Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg Attractions for Kids, Mateys & Merfolk

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are treasure troves of enchanting experiences for families, beckoning young adventurers to unleash their imagination and delve into the captivating world of pirates and mermaids. The towns are brimming with swashbuckling fun and mystical encounters that will transport kids and adults alike into a realm of seafaring fantasy. So, gather your crew, hoist the Jolly Roger, and set sail for a magical adventure in Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg!

Pigeon Forge Kids’ Activities for Swashbucklers

Ahoy, mateys! Pigeon Forge offers a treasure chest of thrilling experiences for young buccaneers eager to embrace the swashbuckling life. Watch their eyes light up as they witness epic pirate battles unfold before them. The excitement doesn’t stop there – challenge your little adventurers to test their skills and precision with some indoor ax-throwing, where friendly coaches will guide them on their quest to become true bullseye masters. In Pigeon Forge, there’s no shortage of pirate-themed fun, inspiring the imaginations of kids and creating memories that will last a lifetime. 

Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show

Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show is an immersive experience that takes you back to the age of piracy. The swashbuckling adventure, complete with a full-scale pirate ship and live animals like sea lions and parrots, comes with a delicious meal.

The scent of savory food greets you as you enter the theater. The dinner menu features a variety of options, including pan-friedchicken, sugar-cured ham, and a vegan or vegetarian option. The Walk the Plank dessert is a specialty.

The show features acrobats, stunts, and plenty of pirate battles. You might even see a mermaid or sea monster in action! Cheer on your favorite crew as they compete for treasure and battle rival pirate ships.

At Pirates Voyage in Pigeon Forge, not only do the performers interact with the audience throughout the entire show, but kids also have the opportunity to participate in the action and meet some of the pirates after the show. To make the experience even more magical, consider treating your little buccaneers and mermaids to a special makeover at the Pirates Treasure gift shop, where they can transform into fearsome pirates or enchanting mermaids.

Country Roads Axe Co.

Visit Country Roads Axe Co. in Pigeon Forge for indoor ax-throwing that caters to both novices and seasoned throwers. There are coaches onsite to teach you the safety rules and ax-throwing techniques. They’ll help you pick the right ax for your skills and demonstrate accurate throwing.

Once you have mastered the basics, start throwing! Country Roads Axe Co. has various games and challenges to keep the excitement going. Compete against loved ones in one-on-one matches or aim for specific targets to earn points. The well-lit, roomy venue provides a safe space for all ages. Kids love the thrill of nailing a bullseye. Country Roads Axe Co. also features knife throwing, so you can customize your adventure.

Gatlinburg Attractions for Kids & Mermaids

Gatlinburg invites young mermaids and ocean lovers to immerse themselves in a magical underwater world teeming with fascinating marine creatures. Let your little ones explore and interact with captivating exhibits, where they can get up close and personal with friendly sea stars, horseshoe crabs, and more.

Continue the adventure with a mesmerizing sensory experience that transports you on an extraordinary journey through mountains and oceans, complete with wind, water, and other enchanting special effects.

Finally, let your kids embrace their inner mermaid as they embark on a thrilling whitewater rafting trip amid the awe-inspiring Smoky Mountains scenery. With the guidance of skilled professionals, they’ll paddle through rapids, conquer challenges, and create unforgettable memories in the beautiful Smoky Mountains landscape.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies in Gatlinburg for a blend of education and entertainment. This renowned attraction boasts interactive exhibits and aquatic species from around the world. The aquarium offers various displays featuring penguins, rays, sharks, and coral reef fish.

The Shark Lagoon exhibit is a highlight and features a moving walkway through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and predatory fish. Both kids and adults find this experience thrilling.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies also has hands-on encounters, like petting stingrays and horseshoe crabs or joining a behind-the-scenes tour. Kids absolutely adore getting close to these fascinating creatures. For the ultimate experience, book an aquarium sleepover. Spend the night amid marine life and engage in particular activities like scavenger hunts and behind-the-scenes tours.

Ripley’s Moving Theater

Ripley’s Moving Theater in Gatlinburg is the place to be for an exhilarating, immersive movie experience. This cutting-edge theater uses advanced technology to create a 5D adventure that places you in the heart of the action. The theater offers various movies with unique themes and special effects. The 5D experience caters to both action-seekers and families.

Ripley’s Moving Theater stands out with its motion seats that synchronize with the on-screen action. This makes you feel like you’re flying, driving, or plummeting through the air. Additionally, the theater incorporates special effects like wind, water, and bubbles to intensify the sensation of chasing villains or exploring new worlds.

Big Creek Expeditions

Are you an adrenaline seeker craving an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Gatlinburg? Well, Big Creek Expeditions is the answer. This top rafting company offers thrilling rafting trips on the Pigeon River and caters to all excitement levels.

The Upper Pigeon River Rafting trip is popular at Big Creek Expeditions. This exhilarating journey covers six miles of Class III and IV rapids. Try the Lower Pigeon River Rafting trip for a family-friendly option. This trip features Class I and II rapids with serene stretches to admire the landscape and spot local wildlife. It’s ideal for beginners who are seeking a calmer experience. 

---

Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg offer a diverse range of family-friendly attractions. Young pirates naturally fall in love with the Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show, which features acrobatics, live animals, and a mouthwatering four-course meal. Aspiring lumberjacks can test their skills at Country Roads Axe Co.’s exciting ax-throwing venue.

Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies is a top pick for an aquatic adventure. It features over 10,000 exotic sea creatures and interactive exhibits that transport you beneath the ocean’s surface. On the other hand, Ripley’s Moving Theater presents a 5D journey merging motion seats, special effects, and 3D visuals.

Lastly, Big Creek Expeditions offers an unforgettable rafting trip on the Pigeon River. With options for all adventure levels and beautiful surroundings, it’s a must. Pigeon Forge kids activities cater to all interests. Combined with Gatlinburg attractions for kids, you have countless kid-friendly attractions and activities from which to choose!

Content on this page is subject to change. Please contact the locations mentioned to see if promotions, hours, pricing, etc. are still valid.