Think of all the bear hugs, sweet treats, and loving support the caring grandparents or elderly figures in your life have given you and your children over the years. How about returning their kind favor — with a memorable vacation in the Great Smoky Mountains of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee?
National Grandparents’ Day is just around the corner — held the first Sunday after Labor Day since 1979 — on September 12 this year (2021). Now’s the perfect time to celebrate seniors and recognize their importance in society and positive impact on your life.
Pigeon Forge is a charming mountain town that offers attractions, entertainment, and accommodations for all ages, including our beloved seniors. Show your appreciation by taking the doting grandparents or senior family friends you cherish on a fun trip and spending quality time together in the Smokies.
Don’t have a senior character in your life story? Consider adopting a grandparent for a lifetime, which was the original initiative of Grandparents’ Day — to encourage people to care for seniors who have contributed so much to our country and our lives. Elderly folks who don’t have anyone to share their remaining days with deserve better, and YOU can help.
10 Things to Do in Pigeon Forge for Seniors
There are so many things to do with seniors in and around Pigeon Forge and neighboring Gatlinburg. Check out some of our favorite senior activities below. And remember to ask about senior discounts before you buy tickets, souvenirs, or food!
- Sway in the rockers and watch the dazzling show fountain perform at The Island. (Complimentary trams escort people to and from the parking lot, a bonus for seniors!)
- See a dinner show or theater show at Dolly Parton’s Stampede, Pirates Voyage, The Comedy Barn, Country Tonite Theatre, or the Red Skelton Tribute Theater.
- Visit museums, shop for mountain souvenirs, ride the train, view non-releasable bald eagles, watch local crafters at work, and enjoy live performances at Dollywood.
- Take a leisurely and scenic drive through the valley of Cades Cove that features historic structures, wildlife spotting, gorgeous scenes of the Smokies, and a picnic spot by the river.
- Enjoy Southern favorites, like mashed taters, homemade biscuits, and fried chicken, served family-style at Mama’s Farmhouse or Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen.
- Tour museums, including the Titanic Museum Attraction, Hollywood Star Cars Museum, Beyond the Lens! Family Fun, and Alcatraz East.
- Stroll around Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies that features a walkalator, benches to sit throughout the attraction, and special penguin and sea turtle encounters suitable for any age.
- Hike, bike, fly fish, and picnic in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with more active seniors who enjoy the outdoors.
- Drive around and peruse the Great Smoky Arts & Crafts Community that boasts one-of-a-kind artworks handcrafted by local artisans.
- Shop to your heart’s content at the many unique boutiques in the area, including The Incredible Christmas Place, The Village, and Tanger Outlets.
Tips for Traveling with Seniors
Traveling with seniors can require a few adjustments. Here are a few senior travel tips to help you plan and prepare with care.
- Take breaks as needed to stretch and help your senior friend out of the car as they can become stiffer quicker on a long journey.
- Bring plenty of water and take consistent restroom breaks.
- Keep medications in their original bottles and make a list of medications and dosages in case of emergency.
- Pack any medical, mobility, and sleeping aids, such as braces, heating pads, ice packs, pillows, etc.
- Research attractions, shops, and restaurants before you go to make sure they’re easily accessible, have plenty of rest spots, and offer wheelchairs if needed.
- Collect on those senior discounts!
Senior-Friendly Cabins
When visiting the Smokies, top off your vacation by staying at a classic cabin rental in the mountains. At Pigeon Forge TN Cabins, many of our properties are senior friendly. Some even have handicap features, like ramps, handlebars in bathrooms, and wider doors. And if hills and mountain roads are a concern, we have plenty of cabins with easy, flat, and paved roads plus smoother driveways and parking!
Sit back and relax in the rockers on the screened-in deck with mountain views. Soothe tired muscles in the steamy hot tub and relieve joints in the indoor swimming pool. Watch movies in the home theater with a projector. Play games in the rec room and video chat with loved ones over complimentary Wi-Fi.
Lounge on the sofa or in the armchairs with a good book and a glass of local vino. Enjoy home-cooked meals from the kitchen and chat with loved ones. And snooze in a king-size bed after a relaxing hot shower…for starters.
Cabin Amenities for Seniors
- Mountain, wooded, or river views
- Rocking chairs
- Outdoor hot tub
- Indoor swimming pool
- Flat, paved driveway
- Ramp or 0 steps to the front door
- Home theater
- Game room
- Walk-in showers (some with seats)
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Gas or charcoal grills
- Entry-level bedroom suites
- FREE Wi-Fi
Start planning your senior-friendly stay — just in time for Grandparents’ Day — by browsing our cabin selection or speaking with a Vacation Specialist at 1.866.513.7885 today.
