Which is Better, Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
The Great Smokey Mountains date back millions of years and can be found in North Carolina and Eastern Tennessee.
Today, four hours east of Nashville, Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge rise out of the mountains to offer fantastic vacation opportunities for the family with so much to do and experience.
The two towns are only 20 minutes drive apart. Free trolley buses are going between them all the time. It's possible to experience both in one trip.
If you had to choose and were to ask me, should I visit Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge? Here's what I'd tell you:
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge both offer distinct experiences in the Smokies. Gatlinburg is ideal for a scenic mountain setting with walkable shops and attractions. Pigeon Forge, on the other hand, is less crowded, generally more affordable, and boasts numerous kids' interests, shopping outlets, and varied hotel options. Ultimately, your choice hinges on your preferences, whether it's the bustling ambiance of Gatlinburg or the relaxed and budget-friendly appeal of Pigeon Forge.
If we haven't met, hi! I'm Alex Hawker, a Nashville local with two young kids and always exploring our great state of Tennessee. You can learn more about me here.
Table of Contents
- Which is Better, Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge?
- Advantages of Gatlinburg
- Advantages of Pigeon Forge
- Gatlinburg is Best For
- Pigeon Forge is Best For
- Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge– Detailed Comparison
- Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Cost & Budget
- Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Things to Do
- Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Accommodation
- Top Traveller-Rated Hotels in Gatlinburg
- Top Traveller-Rated Hotels in Pigeon Forge
- Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Food
- Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Family Friendliness
- Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Crowds
- Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Shopping
- Final Verdict – Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge
Advantages of Gatlinburg
- Featured attraction: Anakeesta Mountain.
- The town is built into the mountains.
- It feels more established and European.
- Easier to park and walk downtown.
- Better live music and food.
- It is better for viewing mountains, walking, and sky lifts.
Advantages of Pigeon Forge
- Featured attraction: Dollywood.
- Built next to the mountains. The town feels flatter with more space.
- Cheaper to stay and eat than in Gatlinburg.
- Feels more modern.
- More thrill rides and attractions.
Gatlinburg is Best For
- Scenic Mountain Setting. Gatlinburg offers a more scenic mountain backdrop in the Smokies.
- Walkability. It's designed like a village so walking is easier if you prefer to go on foot.
- Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway and SkyLift Park.
- Better nightlife and ambiance.
Pigeon Forge is Best For
- Budget-friendly vacations. Pigeon Forge offers more affordable hotels, dining, and entertainment.
- Kid-Friendly attractions. Amusement parks like Dollywood, museums, waterparks, and slides are abundant in Pigeon Forge.
- Better shopping. Pigeon Forge is more spread out, allowing more shops and dining.
- More dining and accommodation options.
Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge– Detailed Comparison
Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Cost & Budget
While it is possible to do Gatlinburg on a budget, many travel expenses are lower in Pigeon Forge than in Gatlinburg. On average, Pigeon Forge hotels are cheaper than similar-quality hotels in Gatlinburg. You can also find high-quality restaurants charging lower prices in Pigeon Forge.
🥇 Winner: Pigeon Forge
Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Things to Do
There are so many things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge that it can be overwhelming. This primer can tell you what you should take advantage of.
Top Things To Do In Gatlinburg
Take a gondola to view the mountains. There are many ways to leisurely ride to the top of the mountains. The gondola sky system will take you to the top of Anakeesta Mountain. Open chair lift or enclosed gondola. When you get to the top, you'll be able to explore unique boutique shopping and dining options, including two sit-down restaurants with mind-blowing views that make it really hard to leave. Learn more here.
Get the best views at the Gatlinburg Skypark. Get the skylift and see the layout. The views of the Smokey Mountains are spectacular. The cloud comes down, and it looks like smoke. It gets away from the hustle and bustle. At the top, the Sky Centre has a bar, ice cream, and shopping store. Learn more here.
Gatlinburg Space Needle. At 407 feet tall, the Gatlinburg Space Needle was the second-tallest tower in Tennessee when it was completed. It was opened in 1970 and offers incredible 360 views of the Smokey Mountains. There is an arcade on the ground floor and some pizza joints. Learn more here.
Vista Gardens. This is a multi-level, whimsically landscaped area with wisteria tunnels and waterfalls.
Anakeesta observation tower. The tower boasts 360-degree views of the smokies. On clear days, you can see as far as Kentucky.
Rope bridges. Walk 800 feet while being 50ft in the air.
Anakeesta zipline and gem mining. Anakeesta offers thrilling zipline adventures, allowing visitors to soar through the treetops of the Smoky Mountains. Additionally, families can delve into the fun of gem mining, sifting through dirt to discover precious stones and fossils.
Gatlinburg Skylift. The Gatlinburg SkyLift offers visitors a chance to ride a chairlift to the top of Crockett Mountain, providing panoramic views of Gatlinburg and the majestic Smoky Mountains. Once at the summit, the SkyDeck observation area and the SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, further enhance the breathtaking experience.
