8 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for Adults

It’s no secret that the Smoky Mountain area is one of the most popular family vacation destinations. But, there is plenty to do for adults, too! If you’re planning an adults-only trip to the Smokies, we can help you create your itinerary. From attractions to tastings, the fun never has to stop! Here are 8 can’t-miss things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for adults:

1. Enjoy Drinks & Live Music at Ole Red

Are you “itchin’ to have some fun”? Head to Ole Red in Gatlinburg. Owned by Blake Shelton, you can expect good music, good drinks, and a good time at this entertainment venue. Ole Red offers a true country experience, all the way from the live music to the scratch-made dishes. Order some Redneck Nachos, sip on a Blake-approved cocktail, and listen to some of the hottest rising stars perform. It’ll be an evening you won’t forget!

2. Visit The Old Mill

The Old Mill Square is one of the most-visited spots in Pigeon Forge. You could spend an entire day enjoying everything it has to offer. Start the day with a delicious Southern breakfast at the Old Mill Restaurant, then take postcard-worthy photos of The Old Mill itself. Have lunch at the Pottery House Cafe next door, and spend the afternoon browsing the shops like Pigeon River Pottery, Old Mill General Store, or Sassafras. Stop for a sweet treat at Old Mill Creamery or Old Mill Candy Kitchen, then enjoy a free moonshine tasting at Old Forge Distillery!

3. Explore Anakeesta

Relaxation and mountain views await at Anakeesta! If you’re looking for a place to unwind and take in the beauty of the mountains, this is the place for you. Ride the scenic chondola to the top of Anakeesta mountain, where you’ll have endless views of Gatlinburg and the Smoky Mountains. In fact, the AnaVista Tower offers views from the highest point in downtown Gatlinburg! Adults love grabbing a specialty cocktail at The Bar at the Top of the World, then relaxing at a nearby table as they watch the sunset. Anakeesta is also home to ziplines, a mountain coaster, a restaurant, and more.

4. Tour a Distillery

Your trip to the Smokies wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the area’s famous shine! Moonshine tasting is one of the most popular things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for adults. There are a number of distilleries in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge that offer tours and tastings for $5 or less. Ole Smoky, Sugarlands, Junction 35, and Tennessee Shine Co. are just some of the best distilleries in the area. Sample everything from moonshine to bourbon, then get a jar (or more) to take back home with you!

5. Taste Some Smoky Mountain Wine

If moonshine isn’t your drink of choice, visit a Smoky Mountain winery! There are a number of wineries throughout Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg that offer free wine tastings. Visit Tennessee Homemade Wines for a true taste of the Smokies, or head to the Apple Barn Winery for wine that’s made from apples rather than grapes. Other popular wineries include Hillside Winery, Sugarlands Cellars, Currahee Vineyards, and more.

6. See a Dinner Show

Enjoy both a delicious dinner and exciting entertainment at one of the best dinner shows in Pigeon Forge! Watch an action-packed show and dine on a pirate feast at Pirates Voyage Dinner and Show, or get some of granny’s famous cooking and endless laughter at Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud. Would you rather solve a classic case of who dunnit? Visit the Great Smoky Mountain Murder Mystery Dinner Theater! You’ll have great options for an entertaining dinner show in Pigeon Forge.

7. Go Shopping

You’ll love the opportunity to do some shopping without the kids around! Luckily, Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg are home to a variety of shops, from souvenir stores to boutiques. Some of the most popular shops in the area are The Village, Three Bears General Store, The Tower Shops at the Mountain Mile, and the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community. You can find everything from apparel to home decor.

8. Have a Nice Dinner

One of the best parts about visiting the Smokies is trying all the delicious food in the area. We recommend sharing a nice dinner together at one of the area’s popular restaurants! If you’re in the mood for steak, we recommend The Peddler, The Greenbrier, or Alamo Steakhouse. All three are known for their perfectly cooked and seasoned steaks. Other popular dinner restaurants are Cherokee Grill, Blue Moose, Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant, J.T. Hannah’s, and Local Goat, but you can’t go wrong with any place you choose!

More Things to Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge

These are just some of the can’t-miss things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for adults, but you’ll have plenty of other opportunities for entertainment when you visit! Take a look at more things to do in the Smoky Mountains, then plan your trip.