(LifeWire) - Tennessee's Pigeon Forge is a true taste of the South. Located about five minutes from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and about seven minutes from Gatlinburg, Tenn., entertainment options range from the Dollywood theme park to hiking in the Smokies. Pigeon Forge is a relatively inexpensive destination, especially if you can avoid visiting on the weekend.
Getting There
Pigeon Forge is served by Knoxville McGhee-Tyson Airport, located about 45 miles northeast of the town. There are a variety of car rental agencies stationed at the airport. If you prefer to take a taxi to Pigeon Forge, it will cost about $55.
Where to Stay
There's a wide variety of hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, cabins and campgrounds in Pigeon Forge. Most of the hotels are located along State Route 441, the main drag, which is also home to many of the restaurants, shopping and entertainment options. A variety of national chains offer competitive rates, such as Comfort Inn & Suites, Econo Lodge, Super 8, Days Inn and more. Always inquire about reduced rates for seniors when booking your hotel.
Dining Options
Dinner theater, buffets and southern fare are the mainstays here. Popular eateries include Bennett's Pit Bar-B-Que, Duff's Smorgasbord and Huck Finn's. Many national chains and fast-food options round out the budget dining options.
Getting Around
The Fun Time Trolley makes nearly 100 stops around Pigeon Forge, and costs 50 to 75 cents per ride. Most of the cars are wheelchair life equipped. Passengers in wheelchairs who are unable to get to a trolley stop can call Paratransit Service for next-day reservations by calling The Fun Time Trolley at (865) 453-6444.
Senior-Friendly Attractions
Dollywood, the amusement park owned by Dolly Parton, has helped make Pigeon Forge famous. Outlet malls, such as Belz Factory Outlet World and Pigeon Forge Factory Outlet Mall are also popular, as are the ubiquitous dinner theaters. For nature lovers, you can't beat the beauty of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with fishing, wildlife viewing, hiking, horse riding, workshops, classes and more.
Events and Festivals
Every month seems to bring a new festival to Pigeon Forge. The holiday season starts off with Winterfest, followed by the January Wilderness Wildlife Week and the Appalachiafest. Celebrate cowboy poetry in February and Dolly's Homecoming Parade in May. The Smoky Mountains Storytelling Festival is held in June, while the Patriot Festival is in July. You'll find great country music year round throughout Pigeon Forge.
For More Information
For more information on visiting Pigeon Forge, visit the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism website.
