from the attractions.
USD45, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Ripley's Moving Theater

Catch a thrilling motion ride with 3D effects that will keep your little boy giggling.
Located conveniently within The Island.
USD30, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Copper Cellar

Enjoy a variety of wood-fired dishes in a cozy atmosphere to round off your day.
A 5-minute drive away.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Aquarium and Adventure

Gatlinburg, Tennessee

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Donut Friar

Indulge in delicious fresh donuts to give your family a sweet boost for the day.
20-minute drive to Gatlinburg.
USD20, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore colorful marine life from around the world, including interactive exhibits perfect for children.
Easily accessed in downtown Gatlinburg.
USD120, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Loco Burro Fresh Mex Cantina

Enjoy lively Mexican food with a fun atmosphere to keep your little one entertained.
Short walk from the Aquarium.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Gatlinburg Mountain Coaster

Experience the thrill of a mountain coaster ride that’s fun for both kids and adults.
Short drive from Loco Burro.
USD70, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit the Gatlinburg SkyLift Park Again

Return to experience the beautiful sunset views this time from the top of the SkyLift.
The SkyLift Park is just a few minutes from the coaster location.
USD60, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

Cap off your day with an excellent steak dinner in a warm and inviting setting.
A quick drive back to downtown Gatlinburg.
USD80, 2 hours
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Day 7: Outdoor Adventure and Departure

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy your last complimentary breakfast at the hotel before checking out.
On-site.
Included, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Parrot Mountain and Gardens

Spend the morning in this exotic garden where your son can interact with various birds.
10-minute drive from your hotel.
USD30, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Burgers

Fill up with a classic burger before starting your journey back home.
Nearby, just a short drive.
USD40, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Departure

Check out and take the memories of an unforgettable adventure home with you.
Exit to main highways.
Free, 0.5 hours
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