There are tons of fun things to do in Pigeon Forge in July! In this Pigeon Forge vacation guide, we give some of the most exciting activities, attractions, and unique festivals to enjoy at this time of the year
No matter what your summer vacation itinerary entails this year, you’ll find that Pigeon Forge is the perfect place to enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.


Whether you’re planning the perfect family-friendly fourth of July getaway or traveling to experience a new summer outdoor adventure, July Pigeon Forge is filled with plenty of things to do and see.
What Is Going On In Pigeon Forge in July?
Patriotism abounds in Pigeon Forge as July kicks off with special events like the annual Patriot Festival which happens every 4th of July at Patriot Park.
There are plenty of family-friendly activities and games throughout the afternoon and evening. Concluding the festival is the 4th of July fireworks show.
Pigeon Forge, TN heats up in the summer, both with the rising temps and a hot lineup of attractions, festivals, and events to enjoy. Check them all out below!
Things To Do in Pigeon Forge in July
Whether you're looking for exciting attractions or want to cool of this summer, these amazing things to do in Pigeon Forge in July will surely make for an epic summer adventure!
Discover the magic of summer in Pigeon Forge with exhilarating waterfall hikes in the Smoky Mountains. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty and refresh beneath cascading waters.
Here are some of the best trails to take:
Enjoy a night of laughter, music, and mouth-watering food at a Pigeon Forge Dinner Show! Perfect for families and friends, it's an unforgettable evening of top-notch entertainment and delicious dining.
- Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud Supper Show
- Country Tonite
- Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud
You’ll have so much fun at Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Summer Celebration.
This annual celebration features family fun rides and entertainment.
This year would be extra fun with the return of everyone’s favorite Sweet Summer Nights drone & fireworks show which you can expect to be bigger, brighter, and more beautiful than ever!
If you’re looking for something more thrilling to do in Pigeon Forge in July, then whitewater rafting is the perfect activity for you. When you go white water rafting, no need to worry about anyone missing out on the fun because of height or age requirements.
Even kids as young as 3 years old can ride the mild Lower Pigeon River, which features mainly class 1 and 2 rapids. And for the adrenaline junkies, you can take a whitewater rafting trip on the Upper Pigeon River rafting which has the exciting class 3 and 4 rapids.
Dollywood's Splash Country is a great place to cool down in summer! This wildly popular attraction is bursting with family fun and wet adventures that kids and adults will surely enjoy.
With over 16 exciting rides and attractions, plenty of great food and dining options, and entertainment for the whole family, you can never go wrong with a trip to this amazing waterpark in Pigeon Forge, Tn.
Renting a cabin is always a good idea when visiting the Smoky Mountains and Pigeon Forge area. With great amenities and scenic views, what else could one want?
If you don’t like to plan an entire vacation while knowing that privacy will not happen when you stay in a hotel or inn, then renting a cabin is perfect for you!
Whether you’re looking for a cabin that’s more secluded or prefers one that is a short distance away from the best attractions, you'll be able to find a Pigeon Forge cabin that suits your needs.
You can’t leave Pigeon Forge without visiting the Island in Pigeon Forge. This unique attraction is a one-stop shop for all things fun. Featuring over 60 retail stores, plenty of food and dining, and family-friendly rides. There is no charge to get in, and you can choose to spend as much as you'd like. Here are the must-try attraction in the area:
- The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
- The Island’s state-of-the-art show fountain
- Island Mirror Maze
- Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen
- The Island Rope course
One of the best ways to beat the summer heat is by spending some time relaxing by the water. Or in this case, on the water.
There are quite a few tubing outposts in the Smokies, which you can leisurely cruise down the river beside friends and family. And if you also love camping, you’ll be able to find a handful of campgrounds that have lazy rivers too!
Experience the thrill of snow tubing in Pigeon Forge, even in the summer! At Pigeon Forge Snow, the first indoor snow facility in the USA, you can enjoy real snow that never melts all year round. It's a unique and exciting adventure for all ages, no matter the season!
Experience the ultimate family getaway with thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones right at your doorstep. After a day of adventure in the Smoky Mountains, unwind in comfort and make a splash-filled memory to cherish.
Where To Stay In The Smokies?
Embark on a new adventure in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of the Smoky Mountains with a stay at Bear’s Wilderness Lodge, exclusively offered by GSM Family Vacations.
Nestled amidst the serene wilderness, this charming cabin offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary, inviting you to discover the true essence of mountain living.

Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary
I understand how difficult it can be to plan a trip, especially if it’s your first time going. That’s why I created this 7-day itinerary for the Smoky Mountains. It outlines all of the best places to go in the area and comes with insider tips that will save you a lot of stress–trust me, they saved me when I was planning my own trip!
- Our 7-day itinerary takes you to the best places in the Smoky Mountains.
- You’ll get to see all the best sights and attractions with driving directions
- The itinerary is designed to show you the most scenic routes.
- Packing Checklist for every season.
- You’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip.
- Insider Tips!
Here’s a quick overview of our Smoky Mountains 7-Day Itinerary.
- Day 1: Cades Cove Loop
- Day 2: Rich Mountain Road
- Day 3: Cataloochee Valley
- Day 4: Newfound Gap Road
- Day 5: Roaring Fork Motor Trail
- Day 6: Little River Road
- Day6: Foothills Parkway
Get Your FREE Summer Packing List For The Smoky Mountains
Recommended Pigeon Forge Resources
- Smoky Mountains Vacation Guide
- Gatlinburg Vacation Guide
- Pigeon Forge Discount Tickets
- Great Smoky Mountains Family Vacations Facebook Group
MORE RELATED RESOURCES
If you’re dreaming of a family summer getaway in Pigeon Forge but worried about your budget, you’d be happy to know that there are plenty of amazing things to do in Pigeon Forge for free!
And if you’re planning a trip to Dollywood this summer, here are helpful Dollywood parking tips you should know.






