Rafting on the Pigeon River is one of the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains!
August 7, 2025

When you come to visit the Smoky Mountains, there are so many fun things for you to do here in the area! From enjoying the natural beauty of the Smokies, to checking out some of the top attractions, and more, we wanted to help you make the most of your vacation with some of our best suggestions for the best things to do in the Smoky Mountains. Let’s get started:

1. Go White Water Rafting

If you are seeking thrills while also looking to take in the natural beauty of the area, there are few options that can beat white water rafting! When you sign up for a white water rafting experience on the Pigeon River, like those offered by Smoky Mountain Outdoors, you are sure to have a great time and make lasting memories.

2. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park sign

Of course, no trip to the area would be complete without making a stop at Great Smoky Mountains National Park! This destination is home to over 800 miles of hiking trails, where you can see waterfalls, historic buildings, animals like the area’s famous black bears, and more. Plus, there is no entrance fee at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and only a small parking fee, so it is an affordable activity as well.

3. Check Out Local Shops

Whether you plan to visit the brand-name shopping outlets in Sevierville or the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community in Gatlinburg, there is a shopping area for everyone in the Smoky Mountains! From fashion, handmade pottery, and Smoky Mountain souvenirs, the area is home to plenty of unique shops that you will enjoy visiting.

4. Visit Top Area Attractions

Beautiful sign at the entrance to Dollywood in Pigeon Forge Tn

When you come to stay in the area, you will also be able to check out some of the top attractions in the Smoky Mountains! For instance, Pigeon Forge is home to Dollywood, the iconic Southern theme park inspired by Dolly Parton herself, with lots of rides, shops, restaurants, and more. Or, you can head over to Gatlinburg, where attractions like Anakeesta and the Gatlinburg SkyPark await along the downtown strip! These are just some of the many innovative Smoky Mountain attractions that you can visit here in the area.

5. Enjoy a Dinner Show

Pigeon Forge is known for its excellent selection of dinner shows, and seeing some of these shows certainly qualifies among the top things to do in the Smoky Mountains! Whether you decide to go see a show that combines comedy and stunts, such as the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, or a show that showcases stunning animals like Dolly Parton’s Stampede, you can’t go wrong with the amazing variety of dinner shows in Pigeon Forge. And, of course, no matter which of these shows you pick, you can chow down on a delicious meal while you watch!

As you can see, there are so many amazing things to do in the Smoky Mountains, and this list has only just begun to cover them all! If you want to experience all that the area has to offer, you will just have to come and visit for yourself. That is where our Pigeon Forge condo rentals come in, as they stand out as some of the best lodging options in the Smoky Mountains and will put you right near all the action! Browse our selection of condos in Pigeon Forge today to make your reservation. We can’t wait to see you here in the Smokies!

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