7 days in Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg Itinerary

A tiny town with big tourist appeal, Pigeon Forge bills itself as the "Center of Fun in the Smokies." Just a short drive from the national park protecting the diverse plant and animal life of the Great Smoky Mountains, the town features numerous places to visit, such as bars, restaurants, cafes, theaters, and shops.

Kick off your visit on the 7th (Sun): get in touch with nature with Foxfire Mountain Adventure Park, shop like a local with Smoky Mountain Knife Works, and then stop by Christmas Place.

To find reviews, where to stay, more things to do, and other tourist information, use the Pigeon Forge tour planner.

Durham to Pigeon Forge is an approximately 6-hour car ride. You can also fly; or do a combination of bus and car. In August, daily temperatures in Pigeon Forge can reach 87°F, while at night they dip to 68°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 7th (Sun) so you can go by car to Gatlinburg.

Nestled in the lush, wooded forests of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is Tennessee’s premier mountain resort destination.

Noah Bud Ogle Cabin and Little Greenbrier School will appeal to history buffs. Step out of the city life by going to River Rafting & Tubing and Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail. You'll find plenty of places to visit near Gatlinburg: Clingmans Dome (in Great Smoky Mountains National Park) and Raft Outdoor Adventures (in Hartford). There's still lots to do: take a memorable drive along Newfound Gap Road, admire the sheer force of Ramsey Cascades, putt your heart out at Ripley's Davy Crockett Mini Golf, and get a taste of the local shopping with Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community.

To see where to stay, more things to do, maps, and more tourist information, read Gatlinburg trip builder tool.

Gatlinburg is very close to Pigeon Forge. In August, plan for daily highs up to 87°F, and evening lows to 68°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 12th (Fri) so you can drive back home.