Late spring families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts visiting Pigeon Forge in May.
Things to Do in Pigeon Forge in May
May in Pigeon Forge is a delightful time, offering beautiful weather and a taste of summer fun. Dollywood's KidsFest is in full swing, making it ideal for families with young children. All outdoor attractions are open, providing ample opportunities for adventure. Plus, you can still catch the tail end of the wildflower blooms at higher elevations in the Smokies!
Top Picks
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Dollywood
Theme Park4.9
$$$All ages (best for 3+)
- Home to multiple award-winning roller coasters including the Lightning Rod
- Authentic Appalachian craft demonstrations and cultural experiences
- World-class live entertainment and seasonal festivals throughout the year
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The Island in Pigeon Forge
Outdoor4.5
$All ages
- Free to enter — pay only for rides and attractions you choose
- The iconic 200-foot Great Smoky Mountain Wheel with stunning views
- Nightly dancing fountain show with lights and music
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Anakeesta
Outdoor4.8
$$$All ages (best for 5+)
- Scenic chondola (chairlift + gondola) ride to the mountaintop for stunning panoramas
- Treetop Skywalk with multiple suspension bridges through the forest canopy
- AnaVista Tower offers 360-degree views of the Great Smoky Mountains
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Rowdy Bear Mountain Adventure Park
Coaster4.6
$$7 and up (varies by ride)
- Smoky Mountain Snowtubing with real snow on an outdoor slope
- The Rowdy Bear Mountain Coaster — a gravity-powered alpine coaster with mountain views
- Laser tag, gem mining, and other family activities on site
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Lumberjack Feud Adventure Park
Show4.6
$$All ages
- Live 90-minute lumberjack competition show with two rival teams battling it out
- Professional lumberjack athletes perform jaw-dropping feats of strength and agility
- Guests choose a team and cheer their lumberjacks on throughout the show
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Smoky Mountain Alpine Coaster
Coaster4.6
$$7 and up (weight/height restrictions apply)
- 3,400-foot stainless steel track winding through beautiful mountain forest
- Riders control their own speed with a hand brake — fast or leisurely, your choice
- Stunning Smoky Mountain scenery throughout the entire thrilling ride
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Dollywood's Splash Country
Water Park4.6
$$$All ages (best for 5+)
- High-speed multi-person water slides for teens and thrill-seeking adults
- 12-acre wave pool with rolling waves that feel like the ocean
- Lazy river provides a relaxing float for all ages and ability levels
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Old Mill Square
Dining4.5
$All ages
- Watch a genuine 1830s water-powered grist mill still grinding corn and grains
- The Old Mill Restaurant serves hearty Southern breakfasts and lunches using house-ground meal
- Purchase fresh-ground grits, cornmeal, and flour ground on-site to take home
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Laurel Falls Trail
Outdoor4.8
$All ages
- Most visited waterfall in the most visited national park in America
- Fully paved 2.6-mile round-trip trail accessible even for young toddlers
- Gorgeous 80-foot two-tiered waterfall as the dramatic payoff at trail's end
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Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Show
Show4.7
$$All ages
- Non-stop action show based on the legendary Hatfield and McCoy family feud
- Spectacular acrobatic stunts, foot-stompin' music, and sidesplitting comedy
- A full Southern feast included: pulled pork, chicken, corn on the cob, and more
Pro Tips
- 1.Book accommodations and show tickets well in advance, especially if traveling over Memorial Day weekend. Pigeon Forge is popular in May, and the best options fill up quickly.
- 2.Take advantage of Dollywood's extended hours during KidsFest. Arrive early to maximize your time and experience the most popular rides and shows before the crowds get too large.
- 3.Pack layers of clothing. While the days are generally warm, evenings can be cooler, especially at higher elevations like Anakeesta or Clingmans Dome. A light jacket or sweater will be essential.
- 4.Consider purchasing a multi-attraction pass to save money if you plan to visit several paid attractions. Many companies offer bundled deals that can significantly reduce costs.
- 5.Check the local events calendar for special May events like car shows or craft fairs. These events can add unique experiences to your visit, but also increase traffic, so plan accordingly.
Where to Eat Nearby
Paula Deen's Family Kitchen (Southern, The Island)Old Mill Restaurant (Southern comfort food)Alamo Steakhouse (Steakhouse)
Frequently Asked Questions
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