Pigeon Forge, Tennessee is home to some of the most popular destinations in the Southeast! With Dollywood, Dixie Stampede, and the Titanic Museum, our Smoky Mountain city is no stranger to big-name attractions. In addition to all of these famous spots, Pigeon Forge also offers a number of lesser known attractions and restaurants that are definitely worth a visit. To help you make the most of your vacation, Valley Forge Inn has put together a guide to five hidden gems in Pigeon Forge TN.

1. Parrot Mountain and Gardens

Parrot Mountain and Gardens is unlike any other attraction in Pigeon Forge! This beautiful estate is home to hundreds of tropical birds of every shape, size, and color. Guests at Parrot Mountain will have the chance to feed the lorikeets, get a souvenir photo with the parrots, play with baby birds in the nursery, or simply watch their new feathered friends talk, sing, and dance. If you fall in love with a newborn bird, you can even take her home!

Besides the friendly birds, Parrot Mountain also features a “Garden of Eden” with a waterfall, thousands of flowers and plants, and pristine landscaping. The Garden of Eden may just be the most relaxing place in the Smokies!

2. Pigeon Forge Deli

The Pigeon Forge Deli is the ultimate lunch spot in the Smoky Mountains! Located in the corner of the two buildings at The Shops of Pigeon Forge, this inconspicuous restaurant offers some of the tastiest sandwiches in the region. What sets the subs at the Pigeon Forge Deli apart from the rest is the premium ingredients and the freshly baked bread. We also recommend trying one of their hand rolled soft pretzels, which come in a variety of flavors.

3. Friendly Falls

Friendly Falls is another one of the best hidden gems in Pigeon Forge TN. While most of the waterfalls in the Smokies require some hiking to get to, Friendly Falls is unique in that it is located right along Wears Valley Road. Guests can pull over for a spell and enjoy this breathtaking waterfall that is located just a short drive from the Parkway. Admiring the waterfall is free, but we recommend getting a bite to eat at the Friendly Falls cafe, checking out their fun gift shop, or letting your kids dig for treasure in Gnorbert’s Magic Gem Mine.

4. Lodge Factory Store

The Lodge Factory Store is a great place to do a little shopping for your kitchen during your vacation. This shop sells cast iron cookware and features everything from skillets and woks to dutch ovens and pizza pans. Lodge only has a handful of factory stores in the U.S., so you will definitely want to stop by the shop in Pigeon Forge while you’re in the area.

5. Cakes By Bakin’ Bishop

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, it’s hard to beat Cakes by Bakin’ Bishop. This local bakery is famous for its mini cupcakes, cinnamon rolls, whoopie pies, and other homemade treats. Located on Wears Valley Road, Cakes by Bakin’ Bishop may be a little off the beaten path, but it’s well worth the drive!

When you stay at Valley Forge Inn, you will be near all of the famous attractions in the Smokies and the best hidden gems in Pigeon Forge TN. With complimentary breakfast, indoor and outdoor pools, and private balconies with wonderful views, our hotel has everything you need for an incredible getaway. To start planning your vacation, browse our selection of Pigeon Forge hotel rooms!