As you probably know, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is filled with a ton of incredible creatures, including deer, turkeys, and black bears! However, did you know that you can view some amazing animals just minutes away from our hotel on the Parkway? Here are 4 Pigeon Forge attractions that feature live animals:
1. Three Bears General Store
Three Bears General Store is one of the most unique shopping destinations in the Smokies! Inside, you will find everything you could possibly want, including apparel, home decor, jewelry, snacks, and so much more! Plus, the store is home to an incredible black bear habitat. For just a nominal fee, you and your family can observe the bears interacting with each other on the rocks and tree branches. An interesting fact about the bear habitat is that all the animals inside were rescued from a nearby hunting farm, and the store has cared for and nurtured the bears for over 25 years!
2. Goats on the Roof
Just by the name of this attraction, you can probably guess what lovely animal you will find here! That’s right, they actually have real goats that live on the roof of the building. The concept of having roof top inhabitants began back in the 1970s, when Al Johnson kept some goats on the roof of his restaurant in Wisconsin. Now, that tradition lives on at Goats on the Roof in Pigeon Forge, and you can travel to the top of the building to see and feed the incredible creatures! While you are there, be sure to check out the gift shop and take a ride on the thrilling mountain coaster. There is no doubt this is one of the most unique Pigeon Forge attractions, so don’t miss out during your trip.
3. Eagle Mountain Sanctuary at Dollywood
In addition to world class rides, shows, and restaurants, Dollywood is also home to the Eagle Mountain Sanctuary. This 30,000 square foot aviary house is the country’s largest presentation of non-releasable bald eagles. These incredible birds of prey are under the care of the American Eagle Foundation at Dollywood, who look over them for rehabilitation and breeding. The Eagle Mountain Sanctuary is located in the Craftsman’s Valley section of the park, which is located near the Daredevil Falls water ride. The park has many eagle shows throughout the day, or you can stop by the sanctuary at any time to see how many birds you can spot.
4. Parrot Mountain
At Parrot Mountain, you can touch, pet, and feed the incredible birds located in the Garden of Eden. It is home to hundreds of beautiful tropical birds that live among thousands of different species of trees in four gorgeous acres of landscaped gardens. While inside the bird sanctuary, you can get up close and personal with all the stunning birds. The trained staff at Parrot Mountain will show you how to touch and feed the birds, and you will be amazed by how friendly the animals are! Before you know it, you will have different visitors flying all around you trying to introduce themselves!
Now that you know about some of the Pigeon Forge attractions with live animals, be sure to discover some of the other things to do in the Smokies during your trip! We look forward to seeing you soon!
