Choosing the perfect vacation spot can be a thrilling adventure in itself. Nonetheless, when it comes to destination preferences, most locals and tourists lean toward coastal or water-accessible states. This trend has led to the central United States being referred to as the ‘flyover states.’ These areas are often seen as peaceful and serene, offering a different kind of charm that might not boast the bustling attractions found elsewhere, especially in big cities like San Francisco, Chicago and New York City. Tennessee, among these 30 states, is the focus of this article, which aims to shed light on several common misconceptions about it.
Although there is a lot to explore in Tennessee, one resort town with a modest population of around 6,000 is a spot that is nothing less than a treasure trove. Home to the famous Dollywood, Pigeon Forge is a unique place that embodies a lot of history, art, and culture. The town gets its name from an interesting combination, one part of which comes from the pigeons that roosted on the banks of the river running through the town and a forge that was built close to the Old Mill there in 1817.
The story behind the name is just one amazing thing about the city. We’ll offer you more reasons why Pigeon Forge should be on your travel bucket list. Let’s begin.
1. Entertainment and art galore
In this lovely yet modest city, the arts and culture definitely shine. It’s amazing to see the variety of dinner shows in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. For example, Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud offers a thrilling blend of competitive lumberjack sports and Southern hospitality, providing visitors with a unique and entertaining experience in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. Then there are other options like Pirates Voyage Dinner Show and Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Attraction. You’ll be astounded by the wide variety of entertainment available here.
Are you a country music buff? Then Pigeon Forge is the place for you. Experience the community’s rhythms and spirits while attending one of the many supper shows that are scattered throughout the city. You can check out the Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show, among many others, to get the best musical experiences and discover for yourself how vibrant Pigeon Forge’s music scene is.
2. The Smokies
The natural beauty of Pigeon Forge cannot be disputed. The Smoky Mountains (aka The Smokies) can be seen clearly from almost everything in the town, serving as a stunning and occasionally dramatic background. Additional views can be found along the Little Pigeon River’s bank, which flows through Pigeon Forge. Every season has beautiful landscapes to offer. The town is adorned with flowers in the spring and is enveloped in lush foliage in the summer. The beautiful autumn colors are replaced by the bitter cold and snow, which is stunning in its own unique way. No matter when you visit, the panoramas will never cease to fascinate you.
3. The legendary Dollywood
Dollywood played an instrumental role in popularizing Pigeon Forge. Dolly Rebecca Parton — the iconic country music singer, actress and businesswoman —and Herschend Family Entertainment are the owners of the theme park, which debuted in 1961 as Rebel Railroad. Dollywood has developed into a one-of-a-kind tourist destination that is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and a variety of marketplaces.
Due to the attractions it offers, Dollywood draws three million visitors each year. There are many unique aspects to this park, from the Showstreet Palace Theater to the attractions Wild Eagle and Mystery Mine. Other rides and activities in the park include:
- Adventures in Imagination – The land features a museum, Dolly Parton’s old tour bus, a theater and shop
- Craftsman’s Valley – Famous for the cinnamon bread from the Grist Mill, Valley Theater shows, and the Tennessee Tornado Ride
- Jukebox Junction – The charming section that showcases everything about the ’50s including vehicles, drive-in, and a theater for shows
- Rivertown Junction – a shopping and dining haven
- Showstreet – A depiction of Dolly Parton’s ideal entertainment street that features the Spotlight Bakery, Showstreet Ice Cream and Front Porch Café
- Timber Canyon – Features a host of rides
- Wilderness Pass – Sitting at the absolute top of the hill in Dollywood, this is the starting point of Wild Eagle, the Park’s most famous theme ride
- Wilwood Grove – A friendly collection of woodland creatures like the Benjamin Bear
These are just a few of the carefully designed sections that make up the entire area each of which represents a different aspect of Tennessee’s history and culture.
4. Pigeon Forge is a foodie’s paradise
Pigeon Forge boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to a wide range of tastes, ensuring there’s something delicious for everyone to savor. Since the 1800s, The Old Mill Restaurant specializes in Southern and Appalachian cuisines. Additionally, while you’re in Pigeon Forge, you may visit Mama’s Farmhouse and Local Goat.
If you have a sweet tooth, you can visit locations like the Old Mill Creamery or Mad Dog’s, both of which are traditional ice cream parlors, to get some of the tastiest sweets you’ve had in a long time. At Curl de la Crème, you can also get delectable sundaes and rolled ice cream.
5. Handicrafts to take home as souvenirs
As you explore the vibrant offerings of Pigeon Forge, don’t miss the chance to experience the rich tradition of Appalachian craftsmanship. Its numerous stores are home to local traditional artisans, who are the best in the business at creating hand-blown glass and hand-stitched leather goods. Annually, these goods are celebrated during the Pigeon Forge Rotary Club Crafts Festival, when they are shown off in all their splendor.
Conclusion
Despite the common misconception, the flyover states in the US have quite a lot to offer local and international visitors. One spot that is certain to alter your perception of this region is Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It is a captivating location with breathtaking natural beauty, the enormous Dollywood Theme Park, delectable cuisine, and exquisite handicrafts. These attractions work together to create a positive and enjoyable travel experience.
