Pigeon Forge's Dollywood

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.

As unique as its namesake Dolly Parton, Dollywood theme park is a one-of-a-kind Smoky Mountain Family Adventure! Spanning 125 acres and nestled in the lush foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, near Gatlinburg, Dollywood is one of the most popular family vacation destinations.
Enjoy thrill to spectacular Dollywood amusement park rides including the award-winning wooden roller coaster The Thunderhead-the wildest ride in the woods. The family vacation fun at Dollywood features kiddie rides and 10 new family attractions in our expanded Country Fair area. Dollywood’s live entertainment showcases the best in country, bluegrass, mountain and gospel music with more than a dozen stage shows. Master craftsmen demonstrate centuries-old crafts including blacksmithing, glass blowing and wood carving.Dollywood is also home to five of the South’s largest festivals-Festival of Nations, KidsFest, the new Bluegrass & BBQ, National Harvest & Music Celebration and Smoky Mountain Christmas. No matter what time of year you visit, Dollywood offers something special for every member of the family!

Dollywood’s spectacular Tennessee setting provides the perfect backdrop for a variety of amusement park rides and attractions. Thrilling roller coasters, daring water excursions, family rides and kiddie rides-you’ll find them all at Dollywood, along with one-of-a-kind attractions that let you experience our Smoky Mountain way of life. See a live show while you’re here and don’t miss the best roller coasters in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee!

Dollywood’s master craftsmen and artisans proudly continue the centuries-old tradition of hand-making crafts in the Smoky Mountains with daily demonstrations featuring blacksmithing, hand-blown glass making, wagon making and more.

Enjoy five of the South’s largest festivals between March and December at Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Each festival offers family entertainment and guarantees special events all season long.

Dollywood’s Festival of Nations offers five weeks of cultural events by performers from around the world. Join your kids for a fun-filled day at KidsFest, the South’s largest children’s festival. Hear the top bluegrass musicians while savoring the tastiest barbecue at Bluegrass & BBQ. Southern gospel music takes center stage while master craftsmen demonstrate their skills at the National Gospel & Harvest Celebration. Bring the entire family and spend the holidays with us. Moments become memories at Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas.

Web: Dollywood
Address: 2700 Dollywood Parks Blvd., Pigeon Forge, TN 37863
Phone: (800) DOLLYWOOD
(800) 365-5996