Must-Visit Smoky Mountain Attractions for Families and Groups

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Planning a Smoky Mountain vacation with kids, extended family, or friends? The Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg area is packed with fun attractions designed for all ages - from indoor adventures to mountaintop experiences and theme park thrills.
When you stay at Blue Mountain Cabins, you’re just a short drive from the region’s most popular family attractions, making it easy to fill your itinerary with memorable group activities.
Here are the must-visit Smoky Mountain attractions for families and groups.

1. Dollywood

Website: https://www.dollywood.com/

Dollywood is the Smokies’ signature attraction and a highlight for many visiting families. This award-winning theme park features more than 50 rides, shows, dining, and seasonal festivals across a beautifully landscaped park. (Dollywood Parks & Resorts)
Why families and groups love Dollywood:

  • Rides for toddlers through thrill-seekers
  • Festivals and seasonal events
  • Live music and shows
  • Excellent food and shaded rest areas
It’s easy to spend a full day here with mixed ages and interests.

2. Anakeesta

Website: https://anakeesta.com/

Anakeesta is a mountaintop adventure park accessed by gondola or chairlift from downtown Gatlinburg. At the summit, guests can explore a scenic village filled with activities and sweeping mountain views.
Highlights include:

  • Treetop Skywalk
  • AnaVista observation tower
  • Mountain coaster
  • Play areas and gardens
  • Dining with panoramic views
Evenings are especially magical when the lights come on across the mountain.

3. The Island in Pigeon Forge

Website: https://islandinpigeonforge.com/

The Island is a lively entertainment district featuring rides, dining, shopping, and live entertainment across 23 acres in the heart of Pigeon Forge. (The Island in Pigeon Forge)
Popular features:

  • Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
  • Dancing fountain shows
  • Ropes course and games
  • Restaurants and treats
  • Seating areas for gathering
Great for multi-family groups with different interests.

4. WonderWorks

Website: https://www.wonderworksonline.com/pigeon-forge/


This upside-down indoor attraction is part science museum, part adventure center, and completely kid-approved. Inside are more than 100 interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and play.
Favorites include:

  • Indoor ropes course
  • Laser tag
  • Hurricane simulator
  • Space and STEM exhibits
A perfect rainy-day or hot-weather option.

5. Titanic Museum Attraction

Website: https://titanicpigeonforge.com/


One of the Smokies’ most unique experiences, the Titanic Museum is an immersive walk-through museum inside a half-scale ship. Guests receive a passenger boarding pass and follow the story of the voyage.
Families enjoy:

  • Interactive exhibits
  • Touching an iceberg
  • Grand staircase replica
  • Historical storytelling
Educational and memorable for older kids and adults.

6. Ober Mountain

Website: https://obermountain.com/

Ober Mountain offers year-round mountaintop fun above Gatlinburg, with seasonal activities for all ages.
Seasonal activities include:
  • Skiing and snow tubing (winter)
  • Alpine slide
  • Scenic chairlift
  • Ice skating
  • Wildlife habitat
A classic Smoky Mountain experience.

7. SkyPark

Website: https://www.gatlinburgskypark.com/


SkyPark sits above downtown Gatlinburg and offers one of the most iconic views in the Smokies. Guests ride a chairlift up Crockett Mountain to explore the summit.
Top experiences:

  • SkyBridge (North America’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge)
  • SkyTrail walkways
  • Observation areas
  • Scenic seating and photo spots
Great for groups wanting unforgettable Smoky Mountain photos.

8. Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies

Website: https://www.ripleyaquariums.com/gatlinburg/


Consistently ranked among the top aquariums in the U.S., Ripley’s Aquarium is a family favorite in Gatlinburg.
Highlights:

  • Shark tunnel walkway
  • Penguin encounters
  • Touch tanks
  • Jellyfish and reef exhibits
Ideal for all ages and perfect in any weather.

Stay Near the Best Smoky Mountain Attractions

After a full day exploring Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, relax together in a spacious mountain cabin with room for everyone. Both cabins offer convenient access to Smoky Mountain attractions while providing a peaceful retreat in the mountains.