Ober Gatlinburg Mall. Ober Gatlinburg Mall is a mountaintop entertainment complex and shopping center in Gatlinburg, offering visitors a mix of retail shops, dining options, and recreational activities with stunning views of the Smoky Mountains. Accessible by an aerial tramway, it's a unique destination that combines shopping with mountain adventure.
Astra Lumina. Astra Lumina is an immersive nighttime experience that uses light, sound, and projection to tell the story of the stars.
Visit one of the many distilleries. We suggest Ole Smokey.
Watch artisans at work at the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community. The 8-mile loop road is home to cottage studios where you can see the craftspeople working on objects that are available for purchase.
The Village. Next to the pancake pantry, this landmark dates back over 50 years. The brick-covered sidewalks and old-world architecture transport you to different times and places.
Sample Moonshine. Lots of distillers. You can get tastings if you are 21 years or older.
Visit quirky attractions. Such as the earthquake simulator, indoor mini golf, mirror maze, Ripley Believe it or Not Museum, and Gatlinburg's Mysterious Mansion.
Ripleys Aquarium. Features galleries on two floors and thousands of sea creatures. It's very kid-friendly, with plenty of hands-on experiences and two playgrounds.
Watch Taffy Being Made. Since the 1950s, tourists have been wide-eyed at the Ole Smokey Candy Kitchen. Candy makers in white uniforms still operate the candy machine.
Play Hillbilly Golf. Hop onboard an incline railway where you can compete in 1 of 2 eighteen-hole courses.
Things To Do in Pigeon Forge
Dollywood. This theme park is partly owned and operated by Dolly Parton, one of country music's biggest stars. The most popular attractions are roller coasters, thrill rides, and water rides. Many shows take place throughout the day. The Dollywood Express train is also a huge hit. It would help if you took a ride on it when you first get there to look around and decide what you want to do. Learn more here.
SkyFly Soar America. This 6-minute journey simulates flying over the most beautiful places in America. It's a must-do ride that the whole family can enjoy. Learn more here.
The Island. This is the most famous village and retail complex on 23 acres and houses more than 80 shops and restaurants, attractions, and two Margaritaville Hotels on site. You can think of it as more of a resort that you never have to leave, similar to Opryland in Nashville.
The tremendous smokey mountain wheel. It provides riders 360-degree views of the area with enclosed glass gondolas that seat up to eight people.
See a Dinner Show. Pigeon Forge is well known for their dinner shows. Dolly Parton's Stampede is the most popular. The Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud and The Comedy Barn are other great options.
Experience the choreographed water. Most nights, you can see the colored lights dance in time with the music.
Rocky Top Mountain Coaster. Offering breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains as it winds through the terrain. This alpine coaster provides a scenic journey and adrenaline-pumping excitement for its riders.
Tower Shops. Covering 160 acres, the site has shops surrounded by large, open green spaces, perfect for a family shopping event. There are outdoor shops, distilleries, and restaurants. You'll also find the Mountain Monster, a series of outdoor thrill rides, including a drop ride.
The Old Mill. One thing you need to see. It's been seen in images worldwide and is the most photographed Mill worldwide. The Old Mill played an essential role in the Civil War. Knitting rooms occupied the upstairs rooms to provide uniforms for the soldiers. Products like flour using hydropower are still produced onsite and are available for purchase. Next door is the Old Mill Restaurant, which is consistently ranked as one of the top places to eat in the area. Learn more here.
Pigeon River Pottery. In the 1940s, the area was rich in red clay. An old tobacco barn was turned into a pottery shop, and today turns out excellent souvenirs that you can collect from the Smokies today.
Iron Mountain Metal Craft. You can take a lesson, get close to the action, and swing the hammer yourself as you craft some metal. The finished product can be taken home. You need to make an appointment. Learn more here.
Step into a Bookshop. The store, named A Long Story Short, is a boutique bookstore. Every book is a treasure. Learn more here.
Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Accommodation
Top Traveller-Rated Hotels in Gatlinburg
- Margaritaville Island Hotel. The mountain-shocked style, great amenities, friendly staff, and attention to detail make it an enjoyable stay. Check prices and availability here.
- The River House. Easy walking distance to restaurants and shopping areas. It also offers easy access to the national park. The rooms are enormous and always clean. A bonus is that they fry their donuts daily and bring them, with other breakfast items, to your door every morning. It's also a very affordable option. Click here to learn more and check prices. Check prices and availability here.
- The Greystone Lodge. It has been operating since 1963 and is close to the Great Smokey Mountain National Park. Great shops, attractions, and restaurants are all within walking distance. The free Gatlinburg Trolley also stops right outside the hotel. Check prices and availability here.
