6 Unique Things to Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

February 2, 2024

The cities of Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN are home to some of the most popular attractions in the Southeast! With the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Dollywood theme park, the Ober Mountain Ski Area, and a great collection of dinner theaters, there is certainly no shortage of fun destinations in Sevier County. Look at these 6 unique things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge:

1. See the Beautiful Birds at Parrot Mountain

Parrot Mountain and Gardens is a paradise for bird-lovers! This beautiful attraction is full of exotic parrots from all around the world. Visitors will have the chance to take photos with their new feathered friends, feed the parrots, and even play with baby birds in the nursery. It’s definitely a must-see unique thing to do in Pigeon Forge! This off-the-beaten-path attraction is located about a mile behind Dollywood.

2. Tour the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum

The Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum is home to over 20,000 sets of salt and pepper shakers! This impressive collection features shakers with wildly creative designs. As you tour the museum, you’ll see shakers that look like U.S. presidents, automobiles, animals, aliens, monks, and just about anything else you can think of. Admission is just $3, and that money goes toward the purchase of any set of salt and pepper shakers in the gift shop! It’s also pet friendly if you happen to have your dog with you on vacation.

3. Visit Goats on the Roof

Goats on the Roof is an attraction that lives up to its name! This unique shop has real goats walking around the rooftop, which you can feed using a fun “goat-cycle” machine. In addition to the famous animals, Goats on the Roof is also home to a sweet shop with homemade fudge and ice cream, an old time gem mine for kids, and a thrilling alpine coaster. This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Pigeon Forge!

4. Eat at the Wild Plum Tea Room

Dining at the Wild Plum Tea Room is another unique thing to do in Gatlinburg TN. This restaurant is inspired by the tea rooms in the mountains of Austria, where everything is made fresh from whatever ingredients are available. Some of the most popular dishes at the Wild Plum Tea Room include the lobster pie, baked salmon burger, homemade chicken salad, and the amaretto bread pudding. Keep in mind when planning your visit that this restaurant closes during the winter season and reopens in late February or mid March. Looking for other unique places to eat? Check out these unique restaurants in Gatlinburg for when you’re hungry!

5. Go Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park

Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park may just be the most fun you’ll have during your vacation! In case you’re not familiar with the term, a “zorb” is a giant transparent hamster ball that humans can roll around in. At Outdoor Gravity Park, you’ll zorb down a 1,000 ft. hill for an incredible ride you’ll never forget. You can even fill your zorb with water for a fun way to cool off during the dog days of summer. You won't find anything like this anywhere else in the Smokies, making it one of the most unique things to do in Pigeon Forge!

6. Explore the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community

If you’re looking for interesting things in Gatlinburg, you should visit the Gatlinburg Arts and Crafts Community. The Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community is the largest group of independent artisans in North America. This 8 mile loop located off of the East Parkway is home to studios, shops, and galleries that feature the work of local artists and craftspeople. If you’re looking to go souvenir shopping during your vacation, this is the place to do it!

More Things to Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

While you’re in town enjoying all of these unique things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, take some time to experience the more popular attractions as well! The truth is, you’ll have endless opportunities for fun in the Smoky Mountain area. If you’re looking for attractions that can easily fit within your budget, we can help. Take a look at these cheap things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge!