Region: North America
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One of only two pet-friendly trails in GSMNP and one of the most stroller-friendly. Flat 2-mile round trip along the Little Pigeon River. Perfect for toddlers and beginners. Address: Gatlinburg Trail Trailhead, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
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Wild and wacky museum full of weird artifacts, optical illusions, and interactive exhibits. Kids are endlessly entertained. Great rainy day pick in the middle of the Gatlinburg strip. Address: 800 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Beloved free local park with a great playground, splash pad (summer), and picnic pavilions along a mountain stream. A hidden gem away from the tourist strip — locals’ favorite for young kids. Address: Mynatt Park, Historic Nature Trail, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
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Year-round mountain resort with an aerial tramway, indoor ice skating, wildlife encounter, water rides, and winter skiing. The tramway ride up is a highlight even if you don’t ski. Address: 1001 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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One of the best theme parks in the US for families. Mountain charm, world-class coasters, and the Wildwood Grove kids’ zone. The bald eagle sanctuary and craftspeople add unique character. Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$$
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Upside-down building housing 35,000 sq ft of interactive science and education exhibits. Highlights include a earthquake simulator, bubble lab, and glow-in-the-dark mini golf. Perfect rainy day. Address: 100 Music Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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Free local park with a great playground, splash pad, and sports facilities. A welcome break from paid attractions — popular with families staying in nearby cabins. Address: 170 Community Center Dr, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
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Half-scale replica of the Titanic packed with authentic artifacts. Kids receive a boarding pass with a real passenger’s name and find out their fate at the end. Surprisingly moving and educational. Address: 2134 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$
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11-mile scenic loop through an open valley where deer, black bears, and wild turkeys are regularly spotted. Drive-through friendly — no hiking required. Best wildlife viewing at dawn or dusk. Address: Cades Cove Loop Rd, Townsend, TN 37882 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Free
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Thrilling alpine-style mountain coaster winding through the Smoky Mountain hillside. Riders control their own speed. Kids 7+ typically love this — a great adrenaline hit without a full theme park day. Address: 2925 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 Google Maps: Click here for directions Cost: Paid $$