- The Edgewater Hotel and Conference Centre. Located in downtown Gatlinburg, this highrise building offers excellent views of the surrounding mountains. They also have free parking and access to the trolley. They have a mountain-themed indoor and outdoor pool. Check prices and availability here.
For more top-rated Gatlinburg hotels, click here.
Top Traveller-Rated Hotels in Pigeon Forge
- Margaritaville Island Inn. This hotel is ideal for kids. It's a centrally located property that is designed to host families. It's only 1.3 miles from downtown Pigeon Forge. The price includes free parking, kids stay free, and a gym. Check prices and availability here.
- The Inn on the River. Located at the famous Parkway in Pigeon Forge. Offers well-kept, spacious rooms and two pools. Check prices and availability here.
- Twin Mountain Inn & Suites. This hotel is ideal for a couple's getaway or honeymoon. The rooms feature a riverfront room and are located close to Dollywood. Check prices and availability here.
- Vacation Lodge. Best for work trips is a mountain hotel with a meeting space within walking distance of the center of Pigeon Forge. Check prices and availability here.
For more top-rated Pigeon Forge hotels, click here.
Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Food
You'll find food choices in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Ford that you are used to. The same chain restaurants like Pizza Hut or Subway still (unfortunately) are options.
Gatlinburg's native food tends to have a Southern and Appalachian twist. Think big breakfasts with ham, grits, and biscuits. Think fried chicken, rainbow trout, and apple stack cake for dinner. Home cooking is the name of the game.
Pigeon Forge is a melting pot for various cuisines, from Italian to Mexican, and even chain restaurants. The town caters to a broader audience, so there's a higher chance of finding themed restaurants or eateries tailored to specific niches, like show dinners where you can enjoy a meal while watching a performance.
🥇 Winner: If we had to pick a winner based solely on authenticity and atmosphere, Gatlinburg would likely edge out for its rustic, home-cooked offerings that pay homage to its mountain roots.
Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Family Friendliness
Gatlinburg offers nature-based attractions like the Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies, hiking trails, and the aerial tramway, which provides breathtaking views of the mountains. Its compact nature allows families to walk between many attractions, making it convenient for those with younger children. Moreover, the arts and crafts community ensures plenty of hands-on activities and educational opportunities for kids.
Pigeon Forge is a playground for families. With attractions like Dollywood, go-kart tracks, miniature golf courses, and numerous theaters, there's plenty of entertainment for children of all ages. The sprawling town offers more space for larger amusement parks and facilities. While this might require more driving, the sheer volume and variety of kid-focused activities make it a family favorite.
🥇 Winner: Pigeon Forge
Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Crowds
When you go to the Smokey Mountains depends on what you want from your experience. We will provide a different understanding of the Smokey Mountains all year round. In the Spring, it will be green and fresh; in the summer, the streams offer a cool respite, and you can't beat the colors of fall. The bright, colorful lights of Christmas time in the winter provide a charm that can't be matched.
Things to consider when visiting Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge:
- January through February can be depressing. Dollywood is closed, the skies are grey, and the trees are dormant. You can still shop, and there aren't any crowds, but there is little excitement.
- Autumn draws a lot of crowds. The beauty in the mountains will blow your mind, but everyone knows how great it is. You have to plan your trip accordingly and prepare for traffic. Be ready for patience.
- The summer heat in the Smokies can be brutal. The heat and humidity are oppressive and can wear you out.
👉 Our recommendation: Visit in the Spring. The mountains have come alive, and the attractions are open.
Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge: Shopping
The Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community is not just a place to buy but to witness local artisans crafting everything from pottery and paintings to jewelry and hand-poured candles. With the motto “Made in Gatlinburg” resonating deeply, visitors can acquire items with stories and heritage behind them. Along the Parkway, one is treated to a medley of nine shopping malls and specialty shops, brimming with unique clothing, souvenirs, and local delicacies like jams and jellies.
Pigeon Forge offers The Island as a highlight in its shopping landscape. The Island is a vast entertainment and retail complex that blends national brands with unique boutiques. It's not just a place to shop but a full-blown experience with fountains, rides, and entertainment options.
🥇 Winner: While Pigeon Forge's The Island offers a modern, comprehensive shopping and entertainment experience, Gatlinburg's rich artisanal heritage, combined with its diverse shopping outlets, from the quaint to the contemporary, makes it a more varied and in-depth shopping destination.
Final Verdict – Gatlinburg vs. Pigeon Forge
Gatlinburg captivates with its scenic mountain backdrop and walkable avenues lined with shops and attractions.
In contrast, Pigeon Forge, often less crowded, stands out with its affordability, wide range of kid-friendly activities, diverse shopping outlets, and varied accommodation options.
Convenient free trolley buses connect the two towns, making it feasible to savor both.
When deciding, consider whether you seek the more relaxing atmosphere of Gatlinburg or the budget-friendly allure of Pigeon Forge.
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References:
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