3-Day Family Friendly Nature Road Trip in Pigeon Forge, TN

Day 1: Exploring Pigeon Forge

Pigeon Forge, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Flapjack's Pancake Cabin

Start your day with hearty pancakes and southern classics at this family-friendly restaurant.
Take a short drive to the restaurant, located centrally in Pigeon Forge.
$20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit The Island in Pigeon Forge

Enjoy a stroll through this entertainment complex featuring shops, rides, and beautiful fountains.
Simply walk across the road to reach The Island.
Free (costs for attractions vary), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mellow Mushroom

Have a laid-back lunch with delicious, gourmet pizzas that the whole family will love.
Drive 5 minutes from The Island to Mellow Mushroom.
$40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Outdoor Fun at Parrot Mountain and Gardens

Explore beautiful gardens while interacting with colorful parrots in a serene environment.
A 10-minute drive takes you to Parrot Mountain.
$40, 2 hours

4:00PM

Speedway Indoor Karting

Race on a thrilling indoor karting track - perfect for kids and adults alike!
It's a quick 5-minute drive from Parrot Mountain.
$60, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Old Mill Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty meal featuring southern dishes in a charming old mill setting.
A short 5-minute drive gets you to the restaurant.
$60, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Evening Stroll at Pigeon Forge Parkway

Relax with an evening stroll while taking in the vibrant lights and atmosphere.
It's within walking distance from The Old Mill.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Adventuring in the Smokies

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN

7:30AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Fuel up with a variety of pancakes in the parking lot at the park entrance.
Drive 15 minutes to Gatlinburg before entering the national park.
$30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hiking at Laurel Falls Trail

Enjoy an easy/moderate hike to see one of the most popular waterfalls in the park.
Head 10 minutes from the park entrance to the trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the natural beauty of the park.
Choose a scenic picnic area close to your hike.
$30, 1 hour

12:30PM

Visit Cades Cove

Explore this stunning valley where wildlife viewing opportunities abound.
Drive 30 minutes to Cades Cove from your picnic spot.
Free, 3 hours

3:30PM

Wildlife Viewing and Photography

Look out for deer, black bears, and other wildlife in this picturesque setting.
Continue exploring Cades Cove on foot or by car.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Crystelle Creek

End your day with a scrumptious meal featuring local ingredients and comfort food.
Drive 30 minutes back towards Pigeon Forge for dinner.
$70, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Relax at the Hotel

Head back to your accommodations to unwind and reflect on the day.
Drive back to Pigeon Forge where you'll spend the night.
N/A, Evening
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Day 3: Gatlinburg Getaway

Gatlinburg, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Donut Friar

Indulge in warm, freshly made donuts that are a hit with families.
Head over to The Donut Friar in the heart of Gatlinburg.
$20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

Take a scenic chairlift ride offering stunning views of the Smokies.
It's a short walking distance from the donut shop.
$60, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery

Enjoy delicious pub fare while enjoying some local brews (or sodas for kids).
A quick walk from the SkyLift Park.
$50, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visiting Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Explore the incredible marine life and interactive exhibits perfect for family fun.
An easy 5-minute walk from the lunch spot.
$100, 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community

Discover local artisans’ shops and unique handmade crafts as you wander through the area.
A short 10-minute drive from the aquarium area.
Free (purchases vary), 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Peddler Steakhouse

Dine at this popular spot known for its tender steaks and cozy atmosphere with views of the river.
Drive about 10 minutes to get there.
$100, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Evening Walk Along Katthus Creek

Conclude your trip with a peaceful evening walk along the creek back in Gatlinburg.
It's a short stroll from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour
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