What to do in Pigeon Forge while house and pet sitting

With a namesake from the Little Pigeon River, the popular mountain town in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is home to some of country music’s most famous landmarks like the Smoky Mountain Opry and Dollywood, Dolly Parton’s Appalachian-themed park with rides, water parks and outlet malls. 

So, if you find yourself pet sitting and wondering what to do in Pigeon Forge, we’ve got you covered. From the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge to attractions and free things you can do, read on to discover our top picks. 

Pigeon Forge attractions

Looking for things to do in Pigeon Forge, TN? There are plenty of attractions to enjoy and experiences to be had, including walking destinations to take your newest pup out and about. 

1. Parrot Mountain and Gardens

If you have a couple of hours to spare, we suggest this fun walk-through attraction at Parrot Mountain. Set on over 4 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, the eco-tourist park has over eighty different birds with hundreds of individual (and rare) birds on display. 

2. Titanic Museum Attraction

Climb aboard the ultimate Titanic Museum Attraction. The museum is a real celebration of the ship, passengers and crew with wide, sweeping steps and landings with spectacular glass domes and elaborate railings. When you board the ship you will receive a boarding pass of an actual Titanic passenger or crew for an extra-realistic feel.

3. Pigeon Forge Wineries

Love wine? Mountain Valley Winery is one of the oldest wineries in Tennessee — specializing in sweet, fruit flavors, as well as dry wines to celebratory sweets. The winery sources their grapes from fifty local vineyards to get the best flavours and produce over 200+ exclusive wines. Enjoy a free tour and grab yourself a bottle for when you return to your pet sit. 

4. Big Rock Dude Ranch 

If horseback riding is your thing, Big Rock Dude Ranch at Ponderosa is a great option. Located just a short drive from Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, you can enjoy horseback riding in the Smoky Mountains year round (weather permitting) seven days a week.

5. Smoky Mountain Jeep Rentals 

Exploring the Smokies in a jeep rental is one of the best ways to get around. You can use a trademarked map to see all the best spots including through Cades Cove, Rich Mountain, Cataloochie, the Foothills Parkway and much more.

Free things to do in Pigeon Forge

1. The Island in Pigeon Forge

The Island in Pigeon Forge is a retail and entertainment center located in the heart of The Great Smoky Mountains. There you’ll find The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, a 200-foot tall observation wheel and the striking Island Show Fountains as well as unique shops and casual eateries. 

2. Wear Farm City Park

Wear Farm City Park is a huge multi-purpose park with softball tournaments and daily reunions. The park has 5 lighted baseball diamonds, a football field, 2 playgrounds, a basketball court, walking trails and so much more. 

3. Patriot Park

Looking for somewhere different to walk? Take a stroll with your pup sit along Patriot Park. A family favorite located along Old Mill Square, Patriot Park is a long walking path that takes you along the picturesque Little Pigeon River. Along the route you’ll see flags from all fifty states and branches of the armed forces. 

4. The Old Mill Square

One of the most popular spots in Pigeon Forge, the Old Mill Square has been operating since the 1800s. Around the mill, there’s a couple of great restaurants as well as shops with homemade goods. 

5. Sugarlands Visitor Center 

Just a small hop and a skip away, the Sugarlands Visitor Center in Gatlinburg has a small museum tour with a well-stocked bookstore. Talk to a friendly park ranger or get on the Gatlinburg trail for a Smoky Mountain walk. 

Fun things to do in Pigeon Forge

1. Dollywood

Looking for something to do during the daytime? The iconic Dollywood isn’t just open 9 to 5 (see what we did there?), it's open mid-March to early January each year, usually from 10am to 7pm. Whether you’re a huge Dolly Parton fan or just simply curious what Dollywood has to offer, the National Park is one of the most-visited national parks year after year. There’s classic amusement park rides, like bumper cars and teacups as well as some of the most amazing roller coasters around. 

2. Splash Country

Pet sitting in the summer? There’s no better way to cool off on a hot day during the Tennessee summer than a visit to a water park. Adjacent to Dollywood is Splash Country –  an award-winning 35-acre water park with as many incredible rides and water activities as you can handle. 

3. The Comedy Barn Theater

Looking for some good clean fun? When we say the Comedy Barn Theater has something for everyone, we really mean it. There’s magicians, jugglers, ventriloquists, comedians, live country music, as well as soul-stirring gospel music.

4. The Mountain Mile 

For shopping and dining you won’t go far wrong with The Mountain Mile & Tower Shops. The complex is one of Pigeon Forge’s most unique dining, shopping and entertainment experiences. Nestled in the foothills of the Smoky Mountains, you can eat, shop and ride some of the area's most popular attractions.

What to do in Pigeon Forge with pets?

Wondering what to do in Pigeon Forge with your dog? From outdoor adventures to dining with your pooch, there’s so much to see and do with your latest dog sit.

1. Smoky Mountain River Rat 

Looking for something fun to do with the pup you’re sitting? If your pooch is a strong swimmer who just can’t get enough of the water, The Smoky Mountain River Rat offers tubing and kayaking for both you and your pooch. The best part? Dogs tube for free!

2. Cades Cove 

Home to historic sites, rustic churches and a visitor center with a working grist mill, Cades Cove is a beautiful spot situated in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Pups aren’t allowed along the hiking trails or landmarks, but they can ride in the car along the Cades Cove Loop. 

3. Smoky Mountain Cat House 

A thirty year establishment, the Smoky Mountain Cat House is the place to visit if you’re a cat lover. Join like-minded cat lovers in playing with one of the many cats living at the house. 

4. Blue Moose 

In the mood for burgers and wings? Blue Moose is your place. There’s all-American favourites like mac and cheese, barbecue wings and cheese burgers. There’s no inside seating for dogs but there’s a great outdoor patio where you and your dog can enjoy amazing food and fresh air together. 

Best restaurants in Pigeon Forge

Looking for the best restaurants in Pigeon Forge? We’ve compiled our top three favorites you won’t want to miss: 

1. Mad Dog’s Creamery 

Hungry for dessert? This dessert shop serves baked goods and ice cream to humans and lots of treats and fresh water for your pooch! You’ll find classic ice cream flavors and some unique ones like Yellow Brick Road and White Chocolate Raspberry. Want something different? There’s donuts too. 

2. Dick’s Last Resort 

A unique place, Dick’s Last Resort gives you a fun experience with plenty of sarcastic remarks during your meal. There’s seafood, steak, chicken, mac and cheese and more as well as a plethora of alcoholic beverages to choose from. If you’re tagging along with the dog you’re sitting, there’s a great dog-friendly outdoor patio. 

3. Mellow Mushroom at the Island

If pizza is the craving of the day, you won’t go wrong at The Mellow Mushroom. Choose from classic supreme’s or pepperoni or go for something unique with a Havana pizza – inspired by a traditional Cuban sandwich. 

With so much to explore Pigeon Forge, we’re sure you’ll get the pet sitting bug and want to look after more pets and travel to different locations. So, why not look for another pet sitting opportunity in Tennessee? Remember, there is no limit to the amount of pet sits you can do and there’s always someone in need of a great pet sitter. Remember to share your pet sitting adventures with us on Instagram using #TrustedTales and share your experiences in our Community Forum.