I live outside of the Gatlinburg area and these are some of our favorite activities!
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Fun Things To Do
Restaurants
Fun Things To Do
We love Dollywood! They have two great kid areas. They also have great coasters and live music. We have season passes and go regularly. Make sure you check out their seasonal festivals.
Dollywood
I love zoos, but this one is specifically great because you are closer to the animals than you are at a lot of other zoos. There's even a part of the walkway where the monkeys climb above you!
Knoxville Zoo
There are several locations, but I would suggest the one on The Island, so you can walk around after and the parking is easier. They have seasonal flavors, which are always fun to try.
Ole Smoky Moonshine
So many fun things to do here! Tastings, escape rooms, a large ferris wheel with a great view, and kids rides. If you can go when it's not summer, it's a lot of fun.
The Island in Pigeon Forge - Family Fun Center & Entertainment ...
Classic moonshine tasting! They have great flavors and they're further away from the tourist area, which is nice because it's not as crowded.
Tennessee Shine Company
It's so bad. I can't describe how bad it is. But because of how bad it is, it has become a hilarious story we tell and if you want to be able to reminisce about the terrible dino ride, then definitely give it a go.
Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride
Such a fun activity to do with friends and family! It's located on The Island so you can do it while you're walking around. Perhaps after a tasting.
The Escape Game Pigeon Forge
So fun, especially at night.
Mysterious Mansion
A great waterpark, which is perfect in Tennessee's summer months!
Dollywood's Splash Country
The best go karting in East TN!
Xtreme Racing
Probably the best thing you can do while in East TN is going ziplining through the mountains!
CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains
Has several easier hikes and a natural playground for kids.
Ijams Nature Center
Restaurants
Great pizza!
The Mad Ox House
Delicious food served family style. Has all the southern staples.
The Old Mill
The perfect diner food with delicious shakes. Definitely recommend!
