Family Fun Parks Along The Parkway

The Smoky Mountains don’t just feel like a magical place, they really are a mystical destination. The phrase “old as the hills” rings true when you really dive into the old lore of the mountains. When you come to visit, take this otherworldly tour and investigate for yourself. Here are six of the Smokies’ best kept secrets.

1. Elkmont Trollbridge

Escape to a place that really feels like a glimpse into a mythical land. The Elkmont Trollbridge is a true hidden gem that only locals know about. Hike along the Little River Trail until you reach this spot. Covered in moss and mushrooms, the Trollbridge is perfect for capturing pictures or looking for hidden fantastical creatures.

2. House Of The Fairies

This whimsical spot is only a mile from downtown Gatlinburg yet it feels like you’ve been transported into another realm. Map to this magical place, then go out and explore. Here, you’ll find towering trees and moss covered logs and boulders. Then at the end of the trail you’ll see it...an arched doorway, that looks like it’s almost cut into the side of the hill, sits with a wooden ladder leaning against the frame. Step inside and find a cool spring, filled with water that tinkles like bells. 

3. Synchronous Fireflies

The synchronized fireflies that come out every year like clockwork might be more science than magic but when you’re sitting among the trees and they begin to spark in unison, flickering in and out of sight, it feels like something otherworldly. This rare phenomenon is only seen in a few places in the world and The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of them.

4. Elkmont Ghost Town

Once a thriving vacation spot for the Knoxville elite, the Elkmont Ghost Town looks like a legend brought back to life. Recently restored, explore inside the homes and hike trails where you will find the remains of homes once occupied by Appalachian locals who would serve, supply and work in the town. This piece of history is frozen in time and feels like stepping back into the past.

There are many magical places in the Smokies and these are only four of them. Don’t stop here, continue to search for more mystical creatures and sprites living in the trees and hollows. To discover more, stay overnight in the mountains in a log cabin. This cabin is even called Magical Moments, which is exactly what you’ll find when you visit the Smoky Mountains.

June is here - THE family fun season of the year has come upon us at last. Throughout the country, families in each and every state will be booking vacations in the Smokies now that the kids are out of school. Summer memories for 2017 are to be made and a wide, varied itinerary of potential places for activities will need to be made.

You already know the big dogs in town - Dollywood, The Island, Ober Gatlinburg and such, but if you've been to Pigeon Forge or Gatlinburg before, you know there are many other Family Fun Parks up and down the main streets that may provide you and the kids some fun the big dogs don't have, or as an alternative if those plans don't work out. After all, it's not the size of the attraction that provides the fun, it's enjoying what it has with an open mind and a heart ready for thrills!

Let's take a look:

 Adventure Raceway Offers:

  • Go-karts

  • Large, unique go-kart track

  • Bumper boats

  • $6.00 rides

  • Trolley access


2945 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

 

The Track Offers:

  • Go-karts

  • Large, unique go-kart track

  • Bumper boats

  • Mini-golf

  • Bungee jump

  • Children's rides

  • Arcade


2575 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

 

 Blake Jones Racing Center Offers:

  • Go-karts

  • Figure 8 slick track

  • Indoor electric go-karts

  • Bumper cats


2891 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

 

Fast Tracks Offers:

  • Arcade

  • Children's rides

  • Go-karts

  • Bungee jump

  • Carnival games

  • Skyscraper ride


2879 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

 

Lazerport Fun Center Offers:

  • Laser Tag

  • Go-Karts

  • Arcade

  • Mini-golf

  • Ice cream concession stand


2782 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

 

Rockin' Raceway Offers:

  • Very large arcade

  • Go-karts

  • Billiard tables

  • Children's rides

  • Special offers with receipt from Three Bears General Store next door


2839 Parkway Pigeon Forge, TN 37863

 

Cooter's Place Offers:

  • Indoor Go-karts

  • Dukes of Hazzard Museum

  • Indoor mini-golf

  • Dukes of Hazzard souvenir gift store


542 Parkway Gatlinburg, TN 37738

 

Fort Fun Gatlinburg Offers:

  • Outdoor Golf

  • Indoor golf

  • Laser tag

  • Motion rides

  • Bumper cars

  • Escape game

  • Gem mining


716 Parkway #219 Gatlinburg, TN 37738

 

And we hope that when you bring the family to the Smokies to enjoy everything we have to offer, you'll come stay with us at one of our Bear Camp Cabins in Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, Sevierville and beyond! We have luxury amenities to serve all tastes and needs and you can see our available cabins right here: 

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