Bucket List of Things to Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for Adults

If you haven’t been to the Smoky Mountains before and want to know all the things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for adults, keep reading! From top attractions to shows, shopping, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, there will be something to keep you busy and entertained during your mountain vacation!

Drive the Roaring Fork Motor Trail

One of the easiest ways to enjoy the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is by driving the Roaring Fork Motor Trail. It’s a 5.5 one-way loop road that takes you along mountain streams and forest scenery. Along the trail are historic homesteads and trailheads to hiking trails. If you want to get out and stretch your legs for a while, we recommend taking the trailhead to one of the park’s most popular waterfalls, Rainbow Falls. This scenic motor trail is a must for anyone looking for fun things to do in Gatlinburg for adults and all ages alike!

Take a Horseback Tour Through the Smoky Mountains

If hiking isn’t appealing to you, consider taking a horseback ride through the mountains instead! These guided tours offer an up close and personal view of the surrounding landscape and offer a peaceful hour or two admiring nature on horseback. Even if you’re not an experienced rider, you can still enjoy a slow ride on one of their calm and gentle horses.

Have Drinks and Listen to Live Music at Ole Red

Ole Red is a popular spot for its fantastic live music, making it a must if you're looking for fun things to do in Gatlinburg for adults! Discover the latest talent over delicious food and drinks in an upbeat and fun atmosphere. The musicians change daily, so every day will be different. You'll experience a sliver of Nashville at Ole Red and will want to go back again and again! If you love Ole Red, be sure to stop by Jason Aldean's Kitchen & Bar for good food and fun!

Enjoy the Rocky Top Wine Trail

Sampling delicious wines made locally in the Smoky Mountains is an adult-only activity you must do! The Rocky Top Wine Trail includes wineries such as Apple Barn Winery and Mountain Valley Winery, where you can discover and appreciate new flavors and try something different. You just might find a new favorite wine to bring home when you enjoy one of the most relaxing things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for adults!

Experience Dollywood

Although it's known for being family-friendly, Dollywood is also one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge for adults. Roller coaster junkies have to experience the top rides at Dollywood theme park! Big Bear Mountain is their longest coaster yet, and Blazing Fury and Wild Eagle are just a few of the tourist favorites you have to try out for yourself! From yummy food to cute shops and live shows, Dollywood is fun for adults too.

Go to a Country Tonite Show

This is one of the best Pigeon Forge attractions for adults! Country music fans (and skeptics) alike will love Country Tonite, one of the top things to do in Pigeon Forge for adults. Featuring both classic country music and the new top hits, you’ll be impressed by the talented performers. It’s one of those feel-good shows you’ll be thinking about long after it’s over!

Shop and Dine at The Village

Have you ever been to The Village in Gatlinburg? Visiting is one of the best things to do in Gatlinburg for adults, as you can shop, eat, and relax. Step off the hustle and bustle along the Parkway and into an Old World atmosphere with a collection of 27 unique boutiques, clothing shops, eateries, and galleries. Grab a donut and coffee from the Donut Friar, purchase one-of-a-kind art from Master's Editions, and stop at Boudicca's Celtic Pub — Gatlinburg's only Celtic pub with beer and authentic food from recipes of the Celtic Nations.

More Things to Do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for Adults

This is the perfect bucket list of things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for adults, but that doesn't mean this is all you'll enjoy doing when you visit the area! There is plenty of fun for everyone in the Smokies. Take a look at these Gatlinburg attractions for more ideas of what to do while you're here!