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Welcome to the enchanting Smoky Mountains, where unforgettable adventures await for families with young children. If you’re planning a trip to this picturesque region with your little ones, you’re in for a treat.
From scenic wonders to interactive attractions, exploring the Smoky Mountains with little ones: Family-Friendly Activities for Ages 0-5 provides several ideas for a range of kid-friendly activities to create lasting memories.
In this guide, we’ve curated a list of must-do activities designed specifically for children ages 0 to 5.
1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park:
The majestic Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a wealth of family-friendly experiences. Take leisurely strolls on easy trails like the Gatlinburg Trail, allowing your little ones to discover nature’s wonders.
Encourage their curiosity as you spot wildlife and explain the importance of preserving these beautiful surroundings.
Official Website: (https://www.nps.gov/grsm/index.htm)
2. Dollywood:
Immerse your family in the wonders of Dollywood, a theme park filled with thrills and entertainment. Explore attractions like the Country Fair area, featuring kid-sized rides such as the Lucky Ducky and Piggy Parade.
Little ones will delight in the friendly atmosphere, live shows, and engaging experiences that capture the spirit of the Smoky Mountains.
Official Website: (https://www.dollywood.com/)
3. Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies:
Dive into a world of underwater marvels at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Watch as your children’s eyes light up while they encounter playful penguins in the Penguin Playhouse.
Let their tiny hands gently touch the rays at the Touch-a-Ray Bay, creating unforgettable connections with marine life.
Official Website: (https://www.ripleys.com/gatlinburg/)
4. The Island in Pigeon Forge:
The Island in Pigeon Forge offers a multitude of family-friendly experiences. Ride the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for a bird’s-eye view of the area.
Let your kids enjoy the water fountains and interactive fountain show. Visit the Arcade City for fun games and activities suitable for young children.
Official Website: (https://islandinpigeonforge.com/)
5. WonderWorks:
Feed your child’s curiosity at WonderWorks, an interactive museum blending education and entertainment. Watch their imaginations soar as they engage in hands-on exhibits like the Bubble Lab and the Imagination Lab.
The indoor ropes course and laser tag activities will provide excitement for energetic little adventurers.
Official Website: (https://www.wonderworksonline.com/pigeon-forge/)
6. Pigeon Forge Trolley:
Hop on the Pigeon Forge Trolley for a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the area with your little ones.
Experience the joy on their faces as they ride the trolley and take in the sights and sounds of the Smokies without the worry of parking or traffic.
5 FAQs About the Fun Time Trolley
Official Website: (https://www.mypigeonforgetrolley.org/)
7. Outdoor Adventures:
Engage in outdoor adventures tailored to young children’s capabilities. Enjoy a serene horseback ride suitable for all ages or take leisurely nature walks where your little ones can marvel at the beauty of the surroundings.
Pack a picnic and savor quality time together amidst the breathtaking landscapes.
Official Website: (https://www.mypigeonforge.com/things-to-do/outdoors)
8. The Track:
Bring smiles to your children’s faces at The Track, an amusement park offering a range of family-friendly activities. Let your little racers drive their own go-karts on the kid-friendly tracks or enjoy a gentle ride on the merry-go-round.
The Track guarantees fun-filled hours for the whole family.
Official Website:(https://www.funatthetrack.com/)
9. Pigeon Forge Snow:
Delight your little snow enthusiasts with a visit to Pigeon Forge Snow, an indoor snow park. Watch their excitement as they experience the thrill of snow tubing in a safe and controlled environment.
The magical snow-covered slopes will create unforgettable memories for both children and parents.
Official Website: (https://www.pigeonforgesnow.com/)
10. Wear Farm City Park:
Experience the family-friendly atmosphere of Wear Farm City Park, a fantastic destination for kids to play and explore. This spacious park offers a wide range of amenities designed to entertain young children.
Unleash their energy at the playground, featuring swings, slides, and climbing structures that will keep them engaged for hours.
Official Website: (cityofpigeonforge.com/parks-wearfarmpark.aspx)
11. Patriot Park:
Located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, Patriot Park is a family-friendly destination that combines natural beauty with engaging activities. This charming park pays tribute to the veterans and features several attractions that will delight children.
Official Website: (https://mypigeonforge.com/things-to-do/patriot-park)
12. Pigeon Forge Community Center:
Enjoy a variety of recreational activities at the Pigeon Forge Community Center. Kids can have a splash-tastic time in the indoor pool area or enjoy the large play area filled with engaging toys, climbing structures, and interactive games.
The community center also features outdoor playground areas for more fun-filled adventures.
Official Website: (https://cityofpigeonforge.com/community-center.aspx)
With this comprehensive list of activities and corresponding website links, you can easily access more information about each destination and plan your family-friendly vacation in the Smoky Mountains with ease. Enjoy exploring the wonders of the Smokies with your little ones and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Attention Parents and Grandparents!
FREE Smoky Mountain Activity Book! Educational and FUN! The kids will LOVE it!
We have created this special Activity Book just for the kids! Download our FREE Asbury Cottage Family Friendly Activity Book – a 46 page printable full of Smoky Mountain educational worksheets, coloring pages and puzzles.
Bring it with you on a future Asbury Cottage vacation or enjoy the memories from a past vacation! Either way, the kids will enjoy learning about Asbury Cottage, Pigeon Forge and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and its wildlife.
Find more fun activities, travel tips, road trip games, and more on our Pinterest boards.
Smoky Mountains Family Friendly Fun Facebook Group
To keep up on all that’s happening in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains, get our email newsletter.
And be sure to check out our Smoky Mountains – Family Friendly Fun Facebook group. We post lots of Smoky Mountain news, events and area discounts here.
Book Your Stay and Visit the Great Smoky Mountains
Are you ready to head to the Smoky Mountains and spend some time discovering great restaurants, shopping, hiking and sight seeing in the Smokies?
Let us help you plan your Smoky Mountain vacation. Call/Text Connie at 1-304-550-4161 or email info@asburycottage.com
Our Asbury Cottage is located just minutes from these restaurants in Downtown Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. We offer a vacation rental property that is perfect for families or couples. The cottage has 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths (1 with a walk-in shower), and it’s just 1/4 mile from the Parkway.
We keep our rates low because we know how hard it is to afford a family vacation. Rates vary depending on the time of year and day of the week. But you can get a quote on our website by entering the dates of your anticipated stay.
We book up quickly, so make plans to reserve your dates ahead of time.
We’d love to have you as our guest! Check rates and availability and book online at http://asburycottage.com.