Vacations are all about fun and adventure, but it’s equally important to take time to relax and recharge. Imagine taking a break from the excitement and spending some quality time with your family indoors. It’s the perfect way to unwind after busy days exploring busy areas like the city of Pigeon Forge.
Many visitors to this enigmatic mountain destination opt to spend their time hiking the various trails in the nearby Smoky Mountains. If you and your family have spent a grueling (albeit enjoyable!) day in the outdoors, why not take a rest day by exploring the various indoor activities that Pigeon Forge has to offer?
This guide is filled with enjoyable and easy ideas for relaxing family time, specifically chosen for visitors to the city. These indoor activities are designed to help you make the most of your downtime, ensuring that everyone stays entertained and happy while enjoying a peaceful respite from the more high-energy or hectic moments of your vacation.
Let’s go ahead and explore your options!
Indoor Activities to Make the Most of Your Vacation
When families need a break from outdoor adventures, these indoor things to do in Pigeon Forge offer the perfect opportunity to relax and have fun together. Here is a list of places that you visit with your family on vacation rest days:
Spend an Evening at The Comedy Barn Theater
The Comedy Barn offers a family-friendly comedy show that has been delighting audiences for over 25 years. Featuring a mix of comedians, jugglers, ventriloquists, live music, and even barnyard animals, the show is a laughter-filled experience for all ages.
The talented cast ensures a fun-filled evening with their engaging performances, keeping you entertained and laughing throughout the show. This comedy show is sure to leave you in stitches and delight you on your off days from an adventure in the Smokies.
Step into Bush’s Visitor Center
Discover the story behind a famous American brand at the Bush’s Visitor Center. The center features a replica of a traditional general store, showcasing vintage products and memorabilia that offer a glimpse into the brand’s history.
There’s also a café where you can unwind and enjoy a meal with Bush’s Baked Beans. The museum combines an engaging historical experience with a serene atmosphere, allowing guests to explore the exhibits and relax with a delectable meal.
This visitor center is often visited by the company’s current head, Jay Bush, and their beloved mascot, Duke the golden retriever, adding an extra touch of excitement for your children.
Book a Day at the Titanic Museum Attraction
At the Titanic Museum Attraction, you can immerse yourself in the world of the Titanic. After all, exploring a museum is one of the best experiences to plan for your rest days on vacation. The attraction offers both excitement and education over a 22,000-square-foot space with engaging exhibits spread across 20 immersive galleries.
Discover the opulence of the ship’s first-class cabins, experience life in third-class quarters, and feel the excitement of a lifeboat simulation all in one visit to this attraction.
Your family can also enjoy views of the captain’s bridge and authentic artifacts from the famous dive led by John Joslyn. Don’t miss the stunning full-scale replica of the Grand Staircase and the impressive collection of over 400 artifacts taken from the ship itself.
Savor Delectable Dishes at Downtown Flavortown
This popular establishment is renowned for its mouthwatering cuisine, offering something to satisfy every palate. From juicy burgers and crispy chicken wings to delectable waffles and classic sandwiches, there’s a dish for everyone. This is a perfect eatery to enjoy some quality time (and food!).
In addition to the wholesome food, you can enjoy duckpin bowling, explore an arcade featuring over 10,000 square feet of games, and relax at the Tiki bar with a selection of tropical drinks.
Explore Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies
The incredible Ripley’s Aquarium is just a short drive away in Gatlinburg! Award-winning and impressive, it offers unique experiences such as glass-bottom boat rides and opportunities to see jellyfish and other fascinating sea creatures.
You can enjoy a serene time looking through the various marine exhibits and relaxing within the calm environment the aquarium provides. It’s definitely worth a visit!
Relax at St. Somewhere Spa
Another excellent choice for relaxation is the St. Somewhere Spa. This luxurious retreat boasts six treatment rooms, a serene calming room with a custom water feature, and a locker room equipped with rain showers.
Indulge in a world of relaxation and rejuvenation with a variety of treatments, such as the soothing Volcano Hot Stone Massage, the romantic Couples Massage, or the revitalizing Tranquil Facial. Enhance your pampering experience by visiting the nail bar, hair salon, or spray tan room.
Enjoy with Fam at the Country Tonite Theatre
Head to the Country Tonite Theatre for some good, old-fashioned Southern entertainment on your rest day.
This show, renowned for its focus on faith, family, and freedom, resonates deeply with audiences. The Veterans’ Tribute is especially moving, and the production features top-notch music, choreography, and costumes. Enjoy a mix of contemporary hits and timeless country music performed by talented musicians, dancers, and vocalists.
If you’re visiting between November and December, be sure to catch the special Christmas Show for an added festive touch.
Get Amused at the Red Skelton Tribute Theater
If you’re seeking a fun and nostalgic night out, check out Brian Hoffman’s “Remembering Red: A Tribute to Red Skelton.”
Brian Hoffman masterfully captures the essence of Red Skelton’s comedy, bringing the great comic’s beloved characters, such as Freddy the Freeloader and Clem Kadiddlehopper, to life on stage.
With his remarkable portrayal, Hoffman offers a delightful blend of amusement and laughter, providing a sentimental journey through the timeless humor of Red Skelton.
Indulge in Self-care at The Spa at RiverStone Resort
When you’re on vacation with your family, be sure to set aside some special “family time” at The Spa at RiverStone Resort in Pigeon Forge. While the adults unwind with relaxing treatments, the kids can enjoy their own fun activities, making it a perfect way for everyone to enjoy some quality downtime together.
Indulge in a range of treatments in a luxurious spa setting. They offer top-notch services, including body wraps, manicures, waxing, rejuvenating facials, and calming massages.
Treatments use high-end products that elevate your experience. Escape the stresses of everyday life and leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Book a Show at the Cooter’s Place
For fans of The Dukes of Hazzard, Cooter’s Place is a dream come true. This fantastic location, which features a garage full of vintage automobiles and plenty of interesting artifacts, is all about the show. It’s a terrific spot to hang out and have some good old-fashioned fun with live music.
To Sum Up…
There is a wealth of indoor things to do in Pigeon Forge that are perfect for families seeking to relax and enjoy quality time together on vacation.
With a variety of choices catering to different interests, you can find something to suit everyone in the family. Whether it’s attending entertaining shows and performances, exploring fascinating museums, or engaging in creative activities, there’s always something fun to do in this charming town.