You know that Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the Great Smoky Mountains are all about fantastic scenery. The Smoky Mountains bring in millions of visitors each year who are looking for great views of the mountains, trees, and wildflowers. But the Smokies is known for an abundance of something else: the wildlife!
Tourists are always on the lookout for wildlife, especially black bears. You might see them in a field of wildflowers in Cades Cove, crossing the road on a scenic drive, or even wandering past your cabin or picnic area (NEVER feed or approach a bear). The area is also home to turkeys, deer, fish, squirrels, foxes, and more.
If you love animals, it’s a great place to explore. But Pigeon Forge offers more than just wildlife. If you want to get up close and personal (safely!) or want to have some unique animal experiences, Pigeon Forge is the place to be. If you’re an animal lover, check out this charming mountain town full of fun attractions and places to meet new furry (or scaly) friends!
Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience | Dollywood
Now – August 7
Watch these incredible dogs work with their talented trainers in a fun show for the whole family. Featured on The Tonight Show, Ellen, and The Oprah Winfrey Show, these dogs offer high energy and awesome tricks. And they’re all adopted shelter dogs!
Magic Beyond Belief – Darren Romeo | Smoky Mountain Opry Theater
Although not solely focused on animals, this show is sure to impress with 2 animals you’ve probably never seen: Bengal tigers and rare white lions! Pair them with Romeo’s pageantry, music, and magic for an exciting night on the town.
Wings of America Birds of Prey | Dollywood
Now – October 29
Take a break between rides to meet the incredible birds of prey and learn more about them from the American Eagle Foundation. You may even have one fly right over your head!
Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies | Gatlinburg, TN
Talk about getting up close and personal with animals, at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies you can walk beneath sharks, play with the penguins, and even touch a stingray! At the Penguin Encounter, pet a penguin, get a picture, and learn about the animals from an expert. Or you can watch as a penguin creates a one-of-a-kind painting just for you! Splash with the Stingrays puts you right in the water at Touch-A-Ray-Bay, and Sleep with the Sharks lets you snooze under the sharks after a dive show and scavenger hunt! Along with the special experiences you can add on, you can always just get regular admission and just explore the aquarium and meets its thousands of underwater creatures!
Dixie Stampede | Pigeon Forge, TN
In true Dolly Parton fashion, the Dixie Stampede show is dazzling all around. From the glittering costumes and special effects to the amazing stunts on horseback, this fun and family-friendly show is a great way to spend your night out in Pigeon Forge.
RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo | Sevierville, TN
One of Pigeon Forge’s best-kept secrets, the RainForest Adventures Discovery Zoo is a little slice of paradise for animal lovers. Themed by zoological contractors who worked on Animal Kingdom at Disney World, the zoo is home to more than 600 animals that cross 130+ species. Some of the animals you’ll meet here include:
- Lizards
- Ringtail lemurs
- Kinkajou
- Sheep
- Coatimundi
- Crocodiles
- Hedgehogs
- African Crested Porcupine
- Turtles & tortoises
- Snakes
- African Servals
- Chinchillas, and more!
Amazing Animals Exotic Animal and Pet Show | The Comedy Barn
One of the area’s newest shows, Amazing Animals is perfect for the family. It blends comedy and live music with the fun of trained animals – dogs, birds, cats, pigs, and a mini donkey, to name a few. The Comedy Critters and trainers Anthony and Alena King will have you laughing all afternoon!
You can’t have a vacation without a place to stay. We have you covered at Pigeon Forge, TN Cabins, even if you’re bringing your 4-legged friend! Our pet-friendly cabins let you forget the worry of boarding your best friend. These cozy places offer comforts like inviting living rooms, wireless internet, and fully equipped kitchens, along with awesome vacation perks like outdoor hot tubs, mountain views, and rec rooms with plenty of games.
Our cabins also range in size, from 1-bedroom charmers to spacious 5-bedroom cabins fit for families and small groups. And if you’re looking for something this summer, book quickly! Our pet-friendly cabins are filling up quickly!