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Top 5 Things to Do in Pigeon Forge During Summer

Pigeon Forge summer day

June 20, 2025

Nothing beats summertime in the Smokies! Summer is one of the most popular times to visit Pigeon Forge. The area is overflowing with fun festivals, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly things to do. Do you have a summer vacation planned? Check out our list of the top five things to do in Pigeon Forge during summer:

1. Visit a Dinner Show

family enjoying a feast at Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud

Looking for an escape from the summer heat? Visit a dinner show! Dinner shows are the perfect way to spend a summer evening in Pigeon Forge. After spending the day exploring the beauty of the Smokies, spend the evening in the comfort of an air-conditioned theater! Of course, one of the best dinner shows in Pigeon Forge is the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud. Our show is filled with feudin’, feastin’, and family fun. Not only will you witness singing, dancing, comedy, and jaw-dropping stunts, but our diving dogs and hillbillies make a bigger splash than ever in our massive swimming hole! Be careful if you’re sitting close to the front — you just might be in the Splash Zone! Plus, you’ll be served an all-you-can-eat, award-winning feast that you can enjoy while you watch. The meal tastes like it came right from Granny’s kitchen!

Other popular dinner shows are Dolly Parton’s Stampede and Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show. Dolly Parton’s Stampede offers a high-spirited adventure and a four-course country feast, while Pirates Voyage provides an action-packed pirate battle and a hearty, four-course dinner. See one, or see them all!

Don’t feel like visiting a dinner show, but still looking for family-friendly entertainment? Head to The Comedy Barn!

2. Attend Dollywood’s Summer Celebration

Dollywood sign

Who doesn’t want to spend their summer vacation at a world-class theme park? Dollywood offers fun for all ages. During the summer, guests can experience the Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration at the park! The season comes alive with beautiful colors and plenty of family fun. Enjoy a beautiful Kite Sky, sprinklers, interactive fountains, the Gazillion Bubble Show, and more. The highlight of the festival is the impressive fireworks and drone show that takes place each night! You’ll also be able to enjoy all your favorite things at the park, from the thrilling roller coasters to the sweet treats. Dollywood is one of the can’t-miss things to do in Pigeon Forge during summer.

3. Splash Around at Dollywood’s Splash Country

Looking for ways to cool off under the summer sun? Visit Dollywood’s Splash Country! It’s the perfect summer retreat, with towering slides, sparkling pools, and kid-friendly splash zones. Whether you want to relax on the Downbound Float Trip or feel the thrills on Fire Tower Falls, you’re sure to have a great time. Make sure you try some of the mouthwatering eats and treats, from refreshing beverages and Dippin Dots® to specialty tacos and freshly made salads. There’s something for everyone at Dollywood’s Splash Country.

4. Explore the Titanic Museum Attraction & Get Ice Cream

inside of titanic ice cream in pigeon forge

Another great indoor attraction to visit during the summer is the Titanic Museum Attraction. This popular spot invites guests of all ages to take a step back in time and explore the history of the famous luxury liner. Through interactive experiences, guests will learn what it was like on the ship on that fateful night. After seeing more than 400 artifacts, walking the Grand Staircase, and discovering the fate of an actual Titanic passenger, stop by Titanic Ice Cream for your favorite summer treat. Conveniently located next door, this shop offers hand-dipped ice cream, classic sundaes, and seasonal delights.

If you plan to visit both our dinner show and the Titanic Museum Attraction, be sure to take advantage of our combo tickets!

5. Enjoy Gorgeous Views of the Smokies

Your visit to Pigeon Forge wouldn’t be complete without taking a drive into the Smoky Mountains. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park for a reason! There are countless views you need to see, as well as opportunities to spot wildlife, historic structures to explore, and other fun activities. We recommend taking a drive into Cades Cove for a scenic journey along the loop road. Not only is it a popular place to spot black bears and other animals, but you’ll also be able to get out and explore historic buildings! If you’d rather take in the views on foot, head to one of the popular trails, like Grotto Falls or Alum Cave. Be sure you bring a camera to capture all the amazing sights!

More Things to Do in Pigeon Forge

Are you looking for more things to do in the area when you visit? Check out these hidden things to do in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains.