A beautiful photo of Cades Cove near Gatlinburg.

3 Things to Do in Pigeon Forge That Help You Stay Cool

Are you planning a vacation to Pigeon Forge this summer? If so, you need activities that will allow you to enjoy the nice weather and beat the heat at the same time! We’ve got you covered with this list of 3 things to do in Pigeon Forge that help you stay cool:

1. Riding Water Slides at Dollywood’s Splash Country

Dollywood’s Splash Country waterpark is a beloved summer tourist attraction in Pigeon Forge. In fact, it is on USA Today’s list of “Top 10 Outdoor Waterparks.” It’s not hard to see why, as there is so much fun to be had. Visitors who enjoy the thrilling roller coasters at Dollywood’s amusement park will love the numerous water slides at Splash Country. For example, RiverRush is Tennessee’s first and only water roller coaster. Riders climb 4 stories into the air and get into an inflatable boat to race down 1,175 feet of track. Throughout the ride, they will experience a variety of thrilling elements, including hairpin turns and powerful climbs. Along with their water slides, Splash Country also has more laid back activities, one of which is Mountain Waves. Float down the 25,000 square-foot wave pool in an innertube. If you need a break from the heat, stop and rest in one of the shaded areas along the way!

2. Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park

zorbing down a hillOutdoor Gravity Park is another one of the things to do in Pigeon Forge that will help you stay cool! You do so through a unique experience called zorbing. The activity originated in New Zealand and this attraction is currently the only place in the United States that offers it. Up to 3 visitors go into an 11-foot inflatable ball with water. They can then try to go down the 1000-foot hill on one of 3 tracks. If you can’t make it here during the summer, don’t worry! This attraction is open year-round!

3. Taking a Scenic Drive Through Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Pigeon Forge is just a short drive from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which is known for its gorgeous natural scenery. If you want to enjoy it and stay out of the sun, a scenic drive is a great activity. Visitors see all the beautiful sights while remaining in the comfort of their own vehicle. One popular route to take is Cades Cove Loop Road. The one-way, 11-mile route is open to visitors year-round. In the summer, you will see a combination of rich greenery and colorful wildflowers. Additionally, there are a number of rustic historical buildings that are remnants of the once thriving settlement, one of which is the John Oliver cabin. It was built in the 1800’s by one of Cades Cove’s first residents; the cabin is the oldest human structure in the park. There is also the chance to see live animals as well. Cades Cove is one of the best places in the park to see black bears. Some of its other residents include wild turkeys and white-tailed deers!

We hope you stay cool while enjoying all of these fun things to do in Pigeon Forge. For even more fun things to do on your vacation, check out some of our favorite area attractions!