- Best Time to Visit: Early March or after major car show weekends for fewer crowds
- Top Family Attractions: Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud, mini golf attractions
- Money-Saving Tips: Park Hopper Pass, military and first responder discounts, Pigeon Forge trolley
- National Park Fun: Wildflower hikes, Junior Ranger Day, and picnics (all free except for parking tag)
- Rainy Day Plans: all-weather supper show, indoor mini golf, Lumberjack Square shops and attractions
Families can enjoy an unforgettable, budget-friendly spring break in Pigeon Forge and the Smoky Mountains by combining outdoor adventures, top attractions, and smart savings strategies. Plan ahead, use combo passes, and take advantage of free and low-cost activities for maximum fun and value!
Why Choose the Smokies for Spring Break?
Tired of crowded beaches and sky-high prices? Discover why more families are trading sand for springtime in the Smoky Mountains: waterfalls and wildflowers, mini golf, and our all-you-can-eat supper show in Pigeon Forge!
Imagine this: You're making memories as a family, spotting wildflowers along nature trails, watching the kids enjoy thrilling lumberjack competitions, and enjoying a hearty Southern-style buffet. That’s spring break in the Smokies, where adventure, relaxation, and savings go hand in hand.
Top Things to Do: Family Fun in Pigeon Forge & the Smokies
1. Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Join guided hikes and hands-on workshops to learn about the park’s famous wildflowers and wildlife. Many Great Smoky Mountains National Park spring programs are designed for families and kids of all ages.
| Trail Name | Difficulty | Highlights | Age Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elkmont Nature Trail | Easy | Wildflowers, short loop | Young children |
| Porters Creek Trail | Easy | Wildflowers, history | Most ages |
| Middle Prong Trail | Moderate | Waterfalls, wildflowers | Most ages |
| Schoolhouse Gap Trail | Easy | Flat, wildflowers | Most ages |
| Cosby Nature Trail | Easy | Short, easy walk | Young children |
| Cataract Falls | Easy | Waterfall, accessible | Young children |
| Cades Cove Nature Trail | Easy | Wildlife, flat terrain | All ages |
| Little River Trail | Easy | Riverside, wide path | All ages |
Don’t Miss:
- Junior Ranger Day: Free, hands-on activities and ranger-led walks for kids.
- Milling Demonstrations: See history in action at the Cable Mill (Cades Cove).
- Picnic Areas: Cades Cove, Deep Creek, and Metcalf Bottoms are open year-round.
2. Walk or Bike Along the Little Pigeon River
For families looking for spring weather outdoor activities in Pigeon Forge, the Riverwalk Greenway is a scenic, 4-mile path perfect for strollers, bikes, and dog walks. The Riverwalk Trail in Pigeon Forge TN connects parks and attractions, like Patriot Park and The Island; no need to leave town for a taste of Smoky Mountain beauty!
3. Play, Compete, and Save with Park Hopper Pass
Park Hopper Pass ($29.99/person):
Enjoy unlimited access to three mini golf attractions in Pigeon Forge: Crave Golf Club, Toy Box Mini Golf, and Sky Pirates of Mermaid Bay. Kids under 4 are free, and you’ll get 20% off food and retail.
Mini Golf & Dinner Show Bundle ($64.99/person):
Get a 14-day unlimited mini golf bundle plus a ticket to our Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show (all-you-can-eat buffet included). The best combo deal for spring break in Pigeon Forge TN!
4. Experience Family-Friendly Dining + Entertainment
Paula Deen’s Lumberjack Feud Supper Show:
Axe-throwing, comedy, crowd participation, and an all-you-can-eat Southern buffet. Kids under 3 are free, and military/first responder discounts are available.
Why Families Love It:
- Interactive for the kids
- Crowd-pleasing buffet
- Meet and greet after the show
- Exclusive drinks
Planning Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Trip
Timing & Crowds
- Best Time: Early March or after major car show weekends (like the Spring Rod Run) for lighter crowds.
- Avoid Traffic: Use Veterans Blvd or Teaster Lane to bypass the Parkway during busy events.
- Book Early: Reserve lodging and attraction tickets 2–4 months in advance, especially for spring break and event weekends.
Parking & Transportation
- Patriot Park: hub for the Pigeon Forge trolley, a budget-friendly way to get around and avoid parking hassles.
- GSMNP Parking Tag: required for vehicles parked longer than 15 minutes; only $5 per day
Weather & Packing
- Spring Weather: Highs around 60°F, lows in the 30s; rain is common.
- What to Pack: Rain jackets, waterproof shoes, layers, sunscreen, hats, reusable water bottles, snacks, and indoor games for rainy days.
Rainy Day Plans
- Lumberjack Square: $5 movie theater, escape rooms, shopping, and snack shops
- Lumberjack Feud: all-weather show with climate-controlled grandstand
- Indoor Mini Golf & Arcades: Crave Golf Club and SkyPirates of Mermaid Bay
Ways to Save: Family Discounts, Deals & Free Fun
Combo Passes & Bundles
- Park Hopper Pass: $29.99 for unlimited access to 3 attractions (kids under 4 free).
- Add one-time Lumberjack Feud ticket to mini golf bundle
Military & Group Discounts
- Military and first responder discounts available; kids under 3 are free at our supper show
- Groups with 15+ people get discounted rates
Coupons & Digital Savings
- Find local coupon books at area attractions and visitor centers
- Book our Lumberjack Feud Supper Show online and automatically save $5
Free & Low-Cost Activities
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Free entry, family-friendly hikes, and ranger programs.
- Riverwalk Greenway: Free walking and biking trail.
- Picnicking & Fishing: Free or low-cost at park picnic areas.
Read More: Cheap Things to Do in Pigeon Forge
Summary:
- Plan ahead for crowds and book early for the best rates.
- Use combo passes and coupons to maximize savings.
- Pack for all weather and have backup indoor activities ready.
- Take advantage of free fun in the national park and along the Riverwalk Greenway.
- Check for military and group discounts before booking tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best family-friendly hikes in the Smoky Mountains for spring?
The top trails for families include Elkmont Nature Trail, Porters Creek Trail, Middle Prong Trail, Schoolhouse Gap Trail, Cosby Nature Trail, Cataract Falls, Cades Cove Nature Trail, and Little River Trail. All are easy to moderate, feature wildflowers, and are suitable for children of various ages.
How can families save money on attractions in Pigeon Forge?
Use Park Hopper Passes for unlimited access to multiple attractions, and check for military, group, and early booking discounts.
What’s the best way to avoid crowds and traffic during spring break?
Visit in early March or after major car show weekends, use alternative routes like Veterans Blvd and Teaster Lane, and start your days early. Book accommodations and tickets well in advance.
Are there free or low-cost activities for families in Pigeon Forge?
Yes! The national park offers free entry, family-friendly hikes, and ranger programs. The Riverwalk Greenway is a free walking/biking trail, and many attractions offer free parking. Picnicking and fishing in the park are also budget-friendly.
What should families pack for a spring break trip to the Smokies?
Pack rain jackets, waterproof shoes, layers for changing weather, sunscreen, hats, reusable water bottles, snacks, and indoor games for rainy days.
Ready to Plan Your Ultimate Family Spring Break?
If you’re ready to plan the ultimate spring break in the Smoky Mountains, be sure to include our Pigeon Forge supper show in your vacation plans. You can get Lumberjack Feud tickets in advance online, bypassing the line at the box office and receiving our exclusive online rate!
