hiker crossing footbridge over mountain stream

The Ultimate Itinerary for a Long Weekend in Pigeon Forge, TN

Pigeon Forge aerial (1)
August 16, 2024

A long weekend getaway to the Smoky Mountains is just what your family needs! Take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and head to Pigeon Forge for a few fun-filled days with loved ones. It can be challenging to fit everything into just three days, but we’re here to help! We’ve put together this ultimate itinerary for a long weekend in Pigeon Forge that includes can’t-miss attractions, dining, and recommendations on the best way to make the most of your stay!

Day 1

Check In and Unwind at The Inn on the River

When you arrive for your weekend in Pigeon Forge after a long day of travel, you’ll want to relax and enjoy your accommodations. Our Pigeon Forge hotel offers everything you need to unwind in your private room and throughout the hotel. Cozy up and take a nap on your comfortable bed, lounge next to the fireplace, or catch up on your favorite show on the large TV in your hotel room. If your kids need to burn off some energy, head to the indoor or outdoor pool so they can splash around. You can even soak in the large hot tub while your kids enjoy the indoor pool!

Attend a Dinner Show

Pirates Voyage in Pigeon Forge

Whether you took a nap or swam in the pool, you’ve likely worked up an appetite! To make the most of the first night of your long weekend in Pigeon Forge, we recommend attending one of the great dinner shows in town. These lively, interactive shows will fill your stomach with delicious food and entertain the whole family with singing, dancing, comedy, stunts, and more! Favorite dinner shows in Pigeon Forge include Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction, Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, and Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show.

Take a Drive Through Pigeon Forge

After your belly is full and you’ve laughed the night away, take a leisurely drive through Pigeon Forge to see all the sights. Explore the Pigeon Forge Parkway to see the attractions, shops, restaurants, and great views all around. This is a great way to find things you want to do. If you’re visiting in the fall or winter, you may be able to see colorful fall leaves or twinkling festive lights. End your drive at our Pigeon Forge hotel, grab a hot chocolate in the lobby, and get some sleep so you’ll have energy for the rest of your long weekend in Pigeon Forge.

Day 2

Fill Up at Our Complimentary Breakfast Bar

breakfast buffet

It’s your first full day in Pigeon Forge! Before you embark on your adventure, make a pitstop at our hotel breakfast area to fuel up with a hearty meal. Our complimentary breakfast bar is served daily to all our hotel guests and includes both hot and cold items. Enjoy foods like biscuits and gravy, grits, waffles, sausage, oatmeal, fried potatoes, fresh fruit, cold cereals, bagels, yogurt, and more! We even have a gluten-free breakfast menu available for guests with gluten intolerances or allergies. After you’ve eaten your fill, it’s time to head out to enjoy a fun-filled day!

Visit Dollywood

You can’t spend a long weekend in Pigeon Forge without visiting Dollywood! This iconic theme park offers fun for all ages. Whether you want to race down thrilling roller coasters, take it easy on kid-friendly rides, shop ‘til you drop, or be entertained at award-winning shows, Dollywood has something for every member of the family! When you get hungry, make sure you try some of the many tasty foods at Dollywood like barbeque, fried chicken, funnel cakes, and the famous cinnamon bread!

Unwind at The Island in Pigeon Forge

overcast weather at fountain at the island with skyfly soar america in distance

After a busy day at Dollywood, head over to The Island in Pigeon Forge to unwind. There are so many shops, restaurants, rides, and other unique things to do at The Island. Make sure you spend some time watching The Island Show Fountain, a state-of-the-art presentation of dancing water and lights perfectly timed to music. This is an especially mesmerizing show after dark! Grab dinner at one of the great restaurants at The Island, such as Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen, Timberwood Grill, or Dick’s Last Resort.

Day 3

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Make the most of your long weekend in Pigeon Forge by spending your last day in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Fuel up with breakfast at our complimentary breakfast bar, then head to the mountains! There are endless possibilities for outdoor adventure, no matter your age or experience level. Take a scenic drive around Cades Cove or Roaring Fork to see nature and mountain views, or explore one of the many great hiking trails to immerse yourselves in the beauty of the mountains. Make sure you bring a picnic lunch to eat in the great outdoors at one of the many picnic areas throughout the national park.

Book the Perfect Hotel Stay for Your Long Weekend in Pigeon Forge

Now that you know what to do during your weekend in Pigeon Forge, it’s time to start booking your trip! Take advantage of the comfortable, relaxing, and fun amenities at The Inn on the River that make us Pigeon Forge’s #1 hotel. Browse our great selection of Pigeon Forge hotel rooms and start planning your weekend getaway today!