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5 Things to Do in Pigeon Forge for Families During Summer

great smoky mountain wheel is one of the things to do in pigeon forge for families
June 10, 2026
  • Experience Dollywood’s roller coasters, summer festivals, and family rides just minutes from Eagles Ridge.
  • Enjoy free fun, fireworks, and rides at The Island in Pigeon Forge, only 1 mile from your cabin.
  • Cool off at Dollywood’s Splash Country with Neon Nights, DJ parties, and water attractions for all ages.
  • Try zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park, the only park of its kind in the USA, just 2 miles from Eagles Ridge.
  • Make your Eagles Ridge cabin the heart of your vacation with private hot tubs, game rooms, pools, and an unbeatable location.

Make Every Summer Day Count in Pigeon Forge

What if your family’s summer getaway could be packed with adventure, laughter, and relaxation, all within minutes of your cabin? In Pigeon Forge, you can have it all. From world-class theme parks to unique attractions and cozy cabin nights, every day is a chance to make memories that last a lifetime.

Here are 5 things to do in Pigeon Forge for families during summer.

1. Dive Into Family Fun at Dollywood

Dollywood is one of the things to do in pigeon forge for families

Dollywood is the heartbeat of summer in Pigeon Forge. Roller coasters, rides for all ages, live music, authentic Appalachian crafts, and good Southern food give families the complete Smoky Mountain experience. Little kids find their own areas, older kids and grown ups enjoy the thrills of roller coasters, and the shows delight all ages.

Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration lights up the park with the Sweet Summer Nights drone and fireworks show, Bubble Evolution, and the Stunt Dog Experience.

Eagles Ridge Resort is less than 5 miles from Dollywood, so you can beat the crowds in the morning and be back at your cabin for a relaxing evening in no time. With discounted Dollywood tickets available for Eagles Ridge guests, your family fun is even more affordable.

Mini-Summary:
Dollywood’s rides, summer festivals, and family-friendly thrills are just minutes from your Eagles Ridge cabin.

2. Hang Out at The Island in Pigeon Forge

Looking for things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids that are fun, free, and close to your cabin? The Island in Pigeon Forge is your go-to spot. Admission and parking are always free. Summerfest lights up the nights with fireworks at 9:30 p.m., live music, and synchronized fountain shows every 30 minutes in June and July.

Ride the 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Wheel for stunning views or grab a 48-hour unlimited rides wristband. With more than 80 shops, restaurants, and attractions, there is something for everyone. The Island is open late during peak summer, so you can enjoy the fun as long as you like.

Eagles Ridge is about 1 mile from The Island, making it easy to pop over for a few hours or spend the whole day exploring. Afterward, your cabin is the perfect place to unwind and share stories from your adventure.

Mini-Summary:
The Island offers free fun, fireworks, and rides just a mile from Eagles Ridge.

3. Cool Off at Dollywood’s Splash Country

Dollywood's Splash Country is one of the things to do in pigeon forge for families

When the summer sun heats up, Dollywood’s Splash Country is the place to be. The park features water slides, a giant wave pool, splash zones for little ones, and plenty of places to relax. During summer, Neon Nights brings an after-hours glow party with a live DJ, neon lights, and unlimited access to select attractions on select Friday and Saturday nights. Splash Bash LIVE brings DJ entertainment to the Wave Pool stage on most Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays starting in June.

Eagles Ridge is less than 5 miles from Dollywood’s Splash Country, so you can dry off and be back at your cabin in minutes. With discounted attraction tickets available for our guests, your family can splash, play, and save.

Mini-Summary:
Splash Country’s Neon Nights and water attractions are the coolest way to spend a summer day, just minutes from Eagles Ridge.

4. Try Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park

For a truly unique family adventure, head to Outdoor Gravity Park, the only zorbing park in the United States. Choose from three tracks:

  • Red Track - Zig-zag group ride for up to 3 people
  • Purple Track - Fastest track, reaching up to 22 mph and accommodating up to 3 people
  • Orange Track - Extreme solo ride (must complete another track first)

Zorbing is open to ages 5 and older. Five-year-olds must ride with an adult, while guests 6 and older can ride alone. There is a 275-pound weight limit per person.

Eagles Ridge Resort is about 2 miles from Outdoor Gravity Park, so you can go from wild rides to cabin relaxation in no time. It is a memory-making experience your family will talk about for years.

Mini-Summary:
Zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park is a one-of-a-kind thrill, just 2 miles from your Eagles Ridge cabin.

5. Make Your Eagles Ridge Cabin the Heart of Your Vacation

staying in a cabin like Bear Right Inn is one of the things to do in pigeon forge for families

After a day of exploring, there is nothing better than coming home to your Eagles Ridge cabin. Choose from 1 to 9 bedrooms, with accommodations for up to 32 guests, making our cabins perfect for families, reunions, and groups. Nearly every cabin features a private hot tub, while many include game rooms with billiards, arcade games, and air hockey. Select cabins even offer private indoor pools and home theater rooms for the ultimate family movie night.

Pet-friendly options mean no one gets left behind. Every cabin includes a fully equipped kitchen, fireplace, a deck, WiFi, and smart TVs. Guests can also enjoy the seasonal community outdoor pool.

Whether you're soaking in the hot tub after a busy day, enjoying a family game tournament, or gathering on the deck to watch the sunset over the Smokies, your cabin becomes more than just a place to stay. It becomes the centerpiece of your family's summer vacation.

Mini-Summary:
Eagles Ridge cabins offer space, comfort, and an unbeatable location for your family's best summer ever.

FAQ: Things to Do in Pigeon Forge for Families During Summer

What are the best things to do in Pigeon Forge for families during summer?

The best things to do in Pigeon Forge with kids include visiting Dollywood for rides and shows, exploring The Island for rides and free entertainment, cooling off at Dollywood’s Splash Country, trying zorbing at Outdoor Gravity Park, and relaxing together in a spacious Eagles Ridge cabin. These activities offer something for every age and interest, all within minutes of your cabin.

How far is Eagles Ridge from Dollywood and other attractions?

Eagles Ridge is less than 5 miles from Dollywood and Dollywood’s Splash Country, about 1 mile from The Island in Pigeon Forge, and about 2 miles from Outdoor Gravity Park. The Parkway is just 1 mile away, so you are always close to the action while enjoying a peaceful, wooded setting.

Is The Island in Pigeon Forge free to visit?

Yes, The Island offers free admission and free parking. You can enjoy fountain shows and live entertainment at no cost. Rides and attractions have individual ticket prices, allowing you to choose what fits your family's interests and budget.

What age is Outdoor Gravity Park suitable for?

Outdoor Gravity Park is suitable for ages 5 and older. Five-year-olds must ride with an adult, while children 6 and older can ride alone. The park has a 275-pound weight limit per person, and up to three people can ride together on certain tracks.

What amenities do Eagles Ridge family cabins include?

Some of the top amenities you’ll find in our cabins include private hot tubs, game rooms with billiards or arcade games, fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, wrap-around decks, WiFi, smart TVs, and even private indoor pools and home theater rooms. Pet-friendly options and a seasonal community pool are also available. Many cabins are designed for easy access with minimal stairs.

Ready to Make Summer Memories? Book Your Eagles Ridge Cabin Today!

An unforgettable experience awaits when you try these things to do in Pigeon Forge for families this summer! Browse our Pigeon Forge cabins to find the perfect home base for adventure, relaxation, and togetherness. We can't wait to welcome you!